Commitment to Inclusion, Innovation and Growth: YP’s Experience at the 2024 MCUL Executive Summit
By Deleanna Allen, Marketing Manager, Public Service Credit Union
Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Michigan Credit Union League (MCUL)'s 2024 Executive Summit in Detroit as a Young Professional Scholarship Recipient. From networking with industry leaders to discussing the future of credit unions, I left feeling inspired and full of fresh ideas. Enjoying views of my hometown Detroit and Canada’s waterfront on the Ovation Yacht, and a night at the Detroit Institute of Arts viewing the Diego Rivera gallery, made this a memorable experience.
The first day of the conference kicked off with a powerful DEI panel featuring MCUL CEO Patty Corkery, African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) CEO Renee Sattiewhite and Vibe Credit Union Chief Talent Officer Jennifer Woessner. This wasn’t the usual "we need to do better" conversation — these leaders shared real, actionable strategies to drive inclusion in the workplace and the credit union industry. One key takeaway was how to reduce bias in the hiring process using panel interviews, as well as offering ASL training to staff to better support our members. They also recommended involvement in groups like AACUC. It was a strong reminder that DEI isn’t just a box to check — it’s an ongoing commitment we must uphold.
A session that stood out to me was the Executive 360 panel discussion, led by 4Front Credit Union CEO Andy Kempf, United Bay Community Credit Union CEO Diane Abbonizio, One Detroit Credit Union CXO Portia Powell and Lake Michigan Credit Union CEO Julie Leonard. They shared how credit unions are integrating Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) in their lobbies to modernize the member experience. It’s exciting to see how modern technology can enhance personal member service while creating more efficient solutions. Another important topic was succession planning and how credit unions can create long-term stability by planning for the future, not only for executives but also for board members. One innovative strategy was developing a Community Advisory Board (CAB) to drive innovation and prepare for future board members. A question for credit unions: Does your organization have a solid succession plan? If your leadership team is nearing retirement, now is the time to get a plan in place!
The summit wasn’t just about challenges; it offered exciting solutions too. Anne Arvia, from Cornerstone Advisors, addressed the discussion surrounding credit unions federal tax-exempt status and emphasized the need for a proactive Plan A and Plan B. Other key topics included the cost of funds, new member growth and operational efficiency. Brent Dixon, from Dixon Strategic Labs, discussed the impact of AI on member experience and internal processes. We explored the differences between predictive AI and generative AI, and how these tools can create hyper-personalized communications and services.
During the final day of the summit, I had the opportunity of learning from Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) CEO April Clobes — and fellow marketer! With marketing and innovation, Clobes shared how these strategies have been instrumental in MSUFCU’s growth over the years, leading to the creation of the Reseda Group, a CUSO owned by MSUFCU, that supports innovation while investing in partners technologies and digital solutions.
Overall, the summit was a perfect blend of learning, networking and fun times. It reaffirmed my belief that the future of credit unions depends on our ability to embrace diversity, inclusion, drive innovation and leading with purpose. Special thanks to my CEO, Dean Trudeau of Public Service Credit Union, and Patty Corkery for their continued support. The future looks bright, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!
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