AGENDA

This year we have been working hard to gather top-tier content on the industry topics that matter most to you. To ensure that ENGAGE is truly an experience for everyone in the credit union community, we will have over 75 speakers, 45 content sessions, 185 booths, renowned keynotes, a silent auction, the Inaugural CMN Night of Miracles Gala, and tons of exciting new and interactive ways to engage with your peers.

Click here for a PDF version of the Agenda.

Credit Unions up to $150 Million in Assets - RSVP Requested to Attend

DATE/TIMESESSION INFORMATION
8:00 – 8:30 a.m.Breakfast

8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Small Credit Union CEO Succession Planning

In this interactive workshop, we will discuss the importance of succession planning for sustained success, develop a roadmap for identifying and preparing internal candidates, address challenges and risks in leadership transitions, create a plan to foster collaboration and engagement in the planning process, and provide a basic blueprint for succession planning.

Tracie Kenyon, Executive Development Partner, humanidei

9:30 – 9:45 a.m.Break

9:45 – 10:30 a.m.Small Credit Union – Striving and Thriving

Teri Robinson, CEO, Ironworkers USA Federal Credit Union, 2025 Herb Wegner Award Winner

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Hot Topic Roundtable

Join us for a discussion on compliance challenges and emerging risks facing small credit unions today. Learn about possible legislative and regulatory changes on the horizon which could impact your credit union. We’ll also discuss best practices to help your credit union manage risk in today’s complex compliance environment.

Karen Frazee, Senior Vice President of Business Development The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Susan Lee, Director of the Office of Small Credit Unions, The League of Credit Unions

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Small Credit Union Roundtable Lunch

DATE/TIMESESSION INFORMATION
12:45 – 2:45 p.m.Joint Advocacy Committee Meeting Federal & Regulatory (Open to all)

Join us for an insightful and timely discussion on the evolving landscape of federal legislation and regulation. The Federal Advocacy Committee will delve into the latest policy developments and their implications on credit unions. With new leadership in D.C., you will not want to miss this behind-the-scenes look at issues shaping today’s operating environment.

Facilitated by: Grace Colvin, Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Strategy, The League of Credit Unions

3:00 – 4:45 p.m.Alabama State Advocacy Committee – State Regulators on Agenda (Open to all)

Join the Alabama Advocacy Committee and review recent state legislation, anticipated legislative priorities, and discuss their implications for credit unions. With an election year approaching, the committee will also strategize Political Action Committee resources to support candidates who value the credit union difference. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to the conversation and help shape the future of advocacy for Alabama’s credit unions.

Facilitated by: Michelle Roth, Vice President of Advocacy, The League of Credit Unions
Facilitated by: Ray Price, Senior Bank Examinations Specialist, Alabama Credit Union Administration

3:00 – 4:45 p.m.Florida State Advocacy Committee – State Regulators on Agenda (Open to all)

Join the Florida Advocacy Committee as they meet to discuss the impacts of the 2025 Session’s legislative and regulatory on Florida’s credit unions. Explore how The League has navigated new state-level leadership and continued to advance the credit union mission in a dynamic policy landscape.

Facilitated by: Christopher Hodge, Senior Director of Governmental Affairs, The League of Credit Unions
Facilitated by: Nicholas Beckwith, Chief Bureau of Credit Union Regulation, Florida Office of Financial Regulation

3:00 – 4:45 p.m.Georgia State Advocacy Committee – State Regulators on Agenda (Open to all)

Engage with the Georgia Advocacy Committee to explore recent legislative developments and upcoming priorities that could impact credit unions. As an election year approaches, the committee will develop strategies for effectively leveraging Political Action Committees resources to support candidates who champion the credit union mission. Be part of this critical discussion and help shape the advocacy landscape for credit unions across Georgia.

Facilitated by: JT Blau, General Counsel, The League of Credit Unions
Facilitated by: Melissa Sneed, Deputy Commissioner, Georgia Bank & Finance

3:00 – 4:45 p.m.Virginia State Advocacy Committee – State Regulators on Agenda (Open to all)

Collaborate with the Virginia Advocacy Committee to examine recent legislative updates, identify key issues for the upcoming session, and evaluate their impact on credit unions. With an election year on the horizon, the committee will strategize how to allocate Political Action Committees resources to back candidates who support the credit union movement. Take advantage of this chance to influence the future of advocacy for Virginia’s credit unions.

