CHICAGO—More than 600 credit union leaders, volunteers, business partners, speakers and advocates have gathered here this week as the Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) holds its 96th Annual Convention, a three-day event featuring discussions on payments, technology, lending, fraud, compliance and leadership.
According to the league, the convention, being held at the Hilton Chicago, has adopted the theme “Driving the Future,” inspired by the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and its historical role in connecting communities.
The event includes educational sessions, networking opportunities, industry discussions, advocacy fundraising and recognition of credit union leaders and emerging professionals.
“Annual Convention is where our credit union community comes together to learn from one another, build relationships, and turn new ideas into meaningful action,” ICUL President and CEO Libby Calderone said in a statement. “As we drive the future together, our focus remains on giving credit unions practical insight, trusted connections, and the collective strength to better serve their members and communities.”
Opening Day Features National CU Leadership
According to ICUL, Thursday’s opening-day activities include CEO roundtables, a board of directors workshop and a welcome session for the 2026 Annual Convention Crashers.
The opening general session, emceed by Sedric Brinson of America’s Credit Unions, features a conversation between America’s Credit Unions President and CEO Scott Simpson and Calderone.
Filmmaker and creative innovator Jason Bevan is also scheduled to discuss how organizations can bring bold ideas to life while operating in regulated environments.
Other activities include:
- Exhibit Hall Grand Opening: A sold-out event featuring 240 exhibitor attendees.
- CUPAC Auction and Wine Pull: Fundraising activities supporting credit union political advocacy.
- Illinois Credit Union Foundation Raffle: An annual fundraiser benefiting the foundation.
- Alloya Live: A closing party for the convention’s first day
Payments, Fraud and Technology on Friday’s Agenda
Friday’s activities begin with a new Networking Breakfast, followed by a general session examining the future of payments featuring Dr. Lamont Black.
According to ICUL, educational tracks will address several issues confronting credit unions, including:
- Leadership and organizational development.
- Technology and innovation.
- Lending.
- Fraud prevention.
- Regulatory compliance.
Attendees will also have opportunities to meet industry providers during Exhibit Hall networking sessions and the Business Partner Showcase.
Today concludes with the Cheers to You! Chairperson’s Celebration & Awards Reception, recognizing credit union leaders, rising professionals and their contributions to their communities.
Convention Concludes Saturday
The convention’s final day will include a closing session for the Annual Convention Crashers and a second board of directors workshop led by Jill Nowacki of Zealyst.
The league said the convention is intended to strengthen collaboration among Illinois credit unions while providing practical information and resources to help institutions better serve their members.
ICUL represents nearly 200 state- and federally chartered credit unions serving approximately 4.1 million members across Illinois.
