This week in the New York Minute, we’re congratulating SeaComm FCU on their recent recognition as a Great Place to Work. Plus, read about GHS FCU’s new leadership, Reliant CU’s recent award, funding opportunities from NCUA, and more. Get the latest industry updates in our weekly blog!

SeaComm Earns Fifth Consecutive Great Place to Work Certification

Congratulations to SeaComm Federal Credit Union for earning their Great Place to Work® Certification™ for the fifth consecutive year!

Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture and employee experience. This recognition is based entirely on employee feedback through an anonymous survey, with an impressive 88% of SeaComm employees rating the credit union as a great place to work, well above the 57% national average.

SeaComm joins the ranks of companies such as American Express, AT&T, and Wegmans on this year’s list. SeaComm remains dedicated to its employees, members, and the communities it serves.

GHS FCU Welcomes Chad Williams as New President and CEO

GHS Federal Credit Union has selected Chad Williams as its new President and CEO! With more than a decade of leadership experience spanning technology, operations, and organizational management—including five years in senior leadership within the credit union industry—Chad brings a proven track record of transformation and innovation.

As GHS celebrates more than 80 years of service, Williams’ leadership will build on the credit union’s legacy of “The Relationship of a Lifetime.” His passion for people, commitment to community, and vision for the future of cooperative finance align seamlessly with GHS’s mission to provide exceptional member value.

The Association extends best wishes to Chad and the entire GHS team as they continue to grow, innovate, and strengthen their impact throughout the community.

Reliant Credit Union Named a 2025 Elevating Women Award Winner

Congratulations to Reliant Credit Union, honored as one of the Rochester Business Journal’s 2025 Elevating Women Award winners! The award recognizes companies that demonstrate measurable success in promoting women’s advancement, leadership, and opportunity within their organizations and in the broader community.

At Reliant, women make up a majority of the workforce and hold leadership positions at every level. The credit union’s culture emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and empowerment, creating pathways for women to grow and lead.

Beyond its internal efforts, Reliant actively supports community programs that advance women and families throughout the Finger Lakes region. Congratulations to the Reliant team, who continue to champion leadership across all that they do.

NCUA Announces Funding For Low-Income-Designated Credit Unions

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has announced the 2025 grant round for the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund (CDRLF), allocating approximately $3.5 million to support low-income-designated (LID) credit unions. The application period opens October 15, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Eastern and closes December 16, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern.

The CDRLF provides LID credit unions with critical funding to expand services, strengthen operations, and reach underserved communities. In 2024, average grants totaled around $26,000. This year’s program introduces expanded flexibility, allowing applicants to apply for two initiatives (though only one award will be granted).

Funding opportunities include six categories:

1. Impact Through Innovation Pilot Initiative (up to $100,000)
2. New Charter Capacity Building (up to $50,000)
3. Underserved Outreach (up to $50,000)
4. Student Internships (up to $25,000)
5. Technology, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence (up to $25,000)
6. Training (up to $25,000)

Eligible credit unions must maintain LID status and an active System for Award Management registration. Learn more on NCUA’s website.

Credit Union Webinar Network Offering Buy 2, Get 1 Free Webinars

This October, the Credit Union Webinar Network is making it easier than ever to expand your training library! From October 1–31, 2025, credit unions can buy two regularly priced webinars and get one free—no promo code required.

To claim your offer, simply select any three live or on-demand webinars, add them to your cart, and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. This is a cost-effective way to enhance your team’s skills, stay ahead of industry trends, and access expert-led education on compliance, operations, leadership, and more.

Don’t miss this opportunity to maximize your training budget and empower your staff through top-tier educational content from a trusted industry resource. See the website for available webinars and exclusions.

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In the latest New York Minute, we’re celebrating our recent recognition as a Top Trade Association! We’re also covering charitable expansions from Broadview FCU and upcoming educational events. Get this week’s credit union news from across the state in our blog.

