TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Members of the League of Credit Unions and Affiliates and the MD|DC Credit Union Association have approved a merger that will create an organization representing 458 credit unions with $528.4 billion in assets and 36.2 million members, the league said.
The Oct. 30 vote clears the way for the associations and their service corporations to formally integrate Jan. 1, 2027. The combined organization will serve credit unions across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia.
John Bratsakis will lead the organization as CEO of the League of Credit Unions and Affiliates. Samantha A.M. Beeler will continue as president of the league’s association, and Steve Willis, president of LEVERAGE, will lead the service corporation.
The league said the decision followed months of discussions with members and a review of the combination. The merger is intended to expand advocacy, resources and services while maintaining regional relationships and expertise.
A ‘Clear Focus’
“We have approached this process thoughtfully, with a clear focus on the opportunities this combination creates for our members,” said Ola Anise, chair of the league’s board and president and CEO of Azalea City Credit Union.
Anise said the combination would give credit unions a stronger voice and access to greater resources.
Kristin Shultz, chair of the MD|DC association’s board and president and CEO of Spectra Credit Union, said members helped shape the merger process.
“This next chapter allows us to preserve the relationships and regional expertise that are so important to our credit unions while expanding the resources and support available to them,” Shultz said.
‘Expanded Reach’
Bratsakis said aligning the organizations’ resources would expand their reach while keeping them connected to the needs of member credit unions.
“Together, we will amplify our advocacy, create more opportunities for engagement and collaboration, and ensure every credit union has a strong voice and a committed partner working on its behalf,” he said.
