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The Future of Credit Union Board Governance: A Conversation with Mike Williams

Posted by on January 14, 2026

Strong boards are the result of intention, not chance. They are shaped over time by leaders who understand the critical role governance plays in long-term success. In a recent conversation with Mike Williams, President and CEO of Colorado Credit Union, we explored how he has built engaged, forward-thinking boards and why strong governance remains a top priority for today’s credit union leaders.

Williams’ leadership and perspective have been instrumental in shaping VisionBoard, GoWest’s new event designed to elevate board performance. As a key member of GoWest’s CEO consulting group, he brings years of hands-on experience working alongside credit union boards and navigating the real-world governance challenges CEOs face. His candid, practical insights, which are grounded in lived experience, have helped ensure VisionBoard is relevant, actionable, and focused on strengthening board-CEO alignment while modernizing governance practices.

During our conversation, Williams emphasized the importance of access to the right education, tools, and peer dialogue to help boards rise to the moment. He noted that GoWest initiatives, including the VisionBoard experience, are equipping boards to think differently, govern more effectively, and prepare for the evolving demands of credit union leadership.

 

Why do you believe board development is such a critical focus right now, and how do you see its importance evolving?

For a regulatory standpoint boards are expected to perform at a higher level than in the past, said Williams. Boards are being asked to make decisions in areas that they haven’t been exposed to before, so they need the education to be able to make good business decisions for their credit unions and their members. He said it is imperative for boards to stay involved from both education and advocacy standpoints.

 

What strategies or practices have been most effective in strengthening your board’s effectiveness, and what lessons would you share with peers who are just beginning this work?

Williams emphasized that total honesty is essential and that there should be no surprises for the board. Open communication, including the willingness to deliver bad news when necessary in a timely manner, is critical for building trust and alignment between the CEO and directors.

He added that new leaders should take time to understand the organization before making major changes but avoid moving so slowly that progress stalls. Boards, he noted, are deeply invested in the CEO’s success. They want to support and guide the CEO, and thoughtful, measured change that is grounded in a strong understanding of the institution helps set the foundation for a productive relationship.

 

What are you most looking forward to about VisionBoard?

Williams said he is especially looking forward to the networking opportunities — seeing board members connect, share experiences, and talk through the challenges they’re facing. He noted that while the educational content is valuable, the peer-to-peer discussions and roundtable conversations are what truly elevate the event.

According to Williams, when board members learn from one another, they strengthen not only their own credit unions but the broader industry. Because so many credit unions are navigating similar issues, he believes that the chance to engage with directors from across the region and the country helps leaders return home better prepared to support and guide their institutions.

 

GoWest’s New Board of Directors Experience:

Join credit union board leaders nationwide for a transformational governance experience designed to strengthen strategic leadership, deepen collaboration, and inspire innovation. VisionBoard is designed to empower attendees to lead with clarity, adaptability, and confidence. This is where visionary governance takes root — and the future of credit union leadership comes to life.

Early registration pricing for VisionBoard ends Friday, Jan. 16, with $200 in savings per attendee, plus additional discounts for credit unions registering more than five participants. GoWest’s AVP of Credit Union Development, Layna Officer, can assist with details on registration, group discounts, or planning the right experience for your board.

Posted in Board of Directors, Colorado, Events, Leadership, Regional Member News, Thought Leadership, Top Headlines.

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