Association Recognized as 2025 Top Trade Association by City & State

The New York Credit Union Association is honored to be recognized by City & State New York as one of the Top Trade Associations of 2025. This list highlights organizations across the state that provide vital advocacy, training, and resources for their members while shaping public policy and community impact.

We thank City & State for this recognition, which reflects the collective strength of our member credit unions and the dedication of our team. We work to ensure New York credit unions have the tools, resources, and advocacy support they need to thrive, and to help members across the state achieve financial well-being.

We are proud to be included among New York’s most influential associations and will continue living our mission as the voice of New York’s credit unions! Click below to see the full list.

Make Your Voice Heard: 2025 Annual Membership Survey

Your feedback matters! The Association’s 2025 Annual Membership Survey is now open, and we encourage all members to take part. This important survey gives you the opportunity to share your insights and help shape the programs, services, and advocacy efforts we deliver on behalf of New York’s credit unions.

The survey only takes a few minutes to complete, but it provides us with invaluable feedback. Your input helps guide our strategic priorities, enhance member benefits, and ensure that we are addressing the evolving needs of your credit union.

Please take a moment to share your thoughts today. Your voice truly makes a difference.

Register Today: Compliance Quarterly-Deposition Preparation

Compliance Quarterly returns with its third installment, hosted by the Association’s General Counsel, Mitchell Pollack. Each session of Compliance Quarterly explores timely compliance issues and provides practical insights for credit unions.

Topic: Deposition Preparation
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 8, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

This webinar will focus on deposition preparation, a critical skill when your credit union is involved in litigation. A poor performance at a deposition can cause lasting damage to a case. Mitch will guide you through strategies to remain composed, credible, and confident while protecting your credit union during high-stakes testimony.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights, ask questions, and learn directly from the Association’s legal expert.

Broadview FCU Partners With Ronald McDonald House Charities in Buffalo

Broadview Federal Credit Union is expanding its statewide partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) to bring comfort to families of pediatric patients in Buffalo. Through funding, Broadview now sponsors hospitality carts at Oishei Children’s Hospital and Sisters of Charity Hospital, along with existing carts at Albany Medical Center and Upstate Medical University Hospital.

Stocked with snacks, drinks, toys, and comfort items, these carts bring relief and joy to families right at their child’s bedside. Broadview employees and other volunteers manage the carts, providing parents with simple but meaningful comforts like a warm cup of coffee or a small toy for a child.

This expansion reinforces Broadview’s commitment to changing lives every day and supporting communities across New York.

Reminder: InfoSight360 Fall Webinar Lineup

Don’t forget to register for the InfoSight360 Fall Webinar Series! These free sessions are designed to help you maximize the platform’s powerful compliance tools, whether you’re a new user or an experienced administrator.

Upcoming sessions include:

Business Continuity Planning
How do I get started in RecoveryPro? – Oct. 2
RecoveryPro – New Issues, Examiner Focus, and Cybersecurity – Oct. 20
How to Facilitate an Effective Tabletop Exercise – Oct. 30

CU PolicyPro/RecoveryPro Content
Managing Content in InfoSight360 – Nov. 4
Ongoing Content Maintenance in InfoSight360 – Nov. 13

All sessions are interactive and provide practical, hands-on guidance to strengthen your credit union’s compliance program. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today.

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This week in the New York Minute, we’re celebrating credit union leaders and individuals who have recently been recognized for their work. Additionally, we’re keeping you informed on upcoming industry events. Get all the latest credit union news in our weekly blog!

Register Today: United Nations FCU’s 8th Annual Credit Union Summit

Join credit union professionals across the globe for the 8th Annual United in Sustainability (UIS) Summit, hosted by the United Nations Federal Credit Union (UNFCU). This annual event is designed to help the 200+ credit unions that make up the UIS Network and partners share best practices, gain actionable ideas, and explore new resources for driving positive social and environmental impact.

Details
Date: November 18–19, 2025
Location: Palais des congrès de Montréal (Montréal, Canada)
In-person and virtual options available.

