RALEIGH, N.C.–State Employees’ Credit Union, whose 2014 disaffiliation from CUNA and the Carolinas Credit Union League led to a change in CUNA’s bylaws, has reaffiliated with the league.
The $35-billion SECU rejoined CUNA in the spring of 2015 after the trade group changed its bylaws, as part of the so-called “Choice” initiative, to give credit unions the choice of belonging to a state league, CUNA, or both organizations. Previously, credit unions were required to belong to both their state association and CUNA.
“Membership in CUNA allows SECU to partner with a trade association, which focuses on credit union advocacy at the national level,” SECU said in a statement. “Reaffiliation with the Carolinas Credit Union League provides the opportunity to support positive legislative advocacy efforts at the state level in North Carolina. Additionally, as a long-time supporter of small credit unions, league membership by SECU reinforces its enduring commitment to those credit unions. Rejoining directly contributes to league efforts to serve small credit unions through affordable advocacy, compliance, development and training services.”
“The SECU board and management are confident that reaffiliating with the Carolinas Credit Union League is a positive step that will help support small credit unions in our state and promote the credit union movement,” said SECU CEO Mike Lord. “Combining our voice and support with fellow League members will advance positive advocacy for consumers and credit unions in North Carolina, allowing us all to better serve our members.”
John Radebaugh, president and CEO of the state league, added, “We are elated to have State Employees’ Credit Union back with us! SECU and its management staff have shown us through their voice and advocacy for credit unions across the country – large and small – that they are committed to the cooperative spirit and the common goal of credit union growth. We look forward to working together again, and on behalf of the League I’d like to extend a huge ‘welcome back!’”