Leila Fong is joining the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) in a newly developed position, Manager of Engagement and Events, effective May 6th. Fong is currently a Project Coordinator at the Illinois Credit Union League where she has been supporting Illinois credit unions since 2018. AACUL recently announced three evolved strategic pillars to support their updated mission and vision. “Leila will have a key role in implementing our second strategic pillar which focuses on supporting League staff through intentional collaboration and enhanced professional development opportunities,” AACUL President Brad Miller shared. “Leila is passionate about creating valuable content for events and has already fostered meaningful connections within our Credit Union League community in her current role” continued Miller. “She has a proven track record of being a creative thinker with strong organizational skills who can plan, execute, and evaluate a wide range of events and engagement initiatives.” Illinois Credit Union League President Tom Kane is sad about losing Fong but happy for her and AACUL. “Leila did a wonderful job managing a broad range of responsibilities, from training and events to engagement and member resources in Illinois. I’m excited that she will be able to share her skills and experience on a national level,” said Kane.
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Scienaptic AI, a leading global provider of an AI-powered credit underwriting platform, announced today that Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union (HCFCU) has implemented its AI-based underwriting platform and is now live. This deployment is significantly streamlining the credit union’s underwriting process, leading to an increase in approval rates and a notable enhancement in the member experience. Importantly, all these advancements have been realized while ensuring adherence to the principles of fairness and inclusivity, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, which are integral to Scienaptic’s AI platform. In 1936, during the Great Depression, ten coffee farmers who were being denied loans and services by banks united to establish what is now known as the Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union (HCFCU). What began as a modest one-room operation has since blossomed into a trusted institution for local communities. HCFCU is more than just a credit union; it embodies the spirit of ‘ohana’, a Hawaiian term for family. The credit union is committed to providing valuable financial solutions, personalized service, low fees, and higher rates, all while focusing on the unique needs of its members. Headquartered in Kailua Kona, HCFCU now manages over $750 million in assets and serves a member base of over 47,000. While HCFCU has grown exponentially from its humble beginnings, it continues to uphold its foundational philosophy - a collective of individuals coming together to help each other succeed. “Grounded in the rich legacy of Kona farmers, Hawaiian Community Federal Credit Union’s mission is to provide world-class financial services while staying deeply connected to our roots,” said Mel Ventura, EVP of Member Services at HCFCU. “Going live with Scienaptic’s fair and compliant AI platform is helping us to better serve our growing community by delivering faster, more personalized loan decisions. We are automating and streamlining our loan processes, financially empowering our members, and creating a memorable credit experience for our community.” Commenting on the deployment, Scienaptic's Cofounder and President, Pankaj Jain said, "We are excited to have Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union go live on our AI-powered underwriting platform. Using the platform’s intelligent, fair, explainable AI decisions is empowering the credit union and its members alike. The deployment is enabling the credit union to increase credit offering to a more diverse membership base, providing an enhanced member experience while managing risk effectively.” The California Credit Union League is proud to announce an important leadership transition within the organization. On April 23, 2024, the current League Board of Directors Chair Geri LaChance will be stepping down as Chair, pending her retirement from SESLOC Credit Union in June. This change has allowed for the appointment of a new Chair by the board, ensuring continuity of leadership at a crucial time as the League continues to build an alliance with Utah’s Credit Unions. The League would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank Geri for her exceptional service on the Board, including her dedicated 1.5 years as Chair. Her leadership and commitment have been invaluable to the organization, and the League wishes her all the best in her well-deserved retirement. “I want to express our deepest gratitude to Geri for her unwavering commitment to serving our credit unions and guiding the California Credit Union League forward,” said Diana Dykstra, President and CEO of the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues. “During the past year-and-a-half, she has made an indelible mark on our success, demonstrating a level of dedication, expertise, and strategic vision that has benefited our member credit unions and the leaders who serve them. She has navigated our industry’s challenges and opportunities, enabling us to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape. Her unwavering commitment to credit unions’ wellbeing and the success of our organization is truly inspiring.” The League is also pleased to announce that Donna Bland, Golden 1 Credit Union President and CEO, will be stepping into the role of Board Chair for the California Credit Union League. Donna's appointment comes with full support from the Board, and the League is confident that her experience and vision will guide the League through this transition period and into the future. “I am honored to deepen my involvement with the California Credit Union League and to continue to collaborate with our accomplished board members,” Bland said. “I also look forward to advancing the League’s mission and further amplifying the credit union difference for members and