The President's Perspective

Summer’s flying, but Dakota credit unions remain strong with upcoming events, key advocacy, and exciting progress.

I know I’m not alone in feeling like this summer has flown by. Many of you have shared the same sentiment in recent weeks. Here in the Dakotas, summer is a treasured yet fleeting season. We do our best to pack in as many activities as possible before the short months give way to fall. As classes resume and our communities prepare for autumn, I hope you’re finding time to enjoy what’s left of these warm, sunny days.

Staying Relevant, Creating Value
As we continue to lead the credit union movement in the Dakotas, our mission remains clear: to deliver value and relevancy to credit unions of all sizes. In the weeks ahead, we have several important leadership and educational events designed to strengthen our collective impact.

America's Credit Union Announces New President and CEO
America’s Credit Unions announced this morning that Scott Simpson will be its new President and CEO, effective November 3, 2025. With over 20 years of leadership in credit union advocacy and a proven record of uniting state and national efforts, Scott brings the experience and vision needed to lead the movement forward. He succeeds Jim Nussle, who will retire after guiding the organization through its important early years. We look forward to Scott’s leadership in advancing and strengthening credit unions nationwide. You can read the full article here. 

Court Ruling on Debit Interchange: A Potential Hit to Credit Union Members
A recent federal court decision in Corner Post v. Federal Reserve Board could have serious implications for credit unions and their members particularly here in the Dakotas. The ruling, which challenges the Fed’s debit interchange cap calculation, aligns with long-standing retailer demands for lower fees. While the decision is on hold pending appeal, the outcome could shift more costs onto financial institutions, jeopardize member services, and invite broader legal challenges to financial regulation.

Why this matters: The case is about much more than interchange—it’s about the sustainability of services members rely on. Full details, including the Dakota Credit Union Association’s stance and next steps, can be found here.

President’s Executive Order on “Debanking”: Credit Unions Already Lead by Example
The President’s recent Executive Order on so-called “debanking” directs regulators to examine whether closing accounts over political or ideological beliefs violates federal law. While this may be making waves in Washington, Dakota credit unions have long championed fair access serving members from all walks of life under the principle “once a member, always a member.”

The takeaway: For credit unions, this isn’t a new directive—it’s our heritage. But the EO also raises important questions about balancing inclusivity with the need to responsibly manage risk. Read more about the potential regulatory impacts and the national credit union response here.

Credit Unions Turn 91: A Legacy Born in the Rockies
Ninety-one years ago, on August 10, 1934, credit union leaders gathered in Estes Park, Colorado, to form the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). One of those pioneers, Roy Bergengren, reflected on the “false assumption” of the time that average Americans were entitled to fair access to credit and on the cooperative solution credit unions provided. His vision continues to inspire our mission today.

CU Professionals Forum & Foundation Golf Scramble
This afternoon, our CU Professionals Forum kicks off at the Delta in Fargo. This informal, open-discussion roundtable is an excellent opportunity for dialogue on issues that matter most to Dakota credit unions and our members.

Tomorrow, our Foundation will host the 9th Annual Golf Scramble at Rose Creek Golf Course in Fargo, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Sanford Children’s Hospital and the new Credit Unions for Kids Micropreemie Unit, which opened earlier this year. We’re truly grateful to our Foundation Board, volunteers, sponsors, players, and participating credit unions—your generosity is what makes this event possible.​

Hike the Hill 
Preparations are underway for more than 20 Dakota credit union professionals who will be participating in our annual Fall Legislative-Regulatory Hike the Hill in Washington, D.C. September 9-11. This is our chance to strengthen relationships with our congressional delegation, meet face-to-face with regulators, and advocate on key issues affecting Dakota credit unions and their members.

New Ideas Conference – October 14–15, Deadwood
Registration is now open for our New Ideas Conference in Deadwood. Set against the backdrop of this historic town, the event will feature two dynamic days of strategies, tools, and inspiration to enhance your credit union’s impact. Check out three of the amazing speakers here. Reserve your spot now and take advantage of early bird pricing through September 4. 

On a Positive Note
Congratulations to Andrew Nelson on his recent promotion to Indirect Lending Specialist at Capital Credit Union. In his new role, Andrew will manage and grow indirect lending relationships, process loan applications, and help ensure Capital Credit Union stays both competitive and compliant in the indirect lending space. We wish him continued success as he takes on this exciting new chapter in his career!

​DakCU President/CEO