Credit Unions Show Up Strong in Boise for Idaho’s Day at the Capitol

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on January 28, 2026

Nearly 80 credit union advocates from 18 Idaho credit unions gathered in Boise on Wednesday, Jan. 21 for Idaho’s Credit Union Day at the Capitol (DAC). Throughout the day, they shared with lawmakers how they serve 1.4 million of their constituents in the Gem State and reinforced the value of long-standing, trusted relationships at the Statehouse — and the real results they deliver.

“Advocacy is most effective when it’s personal,” shared Trisha Baker, President and CEO of LCCU. “Meeting with legislators face to face during the Day at the Capitol allows us to clearly explain the issues facing credit unions and why they matter to our members — their constituents. Conversations like this help ensure our voices are heard and our perspective is part of the legislative decision-making process.”

The day’s speakers included Phil McGrane, Idaho Secretary of State; Salvador Cruz, Financial Institutions Bureau Chief for the Idaho Department of Finance; Kelly Anthon, President Pro Tempore of the Senate; and Alex LaBeau, President of the Idaho Association of Commerce & Industry.

The event strengthened connections with policymakers and reaffirmed credit unions’ role as trusted partners in solving Idaho’s biggest challenges, particularly housing.

Nick McGhee, CEO at Idaho United Credit Union, explained how the DAC is always a special experience. “It’s a chance for us to come together as a movement and share our story, as well as the stories of our members,” he said. “We had the opportunity to meet with Representative Tanya Burgoyne of District 29, who was engaging and thoughtful throughout our discussion.”

“Events like Idaho Day at the Capitol are essential to the success of the credit union movement,” added Hercules Lima, Branch Operations Director at Frontier Credit Union. “They allow credit unions to bring real-world insight to policymakers and advocate for decisions that directly affect not just our industry but also our members and communities.”

2025 Idaho Credit Union Advocate of the Year & Top of the Hill Awards

During the event, Mike Schenck, President and CEO of Westmark Credit Union, was named the 2025 Idaho Credit Union Advocate of the Year. Schenck was honored for his leadership in action — heading the State Issues Working Group, testifying in support of elder abuse and fraud legislation, and investing in advocacy to ensure credit unions have a strong voice.

Idaho’s 2025 Top of the Hill credit unions, Connections Credit Union and Northwest Christian Credit Union, were also recognized for their leadership in advancing advocacy at both the state and federal levels and for engaging their teams to strengthen the credit union operating environment for members and communities.

Staying Engaged in Idaho

As not-for-profit cooperatives, credit unions bring a collaborative, people-first approach to housing affordability, working alongside community partners and state leaders to deliver practical solutions. That

approach resonated throughout the day and reflects why more than 1.4 million Idahoans choose a credit union.

“With more than 70% of Idahoans belonging to a credit union, our members are the constituents our legislators serve,” added McGhee. “Idaho’s legislators are generous with their time and open to meaningful conversations. One of the biggest takeaways was the shared passion we have for helping and supporting Idahoans.”

By staying engaged and leading with solutions and credibility, Idaho’s credit unions continue to advance and protect their mission — remaining vigilant against ongoing threats like interchange and debanking proposals.

The work continues, and Idaho’s credit unions are ready.

Posted in Advocacy, Events, Idaho, Regional Member News, Small Credit Unions, Top Headlines, Young Professionals.