There’s no denying it: Spokane is a Credit Union Town. And that will be true to the max Oct. 15-17, when the Northwest Credit Union Association (NWCUA) opens the curtains on its annual MAXX Convention at the Spokane Convention Center.
Approximately 1,000 credit union enthusiasts are expected, including professionals from credit unions in Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, and the companies that provide their business solutions. It’s only fitting they’re coming to Spokane, a Credit Union Town, where more than a half-million consumers have chosen not-for-profit, cooperative credit unions as their financial services partners.
Coverage opportunities abound. Here is a day-by-day breakdown of what’s possible.
- Tuesday, Oct. 15
º The Power of Story – Three renowned keynote speakers demonstrate the power of storytelling. Through this art, we can create change and promote the benefits of credit unions to everyone. Hear from some Spokane credit union members who will join us “live” on stage. (3 p.m.)
º President’s address – NWCUA President and CEO, Troy Stang, will travel with attendees along credit unions’ journey, from their founding to their evolution, where they are providing the suite of technology services modern consumers need to thrive. He will call on credit unions to “be louder than ever” telling their story.
º “CU Pitch” – A new feature presented by Strategic Link, the “CU Pitch” promises to be lively and engaging. Five emerging technology companies will each have five minutes to pitch their products to a panel of judges. (5 p.m.)
- Wednesday, Oct. 16
º It’s the economy! – Especially with a presidential election on the horizon, consumers are focused on what’s in store for the economy, and how it impacts what’s in their wallet. On the mainstage will be Dr. Mary Kelly, who is an economist, best-selling author, and retired Naval Commander. She will break down trade, tariffs, investments, national and personal debt, and consumer trends. Her “FutureNomics” program helps credit unions to help their members. Cover her keynote and ask some follow up questions in a one-on-one interview. (8:30 a.m.)
º What’s new in financial technology? – Stroll through the Strategic Link Trade Show and see 130 companies that support credit unions and their members with secure, enterprise-level texting, integrated account opening, onboarding services and more. (10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.)
º October is Cybersecurity Month – Nationally recognized speaker, Scott Alldridge, CEO of IP Services, talks about the five practices every credit union should implement to protect their operations and their members’ accounts and information. (12:45-1:45 p.m.)
º Raising the roof for Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hospitals – Credit unions have raised nearly $200 million for CMN hospitals since they founded “Credit Unions for Kids” here in the Northwest in 1986. Tonight, at the “Masquerade Dinner and Auction,” high stakes bidding will raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the eight CMN hospitals in the region. (6:30 -9:30 p.m.)
º Breakout sessions will be held throughout the day.
- Thursday, Oct. 17
º Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – It’s more than a buzz phrase. It’s time to break through and do better, realize our blind spots, and rewire! Our keynote speaker this morning is Dr. Rebecca Heiss. Coverage of her address is open to media, and she is available for interviews following. (9-10 a.m.)
º Breakout sessions will be held throughout the day.
º Summit Awards Dinner & Gala – Celebrate the accomplishments of the Credit Union Movement’s best and brightest. (6 p.m.)
Please contact Lynn Heider for your coverage needs. lheider@nwcua.org (503) 329 7208.