ARLINGTON, Va.–The National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors (NASCUS) and the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) have announced a “mutual membership alliance” they said is designed to strengthen the state credit union system and enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) engagement strategies within the industry.
“Our mission is centered around forging a vibrant dual charter system and promoting a relevant, growth-oriented, and healthy state charter option. This partnership with AACUC further enhances dialogue with regulators and state-chartered credit unions while promoting personal and professional growth within the industry as a whole,” said NASCUS President/CEO Lucy Ito. “As a champion in the DEI movement, AACUC’s Commitment to Change will help us shape an inclusive environment and provide learning opportunities to strengthen the state system.”
As a result of the alliance, members from each organization will have the opportunity to learn best practices, expand their knowledge of real-world issues, and deliberate on the regulatory landscape, NASCUS and the AACUC said.
“With the DEI movement gaining considerable steam over the past several years, this alliance is an excellent opportunity to expand a collective mission of inclusive cooperation and bring the state credit union system closer to a future in which diversity, equity, and inclusion thrive,” the organizations added.
‘Fair & Equitable Industry’
AACUC, which formally established in 1999, was created to increase the strength of a global credit union community through professional development and advocacy. Led by President and CEO Renée Sattiewhite, AACUC has as members individuals (professionals and volunteers) who work in credit unions, insurance, as regulators consultants and other entities.
“AACUC and NASCUS are structured to create a fair and equitable industry while encouraging growth and living the people helping people philosophy,” said Sattiewhite. “I look forward to deepening our collaborative relationship and working together to make a positive lasting impact on the lives of millions of Americans. This partnership opens the door to state regulators and offers AACUC the ability to give feedback on the effect of rules and regulation to the African-American community.”
‘Relentless Drive’
Added Ito, “AACUC’s relentless drive for change and inclusion across various cultures and groups beyond the African American community is transformative for our industry. NASCUS is honored to collaborate with them and expand on the DEI message to our network of 45 state agencies and more than 2,000 state-chartered credit unions.”
With this partnership, AACUC holds associate member status with NASCUS, and NASCUS maintains a corporate membership with AACUC, the organizations said.