Dakota CU News & Notes

Several career opportunities at Dakota credit unions are available now!  Plus, DakCU offices closed next Monday, and other announcements you shouldn’t miss. 

DakCU Offices Closed Monday, October 11
Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) offices will be closed on Monday, October 11th in observation of Columbus Day and Native American Day.  Columbus Day is a national holiday which officially celebrates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus' arrival in and the discovery of the American Continent on October 12, 1492.  Not all states or regions follow this observance, and instead, they celebrate other events on the day.  South Dakota's official holiday on this date is Native American Day, which celebrates the cultures and contributions of the many Native American tribes.

DakCU Awards Page Updated!
Our DakCU Awards are now open for nominations and can be found here.  Be sure to get your nominations in by December 17th.  Check out our newly revamped Awards Page which now includes previous winners and our Hall of Fame winners from 2000 to 2021!  Contact Deb Kruckenberg with any questions.
 
ICU Day FREE Resources
International Credit Union Day (ICU Day) is less than two weeks away!  On Thursday, October 21, our industry will come together to celebrate and raise awareness about what it means for members around the world to have a credit union as their financial partner.  This year's ICU Day theme, “Building financial health for a brighter tomorrow,” reflects the way credit unions contribute to a brighter future by working to improve members' financial well-being.  Contact Lindsey Hefta, Director of Marketing if you need any assistance with customized ICU Day graphics or visit CUNA’s website for downloadable resources.
 
Aspire CU Seeking Information Technology/Security Officer
Aspire Credit Union in Minot, ND is seeking a full-time Information Technology/Security Officer. Energetic and service-minded individuals with an enthusiasm to learn are encouraged to apply! What will make you successful in this role?

• This person will be responsible for Aspire’s computers, servers, networks, printers and other hardware/software as needed.
• Being excited to work on new products and services, especially when they relate to computer systems and cyber security.
• Helping members with questions related to online banking and cyber security as it pertains to member information.
• Adhering to all operational, security, risk, and regulatory policies and procedures.
• Demonstrating Aspire CU service standards of accuracy, responsiveness, courtesy, partnership, and responsibility along with other service expectations.
• Working as a team by maintaining helpful and courteous interactions with others and keeping communication lines open.

 
Desired skills and requirements include:

• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills as well as providing excellent customer service. Must understand technical issues, practice active listening skills, and effectively explain solutions to non-technical employees.
• In depth knowledge of computer hardware and software and mobile applications. Must be an expert in Microsoft Office Suite/365.
• Be trustworthy, dependable, respectful, and truthful with a commitment to safety and excellent customer service.
• Ability to learn and follow operation and security procedures and take responsibility for your own actions.

 
Submit resumes in confidence to Lavonne Zafft.
 
Explorers CU Seeking BSA/Risk Officer
Explorers CU is seeking a BSA/Risk Officer with the option to work at any Explorers CU branch location: Parkston, Springfield, Tea or Yankton, SD.  If you have a passion for teamwork, drive and ingenuity, along with an interest in risk management and investigations, then you could be Explorers Credit Union’s new BSA/Risk Officer.  Using the power of the credit union philosophy, you will help guide members on their path of financial empowerment.  As Explorer’s BSA/Risk Officer, you will serve the entire organization that includes 29 Explorers CU staff, more than 9,000 members, and nearly $100M in assets throughout 30 counties in southeastern South Dakota and northeastern Nebraska.  If you have a passion for helping people and either a bachelor's degree or four years of experience in BSA, AML or OFAC regulations, then pack a water bottle, throw your resume in your backpack and head on over to apply to be a part of the team.  Visit www.explorerscu.com/careers  to view the full job description and apply today. Explorers Credit Union is an equal opportunity employer.
 
Dakota Sister Society Meeting Next Week
Have you ever wondered how you can get your Credit Union started on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?  Look no further than the next Dakota Sister Society meeting on October 14th at 2:00 p.m. (CT).  Guest speaker, Daniel Marquez, will explain the importance of DEI and financial cooperation.  Register here.  Questions? Contact Nanci Wilson at University FCU.
 
North Central Chapter Meeting Planned
The North Central Chapter has scheduled their meeting for Tuesday, October 19 at the Elks Lodge – 425 Hwy 2 – Devils Lake.  First Community CU will be hosting the event.  Meet at 5:15 for social, followed by dinner, meeting and program – a flag folding presentation by the VFW Post 756 Honor Guard.  RSVP to Tiffani Crist, First Community Credit Union at 701-665-1325.
 
Central Chapter Meeting Scheduled
The Central Chapter has scheduled their meeting for Tuesday, October 19.  Meet at the Huron Event Center – 501 Wisconsin Avenue SW – Huron, SD at 6:00 p.m. for Social & Dinner.  The evening will include Volunteer Appreciation Night and Game Night.  RSVP to Dawn Van Ash at 605-224-6264.
 
Leveraging the Cooperative Advantage
North Dakota State University and the Burdick Center for Cooperatives in partnership with the ND Coordinating Council for Cooperatives is hosting CO-OPERATE2021 at the Bismarck State College National Energy Center of Excellent.  On November 16 – 17, you are invited to celebrate, collaborate, and expand the impact of co-ops by re-energizing the value proposition of the cooperative business model.  This event will bring co-op directors, employees and members together for two days of resource sharing, networking and learning.  Speaker and registration information available here.
 
Help Us Stay Up to Date with Your Staff
Please help us to make sure that your employees are receiving the Memo and are in our database for other important information.  We strive to bring you the latest important information related to advocacy, compliance, networking and educational opportunities, and more.  Is everyone at your credit union receiving this information?  Be sure we have the names, title, and email address of any new employees.  The more information your staff has, the better for all of us!  Email Shawn Brummer to be added to our distribution list or sign up directly here on our website.
 
In the Spotlight
Do you know someone at your credit union or another credit union, either employee or volunteer, who has an interesting story?  Nominate them for the CU Professionals Spotlight by emailing their name and a brief explanation of why they are “Spotlight” material to Shawn Brummer.
 
Share News
Submit your news to Shawn Brummer. Employee promotions, awards, new products or services, community involvement/recognition, job openings, all are welcome!