 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) is thrilled to announce that Chase Larson, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer at St. Cloud Financial Credit Union (SCFCU), will be a keynote panelist at the 2025 summit. As credit unions navigate an era of rapid digital transformation, leaders like Chase are shaping the future by embracing emerging technologies, fintech partnerships, and innovative lending strategies.
With nearly two decades of experience in finance, credit unions, and community banking, Chase is recognized for his strategic approach to risk management, member business lending, and portfolio growth. His ability to integrate cutting-edge financial technologies while fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability makes him an invaluable voice at this year’s event. About Chase Larson Chase Larson is a visionary leader in the credit union space, bringing deep expertise in digital finance, risk management, and fintech integration. As EVP & Chief Lending Officer at SCFCU, he leads strategic lending initiatives that drive growth, efficiency, and member-centric innovation. He is also a board member of DaLand CUSO and the TriUnity Foundation, further contributing to the advancement of credit unions. In his role, Chase has pioneered the development of the CU-Digital Asset Vault, a groundbreaking solution that positions SCFCU at the forefront of digital asset management. His leadership has also been instrumental in launching key initiatives, including: ✔️ Business Services Strategy – Enhancing lending solutions for business members. ✔️ SBA Initiative – Expanding small business lending opportunities. ✔️ Extra Mile Loan Program – An innovative, insured loan program tailored to meet unique member needs. Beyond lending, Chase is deeply committed to leadership development and fostering a team culture that drives strategic innovation. His expertise in aligning credit union products with emerging fintech infrastructure, such as DaLand’s R Path, ensures SCFCU remains competitive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. About the Keynote Panel: "Technology-Driven Growth: How to Future-Proof Your Credit Union" As credit unions face increasing technological disruptions, leaders must adapt to remain competitive. The Technology-Driven Growth: How to Future-Proof Your Credit Union keynote panel at CUGI 2025 will provide actionable insights on leveraging innovation to enhance member experiences and drive long-term success. During this discussion, Chase Larson, alongside other industry experts, will explore: ✅ The role of digital transformation in modern credit unions ✅ Emerging technologies reshaping lending, payments, and member services ✅ How credit unions can integrate fintech partnerships for strategic growth ✅ Risk management strategies for navigating new digital landscapes ✅ Best practices for staying agile in an ever-changing financial environment With technology evolving faster than ever, this session is essential for credit union professionals looking to future-proof their institutions and create sustainable growth strategies in the digital era. Join Us at CUGI 2025! 📅 Date: April 1-2, 2025 📍 Location: Oak Brook, IL 🔗 Register Today! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from top industry leaders and connect with credit union executives, fintech innovators, and technology providers who are shaping the future of financial services.
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Credit Union Times’ Michael Ogden to Moderate Digital Banking Innovation Keynote Panel at CUGI3/1/2025  The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) is thrilled to announce that Michael Ogden, Editor-in-Chief of Credit Union Times, will serve as a Keynote Panel Moderator at the 2025 summit!
A seasoned journalist and industry thought leader, Ogden will guide an expert discussion on "The Future of Fintech Collaboration: How Credit Unions Can Compete with Big Banks." This session will dive deep into the evolving expectations of Gen Z and Millennials and how credit unions can innovate in mobile banking, payments, personalization, and engagement to attract and retain the next generation of members. Meet Michael Ogden: A Voice for the Credit Union Industry Since 2016, Michael Ogden has led CU Times in breaking down complex credit union challenges through data-driven analysis, exclusive research, and in-depth coverage of payments, fraud, lending, and regulations. Under his leadership, CU Times transitioned to an all-digital publication, revolutionizing how the industry consumes financial news. Beyond editorial leadership, Ogden has spearheaded innovative media projects, including exclusive video series, live interviews, and the newly launched "Shared Accounts With CU Times" podcast. His unique approach blends investigative journalism with compelling storytelling, offering unparalleled insights into the personalities and trends shaping the credit union landscape. His background extends beyond financial journalism—he has worked as a radio and TV anchor/reporter, as well as a public relations and digital/social media strategist, covering industries ranging from food and music to cooperative business models. This diverse expertise makes him the perfect moderator to challenge panelists, engage the audience, and spark meaningful dialogue on the future of digital banking. What to Expect from This Keynote Panel As younger generations demand frictionless, digital-first banking, credit unions must rethink their strategies to stay competitive while preserving their member-focused values. This expert-led panel will explore:
Expect lively debate, forward-thinking ideas, and actionable insights that credit union leaders can take back to their organizations. Why You Should Attend CUGI 2025 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) is a premier gathering of credit union executives, technology leaders, and industry innovators. It’s where cutting-edge discussions happen, fostering new ideas and partnerships that drive growth, digital transformation, and financial inclusion. 📅 Event Details: Conference: CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) Date: April 1-2, 2025 Location: Oak Brook, IL Registration: Register Today! Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Michael Ogden and other industry experts as they tackle the most pressing issues facing credit unions today. Secure your spot now!  We’re proud to announce that Elizabeth Osborne, Chief Operations Officer at Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU), will take the stage as a keynote speaker.
