PALM DESERT, Calif.–Numerous credit union leaders and organizations from across California and Nevada were recognized here with Advocacy Awards. The awards were presented in conjunction with California’s and Nevada’s Credit Unions’ REACH Conference.
“The event recognizes credit union professionals, partner organizations, and the year-round advocacy efforts of those who have devoted their careers and energy to advancing the credit union charter, protecting member interests, and strengthening advocacy efforts at state and federal levels,” the leagues said.
The 2026 Advocacy Award honorees include:
- Advocacy Legacy Award: Marvel Ford, chief advocacy officer for California Credit Union.
- Advocacy Legacy Award: Eric Day, director of credit union advocacy for Credit Union of Southern California.
- California PAC Advocate of the Year: Rob Greaff, CEO of Delta Schools Federal Credit Union.
- Nevada PAC Advocate of the Year: Scott Arkills, retired CEO of Silver State Schools Credit Union.
- Shapiro Advocate of the Year: Jason Mertz-Prickett, CEO of Upward Credit Union.
- Nevada Advocate of the Year: Todd Sorenson, CEO of Elko Federal Credit Union.
- California Advocate of the Year: Stephen Owen, CEO of First Entertainment Credit Union.
- Political Professional of the Year: Erica Taylor, senior vice president of community impact and public relations officer for Golden 1 Credit Union.
- Supplier of the Year: Origence.
A ‘Reminder’
“Each year, the Advocacy Awards remind us why the credit union movement continues to thrive,” Jeremy Empol, president and CEO of California’s and Nevada’s Credit Unions, said in a statement. “These honorees embody the spirit of ‘people helping people’ that defines our industry. I want to congratulate and thank them for their extraordinary contributions — and for putting their members and communities first.”
