AVENTURA, Fla.— The Defense Credit Union Council opened its 2026 Annual Conference Monday at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa here, bringing together credit union executives, industry partners and military financial services leaders from across the country for four days of education, networking and advocacy.
Conference activities began with the annual VADM Vincent Lascara Golf Tournament, sponsored by TruStage and Aries Fraud Solutions. The tournament, a longstanding DCUC tradition, supports the organization's "Conference with a Purpose" initiative, which this year benefits the United Service Organizations (USO). Through the sale of mulligans and gimme strings, participants raised $2,350 for the USO.
The opening day also featured optional educational sessions focused on serving military and veteran communities, innovation and leadership, including the Military & Veteran Community Exchange, CU Unplugged: Innovate or Get Outflanked, and Leadership in Uncertain Times.
The day's events concluded with a reception for first-time attendees and members of DCUC's 2026 Crashers class, followed by the conference Welcome Reception, sponsored by the Armed Forces Financial Network (AFFN).
"Our Annual Conference is more than an industry event, it's an opportunity to bring together credit unions united by a shared commitment to strengthening our movement and improving the financial well-being of the many communities we proudly serve," said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO, ret. U.S. Air Force colonel. "We’re excited to offer a program where attendees will have real opportunities to exchange ideas, explore innovative solutions, build meaningful relationships, and engage directly with respected military, international, and industry leaders. The conversations, collaboration, and shared experiences are what continue to make DCUC Annual a one-of-a-kind event within this industry."
DCUC Annual: Building On More Than Six Decades Of Service
Since its inaugural conference in 1963, DCUC's Annual Conference has served as the premier gathering for credit union professionals dedicated to serving military members, veterans, and their families. Over the decades, DCUC and its annual conference have evolved alongside the industry, reflecting a continued commitment to advocacy, leadership, education, and collaboration while championing the interests of credit unions nationwide.