communities statewide, as well as supporting the recently announced alliance between Utah’s Credit Unions and the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues.” "Donna’s exceptional leadership qualities and strategic acumen make her the ideal choice for this important role," stated Diana. "I am confident that under her guidance, we will continue to thrive and strengthen our partnership with credit unions in California, Nevada, and Utah." “Donna Bland’s visionary leadership and commitment to advancing the credit union movement make her an excellent choice for this role,” said incoming President and CEO Scott Simpson. “Donna understands the power of collaboration and will help us build resilience while ensuring California, Nevada, and Utah stay true to the unique needs of local credit unions.” Bland has more than 30 years of financial services experience. Adding to her vast leadership roles in the industry and community organizations, her appointment marks a significant milestone in her career, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to the credit union movement. Please join the League in congratulating Geri on her retirement and welcoming Donna as the new Chair. The League is excited about the future and the continued growth of the organization under Donna's leadership. The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) is proud to announce Jason Stverak has been appointed to the new position of Chief Advocacy Officer (CAO). In this role, Jason will be responsible for ensuring DCUC’s overall advocacy efforts continue to exclusively support the interest of credit unions serving our armed forces and veterans worldwide. DCUC’s Chief Advocacy Officer is a new position at DCUC and reflects DCUC’s growth in the advocacy sphere over the last seven years. The CAO will serve as a direct link between membership and regulators, analyzing current and emerging regulations and legislation, fostering DCUC’s working relationships with Congressional staff members, and ensuring DCUC’s members remain informed, heard, and represented. Jason has served as the Deputy Chief Advocacy Officer for Federal Government Affairs for the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), now America’s Credit Unions since October 2021. He also performed the duties as Interim Chief Advocacy Officer for CUNA in 2022 and 2023. Before his time with CUNA, Jason worked as the Deputy Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). Additionally, Jason has served as the Legislative Director and Lobbyist for Christians United for Israel Action Fund, and as Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director for Congressman Cramer in the U.S. House of Representatives. A respected voice on Capitol Hill, Jason is a sought-after voice on important issues facing credit unions and the financial services industry. Known for his influential voice for credit unions, Jason has appeared as a guest on nationally syndicated radio shows and the Fox News Channel on several occasions. His articles and press releases have appeared in USA Today, National Review Online, Roll Call, The Hill, Politico, Fox News, Forbes, the Washington Examiner, American Banker, CU Times, and numerous other publications. Jason was named one of The Hill’s Top Lobbyists in 2022 and 2023, as well as a Top Lobbyist by The National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics (NILE) in 2022. “DCUC is incredibly proud to have Jason join us as our Chief Advocacy Officer. We’ve always valued our joint trade communications with Jason and hearing his take on legislative matters coming in and out of Washington,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO. “We’re confident Jason will not only be a great addition to our team but will take DCUC’s advocacy to the next level on behalf of our members.” “I am deeply honored and excited to be named DCUC’s Chief Advocacy Officer. Every credit union across the country has members who are active-duty military, veterans, or members of their families and I look forward to fighting for their interests and the interests of all credit unions at DCUC,” said Stverak. “America’s service members, veterans, and their families give so much to our country, and I am proud to represent the credit unions that work for them each and every day.” To learn more about DCUC’s advocacy, please visit www.dcuc.org/advocacy. Pulsate, provider of mobile-first engagement solutions that deepen digital banking relationships and cut through noise in consumers’ moments of need, announced today that CFCU Community Credit Union (CFCU) has chosen Pulsate as its premier marketing engine for its ability to meet individual members’ needs throughout all phases of life. Through Pulsate’s partnership with Constellation Digital Partners, CFCU can access Pulsate’s solutions as part of Constellation’s Digital Banking platform. Recognizing Pulsate’s ability to significantly enhance member engagement by capturing the needs of individual members versus relying on massive, impersonal messaging, CFCU selected Pulsate to fill a key role in its new transformative digital marketing strategy. By seamlessly bringing members into the platform for a more connected and engaging experience while leveraging data-driven, personalized engagement via digital channels, the platform will allow CFCU to quickly and effectively share its new and existing services with relevant member demographics based on their evolving needs. “Pulsate’s capabilities will enable us to execute messaging beyond traditional banner ads to effectively target and engage our audiences this year, ensuring they are seamlessly integrated into the CFCU More platform in a timely manner,” said Jennifer Carlton-Cooper, Vice President of Electronic Services for CFCU. “This strategic partnership represents CFCU's commitment to enhancing member experiences through embracing innovative technologies and advanced digital solutions, driving higher, more effective member engagement.” The partnership serves as a critical component of the credit union’s transition strategy from its current digital banking app to the CFCU More app, which includes eventually converting all members to the new app delivered on the Constellation