Credit Union News

Advocacy Momentum Celebrated at REACH 2025 PAC Reception

The work of protecting and advancing the credit union mission was in the spotlight during the annual PAC Contributors Reception at REACH 2025 on Wednesday evening. The event was a testament to the powerful, unified front required to sustain the industry’s legislative and regulatory momentum.

(View and download event photos from the REACH 2025 Photo Galleries)

The reception, which is a capstone following a half-week of collaborative discussions and strategy sessions, provided a high-profile platform to recognize those dedicated to state and federal credit union advocacy. These individuals commit financial support and volunteer countless hours, operating often outside the public eye to make sure the unique, member-first model of credit unions remains vibrant.

Year after year, this elite group of credit union leaders and professionals steps up to protect the credit union difference. Their work involves essential engagement — from direct meetings with state and federal legislators and regulators, to organizing grassroots campaigns and championing legislative initiatives that benefit millions of members.

California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions proudly honor the following 2025 award recipients for their extraordinary political action and commitment to the advocacy goals of credit unions and their members:

  • California PAC Advocate of the Year: Nicholas Ambrosini, CEO of Valley Strong Credit Union.
  • Nevada PAC Advocate of the Year: Jennifer Denoo, CEO of Great Basin Federal Credit Union.
  • Volunteer of the Year: Suzanne Curtin, board chair of Kinecta Federal Credit Union.
  • Shapiro Advocate of the Year: Eric Bruen, CEO of Desert Valleys Federal Credit Union.
  • Nevada Advocate of the Year: Scott Arkills, CEO of Silver State Schools Credit Union.
  • California Advocate of the Year: Bill Cheney, CEO of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union.
  • Political Professional of the Year: Matt Martin, senior vice president of community and government relations for Redwood Credit Union.
  • California Advocate Credit Union of the Year: Wescom Financial.
  • Nevada Advocate Credit Union of the Year: Boulder Dam Credit Union.
  • Supplier of the Year: TruStage.

The PAC Reception provided a moment to spotlight these efforts. The recognition emphasized the reality that maintaining a fair and competitive operating environment demands constant attention and leadership from the industry’s most dedicated champions.

These awarded advocates are fundamental to articulating the value proposition of credit unions to policymakers. They are the voices ensuring the industry can continue to deliver accessible, affordable financial services throughout California and Nevada.

“The tenacity and strategic contributions of these award winners are the engine of our movement’s success,” said Scott Simpson, president of California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions. “Their commitment is what secures the future, allowing credit unions to serve their members and strengthen communities across both states.”

Stay Engaged During REACH

Attendees and League staff will be sharing photos, comments, and memories through LinkedIn at #CUatREACH.

REACH is one of the credit union industry’s premier annual events, attracting leaders and system partners from across California, Nevada, and the United States. It is held from October 27-30 at JW Marriott Desert Springs in Palm Desert, CA this year.

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