Chesney Garnos Embarks on a New Chapter

Chesney Garnos will depart DakCU on July 25 for a new advocacy role. Learn more about her impact and next steps for our advocacy team.

The Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) announces that Chesney Garnos, Executive Director of Government Affairs, will be departing the organization effective July 25, 2025, to pursue an exciting new opportunity in advocacy outside the credit union industry.

Since joining DakCU, Chesney has made a lasting impact on the Association’s government affairs work particularly in South Dakota where her leadership, insight, and deep commitment to credit union priorities have helped elevate our voice and influence at both the state and federal levels.

“Chesney has a notably high ceiling in this arena,” said Jeff Olson, DakCU President/CEO. “She’s a rising star, and her new opportunity is a natural next step in her professional journey. We are grateful for the significant contributions she has made to our advocacy mission.”

The Director of Political & Grassroots Advocacy position will be posted soon, and recruitment efforts are underway. DakCU remains fully prepared to maintain its advocacy momentum, including preparations for the Fall Legislative and Regulatory Hike-the-Hill scheduled for September. The goal is to have a new director in place ahead of this key event to ensure continuity and strategic progress.
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Please join us in expressing appreciation to Chesney for her outstanding service and in wishing her continued success as she enters this next exciting chapter in her career.