Elizabeth is a recognized leader in operations, technology, and strategic planning within the financial services industry. With a career spanning credit unions, community banking, and mergers & acquisitions, she has played a pivotal role in driving innovation, process improvement, and fintech collaboration. Her expertise in risk management, data analytics, and business process optimization has made her a powerful force in the evolution of modern banking. In 2023 and 2024, Elizabeth was named one of American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Credit Unions—a testament to her influence in the industry. Currently, as COO of Great Lakes Credit Union, she oversees key areas including: ✔️ Technology & Digital Transformation ✔️ Deposit Operations & Product Management ✔️ Process Improvement & Strategic Execution ✔️ Fintech Collaboration & Open Banking Initiatives Elizabeth’s forward-thinking approach has helped GLCU enhance efficiency, adopt cutting-edge technology, and develop strategic fintech partnerships. Her expertise in these areas will be on full display during her keynote session: Keynote Session: The Future of Fintech Collaboration – How Credit Unions Can Compete with Big Banks The financial services industry is evolving rapidly, with fintech partnerships and open banking APIs reshaping the way institutions operate. For credit unions, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. Elizabeth’s keynote will provide an in-depth look at how credit unions can strategically align with fintech partners to remain competitive in an era dominated by large banks and digital-first financial institutions. She will discuss: ✅ How fintech collaborations drive innovation and growth ✅ The role of open banking in expanding credit union services ✅ Success stories of credit unions leveraging fintech effectively ✅ Overcoming regulatory and operational hurdles in fintech partnerships ✅ Actionable strategies to future-proof your credit union With open banking, real-time payments, AI-driven services, and embedded finance gaining traction, credit unions must adapt quickly to provide their members with seamless, tech-driven financial experiences. This session will equip attendees with strategic insights and practical steps to build sustainable fintech partnerships and strengthen their market position. Why You Should Attend CUGI 2025 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit is designed to bring together the brightest minds in the credit union, fintech, and financial services industries. Unlike traditional conferences, CUGI prioritizes peer-to-peer discussions, expert-led panels, and high-impact networking opportunities. This year’s event will focus on critical areas shaping the future of credit unions, including: 🔹 Digital Transformation & Fintech Integration 🔹 Regulatory Challenges & Compliance Strategies 🔹 AI & Data-Driven Member Engagement 🔹 Cybersecurity & Fraud Prevention 🔹 Scaling Credit Union Growth Through Innovation Attendees will have the chance to engage with top executives, technology providers, and industry pioneers, gaining the knowledge and connections needed to drive meaningful change within their organizations. With leaders like Elizabeth Osborne sharing their expertise, CUGI 2025 promises to be a game-changing event for credit union executives and fintech innovators alike. Secure Your Spot at CUGI 2025 📍 CU Growth & Innovation Summit 2025 📆 April 1-2, 2025 📍 Oak Brook, IL 🔗 Register now: www.cugrowthsummit.com  The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) is excited to welcome Delonaka Edwards, Chief Operations Officer of Michigan First Credit Union, as a Keynote Speaker for CUGI 2025.
