Meet the 2026 America’s Credit Unions GAC Crashers
Each year, a select group of Cornerstone Young Professionals earns the opportunity to Crash the America’s Credit Unions Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) through the Cooperative Trust and Filene, gaining direct advocacy experience alongside industry leaders and policymakers.
The “Crash the GAC” program develops the next generation of credit union advocates by equipping young professionals with insight, access, and confidence to influence change at the national level. Participants engage directly with lawmakers, collaborate with industry leaders, and amplify member voices on the legislative issues that matter most.
Meet the 2026 GAC Crashers
Kristyn Tapp
Kristyn Tapp is a branch manager II at Community Resource Credit Union in Baytown, Texas, with three years in the credit union industry and a decade in financial services. Working directly with members each day, she applied to Crash the GAC to improve her understanding of how policy decisions shape real financial outcomes and to bring frontline perspectives into advocacy conversations. Tapp looks forward to representing her community at the GAC and translating what she learns into meaningful impact for both members and her credit union.
Shelby Lightfoot
Shelby Lightfoot is the assistant vice president branch manager at Tinker Federal Credit Union’s Rockwell branch, bringing nearly a decade of experience in the credit union industry. After learning about the GAC from a coworker who participated in 2023, Lightfoot developed a strong appreciation for advocacy and its role in amplifying member impact. She is especially excited to network with industry peers, share member stories, and explore how innovation—including artificial intelligence—can continue to enhance the member experience.
Jordan Chaplick
Jordan Chaplick is a branch leader at Mazuma Credit Union and a 2026 GAC Crasher, with experience in banking since 2017 and in credit unions since 2021. Inspired by Mazuma’s advocacy-focused culture and the not-for-profit mission of credit unions, Chaplick is passionate about understanding the “why” behind policy and legislation. She looks forward to learning how laws are shaped, connecting with fellow advocates, and championing change that strengthens the communities and members she serves.
Participation in the GAC equips these young professionals with stronger leadership skills, hands-on advocacy experience, and fresh insights to bring back to their credit unions.
Join us in congratulating the 2026 GAC Crashers as they advance their careers and help shape what’s next for the credit union movement.