Crash the Governmental Affairs Conference: YP Takeaways

How did young professionals like crashing the Credit Union National Association’s Government Affairs Conference? Hear firsthand what the CUNA GAC crashers have to say about their experience.

Cody Long, workforce analyst from TTCU Federal Credit Union in Tulsa, had this to say about his experience:

“Crashing the CUNA GAC was amazing. This experience is so important for credit union young professionals, but also for the credit union movement as a whole. Allowing the emerging leaders to be a part of something like this allows the promise of passionate credit union professionals in the future. My experience of engaging with other emerging, passionate leaders in the credit union world was invaluable. I am very grateful for the opportunity to build caring relationships with others from credit unions around the world. I am excited to share my experience with others and share the bigger picture with the difference we can make around the world!”

Laci Whitmire, operations support specialist at Diamond Lakes FCU in Arkansas, followed with:

“As a crasher, I was provided with many learning opportunities that shined a light on ways I could be a strong voice for our small communities. I was able to network with others that truly dedicate themselves to the credit union mission. In our profession, we have the honor to serve and advocate for the financial well-being of all people. How amazing is that? At the CUNA GAC, I was also able to “Hike the Hill.” This meeting with congressional leaders allowed us to tell our credit union stories and advocate on behalf of our members. We serve our members best by bringing light to issues that affect them — that’s the true meaning of people helping people. It was truly a life- and career-defining experience that I will cherish forever.”

Whitmire added that her experience at CUNA GAC gave her a new perspective on her position in the movement.

“The one word I would use to describe my experience at CUNA GAC is validation. Does my credit union make me feel valued? Yes, but I learned that in a room full of my peers that I matter. My voice is being heard, my time is valued, and I matter. Let me repeat that, I MATTER. I came back from the conference stronger, encouraged, empowered, and ready to make a difference.”

Kirby Wottrich, AVP of Retail Services at A+ Federal Credit Union, closed out by saying:

“Crashing the CUNA GAC was a highlight of my career. Before this experience, I would hear others’ stories, and I remember thinking, ‘can it really be that incredible?’ After my experience, I’m here to say, YES. Through the experience, you have an opportunity to form amazing relationships with young professionals from all over the country while collaborating and sharing your backgrounds. The CUNA GAC also has a wide array of speakers from motivational speakers who are inspiring to federal politicians who are committed to the credit union movement. The highlight of the experience was the meeting with our elected officials to speak on behalf of our credit unions and share our top priorities.”

Long, Whitmire, and Wottrich highlighted the importance of networking and collaboration as they seek to grow in their careers. For these crashers, the CUNA GAC was a career-advancing event that gave them a new understanding of what it means to be a credit union advocate.