platform. “Since our inception, Constellation’s driving goal has always been to provide credit unions with access to the latest tools they need to create their ideal digital banking experiences and connecting them with fintechs that can help them execute and achieve it,” said Kris Kovacs, Founder and CEO of Constellation. “We are excited to help support this important partnership between CFCU and Pulsate and look forward to what comes next for these two innovative organizations.” "CFCU is leading the charge in how credit unions can build lasting, valuable relationships in a mobile-first world,” said Sarah Martin, CEO of Pulsate. “To support this vital initiative, our intuitive, easy-to-use platform empowers credit unions like CFCU to create personalized, targeted campaigns, allowing them to better meet member needs, drive revenue growth and encourage financial wellness, all delivered through a variety of channels embedded within their digital banking ecosystem.” Harborstone Credit Union has selected Jimese Harkley, JD, CCE, CUDE as its new Chief Community Engagement Officer. Harborstone’s mission is to create thriving communities and its leadership believes this new role will be pivotal in shaping the organization’s community engagement strategies and corporate social responsibility initiatives. “It was clear to see throughout the process that Jimese’s values align well with Harborstone’s core values. Her history of success in leading community engagement efforts and her strategic mindset make her an excellent addition to the executive team,” says Geoff Bullock, CEO. Harkley most recently served as VP of Membership for CUES and brings over 15 years of industry experience to her new position at Harborstone. She began her career as a teller for America’s First FCU and progressed to serve as the credit union’s Philanthropy and Community Relations Manager. Harkley also previously served in various roles at Filene Research Institute. “I am excited to work with the entire Harborstone team. The credit union is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring individuals have access to resources, knowledge, and opportunities to achieve financial stability,” says Harkley. “When I walked into a branch, the decor and environment immediately brought the organization's mission and vision to life. I am genuinely grateful for the journey that led me here.” She was placed by DDJ Myers, the well-known leadership development firm that offers a broad range of solutions to help clients optimize their greatest assets - their people. “I appreciate the care and communication that the DDJ Myers team provided throughout the process. They aim to match humans with organizations to achieve mutual goals. They are committed to helping executives increase visibility, attract relevant opportunities, and ultimately land their desired roles,” says Harkley. Harkley earned her Juris Doctorate from Birmingham School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication/Media Studies from Jacksonville State University. She’s been married for two decades and has a young-adult son and teenage daughter. In her free time, Harkley enjoys being a dance mom, supporting college football, fundraising, and attending concerts. Canvas Credit Union announced Todd Marksberry has resigned from his position as president and chief executive officer (CEO), effective Tuesday, April 16. Following his resignation, Canvas’ Board of Directors named Colleen Knoll, the credit union’s Chief Financial Officer since 2012, as interim CEO. "We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Todd for his dedicated leadership and service, and outstanding contributions to the success of Canvas Credit Union," said Tom Lash, Canvas’ Board Chair. "Throughout Todd's nearly nine years of leadership, he played an integral role in fostering the credit union's growth and deepening its commitment to serving the community.” Colleen Knoll has been a catalyst in maintaining the credit union’s impact on Coloradans for more than a decade. Bringing extensive experience in financial services leadership, starting with her tenure as a financial regulator with the State of Colorado, Knoll demonstrates an unwavering dedication to lead the credit union forward. She remains steadfast in upholding Canvas' strategic pillars aimed at enhancing the well-being of its members and communities, and she is highly regarded as a servant leader, embodying Canvas’ mission to lead with its heart. “We are excited about the future of Canvas Credit Union and the opportunities that lie ahead," said Knoll. "Our dedicated team is ready to embrace these changes and work together to ensure the continued prosperity of our members and the communities we serve." Canvas Credit Union remains deeply committed to its mission of providing exceptional financial services and to serve as a cornerstone in the communities it supports. Leading global AI-powered credit underwriting platform provider, Scienaptic AI, announced today that Great NorthWest Federal Credit Union is now live on its AI-powered credit underwriting platform. This deployment is significantly streamlining the credit union’s underwriting process, leading to an increase in approval rates and automation. Importantly, all these advancements have been realized while ensuring adherence to the principles of fairness and inclusivity, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, which are integral to Scienaptic’s AI platform. Originally founded as Schafer Mill Employees Credit Union in April 1953, Great NorthWest Federal Credit Union has experienced transformative growth, resulting in an asset size exceeding $240 million and a membership base of close to 18,000 individuals. Headquartered in Aberdeen, Washington, the credit union proudly serves a wide range of members residing in Grays Harbor, Pacific, Mason, Lewis, Wahkiakum, Clallam, Jefferson, and Thurston Counties. Committed to its mission, the credit union strives to empower its diverse family of members to achieve their unique financial aspirations and turn their dreams into reality. "At Great NorthWest, our core commitment has always been to fulfill the financial aspirations of our members. Drawing on our rich history