Celebrating 2020 accomplishments and embarking on a new year

In this issue of the Leaguer, we reflect on our many accomplishments in 2020 and turn the page, embarking on a new year.

First, we’d like to thank you for your dedicated support to Credit Unions for Kids and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, especially during 2020. Not only did you adapt your in-person events, shift to digital fundraising, and find ways to reschedule campaigns, but you did not stop supporting local children’s hospitals. One example of this is demonstrated by Texas Trust Credit Union with its 24-hour game-a-thon, which raised $5,500 for the Children’s Miracle Network. 

CU4Kids wants to see and hear your stories about supporting CMN Hospitals. Help them get the word out. See the Leaguer article for details.

To celebrate credit unions’ accomplishments in 2020, nominate those who went above and beyond the call of duty to help staff, members, and those in the community for one of Cornerstone’s three prestigious awards: the Credit Union Professional of the Year, the Small Credit Union Achiever, or the Hall of Fame. Entries are due by Friday, Feb. 11.

As you’re probably aware, the SolarWinds data breach, which started in March, pushed malicious code to an estimated 18,000 customers across the country, including credit unions and other financial institutions.

According to our IT consulting expert Idrees Rafiq Jr., some credit unions may be outsourcing their backend systems to third-party vendors that use the SolarWinds platform and should do their vendor due diligence and look at the type of reports they are getting to indicate whether or not they are at risk.

In this new year, I’d like to congratulate Dale Hansard Jr. for his recent appointment to the Credit Union National Association Small Credit Union Committee. In addition to Hansard’s appointment, we’ve strengthened the CUNA/League partnership by lobbying for additional representation on CUNA committees. Having 26 people from our region serving on various CUNA committees and boards will ensure that our federal and state priorities stay aligned.

Wishing you a safe and productive week.

Caroline Willard
President/CEO
Cornerstone League