Eltropy, the leading AI-powered conversations platform for community financial institutions (CFIs), today announced an exciting lineup of distinguished industry speakers for its third annual EMERGE conference, taking place April 22-25 at the InterContinental San Francisco.
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The conference program brings together influential voices from across the community bank and credit union landscape. Building on the success of previous years' events, EMERGE 2025 has become the premier gathering for CFIs looking to strengthen their digital communications and member services. Keynote speakers will include:

• Jackie Taque, Chief Experience Officer, Edwards Federal Credit Union
• Buddy Bennett, Chief Operating Officer, Cyprus Federal Credit Union
• Howard Meller, President and CEO, People First Credit Union

Eltropy's expertise will be represented by Saahil Kamath, Head of Product (AI) at Eltropy, and Prasad Shrotri, VP of Solutions at Eltropy, who will share insights on the company's latest AI innovations and implementation strategies.

"EMERGE has grown into something special – a place where credit unions and community banks come together to share what works," said Ashish Garg, Co-founder and CEO of Eltropy. "The conversations that happen here spark real changes in how financial institutions serve their members."

The conference kicks off Tuesday, April 22 with hands-on workshops, including a session on gamifying financial health and a practical AI certification course. Wednesday and Thursday feature keynotes and breakout sessions focused on member service and digital communication strategies. New this year is "Speed Dating with Eltropy Products" – quick-hit demos giving attendees a rapid overview of new tools and capabilities.
Additional featured speakers include:

• Kate Alter - AVP, Enterprise Applications, TruStone
• Sherrie Baker - Consumer Lending Systems Analyst, Chevron Federal Credit Union
• Dr. Milind Borkar - Founder and CEO, Illuma
• Michael Brine - VP Member Service, TruStone Financial
• Xavier Carrillo - VP Collections, UNIFY Financial Credit Union
• Jeremy Deamer - Technology Innovation Manager, America First Credit Union
• Jesus Garcia - SVP, Chief Experience Officer, OceanAir Federal Credit Union
• Mary Hernandez - AVP of Collections, OceanAir Federal Credit Union
• Sean Holliday - Product Development Manager, Goldenwest Credit Union
• Craig McLaughlin - CEO, Finalytics.ai
• Royce Ngiam - Chief Marketing Officer, First City Credit Union
• Brittany O'Brien - AVP of Digital Products, Clearview Federal Credit Union
• Eryka Ragsdale - VP of Member Services, Credit Union of Texas
• Matt Schenk - VP Operational Excellence, Vantage West Credit Union
• Shannon Stewart - Collections Manager, Southland Credit Union
• Umar Tahir - VP of Marketing, Enterprise Innovation & Digital Assets, LAFCU
• Robert White - VP of Operations, Tri County Area Federal Credit Union
• Melissa Wrycha - Chief Experience Officer, Park City Credit Union

"Being able to talk to and network with other credit unions at EMERGE is invaluable," said Jackie Taque, Chief Experience Officer at Edwards Federal Credit Union, who attended EMERGE 2024. "Sitting around a table, asking 'What are your use cases? How are you using AI?' and tapping into the expertise of super users – that's where the real value lies. Everyone has been great about sharing their experiences and ideas."

Community banks and credit unions confirmed for EMERGE 2025 include One Bank of Tennessee, Mid Oregon Credit Union, Lee Bank, STCU, Mountain America Credit Union, Oklahoma's Credit Union, among many other CFIs from across the country.

The conference will also feature a Fintech Showcase highlighting new technologies in the community financial institution space.

EMERGE 2025 welcomes back CUbroadcast's Mike Lawson, who will host his signature StudioLounge for the second consecutive year. The StudioLounge will feature live interviews with CFI leaders and technology experts throughout the conference, bringing key insights and discussions to the broader credit union community.

The event is made possible through the support of industry-leading sponsors: Nuvei (Titanium); Origence (Platinum); Illuma, Finalytics.ai, SWIVEL and Temenos (Gold); REPAY (Experiential); as well as Tyfone, AKUVO, Janusea, Casap, IDgo, and Alacriti. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.
Registration is still open at eltropy.com/emerge-2025, with special offers available for Eltropy clients. Visit the website to secure your spot and learn more.

​Velera – formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization (CUSO) and an integrated financial technology solutions provider – today announced the launch of its new website: Velera.com. This is one of the many integration initiatives the organization has undertaken since the PSCU/Co-op Solutions combination and rebranding to Velera in 2024.
 
“In today’s digital-first world, an organization’s website is more than a digital presence – it is a key element of a brand’s identity and user experience,” said Tom Pierce, chief marketing and communications officer of Velera. “We understand that a streamlined and engaging online experience is critical for our clients and stakeholders. Built on a strong technical foundation, our new website delivers an intuitive experience, enhanced navigation and dynamic content – empowering credit unions with easy access to the insights, solutions and resources they need to meet the evolving needs of their members.”
 
