Credit Union Advocates Bring a United Voice to Arizona’s Capitol

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on March 18, 2026

Arizona Central Credit Union team at the Arizona Capitol

Over 150 Arizona advocates from 18 credit unions gathered in Phoenix last Thursday, March 12, for Arizona Credit Union Day at the Capitol — an opportunity for credit union leaders from across the state to connect with lawmakers, share how they serve their communities, and discuss the policies that help credit unions remain strong and responsive to member needs. ices.

“The Arizona DAC 2026 was an absolute whirlwind! From networking with passionate credit union peers to hearing powerful insights on critical legislation, every moment was charged with energy,” said Amy Carrera, Marketing & PR, Mohave Community Federal Credit Union.

Advancing a Strong State Charter

The day provided the opportunity to showcase credit unions’ ongoing efforts to pass priority legislation, including HB 2979, the Arizona Credit Union Modernization Act. Advocates expressed appreciation to House members for their support and encouraged lawmakers in the Senate to approve the measure as it continues through the legislative process.

“Advocating for Credit Union relevance, especially with a focus on improving outcomes for members, is a critical priority for all of us,” shared Eric Renaud, President and CEO, Pima Federal Credit Union. “I found the day at the Capitol to be not only informative and enlightening, but also encouraging — it’s great to know that, as leaders, we have the ability to make a meaningful difference.”

“It was my first Arizona Day at the Capitol, and I was honored to have the opportunity to speak with the legislator in my district,” added Sonia Cardona, VP of Operations, Alhambra Credit Union.

Celebrating Advocacy Leadership

During the program, Karen Roch, President and CEO of Credit Union West, was named Arizona’s 2025 Advocate of the Year. Recognized for her steady, strategic leadership as Arizona’s 2024–2025 Governmental Affairs Committee co-chair and for her tireless advocacy on behalf of credit unions, Roch is known for supporting peers and strengthening internal advocacy efforts across Arizona’s Credit Union Movement.

Arizona Financial Credit Union and TruWest Credit Union were also recognized as 2025 Top of the Hill Credit Unions, highlighting their leadership in advancing advocacy priorities at both the state and federal levels and their commitment to building strong internal advocacy programs.

Insights on Credit Unions and Economic Growth

Attendees also heard from special guest speaker Danny Seiden, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, who shared perspectives on the role credit unions play in strengthening Arizona’s economy.

Seiden highlighted the ways credit unions support economic growth by expanding access to financial services, helping small businesses grow, and supporting workforce housing efforts. His remarks reinforced how credit unions contribute to a stronger business environment and healthier communities across the state.

Later, advocates went to the State Treasurer’s Office to get an inside look at Arizona’s 529 plan from Jeffery Ong, AZ529 Plan Administrator, packing the room to learn more about the strategy and opportunities while engaging in insightful dialogue with a key official impacting financial investment.

A Strong Voice for Arizona Members

Beyond meetings with legislators, the day provided valuable opportunities for credit union leaders to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and strengthen the collaborative relationships that power advocacy efforts throughout the year.

“The experience reinforced how important advocacy is to protecting the credit union mission and serving our members,” Cardona said, summing up the day.

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