CU Futures Graduates Attend Major US Conference

Tuesday 25 June 2024

The League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU & Affiliates) launched its annual convention, the Southeastern Credit Union Conference & Expo (SCUCE), at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek today. The region’s premier credit union conference, this year’s SCUCE has attracted more than 1100 attendees representing more than 130 credit unions.

This year’s conference was themed “Engage for Impact,” as attendees from across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and beyond engage with one another and with riveting presentations and breakout sessions, all to make a stronger impact together for their members and communities.

The conference hosted informative and inspirational sessions aimed at the exponential impact credit unions can have when collaborating. Among the industry leaders speaking at the event, Jim Nussle, President/CEO of America’s Credit Unions offering a national perspective on the credit union movement, while Elissa McCarter LaBorde, President/CEO of the World Council of Credit Unions will share on the power of international collaboration.

“There were so many highlights, but for me, the standout was the small credit unions roundtable session,” said Irene.  “It provided an opportunity for open discussions with US professionals/ This experience was invaluable and reinforced the sense that we are all part of one united sector. Additionally, being part of the YP LEADs program was incredible. It was inspiring to connect with successful young professionals in the industry. And of course, the Gala was fantastic – a great celebration of the conference with all the wonderful people I got to meet.”

Also commenting on her experience in Orlando, Natasha said: “Going to Florida was an amazing experience for me to see how credit unions from all over world operate. I want to give  thanks to ABCUL and the Credit Union Foundation for the opportunity to grasp this once in a lifetime experience.”

Head of Member Engagement at ABCUL, Debbie Smith-Hands attended the event with Irene & Natasha. Speaking about her delight for two more young professionals to attend the prestigious event, Debbie said: “On behalf of the Credit Union Foundation, we would like to give enormous thank to our hosts at LSCU & Affiliates for its support over the week in Orlando. This trip to the conference for our two graduates typifies the one-of-a-kind development opportunity the CU Futures programme provides.

A pivotal role in the Association’s support overseas is to facilitate relationships of cross-sector sharing, learning and support with likeminded organisations. “A huge benefit of ABCUL membership is becoming part of an international movement among the global credit union sector,” Debbie added. “It was a pleasure to network with our counterparts from the League of Southeastern Credit Union & Affiliates to further develop our strong ongoing partnership.”