IMPACT IN
LONG TERM VISION
A NOTE FROM OUR BOARD CHAIR
It is an honor to serve as chair of the Dakota Credit Union Association Board of Directors.
As you know, Jeff Olson resigned as President-CEO of the Dakota Credit Union Association on October 1, 2025. George McDonald, who previously served as Senior Vice President/Chief Officer of Engagement and Partnerships, has agreed to serve as interim President/CEO. George is a valued employee and I appreciate his willingness to serve in this capacity until a permanent successor is found. The board has hired executive recruiting firm, D. Hilton, to find the next President/CEO of the Dakota Credit Union Association. The board is committed to being transparent during this process. Feedback from member credit unions is crucial as we set the course for our association.
As you know, the Dakota Credit Union Association is the only professional financial trade association representing all credit unions in the Dakotas. As the voice for the credit union movement in our region, we stand firmly in the corner of our credit unions and work on your behalf so you can better serve your members. As your strongest advocate, we promote, protect, support, and advance the credit union movement in our region.
The Dakota Credit Union Association is committed to remaining relevant and providing value to our affiliated members. Each year, your association board reviews and reaffirms our strategic mission and purpose. We strive to be fearless champions for all Dakota credit unions, while providing both proactive and responsive advocacy in order to advance, empower, and protect member credit unions.
Our rolling strategic objectives consist of five priority pillars that focus on advocacy, compliance, membership engagement, business solutions, and credit union awareness. The association strives to assist our members and help them be successful. That is a simple objective, but it is truly why we exist. With your continued partnership, we can successfully promote credit unions as the best financial choice for families and communities across our region. Together with our national partner, America’s Credit Unions, Dakota credit unions have a strong, unified, and superior national trade association model that focuses on advancing an environment where credit unions thrive and our credit union members achieve their best lives.
I encourage you to take advantage of the many tools and resources that your association has to offer to your credit union.
Please accept my sincere thanks for your continued support. look forward to your active engagement moving forward.
Lacey Fetsch Board Chair
Dakota Credit Union Association
Your membership in DakCU entitles you to many dues-supported benefits that enhance your relationships with your own members. To meet the evolving needs of our credit unions, we continue to review and expand our valueadded offerings while further streamlining our operations, providing you the tools, resources, and access to business solutions that can help your credit union continue to succeed. We encourage you to explore all that DakCU has to offer you in your service to your credit union, and your members.
A MESSSAGE FROM LEADERSHIP
Members,
As someone who has proudly served the Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) for many years, have had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable strength, collaboration, and commitment that define our credit union community. Now, as interim CEO, I’m more committed than ever to ensuring that DakCU delivers real, tangible value to you, our members, every single day.
As we look to the future, our focus is clear: to enhance the value proposition we provide to each of our member credit unions. This means strengthening our advocacy efforts, expanding access to education and professional development, and fostering a more connected and collaborative network across the Dakotas. Together, we’re building an environment where credit unions not only survive but grow stronger - continuing to serve as trusted partners in helping individuals and communities achieve their best lives.
By reaffiliating with DakCU, you’re reaffirming your belief in the power of collaboration, shared values, and a unified voice. Working alongside our national partners at America’s Credit Unions we are fiercely advocating for forward-thinking policies that protect and promote the cooperative model, ensuring credit unions remain strong, relevant, and people-focused, as we continue improving the financial lives of our members in an everchanging financial landscape.
Every decision we make at DakCU is driven by you, our member credit unions. Whether through policy advocacy, professional development, compliance support, or strategic collaboration, our mission is to strengthen your ability to serve. Our commitment to integrity, respect, and excellence is unwavering, and our goal is simple: to help your credit union deliver even greater value to the members you serve.
As we look ahead, we remain focused on providing the resources, relationships, and representation you need to meet today’s challenges and seize tomorrow’s opportunities. Together, we can continue to strengthen the credit union movement across the Dakotas and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support, trust, and dedication. I’m proud to stand beside you as we shape a stronger, brighter future for credit unions and the communities we serve.
With sincere appreciation,
George McDonald Interim President/CEO Dakota Credit Union Association
The evolution of our credit union system continues to strengthen the movement and the members we serve. America's Credit Unions is advancing with purpose, passion, and strengthrelentless in its mission to advocate for and create an environment where credit unions can thrive. Together with your Dakota Credit Union Association, we remain committed to ensuring that people everywhere have the opportunity to partner with credit unions, so they can afford and achieve their best financial lives.
