California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions are excited to welcome three remarkable individuals selected as the 2025 Hike the Hill NextGen Advocacy Grant recipients: Sabrina Knapps, Riley Vance-Gydesen, and Rafael Barajas.

Next week, Knapps, Riley Vance-Gydesen and Rafael Barajas will travel to Washington, D.C. from September 9-11 to represent their credit unions at the 2025 Hike The Hill, engaging in one of the year’s most important advocacy efforts.

These grants recognize emerging leaders who have demonstrated a unique perspective, deep passion, and strong commitment to advancing the credit union movement:

• Sabrina Knapps, human resources manager for First US Community Credit Union, began her credit union career in 2018 as a Branch Manager. She has since built a well-rounded career spanning Operations, Training, and Human Resources. Based in Sacramento, Sabrina is passionate about advocacy because she believes credit unions play a vital role in creating access, equity, and support for the communities they serve, especially those who are often overlooked. She is excited to help amplify the voices of everyday members and contribute to protecting the future of the credit union movement.
• Riley Vance-Gydesen, indirect program manager for Siskiyou Credit Union, is a passionate advocate who seamlessly blends innovative thinking with a strong foundation in financial counseling. His career is dedicated to empowering underserved and underbanked communities, helping individuals overcome barriers to achieving their financial goals. Known as an ambassador for “people helping people,” Riley consistently applies creative, out-of-the-box strategies to foster financial literacy and inclusion. His commitment to personalized financial guidance and community outreach exemplifies his belief that effective solutions are best achieved through genuine connection and mutual support.
• Rafael Barajas, virtual branch manager for Silver State Schools Credit Union, has been in the financial industry for over 11 years. During that time, he has developed a strong passion for coaching teams, improving cross-selling strategies, and helping members achieve their financial goals. What drives him is creating a positive impact—whether through mentoring his team, enhancing the member experience, or building a stronger financial future for those they serve. Rafael believes in leading with intention, listening first, and always striving to grow together.

These professionals are set to make a significant impact at Hike the Hill by amplifying the movement’s collective voice at the highest levels of government. Alongside other industry leaders, they will advocate for vital legislation, new policies, and engage with federal regulators and their staff, joining their fellow credit union advocates and meeting face-to-face with lawmakers and policymakers.

The California and Nevada leagues look forward to the positive changes and renewed energy they will bring back to their communities — sharing their stories, their impact, and making sure credit unions stay front and center in the national conversation.