Discover What’s Ahead in 2026: Learn, Lead, and Make an Impact
No matter where you are in your career, Cornerstone offers year-round education and events to build leaders, foster connections, and empower your team. From immersive training to inspiring conferences, 2026 is packed with opportunities to grow and lead.
Immersive Leadership Experiences
cuLEAD Academy
March–October 2026
A hybrid leadership program created by credit union professionals for credit union professionals. Through interactive learning and a capstone project, participants strengthen leadership skills and prepare for advanced programs like SCMS.
Southwest Credit Union Management School (SCMS)
July 2026 – Dallas, Texas
An intensive program that builds executive decision-making, strategic insight, and community impact. SCMS ignites personal and professional growth—and prepares graduates to lead their credit unions into the future.
Grow Your Team and Connect with Peers
IMPACT: Cornerstone Annual Meeting
May 12–15, 2026 – Oklahoma City, Okla.
Experience professional growth with purpose. IMPACT connects you with peers, inspires new ideas, and helps you drive change within your credit union and community. Watch the 2025 recap video.
ELEVATE
Oct. 12–16, 2026 – St. Louis, Mo.
ELEVATE brings together visionary leaders for hands-on learning, strategy sessions, and candid conversations about today’s challenges. Leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and a stronger network. Watch the 2025 recap video.
Advocate for the Industry
Cornerstone offers advocacy events in all five states including state Governmental Affairs Conferences and Days at the Capitol, trainings, and workshops, designed for any level or role. Learn about the legislative process and build relationships with lawmakers, all with the goal of preserving an environment where credit unions thrive.
CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC)
March 1–4, 2026 – Washington, D.C.
Join thousands of credit union advocates in shaping the future of our movement at America’s Credit Union’s GAC. This event offers impactful sessions, meetings with Cornerstone region lawmakers, and opportunities to strengthen our collective voice.
Learn What Makes Credit Unions Unique
Principles & Philosophy Workshop
Summer 2026
Reaffirm why the cooperative heritage remains vital—and how today’s credit union professionals can carry that philosophy into tomorrow’s challenges. After this two-day workshop, attendees earn a Certified Credit Union Cooperator (CCUC) designation.
Make an Impact—and Have Some Fun
CU Swing Golf Tournament
May 12, 2026 – Oklahoma City, Okla.
Tee off for a great cause! Held the day before IMPACT: Cornerstone Annual Meeting, proceeds support the Cornerstone Foundation’s financial education, professional development, and disaster relief initiatives. Watch the 2025 recap video.
Cornerstone Foundation Cup
Sept. 8–11, 2026 – Lake of the Ozarks, Mo.
A relaxed, all-inclusive retreat for leaders, volunteers, and retirees. Enjoy golf, networking, and camaraderie while supporting Cornerstone Foundation.
SYNG: Lip Sync Battle for a Cause
Oct. 15, 2026 – St. Louis, Mo.
Cheer on your peers in this high-energy lip sync showdown at ELEVATE—all to benefit the Cornerstone Foundation. Watch the 2025 recap video.
Bourbon, BBQ & Bands
Nov. 5, 2026, Kansas City. Mo.
A night of delicious barbecue, smooth bourbon, and lively entertainment while raising transformative funds for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in the Cornerstone region. Watch the 2024 recap video.
For a complete list of all Cornerstone events, visit our events calendar. Make 2026 your year to learn, connect, and lead with Cornerstone. In need of financial assistance? Cornerstone Foundation can help! Credit unions of any asset size can apply for one professional development grant per year.
