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Illinois Credit Union League highlights advocacy at the 89th Annual Convention

NAPERVILLE, IL (April 5, 2019) — The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) welcomed over 850 participants to its 89^th Annual Convention held in Chicago from April 4-6, 2019.

The Convention began on Thursday with NCUA Chairman Mark McWatters speaking at the opening session. Other sessions featured Kevin Smith from TEAM Resources and Andy Janning, a popular speaker, author, and photographer. While many important topics were covered throughout the event, credit union advocacy and awareness took a featured role.

ICUL was honored and privileged to have CUNA CEO Jim Nussle join Thursday’s Delegates Meeting. He emphasized the key role the Convention plays in supporting credit unions saying, “The Illinois Credit Union League Annual Convention is a great time to spread the credit union difference and showcase the incredible work our members do within their communities. We look forward to celebrating our industry leaders and experts in the field through unparalleled networking and education.”

Leaders of the ICUL advocacy team, including Keith Sias, Patrick Smith, Ashley Sharp, and Stephen Olson, provided a legislative and regulatory update on Friday morning. The session highlighted the League’s most recent advocacy achievements and empowered attendees to get involved in future endeavors.

Friday’s session on CUNA’s Awareness Initiative highlighted the need to advocate for credit unions among consumers as well as legislators. Over three years of nationwide research revealed a common misconception among consumers about credit union membership and services. The Awareness Initiative gives credit unions the opportunity to collaborate on a unified message to dispel these myths.

Tom Kane, President and CEO of ICUL, also weighed in on the importance of advocating for credit unions in the current political and social landscape. “With fifty new state legislators in place after the last election, we have a great deal of work ahead to raise awareness about the positive impact and benefits of credit unions within their local communities and the larger economy.”

After two days of addressing vital advocacy and awareness challenges, ICUL will conclude their 89^th Annual Convention on Saturday, April 6, 2019, with an appreciation breakfast, a general session with St. Louis Community CU CEO Patrick Adams, and free board training.

About Illinois Credit Union League (IUCL)

The Illinois Credit Union League is the primary trade association for more than 200 state and federal credit unions in Illinois. It focuses on providing legislative and regulatory advocacy, compliance assistance and information, and a wide range of educational and training services to those credit unions, who serve about 3.4 million members. More information can be found at www.icul.com.