The votes are in! Credit union leaders have voted to create one national trade association, America’s Credit Unions. Here’s more information about the merger from Fred Robinson, president and CEO of the Tennesee Credit Union League.
Change, as they say, is the only constant, and it breathes new life into our endeavors. We are excited to share a transformative development in the credit union movement. The Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and the National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions (NAFCU) are poised to merge their considerable strengths and voices into a unified, more robust national association. This historic union marks a significant milestone, not only for these organizations but for all of us within the credit union community.
Imagine the combined legacy of these two institutions—CUNA, birthed from the pivotal 1934 gathering of visionary credit union pioneers in Estes Park, and NAFCU, conceived by a group of forward-thinking federal credit union CEOs in a California eatery. Both have championed our causes for decades. Now, they are set to continue their advocacy under one banner, amplifying our collective voice.
The merger proposal is a potentially historic turning point in US credit union history, reflecting the natural progression and maturation of our industry. With consolidation, we’ve witnessed an evolution—fewer credit unions now serve a larger membership, capably addressing the growing complexity of our members’ financial needs. This is evolution in action, and it’s incredibly exciting.
To shepherd this transition, a board comprising leaders from both CUNA and NAFCU has been appointed. The executive committee features Vice Chair Lisa Ginter (CUNA board chair and CEO of Community America Credit Union), Treasurer Patrick Pierce (CEO of City and County Credit Union), and Secretary Karen Harbin (President/CEO of Commonwealth Credit Union). Joining the executive team are Lonnie Nicholson, Nader Moghaddam, Jeff Olson and Gary Grinnell, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the table. This powerhouse transition team is poised to navigate the combined association with strategic understanding and a shared passion for our collective success.
As your trusted partner, the Tennessee Credit Union League wants to assure you that our commitment to your needs remains unwavering. This change at the national level enhances our ability to serve you without altering the close relationship we’ve built together. Our endeavors at both state and federal levels continue unabated, ensuring that the voices of Tennessee’s credit union members are not just heard but resonate in the halls of Washington and Nashville.
The future of the national trade association is bright, and its enhanced capacity to advocate and innovate on behalf of the credit union industry is a cause for celebration. We stand on the threshold of a new era—one in which our unity is our strength.
We are poised for greatness, propelled by the principles of our movement, and fortified by the power of cooperation. Onward to a future where every credit union member benefits from the collective advocacy, insight, and dedication of our newly unified national association.
