There are many conceptions of “Unity” throughout the credit union industry. For some, it means coming together and fighting to protect core principles within the movement. It doesn’t matter what side of the political spectrum each organization represents; there are larger things at stake. The recent fight to preserve the industry’s tax-exempt status is a great example of unity in times of crisis.
For others, it means making smart tradeoffs between competing objectives and working to find “win-win” situations. I am sure there are many different views on overdraft fees, stadium naming rights, and bank acquisitions. The beauty is that credit unions are member-based organizations and can elect their own board of directors to decide—or find another credit union and/or trade association to join. The industry will continue to thrive.
Then there are those who assume (maybe even require) blind obedience to the established order and develop an intolerance for those who disrupt the status quo. Policy positions are made without member input, “collaboration” takes place after-the-fact, and those in charge are nowhere to be found when things get ugly.
The picture above was taken two years ago at the 2023 DCUC Annual Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Many of you may remember we had both leaders of CUNA and NAFCU on stage, at the same time, to promote the then-recently announced CUNA-NAFCU Merger. It was a unique joint appearance and one that carried lots of promise.
Many of the CEOs in attendance remarked that this moment was a perfect picture of "Unity" within the industry. I still agree with this sentiment. In fact, up to that point DCUC had signed several joint letters with CUNA and NAFCU. We had a great understanding between these larger trade associations and what DCUC brought to the table.
Since then, many things have changed. IYKYK the story. Yet, I am happy to report that the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) is much stronger as a result. Tough journey—outstanding results! I am excited to keep moving forward.
DCUC recently partnered with several national trade associations and industry partners. Additionally, several leagues have entered partnerships with us. There are still a few holdouts, but we will get there. Plus, we have always extended our hand in the spirit of cooperation with America’s Credit Unions. We do this because unity matters, and it is what leaders are expected to do.
Here is a picture of industry collaboration at the recently held 2025 DCUC Annual Conference featuring fellow national trade association leaders on the same stage for the first time.
Our collaborations are centered on protecting or advancing core principles within the movement. If there are any tradeoffs, leaders are free to make decisions on what is in the best interests of their organizations. There are never any loyalty tests. We will quickly celebrate wins together and regroup when there are setbacks. I learn from each of these leaders which allows us to make informed choices which we can present to our members.
One more thought—here is the main thing:
Apart from serving their members, credit unions join credit union trade organizations and leagues to fuel their collaborative spirit in advocating and protecting our industry, sharing better ideas, and building real connections throughout the industry.
This is and always has been one of the many hallmarks of our industry’s success. Yet, it is not just a bunch of “feel good” vibes that fuel this effort. A collaborative spirit comes with certain expectations.
Industry trade association and leagues must always inspire confidence, demonstrate an ability to make sound decisions on the fly, and have a steady hand in any crisis. These are merely the table stakes in running a trade association and league. Upping the ante involves being both accessible and accountable to members.
That means not wasting time on photo ops and selfies, virtue signaling on divisive issues, or taking victory laps while stopping to admire your press clippings. Running a successful trade association requires work—lots and lots of hard work.
All the above is how and why trade associations and leagues earn your dues dollars.
I cannot remember where this was taken from but here is a good way to close:
“The main thing [in any organization] is to keep the main thing as the main thing”—and everything mentioned above is unquestionably the main thing.
Get it?
Good!
Now let’s get back to work.
