March ushers in America’s Credit Unions’ Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC), a transformative event set to drive progress and innovation across the credit union industry. Leaders, policymakers, advocates, and vendors from around the country will come together to tackle urgent challenges, share forward-thinking strategies, and champion financial well-being for communities nationwide.
Taking place March 2–6 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in D.C., GAC serves as a hub for industry collaboration and actionable advocacy, addressing today’s needs while preparing for what lies ahead. With hundreds of vendors in the exhibit hall, you’ll access innovative solutions to help your credit union thrive. This year's theme, Together We Move, highlights America's Credit Unions’ commitment to passion, purpose, and strength while driving collective action that makes a meaningful impact.
The lineup of speakers also reflects this commitment, bringing bold ideas and transformative insights to ignite meaningful conversations and inspire decisive action:
- Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K): Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time, Coach K will draw from his extraordinary career to share powerful lessons on leadership, resilience, and building trust. His stories from decades of coaching excellence promise to inspire leaders at every level.
- Carla Harris: With an impressive career spanning Wall Street and global leadership, Harris brings a wealth of experience to the stage. Her practical strategies for embracing innovation and navigating challenges will empower attendees to lead with courage and confidence in today’s dynamic environment.
Plus, we’re thrilled to announce that a visionary in the art of hospitality and meaningful connection will also be joining our speaker lineup. Their insights into leadership through service and the power of fostering impactful relationships promise to redefine how we think about collaboration and success. Stay tuned for the official announcement!
At the heart of GAC is our credit union advocacy. We come together in Washington, D.C., so credit union leaders can take our industry’s people-first, cooperative message to Capitol Hill. Briefing sessions specifically tailored to credit union advocacy needs and expert resources to help address key issues are an inherent part of this important gathering. The valuable insights and takeaways shared during this event, paired with each participant’s experiences, ensure they are ready to communicate credit union needs and concerns effectively with lawmakers and return home energized to make even more impact within their own communities.
One of the biggest challenges facing credit unions in the 119th Congress is preserving and protecting the credit union tax status. With key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire this year, sharing the “Don’t Tax My Credit Union” message with lawmakers is vitally important during GAC. But that’s not all we must address. With so many new leaders now serving in Congress, it’s imperative that the credit union difference—our structure, mission, and focus on serving people—is shared repeatedly. There is a long list of priorities that credit unions want to tackle in this Congress. By emphasizing our efforts to protect, empower, and advance credit unions, lawmakers gain a clearer understanding and appreciation of credit unions’ essential role in building and maintaining resilient communities.
Your presence at GAC makes a big impact. No matter what role you hold at your credit union, your voice and participation matter. By coming to GAC, taking part in all it has to offer, and bringing the credit union message to Capitol Hill, you ensure your members have a voice. Sharing how credit unions make a real difference in people’s lives—and how lawmakers can work with us to do even more—brings their stories and experiences to life for lawmakers and their staff. From the convention center to legislative offices, we can’t wait to see you be a part of this transformative experience!