Highlights and key features of the new website include:

• A modern and unified digital interface – A new look with a cohesive design, engaging visuals and interactive elements that provide a more immersive experience and reflect Velera’s commitment to innovation on behalf of the credit union industry.
• Enhanced navigation and user experience – Aligning with Velera’s product journey, dedicated product and solution pages feature improved navigation alongside product cards, demonstration components and interactive feature insights.
• Easy access to thought leadership – Users will have centralized access to Velera’s industry-leading thought leadership, including Velera’s blog, VeleraTV episodes, the Velera Payments Index, white papers and case studies, through improved filtering and categorization.
• Dynamic content personalization – Tailored content and resources based on user preferences and behaviors.
• Robust technical foundation – A scalable and secure platform designed to support future enhancements.

 
The new website rollout comes just weeks before Velera brings together credit union professionals, stakeholders and industry partners for its first VeleraLIVE, which will serve as the company’s new combined annual conference.
 
To learn more and experience the new website firsthand, visit Velera.com.

​Origence, a leading provider of lending technology solutions, announced AI futurist Steve Brown as a keynote speaker for its Lending Tech Live ’25 conference, scheduled for June 16-18, 2025, at the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville, Tenn.
 
Steve Brown will deliver a keynote session titled “AI now and next: Getting ready for the future of AI.” In this session, he explains AI in accessible terms, demonstrates its latest capabilities, and details how companies and individuals can prepare to surf the coming AI wave. Attendees will:

• Learn the basics of AI, its main types, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Discover how companies use AI to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and elevate employee performance.
• Examine the coming waves of AI: reasoning, agents, spatial AI, and next-generation robotics.
• Understand AI’s future trajectory and its significance for us all.
• Recognize the crucial influence of AI on business and determine immediate actions.
• Get practical advice on using AI for competitive advantage and personal growth.

​Steve Brown is a leading expert on AI, generative AI, autonomous agents, digital transformation, and how AI will shape business, education, and society. He draws upon decades of experience in AI and high tech to help leaders build winning AI strategies that fuel innovation, boost productivity, and drive growth. His 25-year career included roles as senior director and in-house futurist at Google DeepMind in London and as Intel’s chief evangelist and futurist. He is the co-founder of The Provenance Chain Network, which provides supply chain transparency and security services to the U.S. Space Force, and a strategic advisor to two AI startups. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Microelectronic Systems Engineering from Manchester University.
 
“AI is at the top of everyone’s mind and strategy as every business learns more about how to integrate this crucial technology to stay ahead of the rapidly evolving financial landscape,” explained Erika Hill, vice president of marketing for Origence. “We are excited to offer the impressive expertise of Steve Brown to credit union leaders to learn how to harness the power of AI effectively.”
 
Lending Tech Live ’25 is the leading credit union lending-specific event, filled with informative keynotes, state-of-the-art technology demonstrations, and comprehensive sessions on the latest lending trends. With a heightened focus on digital transformation and operational efficiency, it will showcase innovative tools and strategies designed to revolutionize the lending industry.
 
To view a full list of speakers or to learn more about registration opportunities, visit the Lending Tech Live website.

NACUSO (National Association of Credit Union Service Organizations) is excited to announce the finalists of the 2025 Next Big Idea Competition:

• cheXray
• Coverbase
• Goodbuy
• Metallicus
• Scamnetic
• Traduality

​Created to spotlight transformative ideas, the Next Big Idea Competition celebrates innovation and collaboration that solve real challenges in the credit union space. Each finalist will pitch their groundbreaking solution at Reimagine – a Strategic Growth Conference, April 14-17, in Las Vegas.

Sponsored by Velera, this competition offers $10,000 in cash prizes, plus new enhancements like coaching, mentorship, and promotional opportunities—giving participants critical tools to accelerate their growth and industry engagement.

“These finalists represent the bold thinking and creativity that credit unions need to thrive,” said Miriam Ackerman, Interim CEO of NACUSO. “We’re not just celebrating innovation—we’re creating space for ideas that challenge the status quo and bring real solutions to credit union members. We can’t wait to see these ideas come to life on stage.”

The 2025 judging panel includes Saisi Peter (CASAP), Eric Berg (DNT BLNK), and Alix Patterson (Callahan & Associates).

Don’t forget - winners will be selected by Reimagine attendees! Will you be there to vote in the Next Big Idea Competition champ? Register now at www.ReimagineNACUSO.com.

Lighthouse Credit Union, a member-owned, mission-driven financial institution, has partnered with Alacriti, a leader in cloud-based payment and money movement solutions, to transform its payment operations.  

This partnership includes the implementation of Alacriti’s Orbipay Payments Hub for Wires and Orbipay EBPP (Electronic Bill Presentment and Payment) solutions, enabling Lighthouse Credit Union to enhance speed, security, and convenience for their members. 