of supporting individuals and promoting financial well-being, we continuously seek ways to enhance our services and adapt to the evolving needs of our community," shared Doug Page, CEO of Great NorthWest Federal Credit Union. "Going live on Scienaptic's platform is empowering us to support our members at every step of their journey. Leveraging their advanced AI-driven underwriting platform, we are establishing a seamless, automated underwriting process that is allowing us to approve a greater number of loans, while effectively managing risk and revolutionizing the member experience.” "At Scienaptic AI, we're thrilled to see the positive impact that our credit underwriting technology is having on the financial lives of Great NorthWest Federal Credit Union's members," said Pankaj Jain, President and Co-Founder of Scienaptic AI. "It's an honor to support a credit union that is so dedicated to serving its community and providing access to financial solutions that truly make a difference. Our platform is helping the credit union strengthen its loan underwriting, resulting in faster loan approvals and increased credit access for their community." CU*Answers is excited to announce that two additional credit unions will join the MemberPass biometric member authentication pilot: Partnership Financial Credit Union (Morton Grove, IL) and Madison County Federal Credit Union (Anderson, IN). Recently, CU*Answers announced the first of its pilot members, encourage Financial Credit Union Network, whose deployment was initiated in March 2024. In December 2023, CU*Answers integrated MemberPass into its CU*BASE core system. MemberPass, developed by CUSO Bonifii, transforms the member authentication process by eliminating the need for knowledge-based questions, such as mother’s maiden name or partial social security numbers, and instead utilizes secure biometric and digital credential authentication. This enables a bi-directional authentication of the member to their credit union within fifteen seconds or less, all without the necessity of sharing personally identifiable information (PII). This advancement results in a simpler, more secure member experience. MemberPass can authenticate in any credit union channel, including contact centers, in-person interactions, at interactive teller machines (ITMs), online platforms, or within mobile applications. CU*Answers has implemented MemberPass for credit unions across contact centers, branches, and ITMs, with plans to begin development on adding the integration to the It’s Me 247 online and mobile environments by Q4 2024. Geoff Johnson, CEO of CU*Answers, expressed, “We are glad that Partnership Financial and Madison County credit unions could take advantage of the new integration to MemberPass. They can anticipate enhancing their members’ experiences while safeguarding both their members and credit unions from fraud.” John Ainsworth, CEO of Bonifii, remarked, "We are thrilled to extend the comprehensive fraud protection that MemberPass offers to Partnership Financial and Madison County credit unions through CU*Answers, and look forward to adding value to many more CU*Answers clients in the months ahead.” In the upcoming months, CU*Answers will progress beyond the pilot phase and provide all of its clients with the ability to implement this groundbreaking fraud prevention solution. Backbase, the leading Engagement Banking Platform provider, announces today the renewal and expansion of its partnership with Navy Federal Credit Union, the world’s largest credit union with more than 13 million members and $171 billion in assets, proudly serving U.S. veterans, retired service members and active duty in all branches of the armed forces and their family members. Navy Federal Credit Union has strategically embarked on an ambitious multi-year transformation journey by continuing to standardize on Backbase as their engagement layer of choice. This renewal positions Backbase as a platform for member and employee-facing applications, ensuring a seamless banking experience across multiple channels. By adopting the Backbase platform, Navy Federal Credit Union will achieve: Modernization and simplification of the credit union’s existing IT landscape by reducing the number of siloed channel applications. One unified platform, consolidating data, business logic, and workflows into a single, member-centric platform for efficient journey orchestration, benefiting both members and employees. Agility and freedom, enhancing flexibility to swiftly implement business capabilities and adapt to evolving market dynamics. “We are continuously looking for ways to enable our digital transformation,” said Kathy Ward, SVP Digital of Navy Federal Credit Union. “Collaborating with strategic partners like Backbase has been instrumental to our goal of simplifying and enhancing member experiences by utilizing a single platform across digital interactions.” “With this partnership renewal, we’re excited to reaffirm our mutual commitment to revolutionizing digital experiences for Navy Federal Credit Union’s members and employees,” said Jouk Pleiter, CEO of Backbase. “Our decision to extend the partnership was driven by Backbase’s comprehensive engagement platform, which allows us to truly innovate,” says Ward. The partnership between the world’s largest credit union and Backbase represents a significant leap toward modernizing banking. Together, the collaboration emphasizes the importance of long-term, strategic investments in technology to bring true value creation, moving away from legacy systems that hold speed and innovation back. Discover more about the partnership between Backbase and Navy Federal Credit Union, and witness firsthand how they enhance the digital capabilities of the credit union’s members, at the Engage Americas event in Miami (April 23, 2024). More information about this event, speakers and sessions can be found at: https://www.backbase.com/events/engage-2024-americas. |
Author: Mike LawsonMarried to a most gorgeous and wonderful wife, raising 5 kiddos (including twins!), enjoy helping others tell their stories, and love surfing SoCal waves. Keep it simple. Archives
April 2024
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