Mar18

Help Build a Credit Union Chapter for the Tri-Cities Area! 

Join your peers as we explore the opportunity to create a Credit Union Chapter in the Tri-Cities area!
Mar25

Commercial Services Council; Session One

This session provides an opportunity to engage with a community of commercial lending, and business service leaders focused on treasury and cash management services, member business lending programs, and strategies for deepening relationships with small business and commercial clients.
Mar26

HR & Trainers Council; Session One

The Council’s open format serves to encourage and recharge staff dealing with similar challenges and developments within the Credit Union Movement. Human resources and training professionals gather to learn, teach, pass on tips, and provide resources, information, networking, and professional development opportunities to best prepare for what’s on the horizon.
Mar27

Marketers Council; Session One

The Council — open to marketing, communications, media relations, public relations, business development, and community outreach professionals — is interactive and belongs to the members. Beneficial presentations are offered, along with the opportunity for credit union professionals to share in roundtable discussions. Councils provide an outlet that furthers the success of credit unions.
Home » Advocacy On The Move »

Region’s leaders proudly carry their state flags at National GAC

Posted by on March 3, 2025

GAC 2025

The state league flag ceremony at the National Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C. was held today highlighting the collaborative advocacy efforts of associations, leagues and credit unions across the country. The event showcases the passion and commitment of the credit union movement, along with the uniqueness of each state represented.

The flag bearers from each of GoWest’s six states epitomize the tremendous dedication to both local and national advocacy efforts that credit unions across the region share.

“As an Arizona native, I am proud to represent the state in Washington, DC,” said Karen Roch, President & CEO of Credit Union West ahead of today’s ceremony. She co-chairs the state’s Governmental Affairs Committee and under her leadership, Credit Union West has become a strong advocate for credit unions in Arizona. The team is actively involved in local efforts like the Days at the Capitol events, engaging with legislators and providing testimony on key issues. Credit Union West was honored with a Top of the Hill award at MAXX for its outstanding advocacy.

 

Carrying the Colorado flag and attending his 23rd GAC Matt Gendron, Chief Engagement Officer, Ent CU said “it’s an honor to represent Colorado’s credit unions.” He’s been a key advocate for credit unions in Colorado for over 30 years. His work includes leading advocacy initiatives and PAC fundraising efforts at Ent Credit Union, further showcasing his longtime commitment to the credit union movement.

Idaho’s credit unions were well represented by Trisha Baker, President & CEO of Lewis Clark CU. She has guided Lewis Clark Credit Union to national recognition for its PAC fundraising, including two consecutive Pinnacle Awards. As Co-Chair of the Idaho GAC, Trisha has worked tirelessly to organize meetings with legislators and advocate for the credit union community. In 2024, Lewis Clark CU was awarded a Top of the Hill Advocacy Award at MAXX for their efforts.

Proudly carrying the flag for Oregon’s credit unions, Greg Mitchell, President & CEO, of First Tech FCU, said, “the strength of the credit union movement is strong in DC this week!” He is renowned for his leadership and advocacy, both within the credit union industry and beyond. His work extends to making a significant impact in the community, such as raising over $15 million for Credit Unions for Kids through the NW Classic. His commitment to social impact and credit union advocacy has earned him respect and admiration.

Frank Worden, Board Director, Community 1st Credit Union noted, “Its almost the 100 anniversary of my credit union and I am honored to represent them and the state of Washington,” as he carried the state’s flag. With over 50 years of service in the credit union industry, Frank continues to be a powerful advocate at both the state and federal levels. His recent efforts in advocating for transparent financing in Washington State’s consumer solar legislation have been particularly impactful. Frank’s ongoing contributions to the credit union movement make him a vital presence at key industry events, including the GAC.

The final state in the procession was Wyoming. Carrying the state flag was Jeremy Gibson, President & CEO, Trona Valley FCU who quipped, “they save the best state for last! Co-Chair of the state’s Governmental Affairs Committee, Jeremy has been a fierce advocate for credit unions in Wyoming, driving successful legislation like the electronic lien and title program and other key credit union priority bills. Jeremy is also known for his strong leadership in PAC fundraising, encouraging others to support credit union-friendly lawmakers. Trona Valley FCU’s outstanding advocacy earned them a Top of the Hill award at MAXX.

These leaders represent the best of credit union advocacy, and their participation in the GAC highlights their dedication to improving the future of credit unions. The flag ceremony and conference serve as a reminder of the crucial role credit unions play in their communities across the country.

 

 

Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Federal Advocacy.