Oklahoma Credit Union Association, the government affairs arm of Cornerstone League, has a new executive director. Effective Oct. 19, Thomas C. Lewis II, a specialist in political campaign management, constituent relations, and community outreach, will office at the Credit Union House in Oklahoma City.
“I’m delighted to introduce Thomas Lewis as executive director for OKCUA as we continue to champion the interests of credit unions at the state capitol,” said Cornerstone League Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Jim Phelps. “Thomas’s enthusiasm for the credit union movement, his built-in political connections, and his expertise in government relations have prepared him well for success.”
From 2015 to 2021, Lewis was the field representative and deputy campaign manager for U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.). As such, he served as community liaison for rural and urban communities in the 4th Congressional District; built coalitions and networks with state legislators, community, and business leaders; coordinated volunteer deployment for the congressional reelection campaign; and facilitated communication with federal agencies to address constituent concerns.
Additionally, Lewis was previously the government affairs liaison for the Oklahoma Municipal League, coordinating outreach efforts between municipalities and elected officials, tracking and monitoring legislation, and interfacing with members of the Oklahoma Legislature on issues of concern to municipalities.
Lewis graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in accounting. In 2010, he served as an exchange student at Ching Yun University in Zhongli, Taiwan. He later earned his Certified Public Accountant designation, which continues to give him insight into policy issues related to financial services.
“We welcome Thomas to the Cornerstone family and look forward to a high level of engagement between OKCUA and our member credit unions in Oklahoma,” said Caroline Willard, Cornerstone League president and CEO. “Much is required of the executive director, including an extensive knowledge of legislative processes, the key capitol players, and the nuances of political engagement, and I feel confident Thomas will serve and represent Oklahoma credit unions well.”
