WASHINGTON — Karen Harbin, president and CEO of Commonwealth Credit Union in Kentucky and the newly installed board chair of America’s Credit Unions, called on credit union leaders to modernize their advocacy efforts while keeping the movement’s “humanity” at the center of policy debates.
Speaking during the association’s Governmental Affairs Conference in Washington, Harbin said credit unions have a long history of supporting members during critical moments but must continue evolving alongside changing member expectations.
“We have a proven record of standing with our members in the moments they need us most,” Harbin said. “But we cannot allow ourselves to be anchored to the past. Our members are evolving, and we must evolve with them.”
Still Building Identity
Harbin noted that America’s Credit Unions, formed just over two years ago through the merger of NAFCU and CUNA, is still building its identity. While honoring the legacies of its predecessor organizations, she said, the association must operate differently than it did a decade ago.
“Over the past two years, we have made meaningful progress,” Harbin said, adding that the board has pushed the association to deliver more value with greater efficiency, focus and purpose.
She credited President and CEO Scott Simpson’s leadership, saying every decision is evaluated through the lens that “advocacy is job number one.”
‘Guiding Force’
“Advocacy is not simply a priority. It is the guiding force that keeps our efforts aligned with what matters most to credit unions and their members,” Harbin said. “Everything America’s Credit Unions does must strengthen our ability to advance, empower and protect the interests of our movement.”
Harbin urged attendees to amplify their collective voice, particularly as the midterm elections approach. While credit unions are nonpartisan, she said, supporting candidates who understand the industry’s value is critical to shaping its future.
She emphasized the importance of storytelling in advocacy, encouraging credit union leaders to share examples of how they help members through crises, guide families toward financial stability and expand economic opportunity.
“No impact is too small,” Harbin said. “Those stories move people. They turn passion into policy and help lawmakers understand the difference that credit unions make every day.”
‘Moving Forward Together’
Harbin also thanked the association’s staff for their work, asking attendees to recognize “Team America’s Credit Unions” for their dedication. She expressed appreciation to outgoing board chair Patrick Pierce for his leadership during what she described as the most significant tax threat to the industry in a decade, as well as to fellow board members for keeping the organization focused on its mission.
“Our success depends on our unity and on the strength we bring when we move forward together,” Harbin said. “We are here to serve you, to represent you, and to ensure that your needs and your voices shape the strategy of this association.”
