The President's Perspective

NCUA Board down to one. Join us Aug. 12–13 in Fargo for our Advocacy Workshop, Professionals Forum & Golf Scramble.

NCUA Leadership in Flux—Again
Just when it appeared that stability might be returning to the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the leadership landscape has once again shifted.

Late Friday, July 25, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issued an administrative stay, effectively pausing the reinstatement of Todd Harper and Tanya Otsuka to the NCUA Board. This stay temporarily halts a lower court’s ruling that had briefly returned the two Democratic appointees to their positions. As a result, the Board is once again down to a single member, Chairman Kyle Hauptman.

What’s Happening?
For those who haven’t been following the situation closely, here’s a quick recap:

Earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Amir Ali ruled that the April removal of Harper and Otsuka by President Trump was unlawful, citing that the Federal Credit Union Act does not grant the president the authority to dismiss board members at will. Following this ruling, Harper and Otsuka resumed their positions and even participated in the NCUA’s July 24 board meeting.

However, just a day later, a three-judge panel from the appellate court Judges Patricia Millett, Cornelia Pillard, and Neomi Rao granted an administrative stay, allowing time to review the government’s emergency appeal. It’s important to note that this stay is procedural and not a judgment on the merits of the case.

Harper and Otsuka have until August 4 to file their response, with the government’s reply due August 11. Until then, the NCUA continues to operate with just one board member and no meetings scheduled in August.

Why This Matters
The ongoing legal uncertainty leaves the credit union industry in a state of regulatory limbo. With only one active board member, the NCUA’s ability to conduct essential oversight, implement policy, or address emerging issues is significantly limited. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications and may ultimately land before the U.S. Supreme Court.

We will continue to monitor developments closely and keep you informed on any potential impacts to credit unions in the Dakotas and nationwide.

Earn Your Advocacy Badge – August 12 in Fargo
As credit union advocates, we know just how critical it is to stay sharp, informed, and ready to act. That’s why I’m encouraging you to join us for our upcoming Advocacy 101 Workshop on Tuesday, August 12 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Delta Hotel in Fargo. This free (pre-Professionals Forum) session is designed to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your messaging, and help cultivate more champions within your credit union.
 
With continued threats to our tax-exempt status and increased scrutiny at the federal level, we must be prepared to defend our movement with confidence. This interactive workshop will provide practical tools, compelling messaging, and inspiration to elevate your advocacy efforts. We’ll be joined by Austin DeBey, Director of Advocacy for the American Association of Credit Union Leagues. Plus, you’ll be among the first to receive our brand-new DakCU Advocate pledge pin, a symbol of your continued commitment to standing up for credit unions.
 
You may choose to attend the Advocacy 101 Workshop, the Professionals Forum, or both. All options are included within registration. Click here for more information or to register. 

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Final Chance to Register: Professionals Forum & Foundation Golf Scramble
Time is running out! Friday, August 1 is the last day to register for both the DakCU Professionals Forum and our Foundation Golf Scramble. 

• Professionals Forum (Aug. 12): Kicks off at 12:30 p.m. CT at the Delta Hotel in Fargo. This attendee-driven event is open to all credit union professionals—no matter your title or tenure. Bring your questions, ideas, and challenges. You’ll be joined by peers across the Dakotas for real conversations, idea sharing, and practical problem solving. The day wraps with a networking social sponsored by Millennium Corporate.
• Foundation Golf Scramble (Aug. 13): Join us at Rose Creek Golf Course the following morning for a fun, casual outing that benefits a great cause supporting the new CU4Kids Micropreemie Care Unit at Sanford Children’s Hospital. Don’t miss this opportunity to give back while connecting with friends and colleagues.

#ILoveMyCreditUnion Campaign a Success!
A big shoutout to all the Dakota credit unions that participated in last Friday’s #ILoveMyCreditUnion social media blitz! What began as a grassroots effort just a few years ago has truly gone global. Once again, this year’s campaign had participation from all 50 states, and more than 15 countries. Stay tuned for a follow-up article in the coming weeks with impact and results!
 
As always, thank you for all you do to support the cooperative movement and our members across the Dakotas. I’m looking forward to meeting up with many of you in Fargo for the CU Professionals Forum and Foundation Golf fundraiser on August 12 – 13.

​​DakCU President/CEO