With nearly three decades of experience in financial services, Edwards has built a reputation for driving operational efficiency, member engagement, and sustainable growth. As COO of Michigan First, she has helped scale the organization while ensuring that innovation aligns with exceptional member service. At CUGI 2025, Edwards will share insights into how credit unions can compete with big banks through fintech collaboration and open banking APIs. The Future of Fintech Collaboration: Key Insights from Delonaka Edwards As financial technology advances, fintech firms and open banking solutions are creating opportunities for credit unions to expand their offerings, streamline operations, and enhance member experiences. However, many credit unions struggle to adopt these technologies at the same pace as larger financial institutions. In her keynote session, “The Future of Fintech Collaboration: How Credit Unions Can Compete with Big Banks,” Edwards will discuss: ✅ How fintech partnerships are reshaping the credit union landscape – Real-world examples of successful collaborations. ✅ Open banking APIs and digital transformation – How credit unions can leverage technology to enhance service offerings. ✅ Competing with big banks – Strategies for staying relevant and providing the personalized, community-driven service that sets credit unions apart. ✅ Operational strategies for seamless fintech integration – How to align technology adoption with member needs and compliance requirements. This session is essential for credit union executives, technology leaders, and operations professionals looking to stay competitive in an evolving financial marketplace. Delonaka Edwards: A Leader in Credit Union Innovation Delonaka Edwards has dedicated 28 years to the financial services industry, focusing on business development, operations management, and member services. Since joining Michigan First Credit Union in 2014, she has risen through the ranks due to her strategic leadership and operational expertise. Her leadership journey includes:
Throughout her career, Edwards has maintained a member-first philosophy, ensuring that innovation and efficiency enhancements always align with better service and stronger member relationships. Join Delonaka Edwards at CUGI 2025 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit is the premier event for credit union executives, fintech leaders, and operations professionals who are shaping the future of financial services. 📅 Date: April 1-2, 2025 📍 Location: Oak Brook, IL 🔗 Register Now: https://www.cugrowthsummit.com Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Delonaka Edwards and other industry leaders about the future of fintech collaboration and credit union innovation! Dr. Daniel Ford Joins CUGI as Peer-to-Peer Moderator: A Leader in Cybersecurity and Growth2/28/2025  The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) is proud to announce that Dr. Daniel Ford, Chief Information Security Officer at Jovia Financial Credit Union, will be joining the event as a Peer-to-Peer Moderator. A respected leader in the cybersecurity space, Dr. Ford brings more than 20 years of experience in information security, risk management, and cyber resilience.
At a time when credit unions face growing digital threats, Dr. Ford’s session will offer attendees valuable insights on safeguarding financial institutions without sacrificing innovation. Join him at CUGI 2025 to gain actionable cybersecurity strategies tailored for credit union growth. About Dr. Ford’s Session: Practical Cybersecurity for Growing Credit Unions As credit unions expand digital services, they are exposed to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The challenge? Securing institutions effectively without overextending resources. Dr. Ford will moderate the peer-to-peer session, “Practical Cybersecurity Strategies for Growing Credit Unions,” where industry leaders will discuss real-world approaches to: ✅ Managing Cyber Risk While Scaling Operations – How to enhance security without restricting growth. ✅ Preventing Fraud & Cyber Attacks – Best practices for mitigating phishing, ransomware, and insider threats. ✅ Compliance & Innovation – How to integrate new AI-driven security tools and cloud banking solutions while ensuring regulatory compliance. ✅ Building a Cyber-Aware Culture – Training and leadership strategies to foster long-term cyber resilience. This session is interactive, designed to encourage open discussions between credit union executives, security professionals, and compliance leaders. Attendees will walk away with practical, real-world strategies that can be implemented immediately. About Dr. Daniel Ford: A Leader in Cybersecurity & Lifelong Learning Dr. Daniel Ford isn’t just focused on today's cybersecurity threats—he's preparing for tomorrow’s challenges. His leadership philosophy is built on continuous learning, ensuring that his teams at Jovia Financial Credit Union remain one step ahead of evolving risks. “If you classify yourself as a lifelong learner, you tend to retain 60%–70% of knowledge over time,” says Dr. Ford. “Additionally, if you classify yourself as a lifelong teacher, you tend to retain 90%+ of the knowledge.” His Background & Expertise Cybersecurity Leadership – Dr. Ford has worked with leading organizations like McAfee and Unisys, developing risk management and fraud prevention strategies for financial institutions. Academic Excellence – Holding a Doctor of Science (DSC) in Information Assurance, a BS in Computer Science, and an MBA, Dr. Ford blends technical expertise with business acumen to build strategic, scalable security solutions. Martial Arts & Discipline – A black belt in multiple martial arts and a one-stripe blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Dr. Ford applies the principles of discipline, adaptability, and resilience to his cybersecurity approach. Entrepreneurial Spirit – Beyond cybersecurity, he co-founded Dragon’s Mouth Distillery, where he crafts award-winning spirits, and he runs a popular YouTube show, discussing leadership, security, and personal growth. With over two decades of experience in cybersecurity, Dr. Ford’s mission is not just to secure organizations but to empower professionals to be better equipped for the future. Join Dr. Ford & Other Industry Leaders at CUGI 2025 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit is the premier event for credit union executives, technology leaders, and security professionals looking to stay ahead of cyber threats and drive digital transformation. 📅 Date: April 1-2, 2025 📍 Location: Oak Brook, IL 🔗 Register Now: https://www.cugrowthsummit.com Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Dr. Daniel Ford and other top cybersecurity experts. Secure your spot today!  We’re thrilled to announce interface.ai as a Gold Sponsor and Opening Reception Host at the 2025 CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI)!
