Leadership Link: Keller Connection

​September is shaping up to be a pivotal month for DakCU, with major advocacy efforts, Hike the Hill, national leadership in Bismarck, and opportunities to connect with credit unions across the Dakotas.

A Busy September Ahead
Welcome to September! It is hard to believe we are already heading into the fall, and the month is shaping up to be one of my busiest, and most exciting, since joining Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU).

Our advocacy work continues to be a top priority. DakCU is working closely with both the North Dakota and South Dakota Governmental Affairs Committees to ensure we are prepared for the upcoming legislative sessions. Throughout my visits with credit unions across the Dakotas, fraud has consistently been one of the most pressing concerns raised by our members. We are actively exploring potential legislative solutions that will help credit unions combat fraud, protect their members, and hold those responsible accountable. I appreciate everyone who has shared their experiences and ideas as we develop our approach.

During the week of September 14, DakCU representatives and credit union leaders will travel to Washington, D.C., for our annual Hike the Hill. We have already secured several meetings with members of the Dakota congressional delegations and will continue working to add more. These face-to-face conversations are critical to ensuring lawmakers understand how federal policies affect credit unions and the members and communities they serve. If you are still interested in attending, please let me know. We would be happy to help get you there.

Following Hike the Hill, we are pleased to welcome Scott Simpson, President and CEO of America’s Credit Unions, to Bismarck. Scott will spend several days with us, sharing his perspective on the national political and regulatory environment and discussing the opportunities and challenges facing our movement. His visit will lead directly into our Advocacy Workshop and New Ideas Conference, making it an especially valuable week for education, collaboration, and engagement.
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During the final week of September, I plan to be back on the road visiting credit unions throughout South Dakota. If you are in the Watertown or Sioux Falls areas, please be on the lookout for an invitation. These visits remain one of the most rewarding parts of my role, and I value every opportunity to listen, learn, and better understand how DakCU can support your credit union.

I continue to be honored to serve you and the credit union family across the Dakotas. Thank you for your engagement, your candor, and your commitment to the cooperative movement. Please reach out anytime if you have questions, concerns, or ideas to share. I look forward to seeing many of you throughout September.

Joe Keller
President & CEO