The President’s Perspective

Virtual GAC option available for those wishing to tune in! Plus, Dakota CUs recognized in Newsweek; and the launch of a new lending training program for DakCU members. 

Can’t Make the GAC in Person? Virtual option is available!
Building a movement filled with credit union advocates is key to advancing credit union priorities. Unfortunately, not everyone can make it to Washington next week for the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC). Perhaps you have team members here in the Dakotas itching to experience this important event. GAC Online is the perfect way to engage and stay connected. Learn more about key issues like interchange and so-called “junk fees,” view exclusive keynotes and dive into a library of On-Demand content.

The virtual option is affordable and convenient. As you know, GAC is the premier credit union event each year and our opportunity to highlight the meaningful work credit unions are doing to improve the financial well-being of their members and communities. You can learn more about the virtual option at GAC 2024.

Next week, 30 Dakota credit union leaders will be in our nation’s capital to participate in the 2024 GAC and meet with our Dakota lawmakers to show them the credit union difference. And, as America’s Credit Unions establishes a newly united national presence in 2024, your Dakota Credit Union Association will continue to deliver the best advocacy, education, compliance training and industry-leading events and products. You will see some exciting new changes this year, but our top priority will always be to advocate for and advance an environment where credit unions thrive.

Dakota CUs Recognized in Newsweek
Newsweek recently recognized America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2024, and not surprisingly, several of our Dakota credit unions made the list. The annual report ranked the top 250 credit unions in the United States, based on such aspects as profitability, financial relevance, overall health and stability, among other parameters.
As stated in the article, “The community engagement of credit unions extends beyond financial transactions. Many credit unions actively contribute to local initiatives, reinforcing their role as integral community partners. In an era where digital advancements can overshadow personalized service, regional banks and credit unions stand out for their customer-centric financial services. These institutions prove that a community-centered approach can redefine the banking experience.”

Our hearty congratulations to: CCE Federal CU, Fargo, ND; Dakota Plains CU, Edgeley, ND; Dakota Star CU, Rapid City, SD; and United Savings CU, Fargo, ND.

BHFCU Recognized as Premier Workplace
I also want to extend my congratulations to Jerry Schmidt and his crew at Black Hills FCU (Rapid City, SD). They were recently singled out by Energage through a workplace survey as a “Top 2024 Great Plains Workplace.” The recognition is based entirely on staff feedback which showed their employees feel respected, supported, and empowered to execute in their roles. Well done!

Mortgage Academy Launch
Finally, in partnership with MemberClose, we excited to launch Mortgage Academy, a new opportunity that will empower your team and enhance your credit union's presence in the mortgage lending space.

MemberClose Mortgage Academy is designed to provide your team with progressive on-demand virtual training modules. This comprehensive program is tailored to equip credit union professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in mortgage lending.

I encourage you to explore more about this new opportunity here and contact George McDonald, DakCU’s Chief Officer of Strategic Services at 701.250.3942 with any questions.

Have a great week,  

DakCU President/CEO