Facilitated by: CeJae Vtipilson, Vice President of Governmental Affairs, The League of Credit Unions
Facilitated by: Daniel Tucker, Chief Financial Institutions Examiner, Virginia Bureau of Financial Institutions

5:00 – 6:00 p.m.State Receptions: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia

To kick off the inaugural ENGAGE with our new four-state footprint, we’re hosting simultaneous state receptions for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia! Join your colleagues for a relaxed evening of cocktails, conversation, and connection— in your home state’s reception suite.

Each state will have its own unique gathering space where you can:

  • Meet and mingle with peers from your state
  • Build connections within your state network
  • Enjoy a cocktail and conversation
  • Celebrate the launch of this exciting new chapter together

Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or meeting new ones, this is your chance to ENGAGE on a local level before we open ENGAGE on Wednesday morning.

Come raise a glass to the journey ahead!


8:00 – 10:00 p.m.CU Karaoke (Supporting The League FedPAC)

DATE/TIMESESSION INFORMATION
7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.Attendee Registration and Welcome Center Open

7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.

Leadership Breakfast: Graduates of SRCUS, CUDE, Executive Institute and GWLN Members
EVENT AT MAX CAPACITY/SOLD OUT

People First, Always: Leadership That Unlocks Potential
Brian Schools, President and CEO, Chartway Credit Union

Brian Schools, President & CEO of Chartway Credit Union and Immediate Past Chair of America’s Credit Unions, will share how his values-based, collaborative, and authentic leadership style guides Chartway’s purpose of unlocking potential for individuals and families so they can thrive.

Mr. Schools will share his leadership development journey from regional banking to national banking and ultimately to credit unions.  He will provide insights into his staunch belief in continual learning, centered values and stepping up – as well as the collective connection to being well and kind.

From Ethiopia to the Executive Suite: A Leadership Journey with Ms. Tadesse
Heiwote Tadesse, Executive Vice President of Member Relations, Associated Credit Union

Join us for an inspiring Leadership Breakfast as we celebrate the many leaders among us who have completed CUDE, CU Management School, Leadership College, and Executive Institute.

We will explore the extraordinary journey of Ms. Heiwote “Heiwi” Tadesse, whose path from her early days in Ethiopia to becoming an executive leader at a prominent credit union is a testament to resilience, vision, and purpose-driven leadership.

In this intimate and engaging session, Ms. Tadesse will share personal stories from her upbringing, the challenges she faced as a new US Citizen, and the values that guided her ascent through the financial services industry. Attendees will gain valuable insights into navigating leadership as a woman of color, building influence in a mission-driven organization, and leading with authenticity in the face of adversity.


7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.Breakfast – All Attendees

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.General Session

Vision for our Cooperative Future
Samantha Beeler, President, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates

The League Awards
Credit Union of the Year: Up to $150 million in assets
Credit Union of the Year: $150 – $500 million in assets
Credit Union of the Year: $500 million or more in assets
Distinguished Service


10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Networking Break

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.CEO Roundtable

Steve Schwartz, Chief Financial Officer, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Karima Freeman, Chief Operating Officer, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.C-Suite Roundtable

Karen Frazee, Senior Vice President of Business Development, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Tobi Weingart, Senior Vice President of Member Engagement, The League of Credit Unions

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.Directors Roundtable

Lindsey Cole, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Kelly Yager, League Consultant, The League of Credit Unions

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.Supervisory Committee Roundtable

JT Blau, General Counsel, The League of Credit Unions
Susan Lee, Director of the Office of Small Credit Unions, The League of Credit Unions

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Beyond Approvals: Using AI to Nurture, Protect, and Grow Lending Portfolios

AI is not just a buzzword – it’s quickly becoming the difference between credit unions that grow and those that play catch-up. Join us for a breakout session on how AI is being used to fuel loan growth, nurture members through the entire credit lifecycle, and protect portfolios in volatile times.

