WASHINGTON–The biggest physical event of the year each year in credit unions will be held virtually in 2021 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
CUNA said its 2021 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) will be virtual when it is next held March 2-4. The event, typically held at Washington’s convention center, has drawn approximately 5,000 people in recent years, including credit union and vendor representatives, along with others.
The trade group said the meeting will be held via a “premium virtual platform.”
In a statement, Todd Spiczenski, CUNA’s chief products and services officer, said, “It might feel a little different, but the goal of coming together to strengthen the credit union system is more important now than it’s ever been. We’re bringing all the features our participants have come to expect, from world-class keynoters and breakout sessions covering the biggest issues facing credit unions, to unparalleled networking and advocacy opportunities.”
CUNA said the meeting’s timing has the potential to offer new advocacy opportunities, as a new presidential administration and Congress could be in place.
'A Story to Tell'
“Credit unions have stepped up to serve their members and communities hit by the pandemic, and they have quite the story to tell,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle in a statement. “CUNA GAC has long been the credit union movement’s premier advocacy event, and in 2021 it will be more important than ever to engage with a new Congress to share our stories and work together on ways credit unions can help Americans recover from the pandemic and increase financial wellness in their communities.”
CUNA said plans call for those participating in the meeting to continue to hear from elected officials and others.
Plans also call for a virtual trade show to take place.
CUNA said registration will open later in September and that more information is available at cuna.org/gac.