Featured topics this year include health and climate resiliency, risk management strategies for a changing climate, building a culture of inclusion, leading with social purpose, and unpacking the connection between AI and the environment. Attendees will also hear from experts in governance, digital innovation, member well-being, and reporting frameworks, with a focus on how sustainability strengthens the cooperative mission and drives bottom-line growth.

This is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Learn more and register.

Cania Infante of Municipal CU Named a Latino Trailblazer

The Association is celebrating Cania Infante, Chief Marketing Officer of Municipal Credit Union (MCU), for being named to City & State New York’s 2025 Latino Trailblazers list.

Infante has built her career on understanding community needs and amplifying the member-first mission that defines credit unions. Her two decades of experience rising through the ranks have prepared her to lead bold initiatives. At MCU, she has marketed new high-yield savings accounts, spearheaded the launch of an accessible digital storefront, and developed innovative referral programs to strengthen member engagement.

Her leadership has not only advanced MCU’s growth but also set a high bar for what it means to lead with both purpose and impact. Recognized alongside leaders in health care, labor, academia, and philanthropy, Infante represents the trailblazing influence Latinos have across New York.

Congratulations to Cania on this honor! Read more and explore the full list below.

Molly Mayers of Cornerstone Community FCU Named to 40 Under 40 List

Please join us in congratulating Molly Mayers, Chief Operating Officer of Cornerstone Community FCU, on being named to Buffalo Business First’s 2025 “40 Under 40” list.

Chosen from the largest pool of nominations in over a decade, this award recognizes individuals under the age of 40 who excel in their careers while making significant contributions to their communities.

Mayers exemplifies this standard through her leadership marked by heart, humility, and high performance. At Cornerstone, she has championed initiatives that strengthen culture, empower employees, and drive meaningful results for members. Beyond her professional role, she continues to inspire through her commitment to community service and her ability to uplift others around her.

Congratulations to Molly for her outstanding leadership!

Reliant Credit Union Announces Winners of Fraud Awareness Art Contest

Reliant Credit Union has announced the winners of its Fraud Fighters Art & Meme Contest, a creative initiative designed to raise awareness about scams and encourage members to think twice before sharing personal information.

The contest drew submissions across three categories, with the following three individuals named as winners:

• Youth (Under 13): Chloe P.
• Teen (13–17): Johannes O.
• Adult (18+): Mckayla S.

Each winner will receive exclusive Reliant swag, and their artwork will be showcased on social media, in Reliant’s monthly newsletter, and in a virtual gallery on the credit union’s website.

The contest also highlights that fraud prevention is a shared responsibility. By talking openly about red flags and spreading awareness, everyone can play a role in building a safer financial community. Congratulations to all three of these talented artists!

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In this week’s New York Minute, we’re highlighting new programs, leadership recognition, and opportunities shaping the credit union movement. From the launch of a hands-on financial education initiative to New York credit unions being named among the nation’s best workplaces, there’s plenty of good news to share. Catch up on these stories and more in this week’s blog!

Association Hosts Third Annual Mohonk Leadership Forum

The Association proudly hosted its third annual Mohonk Leadership Forum on Wednesday, September 17, at the historic Mohonk Mountain House. Leaders from across New York gathered to reflect, exchange ideas, and discuss how to best position credit unions for long-term success. In attendance were the New York Credit Union Association Board of Directors, New York Credit Union Foundation Trustees, Universal Sharing Network, Inc. (UsNet) Board of Directors, Association Chapter Presidents, and Association Management. 

This year’s gathering featured Brie Lusheck, Consultant with Curtis Strategy, as facilitator. Lusheck is widely recognized for her expertise in strategic planning, program development, and policy. With a collaborative, data-driven approach, she helps organizations design practical strategies that drive measurable impact and sustainable growth. Curtis Strategy also brings deep knowledge of the credit union industry, having recently been selected by CUNA and NAFCU to facilitate their merger.

“Collaboration and a shared vision foster innovation and forward momentum,” said Association President & CEO William J. Mellin. “When we collectively bring together our knowledge and resources, we strengthen relationships and advance initiatives that benefit credit unions across New York.”

