On-site: Wrapping Up GAC 2011: Issues and Optimism

By: Randy Smith, Publisher/Managing Editor CUinsight.com

CUNA’s Governmental Affairs Conference 2011 is coming to an end. The credit union community made their collective voices heard throughout the week ending with hiking the hill to meet with representatives from their respective states.

Interchange, tax status, the corporate system and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau were hot topics throughout the week.

Getting the credit union story out to the public and the representatives that implement the regulation was a message presented by many of the speakers. Members of Congress and the general public need to know and understand the unique credit union story and how credit unions fit in the financial marketplace.

After what has been a challenging few years for the credit union community there was a sense of optimism throughout the week as well. While we all know many challenges still remain, the community seems to have the desire to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

The GAC is really more than just a conference with keynote speakers updating the issues and presenting a common message. Much of the GAC happens around the actual event. Happenings like the Hill visits, financial literacy fair, awards banquets, dinners, happy hours, training, crashers, parties, nonstop individual meetings at Starbucks and so much more.

The conversations that happen around the conference are what will shape the future of the movement. Ideas and collaboration flow throughout. GAC week is a time the credit union movement comes together to celebrates what makes this movement unique.

If you would like to share your GAC experiences with the CU Community feel free to email me at rsmith@cuinsight.com.

See everyone next year in DC at GAC 2012!

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