The 2025 Network Leadership Summit, hosted by the California Credit Union League from May 14-16, brought together a vibrant community of credit union professionals from across California. Held at Wescom Financial’s office in Pasadena, the three-day conference reinforced the core principle of being “Better Together,” fostering an environment for collaborative learning, professional development, and community engagement.

As an initiative of League Networks, the annual summit highlighted the Networks mission: to advance the professional development journey of credit union leaders through collaboration and impactful networking. Credit union professionals, leaders, and board members from local Networks immersed themselves in an experience that was geared to produce agile advocates, improve financial wellness initiatives, and foster alignment. Purpose and inclusion across the credit union movement, as well as strengthening service to members, were also key highlights.

“Our Network Leadership Summit would not have been possible without the support of our event Meal Hosts — Alliance Reverse Mortgage and Velera,” said Elise Schexnayder, director of professional development for the League. “Our sponsors — TruStage and Humanidei — also helped us make this year’s event serve as a powerful reminder of the credit union movement’s inherent strength when we work in unity.”

Beyond a doubt, this year’s event laid the groundwork for a more resilient, inclusive, and effective future.

‘Better Together’ and ‘Resilient by Design’

Wednesday kicked off with a “Better Together Dinner and Activity,” where participants experienced the power of community during an indoor Olympic event. Lively competitions featuring games like Jenga, Connect 4, and Axe-Throwing fostered a friendly rivalry and camaraderie. The evening celebrated teamwork and connection, with winners earning medals and their names etched onto a trophy, symbolizing their collective achievements and enduring spirit.

Going into Thursday, the day was packed with sessions equipping leaders with skills and foresight to navigate the future. It began with “Resilient by Design: Building Balance and Inclusion with the Wheel of Life,” where attendees gained not only a framework for personal wellbeing but also strategies for building more adaptable and fulfilling lives. Using a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) lens, this workshop reinforced how diverse perspectives are fundamental to strengthening individual and organizational resilience within financial services.

Speakers also spearheaded a Community Impact Discussion, illuminating best practices for championing vulnerable populations and driving change. Participants learned about inclusive social impact and the foundational values behind community outreach efforts.

Network Effectiveness, Roadmap Brainstorming, and CEO Panel

Thursday afternoon continued with sessions aimed at enriching Network effectiveness. “Did Wells and Next Times,” a comprehensive review of past events, encouraged a culture of continuous improvement, guaranteeing that future initiatives are even more consequential and responsive to credit union member needs. A Network Board Panel also shared takeaways and tools for fostering productive and actively engaged board members.

The collaborative spirit continued with a Network Roadmap Brainstorm, helping participants develop a strategic roadmap for identifying and prioritizing Network activities that yield the most significant community impact. The “Elephant in the Room” activity also provided a human-centered design approach to tackling the most pressing and often avoided challenges at the Network level, generating answers for meaningful organizational change.

One of the most anticipated discussions was a CEO panel on cybersecurity and emerging risks. Five experts shared perspectives into navigating the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats and other emerging risks impacting credit unions, equipping leaders with defensive strategies. The day concluded with an offsite dinner, allowing for a time to relax in Old Downtown Pasadena.

Final Highlights: Action, Leadership, and Lasting Impact

Friday began with a powerful “Better Together Volunteer Activity,” where attendees partnered with the Pasadena Education Foundation to support those affected by the Alta Dena Fire. Participants were honored to showcase the credit union movement’s deep commitment to local communities.

Also in play were:

• Mastering difficult conversations. Leaders honed essential communication skills in “Getting Comfortable With the Uncomfortable,” a roleplay session emphasizing that clarity in communication, even when challenging, is important for effective leadership and kindness.
• Strengthening Network foundations. A hands-on workshop empowered attendees to refine their network’s structure by choosing to develop custom guidelines, design impactful vision boards, or create detailed job descriptions for key board roles, ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Actionable takeaways. The summit concluded with a reflective “Better Together Key Takeaways” discussion, enabling participants to translate new insights into tangible actions for their Networks, credit unions, and personal growth.

“Everyone’s participation, collaborative spirit, and dedication to the credit union movement made this event a success,” said Larry Palochik, executive vice president for the League. “We’re excited to see the positive impact they will continue to create within their credit unions and communities, and we look forward to continuing to serve our professionals and the diverse communities they proudly serve across California.”