We’ll unpack how AI makes lending smarter, faster, and recession-resistant — spotting early signs of risk, unlocking credit for overlooked members, and automating decisions without sacrificing control. You’ll also see how credit unions are using AI to deliver a modern, seamless member experience that feels less like waiting and more like winning.

Key Takeaways

  • How AI is helping credit unions lend deeper while staying recession-resilient
  • Ways to automate decisioning and reduce manual bottlenecks across the credit lifecycle
  • Strategies to grow loans without growing risk
  • Using AI to elevate member experience with faster, fairer, and more personalised credit decisions
  • Real-world examples of credit unions that are seeing measurable ROI
Samantha Hubbard, Vice President Business Development, Scienaptic AI
Ross Talbert, Vice President, LEVERAGE Payment Solutions

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

The ABCs of a Customizable and Sustainable Executive Benefits Program
Directors, CEO, C-Suite, and HR

Understand the evolution of executive benefits program components. There’s split-dollar life insurance, 457(f) and more. It’s not that simple but doesn’t have to be hard to figure out the best mix for your executives and credit union. Learn important steps in assessing what mix of program structures and investments will best meet your changing objectives.

Fred Palmer, Senior Executive Benefits Specialist, TruStage

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.Power Hour Luncheon – Four Locations (RSVP Required at Registration to Attend – Limited Space Available)
EVENT AT MAX CAPACITY/SOLD OUT

2:00 – 3:30 p.m.General Session

Economic Update
Steven Rick, Director, Chief Economist TruStage
Celebrating the UN International Year of Cooperatives
Facilitator: Samantha Beeler, President, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Panelist:
Paul Norgrove, I-CUDE, President of Association of British Credit Unions (ABCUL), and CEO of Serve and Protect Credit Union
Panelist:
Nigel Rabbitts, Chairman, Serve and Protect Credit Union
Panelist:
Mark Littleton, CEO, Kinetic Credit Union
Panelist:
Eric Broome, Esquire, Executive Vice President, Georgia’s Own Credit Union
Panelist:
Joe Thomas, Executive President of Apple Federal Credit Union, Board Member of Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions, Inc. and World Council for Credit Unions (WOCCU)
Panelist:
Mike Akers, CEO, Hello Credit Union

3:45 – 4:30 p.m.

Breakout Session

Panel: Branch Design, Branding, and Aesthetics Impact ROI

Branch design and aesthetics play a crucial role in creating a memorable brand experience, directly influencing both employee performance and member satisfaction. A well-designed branch with cohesive branding elements fosters a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the member journey and promoting brand loyalty. Thoughtful layouts, appealing visuals, and functional design elements improve workflow, leading to increased employee morale and productivity. For members, the look and feel of the branch can positively impact their perception of trust and professionalism, encouraging repeat visits. An investment in design and branding can significantly boost ROI by driving member engagement, retention, and operational efficiency.

In this session you will hear real life examples of how branch design made a huge impact on credit union employees, members, and the bottom line.

Mary Jenrette, President and CEO, Marshland Credit Union
Christopher Bradberry, President and CEO, Fibre Credit Union
Marc Healy, Executive Director of Retail and Marketing, Element

3:45 – 4:30 p.m.Breakout Session

Zero to $1 Million in 60 Minutes
Gordon Stein, BESC, MBA, CSC, CFEI, Professional Speaker and Author, Cashflow Cookbook

The American Psychiatric Association tells us that money is our #1 cause of stress. The most popular car loan is now 96 months, 70% of millennials permanently carry a credit card balance and 64% of Americans will retire with less than $10,000.

Most personal finance advice isn’t helpful: save 10% (but how?), give up things you love (no thanks!), and do detailed financial budgeting (must I?).

In Zero to $1 Million in 60 Minutes, Gordon shows his audience a powerful approach to free up cashflow and accelerate wealth. Using concepts from his book, Cashflow Cookbook, he lights a path to a brighter financial future with an extra million…or more.

