ATLANTA — More than 450 credit union executives, emerging leaders, industry partners and retirees gathered for the African American Credit Union Coalition’s 2026 Annual Conference, which focused on leadership, service and collaboration and honored three longtime industry leaders with the organization’s highest lifetime achievement award.
According to AACUC, the four-day conference, presented by title sponsor Velera, was held under the theme, “Not Like Us: We’re Bold, Mindful and Brave…The Remix.” The theme built on the organization’s 2025 conference while challenging attendees to rethink leadership as the financial services industry continues to evolve.
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gail Devers headlined the conference, delivering a message centered on resilience, perseverance and overcoming adversity, the organization said.
The conference also featured educational sessions, leadership development programs, networking and other events focused on issues including artificial intelligence, executive leadership, financial inclusion, workforce development and opportunities for the next generation of credit union professionals.
The Programming Emphasis
According to the AACUC, the programming reflected its emphasis on developing diverse leadership and preparing emerging credit union professionals, including through its Young Professionals Summit. Sessions also addressed ways credit unions can strengthen their ability to serve historically underserved communities while maintaining the cooperative philosophy of “people helping people.”
“The Remix was more than this year’s conference theme. It was a call to action,” AACUC President and CEO Renée Sattiewhite said. “As our industry continues to evolve, we must be willing to rethink how we lead, invest in emerging talent, strengthen our institutions and expand opportunity for the communities that need us most. This conference reminded us that bold leadership is about standing together with purpose, courage and an unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact.”
Lifetime Achievement Awards Presented
A highlight of the conference was the Pete Crear Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinner, where AACUC recognized three credit union leaders for their service, innovation and advocacy.
The award, named for credit union pioneer Pete Crear, is AACUC’s highest recognition for lifetime achievement and transformational leadership.
The 2026 honorees were Marsha Majors, retired president and CEO of U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union; Mary McDuffie, retired president and CEO of Navy Federal Credit Union; and Gary J. Perez, president and CEO of USC Credit Union.
AACUC also recognized other industry leaders during the conference.
In collaboration with CEO40Group, AACUC presented the 2026 Renée Sattiewhite Neoteric Changemaker Award to Lucy Ito, former president and CEO of the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors. AACUC said Ito was recognized for her leadership and contributions to the credit union industry.
The AACUC board of directors also honored Chuck Fagan, outgoing CEO of Velera, for his longtime partnership with the organization and support for its efforts to advance leadership, equity and opportunity within the credit union movement.
Other Points of Emphasis
AACUC said the conference also emphasized mentorship, volunteerism and collaboration, giving attendees opportunities to connect across generations, exchange best practices and build relationships.
For nearly three decades, AACUC said it has focused on leadership development, financial inclusion and professional advancement while working to foster a more representative credit union industry. Its Annual Conference serves as the organization’s signature event.