The Mohonk Leadership Forum serves as a valuable opportunity for credit union leaders to step back and focus on the broader role of the movement. Together, participants explored shared priorities, renewed their energy, and charted a course for strengthening New York’s credit union community. The Association looks forward to building on the ideas and momentum sparked at this year’s gathering.

“Bite of Reality”- A Real Life Financial Decision Making Simulation for Students

The New York Credit Union Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the New York Credit Union Association, is proud to introduce “Bite of Reality”, an interactive financial education program designed to give young people a hands-on look at managing personal finances. This engaging simulation puts students in real-world scenarios where they must balance everyday expenses such as housing, transportation, groceries, and childcare, all while staying within their monthly budget. Participants quickly see how fast money can run out—and the importance of making smart financial choices.The program, available to credit union members of the Foundation, is delivered through a user-friendly mobile app that appeals to teens and young adults, making it both accessible and relevant. With guidance from credit union staff and volunteers, participants receive an eye-opening lesson in financial literacy that goes far beyond the classroom. The Foundation’s goal is to empower the next generation with the knowledge and confidence needed to manage their financial futures successfully. We would like to thank OwnersChoice Funding for sponsoring this new initiative!

Aleksander Powietrzynski of Municipal Credit Union Named an Inspirational Leader

The New York credit union movement is celebrating one of its own: Aleksander Powietrzynski, Vice President of Legal & Compliance at Municipal Credit Union (MCU), has been recognized by Employ Humanity as a 2025 Inspirational Leader. This national recognition honors leaders who embody purpose-driven values, inspire those around them, and lead with integrity and vision.

In his role at MCU, Powietrzynski has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to both his team and the broader membership. Known for his collaborative approach, he has played a vital role in guiding innovative initiatives that strengthen MCU’s ability to serve members and the community. His recognition highlights not only his professional accomplishments but also his dedication to empowering others and creating workplaces rooted in respect and growth.

This honor also shines a spotlight on the leadership talent within New York credit unions. By elevating individuals like Powietrzynski, the movement underscores the value of strong, human-centered leadership in financial services. Congratulations to Aleksander on this well-deserved recognition as one of Employ Humanity’s 2025 Inspirational Leaders.

New York Credit Unions Recognized as ‘Best Places to Work’

New York credit unions continue to set the standard for excellence in workplace culture. Fortune has announced its 2025 Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance™ list, and two New York-based credit unions were recognized: ESL Federal Credit Union and FourLeaf Federal Credit Union.

This national recognition is based on employee feedback and the rigorous evaluation of workplace practices by Great Place to Work®. Both ESL and FourLeaf were praised for fostering environments where employees feel valued, respected, and supported in their professional growth. 

Being named to this list not only honors the employees who make these organizations thrive but also reinforces the message that credit unions are people-centered financial institutions. Congratulations to ESL FCU and FourLeaf FCU for earning this prestigious honor and representing New York credit unions among the nation’s best places to work.

Digital Lending Gets Smarter: Modernizing Credit Union Lending Protection with a Simplified Real-Time Solution 

Did you know that 8 in 10 consumers want to protect their loans, yet more than half don’t recall being offered payment protection during the lending process? That’s one of the key findings from TruStage’s Consumer Lending Preference Survey.

Join Corrin Maier and Chris Guild from TruStage’s Payment Protection team as they share new insights into borrower preferences and demonstrate how TruStage is transforming the lending protection experience for both the borrower and the credit union. With the company’s updated digital purchase solution, borrowers can now opt into payment protection directly within their loan application – with automatic integration into loan documents. This streamlined approach simplifies the process for members while reducing friction for credit unions. Discover how your credit union can meet the growing demand for protection without adding complexity to the lending journey. 

Date: October 2, 2025
Time: 2 pm, Eastern Time

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In the latest edition of the New York Minute, we’re keeping you up to date with credit union industry events from the Association and America’s Credit Unions. Then, see which credit unions are making an impact in their community with fundraising efforts. See all this and more in this week’s blog!

