MAXX25: GoWest's Troy Stang Shares Vision of Bold Leadership Going Forward Together...

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Troy Stang, President/CEO at GoWest Credit Union Association, joined us in the Studio Lounge to share highlights from his opening keynote that focused on "Go Forward, Go Together A Vision for Bold, United Credit Union Leadership." -- bringing together more than a thousand credit union professionals (1,200+ attendees) to celebrate the strength of the movement, highlighting the opportunities and challenges shaping the industry, and sharing GoWest’s vision for the future.

Troy also talked about the host city of Portland -- a MAXX first, showcasing the town's appeal and the resilience of local credit unions. He also mentioned Oregon's governor, Tina Kotek, making a surprise appearance, sharing her credit union experience and emphasizing community health initiatives.

He also addressed fundraising successes, including the Night of Wonder auction benefiting the 11 Children's Miracle Network Hospitals located throughout the GoWest six-state area.

Other items Troy addressed included the Young Professionals (YPs) being featured on stage to engage with established leaders, while discussions on leadership stress the need for clarity in a changing landscape. He talked about new governance initiatives and  the small credit union accelerator program that aims to support digital innovation and smaller credit unions.

Q&A summary
What is the significance of the 'VisionBoard' initiative mentioned during the conference?
The 'VisionBoard' initiative introduces a new approach to board governance, providing a curriculum of future-ready resources to help boards prepare for upcoming challenges and decisions.
How does the small credit union accelerator aim to support smaller credit unions?
The small credit union accelerator is designed to help smaller credit unions fast-track their digital innovations and includes templates for compliance solutions and a new funding mechanism to eliminate financial barriers.
What role does public policy play in the success of credit unions according to the discussion?
Public policy is crucial as it helps ensure that the unique needs of credit unions are understood and addressed, reinforcing their role as not-for-profit cooperatives driving community reinvention.
What was highlighted about the attendance and networking at the Max conference this year?
This year saw record attendance, indicating a strong desire for collaboration and sharing of ideas among credit unions, which is essential for addressing common challenges.
What are the expected outcomes of the initiatives launched at the conference?
The initiatives aim to enhance board governance and support smaller credit unions, ultimately leading to improved readiness for future challenges and better service to their members.
What was the overall message regarding the future of credit unions shared at the conference?
The overarching message was that credit unions must continue to innovate and collaborate to meet the evolving needs of their communities and members, without losing sight of their core mission.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts. And be sure to watch more Studio Lounge interviews from 2025 MAXX -- as well as support our host/sponsors: GoWest Credit Union Association, Tyfone, Zest AI, DDJ Myers, Cook Solutions Group, Backbone, and Despite Impossible podcast.