The California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues, together with the Utah Credit Union Association, announced they have entered into an agreement to form a joint association support services organization.
While each state entity will maintain governance of their respective advocacy operations, non-advocacy related services and back-office functions will be done by the new entity born of the partnership. Leadership from the three states agree the operating model maximizes efficiency while preserving state leagues’ identities, which is critical to advocacy efforts.
“California, as a large state, has a big presence in the credit union space, but we’ve consistently honored and respected the work of all states.” said Geri LaChance, President and CEO of SESLOC Federal Credit Union and California Credit Union League board chair. “Ultimately, successful advocacy comes down to relationships at the local level. Personal relationships with policymakers are nurtured over time and are pivotal to credit unions’ ability to champion member and industry issues.”
“We’ve had a solid, successful partnership for many years in Nevada and California so when approached regarding the possibility of amplifying this model, it was a natural fit,” said Jennifer Denoo, President and CEO of Great Basin Federal Credit Union and Nevada Credit Union League board chair. “This is a strategic opportunity and sound plan for future success.”
“Our leagues have discussed at great length the desire to continue to amplify our strong, local advocacy machinery,” said Shane London, President and CEO of Deseret First Credit Union and Utah Credit Union Association board chair. “We recognize the need to achieve scale while remaining fiercely focused on the power of local advocacy. This model does both.”
The California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues have played an important role in ensuring the sustained health of its member credit unions for more than 90 years. The partnership with Utah Credit Union Association, operating with the same focus since 1928, results in an organization that serves over 330 total credit unions and their more than 17 million members.
“California and Nevada have a long history of supporting each other as well as our fellow states in government advocacy,” said Diana Dykstra, President and CEO of the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues. “It is critical to protect and amplify local affinity in the political and policy arena. This model works and works well.”
Dykstra, who recently announced her plans to retire after more than 40 years of service, spoke to the impressive qualifications and dedication to the credit union movement of her successor, Scott Simpson, current President and CEO of the Utah Credit Union Association.
“Scott’s decades of engagement in the credit union movement perfectly position him to lead the new partnership,” said Dykstra. “He is dedicated to the people helping people philosophy and with him at the helm, I know we can achieve even more impact, drive positive change, and empower each other to thrive and succeed in an ever-evolving landscape.”
Among other notable career accomplishments, Simpson was elected to the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) board in 2022 and currently serves as a board member for America’s Credit Unions. He has served as the chairman of CULAC, the federal political action committee of CUNA, the National Advocacy Fund, and dedicated nearly a decade on the board and ultimately served as chair of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL). Prior to his service in credit unions, Simpson worked for the U.S. Senate and in electoral politics advising candidates and campaigns at every level of government.
“In this expanded partnership, I am inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead,” said Simpson. “Together, we have the power to shape tomorrow into something extraordinary and I am excited to team up and reach into the future.”
