CEO Update: Making Investments and Doing the Work - The DCUC Difference

DCUC is growing! In fact, we are pleased to announce the addition of two new member credit unions and are excited to help them serve their military and veteran communities. Beyond welcoming new members, there are many more innovations we are eager to deploy designed to make us even more responsive and accessible to our entire membership.

This month, the DCUC Board and I will engage in our annual planning session. I am proud to report we have made significant progress in our revised strategic plan, much of which has been achieved in just the past 60 days since our Annual Conference. Yet, there is still much to accomplish as we evolve as the industry’s second-largest trade association.

I’m inspired by the ideas and insights many of you, our members and strategic partners, have shared over the last six months. The positive response across the industry confirms we are on the right track. Additionally, the DCUC staff has shared valuable suggestions about what we can do more of along with what we should shift our energy to. We look forward to implementing these ideas, and more of our strategic initiatives, in 2025.

The recent dues increase, approved by our membership, will allow us to make necessary investments that will enhance and increase our overall value proposition. While we take great pride in maintaining the lowest dues in the industry, while outpacing others, we will still be able to invest in our people, processes, and platforms to demonstrate our value and deliver even greater results.

Looking ahead, your credit union can expect advancements in our CRM and data analytics as we sharpen our advocacy efforts both in Washington, D.C. and in your Congressional districts. Our targeted digital advertising campaigns have already proven effective, and we are poised to achieve even more impactful results in the near future. Keep an eye out for several press releases and articles outlining our next steps!

We also plan on more educational content to simplify complex topics like the SCRA, MLA, VA Benefits, and all aspects of the DoD FMR as it relates to financial services on base and within local communities. Many of you have expressed how much you value DCUC’s guidance and expertise on these topics, especially after engaging in another trade’s defense credit union working group. DCUC will continue to lead in this area.

Additionally, we recognize the need for faster, more proactive responses to industry critics in the national media, on network television, and across social media channels. The recent attacks on our industry’s tax exemption on CNBC have set the stage for a looming policy debate on Capitol Hill. Yet, the industry response has been lacking.

DCUC will continue to fill this void by ensuring that both the American public and legislators understand the importance of protecting our tax-exemption status.

Finally, look for a more visible and accessible DCUC presence. Many of you know that it‘s easy to directly contact me
and/or the staff, and we are committed to delivering answers, actions, and results. However, I firmly believe that face-to-face (1v1) meetings are the heart and soul of the “DCUC Difference.”

Plus, I love our conferences and events, which will continue to improve. These events always “renew” my energy and commitment. Yet, I am also planning a series of visits to your credit unions to allow me to learn from you, listen to your experiences, and promote the great work you are doing in your communities. This will be a priority in 2025 and beyond.

As always, we remain dedicated to supporting each of you as you serve those who serve and have served our country. We don’t take your membership lightly and greatly appreciate your continued trust in DCUC. At the end of the day, our goal is to ensure you recognize and receive the exceptional value we strive to deliver with every dollar you invest with us.
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Thanks again for all your support!