Summary Outline Personal finance is often portrayed as a zero-sum game where we can either spend now or sacrifice for our retirement. This session shows you how to find financial wellness, enjoy your life, and your retirement. All with minimal effort and minimal sacrifice.

Learning Outcomes: The audience will learn how to:

  • Free up hundreds or even thousands of dollars of cashflow each month
  • Apply that cashflow to increase investment contributions or debt paydown.
  • Use compounding to add a million or more to their retirement wealth.
  • Reduce their financial stress and improve their financial wellness.

3:45 – 4:30 p.m.Breakout Session

Growing Loans: The Engine That Feeds the CU
Don Arkell, Owner, CU Lending Advice

In today’s competitive financial landscape, loan growth is the lifeblood of a thriving credit union. Join Don Arkell from CU Lending Advice as he shares actionable strategies and insights for increasing loan volume while maintaining a healthy portfolio. This session will cover proven techniques for member engagement, enhancing loan officer productivity, and leveraging technology to streamline your lending process. Whether you’re looking to expand your loan offerings, improve underwriting standards, or simply accelerate growth, Don will equip you with the tools to make lending the engine that drives your credit union’s success. Don’t miss this opportunity to fuel sustainable growth and better serve your members!


3:45 – 4:30 p.m.Breakout Session

Advocacy in Action: Building Influence and Driving Impact
Michelle Roth, Vice President of Advocacy, The League of Credit Unions

Whether you’re a seasoned CEO or new to the credit union movement, join your league advocacy team for an engaging session focused on grassroots advocacy, the credit union difference, and the power of strategic partnership between credit unions and leagues.

Together, we’ll explore the unique strength of the credit union movement in serving communities and discuss how we can collaborate to protect, promote, and preserve the “People Helping People” mission. You’ll hear from our team about how you get involved as an advocate by engaging with legislators and local government, participating in call-to-action and comment letter requests, supporting Political Action Committees initiatives, and more.


3:45 – 4:30 p.m.Breakout Session

Numbers that Tell the Story
Laura King, President, Georgia United Credit Union

Forget the spreadsheet snooze-fest—this session is for executives who want to lead with clarity and confidence in a noisy, fast-changing world. We’ll explore metrics that truly matter for today’s credit union leaders—not just financial ratios, but the numbers that tell the story of your members, your staff, your tech, and your future. Whether you’re a data junkie or just analytics-curious, you’ll walk away with ideas for a sharper dashboard, better questions to ask, and new ways to turn data into decisions that move your credit union forward.


3:45 – 4:30 p.m.Breakout Session

The Modern Generation Lives Differently
Shreenath Regunathan, Co-Founder/Co-CEO, Starlight

Join Shreenath Regunathan of Starlight as he shares key insights from building innovative products to serve LMI members through AI-driven solutions. Learn how Starlight launched impactful financial tools; created inclusive experiences like Spanish-language services & partnered with 10+ credit unions to reach tens of thousands of members. See how serving all members can come with ease without burdening your technology or your front line staff.


3:45 – 4:30 p.m.

Breakout Session

Strategic Storytelling: Elevating Credit Union Advocacy Through Communications

Hear from Frank Diekmann, Founder of CU Daily, speaker, and author, and Grace Colvin, Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Strategy at The League of Credit Unions, about how strategic communications can amplify credit union advocacy, cut through noise in the media landscape, and shape public perception. Learn how to tell your credit union’s story with authenticity, navigate tough narratives, and align messaging with mission-driven impact. This breakout session is perfect for leaders looking to sharpen their advocacy voice and media strategy.

Grace Colvin, Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Strategy, The League of Credit Unions
Frank Diekmann, Founder of CU Daily, Speaker, Author

4:30 – 6:30 p.m.Exhibit Hall Opens – All Attendees

Dinner On Your Own


8:00 – 11:00 p.m.Welcome Party – LEVERAGE Networking After Dark

DATE/TIMESESSION INFORMATION
7:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.Attendee Registration and Welcome Center Open

8:00 – 9:00 a.m.Breakfast – All Attendees

9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

The League Awards
Emerging Professional of the Year
Professional of the Year

General Session – Welcome

Future Proofing Via Innovation to Transformation
Erik Qualman, 5x #1 International Bestselling Author and Speaker

10:15 – 10:30 a.m.Break

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.Breakout Session

Meaning After Money
Gordon Stein, BESC, MBA, CSC, CFEI, Professional Speaker and Author, Cashflow Cookbook

Up to a third of Americans become depressed in retirement. It should be a time of joy, often our biggest life challenges are complete: our mortgages are finally paid off; we have raised our children and logged some great career accomplishments.

