Oregon Credit Unions Rally at Legislative Luncheon in Salem

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on February 18, 2026

On Feb. 11 in Salem, Oregon credit unions showed up to deliver a clear message: we are present, engaged, and united in protecting the not-for-profit financial cooperative model that serves more than half of Oregonians.

The credit union voice was strong at this year’s Legislative Luncheon, with nearly 140 advocates from 32 credit unions coming together to hear from legislators, connect with one another, and share the credit union difference.

And in a legislative environment where conversations around revenue, taxes, and fiscal priorities are intensifying, that visibility matters. Advocates were well-positioned to deliver the message at the Capitol and beyond: credit unions exist to keep people financially stable — especially when costs rise.

“It was eye-opening to understand how deeply credit unions impact local communities and how that influence extends to Oregon’s state senators and representatives,” said Kristine Clark, Branch Manager at Point West Credit Union, who attended the event for the first time this year. When we stand together, Clark added, we amplify our impact and ensure we remain a strong, united voice for our members and our communities.

Special Guests and Special Recognition

Advocates got an update from Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, who spoke about the Department of Justice’s efforts to create a new consumer protection section, address internet fraud and abuse, and oversee data privacy laws.

“Attorney General Rayfield’s remarks especially stood out to me,” said Crystal Coutu, CEO, Teamsters Council #37 Federal Credit Union. “His focus on bolstering consumer protections — addressing internet fraud, online abuse, and data privacy — underscored issues long overdue for greater state-level attention. The Department of Justice’s efforts to expand these safeguards closely align with the values credit unions uphold every day.”

Sen. Suzanne Weber and Rep. Ricki Ruiz were presented with Oregon Credit Unions’ Community Impact Awards for their efforts to support the Individual Development Accounts (IDA) Initiative, a low-income savings program.

“I was especially moved hearing Representative Ricki Ruiz share his story as a former IDA participant now advocating for asset-building policy,” shared Willow Oelke, AVP of Community Engagement, Wauna Credit Union. “That full-circle journey stayed with me. As a proud financial partner in the IDA program, Wauna Credit Union gets to walk alongside members as they work toward goals that once felt out of reach.”

Senator Bruce Starr, the Senate Republican Leader, talked about the efforts of his caucus to focus on the needs of Oregon businesses.

And, Janet Powell, longtime Oregon credit union’s chief of regulation and supervision for the state’s Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) and 2025 Pierre Jay Award (National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors – NASCUS) winner was honored during the program for her lifetime of service and dedication. Over the course of her 33-year career at DFR, Janet demonstrated unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to maintaining a vibrant and safe credit union system for Oregon’s 2.3 million credit union members.

2025 Oregon Top of the Hill Awards

Oregon’s 2025 Top of the Hill credit unions, InRoads Credit Union and Oregon State 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.

Keeping Up the Momentum

The luncheon was a strong reminder that advocacy is not a one-day activity. Credit unions are ready for ongoing engagement—through meetings, conversations, and continued storytelling throughout the session and beyond.

The credit union difference is real. The impact is local. And when Oregon credit unions show up together, it’s impossible to ignore.

“More than anything, the day reinforced the importance of showing up,” added Oelke. “When credit unions come together, our voice carries further. Our work is about more than transactions, and credit unions are more than financial institutions. We are not-for-profit; member-owned cooperatives rooted in people helping people. I left feeling inspired and really darn proud to be a part of that difference.”

“What a great day for Oregon’s Credit Unions,” Larry Ellifriz, President and CEO of CCCU, remarked. “The GoWest Credit Union Association coordinates one of my favorite advocacy days of the year when credit union professionals ascend on Salem to spread the word on our structure, value, and impact. I am already excited for next year!”

Thank you to every advocate who attended, spoke up, and helped move the conversation forward.

Posted in Advocacy, Events, Oregon, Regional Member News, Small Credit Unions, Top Headlines.