CAMBRIDGE, Md. – More than 100 credit union board members and CEOs gathered for the MD|DC Credit Union Association’s Volunteer Leadership Conference.
Industry experts led discussions on managing liquidity in an evolving economy, navigating regulatory changes, leveraging emerging technology, and strengthening governance, according to the association.
These insights provided attendees with the context needed to better understand today’s operating environment and guide their credit unions’ strategic direction, the MDDCCUA added.
“There is tremendous value in bringing board members and CEOs from across the region together,” John Bratsakis, president/CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association, said in a statement. “Our leaders benefit not only from the expertise of our speakers but from one another’s perspectives and real-world insights. This strategic collaboration helps strengthen governance and drives the long-term success of our credit unions.”
Key topics explored during the conference included:
- Economic and Liquidity Trends – Todd Wacker, Vice President and Director of Member Strategy at FHLBank Atlanta, provided an overview on the economic forces shaping the financial landscape and best practices for effective liquidity planning.
- Regulatory Outlook – John Kutchey, Eastern Regional Director for the NCUA, provided updates on operational and regulatory priorities for 2026.
- AI and Member Experience – Stacey Bryant, Director of Client Development at Cornerstone Advisors, discussed how artificial intelligence and personalization are redefining member engagement and growth.
- Board Governance – Oscar Porras, Senior Consultant, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Humanidei, led an interactive session on strengthening governance and strategic alignment between boards and CEOs.
- Emerging Technologies – John Ainsworth, General Manager of Metallicus, examined the opportunities and challenges of stablecoins and their implications for credit unions.
The conference concluded with the Chairman’s Panel, where board leaders discussed top concerns keeping credit union boards up at night, including fraud mitigation, regulatory compliance, and staying ahead of rapid innovation.
The panel included: DEXSTA FCU Chair Joyce Kidd, Dover FCU Chair Jeannette Schuler, First Financial FCU Chair Bob Brenneman and Transportation FCU Vice Chair/Treasurer Tremayne Cobb.