But the end of those challenges can leave a deafening silence and a lack of purpose. And aging can bring a perception that possibilities are becoming more limited, and that our best days are behind us.

In Meaning After Money, Gordon lays out a powerful approach to retirement. A clear 9-point plan to build a retirement packed with joy, fulfillment and meaning.

Retirement is often viewed as the ultimate rest after a long career of hard work. But that rest often brings loneliness and depression. It is a time when anything is possible, but that abundance of choice often leads to inaction. In Meaning After Money, Gordon offers a framework where every aspect of your life can come alive in a retirement that many can only dream of.

Learning Outcomes: The audience will learn how to:

  • Use their retirement as a chance to make life dreams a reality.
  • Apply a 9-point framework to identify gaps that can limit retirement satisfaction.
  • Set a powerful retirement plan that lights up every aspect of their life.
  • Get unstuck in a retirement that lacks joy.

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.

Breakout Session: Advocating on All Fronts: Regional and Military Credit Union Perspectives

Join us for a dynamic conversation exploring the evolving landscape of credit union advocacy. Together, we will delve into the distinct challenges and opportunities facing credit unions, discuss current legislative priorities, and share strategies for effective engagement with policymakers. Attendees will gain valuable insight into how credit unions can collaborate to amplify their voice in Washington and beyond.

Jason Stverak, Chief Advocacy Officer, Defense Credit Union Council
Grace Colvin, Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Strategy, The League of Credit Unions

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.Breakout Session
Hot Trends in Total Rewards: A Peer Exchange for Credit Unions

As employee expectations shift, credit unions are rethinking everything from how they approach benefits and compensation strategies to career growth.

Join this interactive session to explore what’s working (and what’s not) when it comes to total rewards, and how these programs are helping to retain top talent. Credit union leaders will share real examples, lessons learned, and ideas you can bring back to your own programs. Come ready to exchange insights, ask questions, and learn alongside peers who are navigating the same challenges.

Facilitator: Bridget Fazzolara, Senior Vice President, Employee Benefits, NFP, Aon Company
Panelist: Crystal Vessels, SHRM-SCP, Vice President – HR Operations and Talent Acquisition, Partners Federal Credit Union
$2.8 Billion in Assets/180K+ Members
Panelist: Bridget Loafman, Chief Administration Officer, RadiFi Credit Union
$630 Million in Assets/43K+ Members

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.Breakout Session
Combating Fraud Trends Panel

This panel will discuss new and evolving fraud risks in the credit union space and provide insights into the tools and practices that credit unions can use to help combat these new and growing threats. We will share tips and tricks about practical changes that can make a big difference in a credit union’s fraud losses year over year – without breaking the bank in implementation costs.

Makenzie Moore, Associate Attorney, Kudulis Reisinger Price

Donna Colwell, AVP of Compliance and Fraud, All In Credit Union

Lisa Smith, SVP/Chief Risk Officer, Achieva Credit Union


10:30 – 11:15 a.m.Breakout Session

Michael Cadore

Lessons From a New Board Member
Dr. Michael Cadore, Launch Credit Union’s Associate Board of Directors, Eastern Florida State College’s Executive Director of Community Engagement

See through the eyes of a credit union board member as he shares the key takeaways from his first two years of service. Longtime board members will better understand how to set up new board members for success, while new and prospective board members will discover secrets to becoming part of the team. Join the session for insight into how to strengthen your board’s future!