As part of this initiative, Lighthouse Credit Union identified a key challenge: ensuring members could move money in real time without usage of multiple third-party applications. In response, Alacriti developed a wire solution that streamlines payment processing, eliminating lengthy wait times and enhancing transaction efficiency. This innovation underscores Alacriti’s commitment to delivering forward-thinking payment solutions while reinforcing both companies’ dedication to digital transformation. Orbipay Payments Hub for Wire delivers:

• End-to-end wire modernization for faster, more secure transactions.
• Seamless integration with fraud screening to enhance security.
• Automated exception and document management to streamline operations.

In addition, Lighthouse Credit Union has expanded its loan payment capabilities for members and businesses. The Orbipay EBPP solution increases Lighthouse Credit Union’s payment capabilities, allowing members to make payments seamlessly across more channels and methods. By providing greater flexibility and convenience, the credit union enhances the member experience while optimizing operational efficiencies through streamlined transaction workflows, more payment options (text, over the phone, online, etc), and a self-service portal.

“Lighthouse Credit Union is committed to financial wellness and innovation for our members and communities,” said Jason Cole, Product Manager for Money Movement at Lighthouse Credit Union. “By integrating Alacriti’s advanced payment technology, we’re providing members with seamless, efficient tools to manage their finances in real time while optimizing costs.” 
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“We are thrilled to partner with Lighthouse Credit Union to support their vision of modernized, community-driven banking,” said Neeraj Gupta, SVP Product Management, Alacriti. “With Orbipay Payments Hub for Wires and EBPP for loan payments, Lighthouse Credit Union will not only deliver faster, more efficient payment options but also set the stage for future innovation and growth.” 
 
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to continuous enhancement in digital banking, ensuring Lighthouse Credit Union remains at the forefront of financial technology while providing exceptional service to its members. ​

By Chris Jones, CLU, ChFC

Good household budgeters often estimate expenses on the high side and revenue on the low side— so their actual bottom line hits the target. For the first 15-plus years of my now 30-year career in finance, I helped individuals with their personal finances and saw this approach work time and time again. Being thoughtful and thorough helped people come out well, despite any unexpected bumps.

When I started helping credit unions and other non-profits with supplemental executive retirement plans more than a decade ago, I found that a similar approach works here, too. When structured in a safe and sound way—and not created based on too rosy a projection— SERPs are more “durable.”

That is, they are much more likely to retain their value over time. This means executives can rest easy knowing they’ll retire with the funding they’re expecting! It’s also important for boards that want to set up plans that truly benefit their top leaders when they retire.

Let’s talk a bit more about creating durable SERPs by focusing on two areas: structure and thorough projections.

Durable Structure Using Whole Life Insurance
Building more than 300 supplemental executive retirement plans to date that are delivering their original projected benefit or greater has given me a lot of time to think about how to do it well. A key factor in structuring a plan to actually pay out as planned when an executive retires is to build it on whole life insurance.

Stay with me.

When a SERP is based on whole life insurance, the credit union and the executive get a fairly stable dividend based on the insurance company's performance. The returns are more consistent and avoid sequence of returns risk, which I’ll explain in a moment.

This is in contrast to indexed universal life insurance plans, which carry a lot more volatility, making it much more difficult to ensure a plan will deliver on its promise at retirement. This problem with IUL includes non-guaranteed caps, sequence of returns risk (which we often call “the luck factor”), and IUL’s inherent complexity. We offer a webinar that explains these in more detail.

Caps. An insurance company sets an annual maximum—a cap—on the rate of return IUL policyholders can get. The rate is chosen to ensure that the insurance company does well and can change at any time. There is no underlying guarantee that an insurance company will set the cap at a particular rate nor does any rule say it must set the cap at a particular rate. What this can mean in practice is that even if the market soared to 20%, the insurance company’s annual cap could limit you to a 7.5% return on your IUL investments. You ultimately are losing more upside potential than gaining downside protection.

Sequence of returns risk. With IUL, returns don't depend on average market performance—they depend on when those returns happen. This is called "sequence of returns risk" and, while it’s not likely to happen, the wrong timing can decimate an executive’s retirement funding.

During the accumulation phase (when you're putting money in), a few bad years can significantly reduce a policy's growth potential. But the real danger comes during the distribution phase when the executive is ready to withdraw money for retirement. Each withdrawal during a downturn depletes the policy’s cash value faster, creating extreme pressure for retirement funding. If you want to consider the worst-case scenario, factor in the cost of insurance and the way the cap might limit your investment growth.

We think if more executives and boards fully understood sequence of returns risk, they would only structure SERPs using the much more predictable and reliable whole life insurance product.