As a leader in agentic AI solutions for credit unions and community banks, interface.ai is redefining automation, compliance, and customer experience. Their cutting-edge AI platform delivers seamless, unified interactions across voice, digital, and employee-assisted channels—all powered by a single AI brain that continuously learns and operates autonomously. Trusted by nearly 100 financial institutions, interface.ai empowers credit unions to enhance efficiency, improve financial wellness for members, and scale AI-driven solutions effortlessly. Join Us at the Opening Reception Interface.ai will be hosting the Opening Reception at CUGI 2025, providing an exclusive opportunity to network with industry leaders while exploring the latest AI innovations transforming the credit union landscape. Register Today! Don’t miss your chance to connect with interface.ai and leading credit union innovators. Register HERE for CUGI 2025 To learn more about interface.ai and its impact on financial institutions, visit: interface.ai.  Chris Hilliard, Chief Executive Officer and Founding Member of Winnow, will be a keynote panelist at CUGI 2025, sharing insights on how credit unions can leverage fintech collaboration and open banking APIs to compete with larger financial institutions.
With over 20 years of experience in banking, compliance, and fintech innovation, Chris has held executive leadership roles in consumer, commercial, and mortgage lending, risk management, and product development. As CEO of Winnow, he leads a team of compliance and technology professionals dedicated to simplifying regulatory navigation for financial institutions through automation and AI-driven insights. A Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) and Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP), Chris is passionate about using technology to enhance compliance efficiency and customer experience. Key Panel Discussion: The Future of Fintech Collaboration This session will explore:
About Chris Hilliard As CEO and Founding Member of Winnow, Chris Hilliard is at the forefront of regulatory compliance innovation in the financial industry. Winnow provides an AI-powered platform that helps financial institutions navigate complex state and federal regulations, ensuring compliance while improving operational efficiency. Chris’s career spans two decades in financial services, with leadership roles in risk management, compliance, internal audit, licensing, and legal functions at major banks and lending institutions. His expertise extends to BSA/AML, product development, and fintech integrations, making him a sought-after voice in the compliance and technology sectors. With a deep commitment to leveraging technology for smarter, more effective compliance solutions, Chris has positioned Winnow as an industry leader in regulatory automation, helping credit unions and financial institutions turn compliance from a challenge into a competitive advantage. Why Attend This Keynote Panel? ✅ Learn how credit unions can stay competitive through fintech innovation. ✅ Gain insights into compliance challenges in fintech partnerships. ✅ Discover real-world strategies for open banking adoption. Register for CUGI 2025 Today 📍 CU Growth & Innovation Summit | April 1-2, 2025 | Oak Brook, IL 🎟 Register Today! Join Chris Hilliard and top industry experts to explore the future of fintech collaboration!  The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI) is thrilled to announce that Michael Abernathy, President & CEO of Buckeye State Credit Union, will deliver a keynote address at this year’s event.