Areas of focus include:

  • Clarifying Expectations
  • Building Relationships
  • Learning and Development

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.Breakout Session

Mike Neill

Culture > Strategy
Mike Neill, Chief Learning Officer, ServiStar Counsulting

In a report by Forbes Magazine an overwhelming 84% of leaders agree that culture is critical for business success and 60% agree that culture is more important than strategy. That said, more than half the group reported that culture was not even on the C-Suite’s agenda. The bottom line: culture is hugely important but mismanaged and undervalued in most organizations.

Want more proof that Culture > Strategy?

  • Strong corporate culture attracts top talent.
  • Positive culture improves retention rates.
  • Good company culture increases productivity.

What we will share with you:

  • Why culture is a powerful driver of long-term business success.
  • Cultures form with or without leadership, but that’s not the culture you want.
  • How leadership influences culture.
  • Why culture and strategy are not mutually exclusive but interdependent.
  • How to align culture with strategy for long-term business success.
  • Practical Steps to Build a Strong Culture

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.

Breakout Session
Cracking the Code: Business Banking Trends in Credit Unions

Discover how credit unions are evolving to meet the complex needs of today’s business members. This dynamic panel brings together experts in treasury services and commercial lending to explore emerging trends, innovative tools, and strategies that drive growth in business banking. Whether you’re building out your offerings or refining your approach, join us to decode what’s next in serving small businesses and commercial clients.

Facilitator: Donnetté Logan, Senior League Consultant, The League of Credit Unions
John Ballantyne, CEO, TruTreasury
Mark Ritter, CEO, MBFS
T.J. Simyak, Regional President, Cooperative Business Services, LLC

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.

Breakout Session
Instant Payments in Action: Lessons from Leading Credit Unions

Explore the transformative potential of immediate payments in a dynamic, moderated panel discussion. Join your colleagues from Suncoast Credit Union and Gulf Winds Credit Union as they share their experiences and lessons learned in implementing immediate payments on the RTP® network and FedNow® Service through Corporate One Federal Credit Union. This session will provide an overview of what is required to adopt immediate payments, from the initial decision-making process to the IT and operational impacts, as well as the enhanced member benefits.

Key Takeaways:

  • Strategic Insights: Gain a clear understanding of the strategic considerations involved in adopting immediate payments.
  • Technical Requirements: Learn about the IT infrastructure and resources required for successful implementation.
  • Operational Changes: Identify the operational adjustments and training required to support RTP and/or FedNow Service.
  • Member Benefits: Understand how immediate payments are being used to enhance member satisfaction and service delivery.
  • Best Practices: Hear firsthand experiences and best practices from credit unions that have successfully integrated real-time payment systems.
Christine Mayes, Executive Vice President and Chief Member Engagement Officer, Corporate One Federal Credit Union
Jennifer Woodfin, Assistant Vice President of Payments, Gulf Winds Credit Union
Brandie Forrester, Payments Director, Suncoast Credit Union
Deana Bartel, APRP, Vice President of Payment Services, Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union

10:30 – 11:15 a.m.Breakout Session

How to Focus In An Unfocused World
Erik Qualman, 5x #1 International Bestselling Author and Speaker

It seems impossible to focus in this unfocused world. Yet, the main difference between winners and losers in this era of quantum change and distraction is… Focus. Winners are constantly focusing on BIG things versus BUSY things. While it sounds simple, it’s not easy.

The #1 killer of promising careers, teams, and businesses is a lack of focus. We either try to do too much, get easily distracted, or put our time, treasures, and talent into the wrong buckets. Qualman shares insights from his #1 Bestselling book, The Focus Project, providing practical techniques to make focus a daily habit. Learning to focus in this unfocused world is a modern superpower. How and what we focus on today will determine our growth and success tomorrow.


11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Advocacy Luncheon – Separate Ticketed Event

Off the Record: How Polling Guides Campaigns & Elections
John Anzalone, Founder, Impact Research

Join us for an insightful keynote address with John Anzalone, one of the nation’s top pollsters and messaging strategists, who has spent decades working on some of the toughest political campaigns in modern history. With over 30 years of experience, John has polled for four of the past five presidential races and helped elect numerous U.S. senators, governors, and House members. He is also the co-founder of the Wall Street Journal Poll, the premier national and battleground media poll in the country. In this session, John will share his expertise in message development and strategic execution, offering valuable insights on how research and data drive political strategy and advocacy in today’s changing landscape.

