Berger Leadership Blog

This week, hundreds of credit union leaders joined NAFCU staff in Washington, D.C. for our annual Congressional Caucus. It was great to be together in-person for this event and to hear from so many key lawmakers and regulators. I always leave this event invigorated and inspired by the power of our industry.

I recently came across an article from Forbes that reminded me what I love so much about in-person events and gathering with you all face-to-face: the connections we make. While networking can sometimes feel transactional, the connections we create during this event are genuine.

While listening and learning from the awesome lineup of speakers is a huge aspect of this intimate event, it is your meetings with lawmakers that are a main focus. And those connections have a huge impact. Many members of Congress highlighted the importance of your voice on Capitol Hill in their remarks. The fact is - your story, in your own words, carries serious weight. Lawmakers want to hear how legislation impacts their constituents and they want to hear it from you. I can’t thank you enough for coming to Washington D.C. to connect with members of Congress. It really matters!

This pattern of both listening and learning was also a huge part of my own experience at Caucus this year. I had the opportunity to hear from so many of you regarding the proposed CUNA/NAFCU merger. I hope you know that your comments and ideas are crucial to this transformation. Just as your voice carries weight on the Hill, your voice is paramount to this process. Please continue to share your thoughts with us – we want to hear from you.

Thank you to all who attended this event and made it such a huge success. The impact of your advocacy on the Hill will only compound as our award-winning Government Affairs team keeps pushing for industry priorities, and we encourage you to continue to foster the relationships and connections you’ve forged with your local lawmakers.