Berger Leadership Blog

We have an historic opportunity to reshape the future of credit union advocacy and representation as you consider voting in favor of the proposed merger of CUNA and NAFCU.

For those who have experienced a merger, you know the proposed transformation to America’s Credit Unions will bring significant change and there will be countless questions to address. The current period we’re in has a lot of uncertainty, but our vision for the new association is clear: Creating the strongest credit union association possible to support you and the 137 million members you serve.

As members of CUNA and NAFCU, you have entrusted us to represent and serve you for decades. Our associations have never been stronger because of your support, but as the financial services industry evolves, we have identified areas that could be fortified. We’ve heard from many of you over the years about the need to better align our advocacy, reduce redundancies in the events and trainings we offer, and work together to strengthen the industry. After all, collaboration and cooperation are key to the credit union movement.

The best path forward is uniting to fill those gaps and meet challenges on the horizon together.

America’s Credit Unions will serve as a united voice for all credit unions across the country. This unity will enhance our advocacy efforts as lawmakers and regulators have clarity on who we are and what we fight for. The organization be able to dedicate more resources to the areas that matter most to you. It will be the best of both CUNA and NAFCU – strategic, decisive, cost and value conscious, and responsive, as Jim Nussle pledged earlier this week.

In a merger, aligning brand values, visions, and missions is critical to ensure a successful transformation. I am confident that Jim and our Boards of Directors are on the same page and they are committed to bringing the best of both organizations into one. As co-leads of the Transformation Steering Group, Anthony Demangone and Jill Tomalin are working tirelessly to ensure a successful transformation should you vote in favor.

As we progress through this process, you can count on regular communications from our teams to answer your questions and keep you informed.

So please, continue to engage with us throughout the voting period. Share your feedback. Ask your questions. Participate in the virtual forums. Your voice matters in this vote. We want you to have all the information you need to vote with confidence and in the best interest of your institution and members.

We will prioritize your feedback to shape America’s Credit Unions into what the credit union industry needs.