CUTrends: The New York Marketing and Sales Conference

Credit union professionals looking to sharpen their marketing and sales strategies won’t want to miss CUTrends: The New York Marketing & Sales Conference! This annual event is designed exclusively for credit union marketing and sales teams, offering actionable insights, emerging trends, and best practices to help your credit union thrive in today’s competitive financial services landscape.

Details
Date: Wednesday, November 5 (Evening networking reception) through Thursday, November 6 (Conference)
Hotel deadline: October 6
Registration deadline: October 17
Location: Saratoga Casino Hotel in Saratoga Springs, NY

Hear from industry experts, participate in interactive discussions, and gain new tools to elevate outreach and growth. Just as important, CUTrends provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with peers from across the state, share experiences, and build lasting professional relationships.

Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and take your credit union’s marketing and sales efforts to the next level. Register and learn more on the event page!

Register Now: America’s Credit Unions Governmental Affairs Conference

Registration is now open for the credit union movement’s premier advocacy event, Governmental Affairs Conference 2026 (GAC 2026). GAC is where credit unions unite to share their stories, advance policy priorities, and amplify their collective impact on Capitol Hill.

Details
Date: March 1–5
Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

This year’s theme, Shape the future, underscores the importance of advocacy in an ever-changing environment. Credit union leaders from across the nation will “hike the hill” to meet with members of Congress, ensuring the voices of 144 million credit union members are heard in the halls of government. The conference also features impactful keynote speakers, networking with thousands of industry peers, and dialogue with policymakers and thought leaders.

Advocacy is relentless, and GAC 2026 is your chance to be part of the movement shaping the future of financial well-being. Learn more about the event and register below.

New York Credit Union Advocates Attend Congressional Caucus

This week, credit union advocates from across New York traveled to Washington, D.C., to take part in the 2025 Congressional Caucus, hosted by America’s Credit Unions. The event brought together hundreds of industry leaders for two days of advocacy, networking, and dialogue with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

The program featured a fireside chat with outgoing President/CEO Jim Nussle and incoming President/CEO Scott Simpson, who discussed the future of credit unions and the power of a unified voice. Keynote sessions, panels, and conversations with members of Congress rounded out the agenda, including remarks from House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.).

During visits with lawmakers, New York credit union leaders highlighted key industry priorities, including the credit union difference, addressing fraud and data security challenges, and ensuring credit union priorities are included in the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) without harmful provisions.

The Congressional Caucus provided another strong platform for New York advocates to ensure member voices were represented in Washington and to reinforce the indispensable role credit unions play in advancing financial well-being nationwide.

The Summit FCU Raises Over $24,000 for Local Charities

The Summit Federal Credit Union helped raise more than $24,000 for local charities at this summer’s Taste of Syracuse festival. Partnering with Tops Markets, SavorCuse vendors, and generous community sponsors, The Summit leveraged the power of food, music, and fun to give back to Central New York.

This year’s fundraising efforts benefited two local organizations making a difference for families: David’s Refuge, which provides respite and resources for parents of children with special needs, and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York, which supports families with children receiving critical medical care. Each charity received over $12,000.

This effort is another example of how credit unions live out the philosophy of “people helping people” by strengthening the communities they serve.

SeaComm FCU Golf Tournament Raises over $20,000

SeaComm Federal Credit Union recently hosted its annual Golf Tournament at Cedar View Golf Club in Massena, raising an impressive $20,934 to support the local Police Activities League (PAL). The event drew more than 100 golfers and was dedicated to the memory of former Massena Police Officer Scott Rogers, honoring his legacy of service to the community.

The PAL of Massena provides youth with constructive activities and mentorship opportunities that foster positive relationships between police officers and local families. The funds will help expand PAL’s programs, ensuring even more children benefit from its vital outreach.

Through events like this, SeaComm demonstrates the impact credit unions can have by investing in partnerships that uplift local organizations and create lasting change in their communities.

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