Madison, WI (February 14, 2025) |
Filene Research Institute is thrilled to announce the newest cohort of emerging credit union leaders selected to participate in The Cooperative Trust’s renowned Crash program at America’s Credit Unions’ 2025 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington D.C. This year marks the 16th anniversary of Crash the GAC, an event that connects emerging leaders with the industry's brightest minds and deepens their commitment to the credit union mission.
The Governmental Affairs Conference on March 2-6, 2025, is the largest credit union event in the nation. It provides a unique platform for these emerging leaders to engage with lawmakers, discover the latest industry offerings, and network with peers and thought leaders.
The 2025 Crash the GAC cohort comprises talented professionals from across the country who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the credit union movement. These individuals were selected amongst hundreds of applications and have shown an astounding commitment to advancing the values and principles that define the industry.
“We are thrilled to welcome another engaged group of young credit union professionals to America’s Credit Unions’ GAC. The Crasher program continues to bring an unmatched energy and enthusiasm to not only GAC, but to our industry at-large,” said America’s Credit Unions President/CEO Jim Nussle. “One of my favorite parts of GAC is meeting the Crashers each year. Their enthusiasm and passion for our movement is infectious, and I encourage all our attendees to look for the Crashers and help make them feel at home. They are our leaders of tomorrow.”
This year's 55 Crashers and 8 Crash Leaders will have direct access to meet and engage with many top leaders across the credit union industry, including the CEOs of America's Credit Unions, TruStage, and Filene Research Institute, as well as a handful of credit union and fintech CEOs. Crashers will also attend Filene’s Chair Breakfast at GAC, exposing them to more than 600 of the industry’s biggest change makers. This unparalleled opportunity allows the Crashers to
gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections that will help shape their careers and the future of the credit union movement.
Nussle added, “This year is more important than ever to advocate and share the credit union difference. Knowing this Crasher class will be engaged in learning about key issues and forming connections with leaders across the country will be critical for the future of our industry. Congratulations to this year’s class.”
One of the 2025 Crashers, Rafael Saucedo, Philanthropy Program Manager at BECU, shared his excitement at the opportunities that lie ahead through this program. "Being chosen to Crash the GAC is an incredible honor. I look forward to learning from industry leaders, advocating for our members, and bringing back valuable insights to my credit union."
"The Crash program is a testament to the dedication and passion of our emerging leaders. We are proud to support their journey and provide them with opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact in the credit union movement," said Cortney Arnold, Filene’s Community Development Director.
Crash the GAC programming is made possible by The Cooperative Trust from Filene Research Institute and is brought to you by the generous support from America’s Credit Unions. Crash the GAC’s annual Thunderpunch event is powered by SavvyMoney. For more information about the Crash the GAC program and to see the full list of selected Crashers, please visit filene.org/crashgac25.