Innovation in Action: Corelation’s 2025 Executive Forum Unites Visionary Credit Union Leaders in San Diego

Corelation, Inc. welcomed 212 attendees, including credit union executives and technology leaders from across the country to its 2025 Executive Forum, held November 6-7 at the InterContinental San Diego. Over the course of two days, the event provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the evolving financial services landscape and how credit unions can continue to innovate while staying true to their member-first mission.

Building on the success of previous years, the 2025 forum featured a dynamic agenda that blended strategic leadership discussions with emerging technology insights. Its conversational format encouraged open dialogue among peers, fostering meaningful connections between executives, technology partners, and Corelation’s leadership team. Attendees exchanged ideas, shared best practices, and gained actionable takeaways to advance the credit union movement through collaboration and shared vision.

The event began with an opening keynote by Kris Kovacs, Founder and Digital Strategy Coach at Withacay Ventures, titled “Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls: How to Innovate with TLC.” Kovacs set the tone for the conference with thought-provoking ideas on driving innovation while maintaining balance and empathy in leadership. Sessions throughout the day continued to build on that theme, with Clint Summers of Homebase Credit Union sharing lessons on leading through adversity. Bill Hampel, Economic Consultant, offered a detailed look at the condition and outlook for credit unions in today’s economy, and Karan Kashyap, CEO and Co-Founder of Posh, explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping member and employee expectations.

“Corelation continues to raise the bar with each Executive Forum, and this year was no exception,” said Adam Brown, CIO of Advantage Plus Federal Credit Union. “The speakers were excellent, the topics timely, and the networking opportunities outstanding.”

On the second day, the forum featured two dedicated learning tracks designed to address both executive and technology perspectives within the credit union industry. Cortney Arnold of The Cooperative Trust/Filene Research Institute, Geoff Bacino of Bacino & Associates, and LeAnn Case, Board Chair of the TriUnity Foundation, shared insights on leadership, advocacy, and the importance of purpose-driven growth in today’s credit union environment. On the Technology side, Mike Burke of SHAZAM, Donald Arkell of CU Lending Advice, and Mart Vos, CEO of Eko, explored emerging trends in cybersecurity, digital assets, and the evolving role of technology in building long-term member relationships.

Each day concluded with engaging vendor speed rounds featuring some of Corelation’s trusted Preferred Partners, giving participants an opportunity to explore new solutions designed to enhance efficiency and member engagement.

“This forum reflects what makes the credit union movement so special – leaders coming together to learn, innovate, and support one another,” said Corelation President Rob Landis. “We’re honored to provide a space that encourages those conversations and helps our partners continue making a lasting impact for their members.”

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