Hear from a Peer
Jeff Bentley, Chair of the VACUL Board and President and CEO of Northwest Federal Credit Union
“With advocacy being at the core of our focus as an Association and Board, we believe this move to be in the best interest of credit unions as it will undoubtedly increase our advocacy impact and influence. After countless town halls and one-on-one conversations with Virginia credit unions, we are confident that this partnership will prove beneficial for all member credit unions.”
Richard J. “Rick” Skaggs, Chairman of the LSCU & Affiliates Board and President and CEO of USF Federal Credit Union
“This opportunity brings together the strengths and resources of both organizations, solidifying a best-in-class trade association better equipped to serve the evolving needs of the credit union industry. This strategic move will enhance our advocacy efforts, expand services and solutions, and provide new opportunities for innovation.”
Brian Schools, President and CEO of Chartway Federal Credit Union
“As both the CEO of Chartway and current Chair of America’s Credit Unions, I have a deep appreciation for the advocacy necessary in both Richmond and Washington to keep Virginia credit unions well-positioned to serve as the true financial steward for consumers and small businesses. That said, in a changing and advancing world, the model in which our system partners operate must also evolve to provide that contemporary and effective relevance in the same manner that NAFCU and CUNA joined forces to create a united voice on a national stage. I know the passion and vigor of our VACUL team well, and having had the chance to get to know Samantha Beeler and discuss Virginia credit unions over the past month, I’m convinced that the consolidation of VACUL and LSCU is one that keeps Virginia credit unions at the forefront for our collective members in the Commonwealth.”
Steve Swofford, President and CEO of Alabama Credit Union
“As the Chairman of the Board of Directors when the Alabama League merged with Florida, I have seen firsthand the benefits of pooled resources and combined talent. I have watched our advocacy efforts intensify and our legislative successes multiply as part of past consolidation, and I know that will continue into the future along with Virginia credit unions at the table.”
Joe Thomas, Chair of the VACUL Transition Committee, Immediate Past Chair of the VACUL Board, and President and CEO of NextMark Credit Union
“Throughout listening sessions and committee meetings over the last several months, it has become increasingly apparent we must select a path forward that preserves our local identity as Virginia credit unions while also looking out for the sustainability and future of the movement. Through combined resources and established DBAs, we will maximize our local impact and increase support for member credit unions.”
Olabode Anise, Chair-Elect of the LSCU & Affiliates Board and President and CEO of Azalea City Credit Union
“Our discussions and research thus far have unveiled a tremendous opportunity for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia credit unions. Combining the most successful strategies, resources, and efforts of both organizations will ensure a brighter, more vibrant future for credit unions.”
Karen Orie, President and CEO of Hampton Roads Educators Credit Union
“Combining our strengths through this strategic partnership will allow us to better serve our members and advocate for the values that define credit unions. As a small credit union, I look forward to the additional resources that will be available to us. I am excited about the opportunities this presents for collaboration and growth of all sized credit unions.”
Hank Halter, Immediate Past Chair of the LSCU & Affiliates Board and President and CEO of Delta Community Credit Union
“The strategic resources and benefits to member credit unions have expanded significantly as our League has grown. By joining forces with Virginia, the value of affiliation will increase further through the addition of HR consulting, legal and regulatory expertise, compliance services, small credit union resources, and more. We will also see our advocacy influence and credit union engagement strengthen as our focus and resources are combined.”
Chris Williams, President and CEO of Henrico Federal Credit Union
“As a tenured credit union professional and engaged Virginia Credit Union League supporter, I am excited about the proposed partnership between VACUL and LSCU. I believe this partnership will enhance our advocacy efforts both here in Virginia and in Washington, create new opportunities for all credit unions to collaborate, and increase engagement among peers. I strongly support the proposal and look forward to what it can bring for all involved.”
Kevin Johnson, Suncoast Credit Union
“Our industry thrives when we come together to collaborate and advocate. The League’s demonstrated commitment to local and state-specific advocacy will deepen engagement across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia and drive future success. This strategic partnership is a step toward enhancing the collective strength of the credit union community. By uniting our efforts, we will be better positioned to serve our members and communities, expand our reach, and create opportunities for innovation that will benefit credit unions of all sizes.”