Congratulations to our 2026 Dakota Crashers!

Meet the 2026 Dakota Crashers, Taylor Anderson and Julia Petroff, as they prepare to take on Washington, D.C.

The Filene Research Institute has unveiled the latest class of dynamic emerging credit union leaders selected for The Cooperative Trust’s prestigious Crash program at the upcoming Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C.

This year, North Dakota will be represented by Taylor Anderson, Loan Officer at University Federal Credit Union. Representing South Dakota is Julia Petroff at Black Hills Federal Credit Union.

Each Dakota Crasher will receive a GAC Scholarship from DakCU to help cover expenses. “One of the things that gives me the most confidence in the future of this movement is the next generation stepping up,” stated Scott Simpson, president/CEO of America’s Credit Unions. “The leaders selected to Crash the GAC represent the talent, passion, and purpose that will shape the future of cooperative finance, and I’m excited to see the impact they’ll have not just at GAC, but throughout their careers. Their presence strengthens our movement and ensures the credit union difference remains strong for years to come.”

Now in its 17th year, Crash the GAC is a career-defining experience, empowering young professionals to deepen their involvement in the industry. The event, taking place March 1 – 5 in D.C., will bring together top leaders and advocates to address critical credit union issues. America’s Credit Unions generously covers registration costs for the chosen crashers.

The 2026 Crasher cohort includes more than 60 rising credit union professionals nationwide, all committed to strengthening and advancing the cooperative movement.

For those who aren’t attending GAC, DakCU will once again offer the Summit Crasher opportunity at our 2026 Annual Summit—another fantastic chance for emerging leaders to gain education, expand their network, and engage more deeply in the credit union movement. More details will be available soon.

Congratulations again to Taylor and Julia—we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make in Washington, D.C. and beyond!
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Crash the GAC is organized by The Cooperative Trust at Filene Research Institute and made possible by the generous support of America’s Credit Unions, with additional backing from League partners.

Julia Petroff, Branch Manager at Black Hills Federal Credit Union

Taylor Anderson, Loan Officer at University Federal Credit Union