Dakota CU News & Notes

​Good Samaritan FCU Merges with Voyage FCU!  Plus, some career opportunities at Dakota credit unions, and some very special deals on upcoming webinars! 

Good Samaritan FCU Merges With Voyage FCU
Effective June 1st, 2021 Good Samaritan Federal Credit Union has merged with Voyage Federal Credit Union.  The two credit unions found their way to each other with similar visions for member relations and culture.  By joining forces as one under the name Voyage Federal Credit Union, the credit union is now nearly $165M in assets, 18,000 members and 35 staff including the three long-time team members from Good Samaritan Federal Credit Union.  With the merger, the Good Samaritan FCU branch location closed its doors, however the three Voyage FCU branches are strategically placed throughout Sioux Falls as an added convenience to the new members.  Services that were previously not available at the smaller CU are now an added benefit such as mortgages, business services, online person-to-person payment options, remote deposit capture, and so much more.
 
DakCU Awards Nominations
Our DakCU Awards are open for nominations and can be found here.  Be sure to get your nominations in by December 17th.  Check out our revamped Awards Page which now includes previous winners and our Hall of Fame winners from 2000 to 2021!  Contact Deb Kruckenberg with any questions.
 
Overdraft Strategy Need a Reboot?
Take a closer look at overdraft programs with CUNA Strategic Services President Barb Lowman.  Along with JMFA’s CEO John Cohron and EVP of Compliance Review Cheryl Lawson, Barb will cover current legislative efforts and recent criticisms of overdraft strategies, including excessive fees and disclosure issues.  Key areas of discussion include: What to make of the renewed legislative activity and criticism; How to responsibly address consumer concerns; Challenges and misconceptions to overcome; Consequences of not offering an overdraft service or doing away with it; and Ways to reduce regulatory risk and fulfill expectations from regulators, examiners and consumers.  You will also gain insight into how a socially responsible overdraft privilege service delivers value and financial stability, based on direct feedback from credit unions.  Register for this free webinar here.
 
Buy 2 – Get 1 FREE Webinars!
Credit Union Webinar Network is offering a “Buy 2 Get 1 FREE” webinar special now until October 31st.  Find and purchase two webinars and enter “Send my free webinar code!” in the Comments box at checkout.  A coupon code for your FREE webinar will be emailed to you within one business day.  Check out available webinars here.
  
ICU Day FREE Resources
International Credit Union Day (ICU Day) is less than one week 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.
  
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.
  
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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!