The League Awards
Advocate of the Year


1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

General Session
Collaboration and Partnerships: Driving the Future of the Credit Union System

In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, the strength of the credit union movement lies in our ability to work together. This session explores how strategic collaboration and strong partnerships are essential to advancing our shared priorities at both the state and federal levels. From coordinated advocacy efforts to innovative public-private partnerships, credit unions are demonstrating that unified voices lead to meaningful impact. Join fellow leaders to learn how collaboration is shaping the future of our system—and how your credit union can play a pivotal role in driving that progress forward.

Tony Hernandez, President and CEO, Defense Credit Union Council
Grace Colvin, Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Strategy, The League of Credit Unions
Mark Meyer, CEO and President, Filene Research Institute
Tobi Weingart, Senior Vice President of Member Engagement, The League of Credit Unions
Renée Sattiewhite, CUDE, President and CEO, African-American Credit Union Coalition
Lindsey Cole, Chief Operating Officer, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Lauren Culp, Executive Director, National Credit Union Foundation
Bobbi Grady, Executive Director, Credit Union Impact Foundation

2:30 – 2:45 p.m.The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates Annual Business Meeting

2:45 – 3:00 p.m.Break

3:00 – 3:45 p.m.Breakout Session
Navigating the Inclusiv Grant Process

Join the Credit Union Impact Foundation and Inclusiv, for a focused 15-minute session on the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator (CCIA) grant process. This conversation will provide a high-level overview of how credit unions can access funding, navigate application requirements, and position themselves for success in this new initiative.

Bobbi Grady, Executive Director, Credit Union Impact Foundation

Andrea Lally, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Inclusiv


3:00 – 3:45 p.m.Breakout Session
F.I.G.H.T

Human trafficking is not just a global crisis—it’s a local one, with profound implications across communities and industries, including financial services. With the recent appointment of President Samantha A.M. Beeler to Florida’s Statewide Council on Human Trafficking by the Office of the Attorney General, we are proud to be a part of the F.I.G.H.T. – Financial Institutions Against Human Trafficking.

This session will explore the WHY behind our involvement, the WHAT driving this initiative, and the HOW – the ways this issue directly impacts our footprint and operations. We’ll examine the critical role financial institutions play in identifying and disrupting trafficking networks, as well as the legal and compliance responsibilities that come with that role. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of human trafficking’s intersection with the financial system and actionable strategies to engage in the F.I.G.H.T. for justice and human dignity.

Samantha Beeler, President, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
JT Blau, General Counsel, The League of Credit Unions
Christopher Hodge, Senior Director of Governmental Affairs, The League of Credit Unions
Linda Fales, Community Development Officer, Suncoast Credit Union

3:00 – 3:45 p.m.Breakout Session

Unpin Your Potential: How to Get Unstuck
Denise Gabel, Chief Can-do-ologist and Founder of Can-do-ology

Feeling stuck? How do you get “un-stuck” when you’re in a rut, when curveballs fly your way, or when it feels like life has pinned you down? Whether you’re facing challenges beyond your control, or you just need to rediscover the joy and creativity in your work, this session is your answer.

Join the inspiring Denise Gabel, bestselling author of The Can-Do Mindset, and Isabella Meadows, Can-Do Energy Leadership Coach, for a transformative session where they share powerful stories of overcoming life’s greatest challenges and practical tools to help you do the same. Denise and Isabella will show you how to respond when life “sticks a pin” in your plans and how to bounce back stronger. In this session, you’ll gain new perspectives, practical strategies, and a fresh mindset to help you unpin your potential and turn setbacks into opportunities.

What You Can Expect:

  • Tools to reignite your confidence and creativity to get unstuck in any area of life.
  • A mindset shift that will empower you to approach challenges with a new CAN-DO attitude.
  • Hot Seat Coaching: Bring your personal challenges, and Denise and Isabella will help you get immediately unstuck with real-time, actionable advice.