Abernathy is known for one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Ohio credit union history, leading Buckeye State Credit Union from financial distress to sustained growth and national recognition. His innovative leadership has redefined how credit unions approach technology, lending, and member engagement—making him the perfect speaker to address the future of AI and automation in lending. AI & Automation in Lending: The Focus of Abernathy’s Keynote The financial services industry is undergoing a major shift, with AI-driven lending and automation transforming credit decision-making, risk assessment, and customer experiences. Abernathy’s keynote, titled “AI & Automation in Lending: Balancing Speed, Risk & Member Trust,” will explore: ✅ The Future of AI in Credit Union Lending – How advanced underwriting models are changing the game. ✅ Risk & Compliance in the AI Era – Strategies for mitigating risks while ensuring regulatory compliance. ✅ Maintaining the Human Touch – How credit unions can leverage automation while preserving trust and member relationships. ✅ Lessons from Buckeye State Credit Union – How his team implemented AI-driven underwriting to increase efficiency, expand lending tiers, and enhance risk management. This keynote will provide actionable insights for credit union executives, lending professionals, and technology leaders looking to streamline lending processes while maintaining member trust and compliance standards. Michael Abernathy: A Credit Union Leader Who Defied the Odds Michael Abernathy has been at Buckeye State Credit Union for nine years and has served as CEO for nearly seven. Under his leadership, the credit union has achieved:
Beyond financial success, Abernathy has fostered a modern, engaging, and community-driven credit union culture. Buckeye’s approach balances traditional values with an innovative work environment, reflected in initiatives like: ✔ A smart, social casual dress code that embraces flexibility. ✔ Movie theater popcorn machines in every branch to create a welcoming atmosphere. ✔ Streaming TV and upbeat music in branches to enhance member experience. ✔ Website-focused lead generation tools over traditional applications for better engagement. His leadership is a model for how credit unions can modernize while staying true to their core mission of serving members. Join Michael Abernathy at CUGI 2025 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit is the premier event for credit union executives, technology leaders, and lending professionals who are driving innovation in the industry. 📅 Date: April 1-2, 2025 📍 Location: Oak Brook, IL 🔗 Register Now: cugrowthsummit.com Don’t miss the chance to hear from Michael Abernathy and other industry leaders shaping the future of credit unions!  The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI 2025) is proud to announce Jason Tilley, Chief Information Officer at 1st Advantage Federal Credit Union, as a keynote speaker at this year’s event. With over 30 years of experience in credit union IT leadership, Jason has been at the forefront of digital transformation, cybersecurity, and strategic planning in the financial services sector.
Keynote Session: Technology-Driven Growth Jason Tilley will lead the keynote panel discussion, "Technology-Driven Growth: How to Future-Proof Your Credit Union," where industry experts will explore:
About Jason Tilley Jason Tilley is a seasoned credit union IT executive with over 30 years of experience in financial technology and strategic leadership. As Chief Information Officer at 1st Advantage Federal Credit Union, he oversees technology strategy, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, ensuring operational excellence and member-focused innovation. Prior to his role at 1st Advantage, Jason led IT modernization efforts at ABNB Federal Credit Union and Picatinny Federal Credit Union, strengthening infrastructure, security, and operational efficiency. His expertise spans IT governance, regulatory compliance, and financial technology innovation, making him a trusted leader in the industry. Beyond his leadership in financial technology, Jason hosts The Knowledge Stack, a podcast that explores the intersection of finance and technology. Through conversations with industry experts, he provides insights into emerging trends, innovation strategies, and the evolving digital landscape in financial services. Jason remains dedicated to mentorship, industry innovation, and helping credit unions leverage technology to drive efficiency, security, and long-term success. Join Us at CUGI 2025! The CU Growth & Innovation Summit is the premier event for credit union executives, technology leaders, and financial innovators. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from Jason Tilley and other top industry experts. 📍 Event Date: April 1-2, 2025 📍 Location: Oak Brook, IL 🔗 Register Here  The CU Growth & Innovation Summit (CUGI 2025) is excited to welcome Urban FT as a Bronze Sponsor for this year’s event, taking place on April 1-2, 2025, in Oak Brook, IL. As the Banking and Payment Industry’s leading provider of AI-powered mobile imaging capture, Urban FT brings cutting-edge technology and expertise to financial institutions looking to enhance digital transformation strategies.
Urban FT: Revolutionizing Mobile Imaging for Financial Institutions Urban FT delivers unmatched API speed and a 99% first-time image acceptance rate for mobile remote deposit capture (RDC), making them a trusted partner for over 400 traditional and non-traditional financial institutions. Their modular technology supports the capture of checks, ID verification, tax documents, W-2s, and more, enabling seamless integration into existing workflows or the rapid deployment of new end-to-end solutions. By sponsoring CUGI 2025, Urban FT reinforces its commitment to helping credit unions and financial institutions optimize banking and payment processes with innovative, AI-driven solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Urban FT’s team, explore their advanced mobile imaging capabilities, and learn how their solutions can enhance operational efficiency and member experience. To learn more about Urban FT’s industry-leading technology, visit Urbanft.com. Join Us at CUGI 2025 The CU Growth & Innovation Summit is the premier event for credit union executives, technology leaders, and industry innovators looking to drive digital transformation and member-focused innovation. Secure your spot today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of credit unions. Register Now for CUGI 2025! |