LAS VEGAS– The California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues and the Utah Credit Union Association, said they have entered into an agreement to form a joint association support services organization.
According to the organizations, each state entity will maintain governance of their respective advocacy operations, while non-advocacy related services and back-office functions will be done by the new entity to be created by the partnership.
The partnership is just the latest among what were once individual credit union leagues in each states, many of which are now regional associations, such as the GoWest CU Association (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado and Wyoming).
In a statement, leaders of the three states believe the operating model maximizes efficiency while preserving state leagues’ identities, which is “critical to advocacy efforts.”
The partnership is to be led by Scott Simpson, current president and CEO of the Utah Credit Union Association.
“In this expanded partnership, I am inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead,” said Simpson. “Together, we have the power to shape tomorrow into something extraordinary and I am excited to team up and reach into the future.”
‘Long History’
“California and Nevada have a long history of supporting each other as well as our fellow states in government advocacy,” Diana Dykstra, president and CEO of the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues, said in a statement. “It is critical to protect and amplify local affinity in the political and policy arena. This model works and works well.”
As CUToday.info reported here, Dykstra has announced plans to retire on July 1.
“Scott’s decades of engagement in the credit union movement perfectly position him to lead the new partnership,” said Dykstra. “He is dedicated to the people helping people philosophy and with him at the helm, I know we can achieve even more impact, drive positive change, and empower each other to thrive and succeed in an ever-evolving landscape."
Additional Statements
Others also offered statements related to the new agreement.
- “California, as a large state, has a big presence in the credit union space, but we’ve consistently honored and respected the work of all states. Ultimately, successful advocacy comes down to relationships at the local level. Personal relationships with policymakers are nurtured over time and are pivotal to credit unions’ ability to champion member and industry issues.” -- Geri LaChance, president and CEO of SESLOC FCU and California Credit Union League board chair
- “We’ve had a solid, successful partnership for many years in Nevada and California so when approached regarding the possibility of amplifying this model, it was a natural fit. This is a strategic opportunity and sound plan for future success.” -- Jennifer Denoo, president and CEO of Great Basin Federal Credit Union and Nevada Credit Union League board chair
- “Our leagues have discussed at great length the desire to continue to amplify our strong, local advocacy machinery. We recognize the need to achieve scale while remaining fiercely focused on the power of local advocacy. This model does both.” -- Shane London, president and CEO of Deseret First Credit Union and Utah Credit Union Association board chair