Walk out feeling unstoppable! You’ll gain the confidence, tools, and Can-Do mindset to tackle any challenge life throws your way. It’s time to unpin your potential and step into your next big move!

Unpin Your Potential: How to Get Unstuck
Isabella Meadows, Leadership Coach, Can-do-ology

3:00 – 3:45 p.m.Repeat Breakout Session
Combating Fraud Trends Panel

This panel will discuss new and evolving fraud risks in the credit union space and provide insights into the tools and practices that credit unions can use to help combat these new and growing threats. We will share tips and tricks about practical changes that can make a big difference in a credit union’s fraud losses year over year – without breaking the bank in implementation costs.

Makenzie Moore, Associate Attorney, Kudulis Reisinger Price

Donna Colwell, AVP of Compliance and Fraud, All In Credit Union

Lisa Smith, SVP/Chief Risk Officer, Achieva Credit Union


3:00 – 3:45 p.m.

Breakout Session
CUSO Playbook: Best Practices for Growth and Innovation

Looking to unlock the full potential of CUSO partnerships? This session explores how credit unions can strategically leverage CUSOs to drive innovation, generate new revenue streams, boost efficiency, and deliver greater member value. You’ll gain actionable insights on:

  • Proven strategies from high-performing CUSOs
  • Key operational and governance best practices
  • How to avoid common pitfalls when launching or scaling a CUSO

Whether you’re exploring a new venture or strengthening an existing one, this session will help you build smarter and grow faster.

Facilitator: Laura Ernzen, Chief Innovation Officer, The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates
Panelist: Robert Bava, CEO, Community Choice Credit Union
Panelist: Mark Brewer, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Launch Credit Union
Panelist: Rob Keatts, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, Chartway Credit Union

3:00 – 3:45 p.m.Breakout Session

Mike Neill

Culture > Strategy
Mike Neill, Chief Learning Officer, ServiStar Consulting

In a report by Forbes Magazine an overwhelming 84% of leaders agree that culture is critical for business success and 60% agree that culture is more important than strategy. That said, more than half the group reported that culture was not even on the C-Suite’s agenda. The bottom line: culture is hugely important but mismanaged and undervalued in most organizations.

Want more proof that Culture > Strategy?

  • Strong corporate culture attracts top talent.
  • Positive culture improves retention rates.
  • Good company culture increases productivity.

What we will share with you:

  • Why culture is a powerful driver of long-term business success.
  • Cultures form with or without leadership, but that’s not the culture you want.
  • How leadership influences culture.
  • Why culture and strategy are not mutually exclusive but interdependent.
  • How to align culture with strategy for long-term business success.
  • Practical Steps to Build a Strong Culture

3:00 – 3:45 p.m.Breakout Session

Where is your Credit Union’s Fraud Risk?
Glory LeDu, CEO of League InfoSight and CU Risk Intelligence

With so many different types of Fraud, how do you know if you are allocating resources in the right area? Fraud risk management should be commensurate with the credit union’s risk profile, but how is that determined? Join us for this session where we address different types of fraud at the credit union, the typical types of controls in place to manage risk, and how the credit union can put this all together to create a risk assessment to better understand the credit union’s overall exposure to fraud.


3:45 – 6:00 p.m.Exhibit Hall Reception – All Attendees

6:30 – 11:00 p.m.CMN Night of Miracles Gala – Separate Ticketed Event

DATE/TIMESESSION INFORMATION
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.Welcome Center Open
8:00 – 10:30 a.m.Breakfast and Closing Speaker

Amy Downs

Hope is a Verb
Amy Downs, OKC Bombing Survivor, Allegiance Credit Union CEO, Speaker, and Author

30 Year Anniversary of OKC Bombing

Amy Downs survived a bomb exploding in the building of the credit union where she was working, which killed 168 people, including 18 of her 33 co-workers. Today, she is President and an award-winning CEO of that same organization. Allegiance Credit Union has grown by 400% and is thriving. Drawing on her recently released book Hope Is A Verb, Amy is excited to share how you can respond to a crisis in a way that will make your organization come out of this even stronger than before you went in.