Complexity. As if sequence of returns risk weren’t enough, IUL policies are mind-bogglingly complex. The ultimate retirement income from an IUL plan will be affected by many factors—caps, cost of insurance, fees, sequence of returns risk, and the cost of interest. This complexity makes it difficult to accurately project the plan’s outcome.

Thoughtful Projections
The good household budgeters I talked about at the beginning of this article estimate future income and expenses with meticulous caution. They consider a variety of scenarios by looking at all the influencing factors and the range of potential outcomes. This is exactly what needs to be done when setting up a SERP.

Some key things to consider include:
Returns: If a SERP’s anticipated returns are unfulfilled by the underlying investment (the life insurance policy), the executive’s benefit may be less—or far less—than projected when retirement withdrawals begin.

Projections of needed retirement income: While SERP design doesn’t impact the cost of living an executive will face when retiring, the potential for higher-than-anticipated costs at retirement is another good reason to design your plan to be highly likely to deliver on—or even exceed—its projected payout. Such sound design will be helpful to the executive regardless of their ultimate income need at retirement.

Emotional impact: If the executive faces a funding gap at retirement, how much stress will that cause?

Laying the Groundwork for Success
Let’s recap. Here are three key ideas for SERP success based on PARC Street’s many years of experience setting up durable plans:

1. Look at whole life options. Whole life insurance from a mutual Insurance company delivers a consistent dividend over time with only small variations from year to year that make it ideal to fund a supplemental executive retirement plan.
2. Consider multiple possible outcomes. Be sure you understand the range of possibilities an executive may face with a particular plan. We prefer the predictable returns of whole life-based SERPs to assist with this. Tools like our Life Insurance Sustainability Analysis (LISA) areamong the few that are effective for stress-testing an IUL-based SERP under different market conditions.
3. If you must have an IUL-based plan, give it a “haircut.” Our extensive data analysis suggests planning for your returns to be 30% lower than projected will best manage an IUL-based plan’srisk. So if your best projection of plan returns is 5.7%, design for a 4% return. Later, if you’re unlucky with sequence of returns risk, your executive’s got an appropriate buffer built in.

SERPs are a wonderful tool for credit unions and executives that want to PARC: Plan for retirement, better Attract the right people, Retain their key people, and deliver on a complete Compensation strategy. The key to designing a good SERP isn't predicting the future perfectly. It's preparing thoroughly for whatever that future might hold. We’d be delighted to help you sort through the options.

​Thirty-six emerging credit union leaders have been selected from a record 126 applicants to participate in the 2025 CUES Emerge competition. Representing 19 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces, these up-and-coming professionals will take part in a dynamic program designed to strengthen leadership skills and strategic thinking.
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Offered in partnership with Currency Marketing, CUES Emerge delivers free leadership development through interactive Virtual Classroom and Mastermind sessions, connecting participants with subject matter experts and their peers to expand leadership expertise.

During the Mastermind sessions, participants are split into groups of six to refine their ideas and transform them into compelling business cases. The 2025 Mastermind sessions will be led by a mentor, each a past CUES Emerge participant ready to share their insights and guide new participants toward success. They are:

• Jana Chamberlin, CCM, Instructional Design Manager, Northwest FCU, Herndon, VA, USA
• Zachary Churchill, CCM, CUDE, CMA, CFE, VP of Consumer & Mortgage Lending, Achieva CU, 2022 CUES Emerging Leader, Dunedin, FL, USA
• Jayde DelGado, CCM, VP/Member Experience, American Lake Credit Union, 2023 CUES Emerging Leader, Tacoma, WA, USA
• Lyla Elliott, CCM, CUDE, Director of Consumer Loan Production, TwinStar Credit Union, Olympia, WA, USA
• Shanece Robinson, CCM, Team Lead, Learning and Development, Sharonview Federal Credit Union, 2024 CUES Emerging Leader, Fort Mill, SC, USA 
• Amber Stutzman, CCM, People Experience Business Partner, Oregon Community Credit Union, Springfield, OR, USA

Participants can then opt in to the competition phase to have their business cases reviewed by a judging panel of credit union CEOs. Five finalists will be invited to present their business cases during the dynamic CUES Emerge pitch show, happening online October 1.

Three top presenters will receive a tiered learning and coaching package, with the ultimate winner being named the 2025 CUES Emerging Leader. 

Shanece Robinson shared her thoughts on CUES Emerge in the CUmanagement.com article, Passionate About Learning & Development.

“I thought the program was phenomenal,” Robinson said. “There were multiple components, but what I most enjoyed were the breakout sessions. Having the opportunity to have small-group discussions about what’s working at our credit unions and what challenges we’re facing, to brainstorm and learn from each other, and to take ideas back to our respective credit unions was one of the most impactful things for me.”

View the full list of 2025 CUES Emerge cohort members and follow along on their journey at CUESEmerge.com or #CUESEmerge.