PALM DESERT, Calif.–The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) and CUES said they have entered into a partnership aimed at strengthening offerings through a “shared commitment to leadership development, innovation, and credit union excellence.”
The announcement was made by CUES CEO Heather McKissick and DCUC President/CEO Anthony Hernandez during DCUC’s 2025 Annual Conference in Palm Desert, Calif.
As part of the collaboration, DCUC member credit unions will enjoy a first-time attendee discount of 10% on select CUES events, including its Directors Conference (excluding CUES CEO Institute). In addition, CUES members will receive a first-time attendee discount of 10% for DCUC’s 2026 Annual Conference, the organizations said.
‘More Than Just Discounts’
“This partnership represents a natural alignment of two organizations that are passionate about empowering credit unions and their leaders,” said Hernandez in a statement. “By bringing our missions together, we’re offering more than just discounts—we’re creating opportunities for credit union professionals to grow, connect, and better serve their communities, especially those that support our military and veterans.”
Added McKissick in a statement, “CUES is proud to collaborate with DCUC to offer meaningful leadership development experiences to even more credit union professionals. We believe in the power of mission-centered collaboration and look forward to working alongside DCUC to amplify our impact, reach more members, and foster a stronger, more unified credit union movement.”
‘Powerhouse Organizations’
Jim Hayes, the president/CEO of State Department FCU who is also board secretary with DCUC and a board member of CUES, added in a statement, “It’s truly exciting to see these two powerhouse organizations—DCUC and CUES—unite with a shared purpose: to amplify collaboration, empower credit union leaders and staff, and deepen the impact we have on the communities we all serve. This kind of partnership is exactly what fuels the broader mission of the credit union movement— people helping people.”
DCUC’s Stverak Honored
Separately, Jason Stverak, chief advocacy officer with the Defense Credit Union Council(DCUC), has been named to a list of the most effective lobbyists in Washington by the Washington Reporter.
“Jason earns his place among D.C.’s most influential advocates through his deep Capitol Hill connections, savvy media presence, and relentless fight to protect all credit unions,” the Reporter stated. “With a track record as a top lobbyist and strong relationships with lawmakers, Stverak is leading the charge against the Credit Card Competition Act, which threatens to undermine credit unions’ ability to serve their 142 million members with affordable financial services.”
‘Punches Above Weight’
The Reporter quoted “Hill sources” as stating, “DCUC punches above its weight and a big reason is because of Jason. He understands the intersection of politics and policy, he’s extremely hardworking, and he can run a campaign.”
The Reporter added that Stverak’s strategic leadership “positions him as a pivotal voice in the potential upcoming battle to preserve credit unions’ tax-exempt status during a second reconciliation, ensuring these institutions can continue supporting service members and veterans with unmatched dedication.”