LEGISLATIVE & REGULATORY ADVOCACY
As an “advocacy first” organization, DakCU serves as the backbone of credit union political advocacy in the Dakotas. Our top priority is to represent credit unions at the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring a favorable operating environment that allows credit unions to thrive. We also work closely with regulators to provide the credit union perspective, making sure our voice is heard when rules, regulations, and guidance are developed.
LOBBYING FOR CREDIT UNIONS
DakCU’s registered lobbyists represent Dakota credit unions on state and federal legislative matters.
LEADING ON LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY ISSUES
We actively track, monitor, and respond to proposed legislative and regulatory changes, keeping our members informed and engaged every step of the way.
ENGAGING IN ADVOCACY
Through organized meetings with state and federal officials, we create opportunities for credit unions to speak directly with policymakers. With member input, DakCU submits formal comment letters on proposed rules and regulations. In addition, we coordinate Government Affairs Committees (GAC) in both states, made up of active credit union members who help set political goals, develop strategies, and strengthen grassroots involvement.
POLITICAL ACTION SUCCESS
Our commitment to strong political advocacy continues to shine at the national level. This year, Dakota credit unions once again exceeded expectations in Political Action Committee (PAC) fundraising, demonstrating remarkable support for the credit union movement’s collective voice.
Year after year, Dakota credit unions prove that size doesn’t determine impact. North Dakota achieved 264% of its annual fundraising goal, while South Dakota reached 182% - clear proof that when it comes to advocacy, our members step up, work together, and
lead with purpose. From strong local engagement to influence on the national stage, the Dakotas continue to make an outsized impact on the advocacy stage toward reaching, and exceeding, our fundraising goals, reinforcing our reputation as passionate, effective leaders that drive credit union advocacy.
ENHANCING ADVOCACY ACROSS THE DAKOTAS
Advocacy represents our steadfast commitment to legislative engagement, regulatory collaboration, grassroots mobilization, and political involvement. To maintain a favorable operating environment and ensure the continued success of Dakota credit unions, we work closely each day with elected officials and policymakers across both states.
Legislative and regulatory advocacy remain central to the association’s mission, driving our efforts to keep credit unions strong, competitive, and relevant within the evolving financial services landscape.
GET INVOLVED
Advocacy works best when we all take part. We need you to get involved! Credit unions can make a difference by joining our payroll deduction program, an easy and impactful way to support credit union advocacy efforts.
In North Dakota, contact John Alexander at jalexander@dakcu.org or 701-250-3948. In South Dakota, contact Kenley Lamberty at klamberty@dakcu.org or 701-250-3928.
North Dakota
Wins
• Championed national discussions leading to the introduction of the Central Liquidity Enhancement Fund Act.
• Successfully secured the removal of the Department of Financial Institutions from the state appropriation process during the 69th Legislative Session.
• Prevented passage of legislation that would have mandated the payment of interest on escrow accounts for residential mortgages.
• Achieved 2nd place nationally in meeting PAC fundraising goals.
National Advocacy Wins
PRESERVATION OF CREDIT UNION TAX-EXEMPT STATUS
• Successfully defended the federal tax exemption for credit unions during major tax reform efforts, including the passage of H.R. 1 in 2025.
HOMEBUYERS PRIVACY PROTECTION ACT
• Supported the passage of legislation to end the abusive use of mortgage trigger leads, protecting members from unsolicited and predatory offers during the mortgage process.
CDFI FUND ADVOCACY
• Led efforts to restore staffing and funding for the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, emphasizing its importance to rural and tribal communities in the Dakotas.
LOAN MATURITY EXTENSION LEGISLATION
• Backed the Expanding Access to Lending Options Act, which would extend credit union loan maturity limits to 20 years, giving institutions more flexibility to meet members’ long-term financial needs.
PROTECT:
PRESERVE THE CREDIT UNION TAX STATUS TO ADVANCE COMMUNITIES, IMPROVE THE FINANCIAL FUTURE FOR ALL PEOPLE, AND KEEP LOCAL ECONOMIES STRONG.
South Dakota Wins
• Reviewed and analyzed more than 450 legislative bills during the session.
• Actively monitored and influenced 9 key bills with potential impact on credit unions.
• Delivered written and oral testimony on 4 priority bills to advance credit union interests.
• Welcomed over 60 legislators in attendance at South Dakota CU Legislative Day, strengthening relationships and awareness of credit union priorities.
VETERANS MEMBER BUSINESS LENDING BILL
• Advocated for legislation (S. 110, H.R. 507) to expand small business lending opportunities for veterans through credit unions.
CDFI FUND IMPROVEMENTS ACT (S. 1880)
• Supported enhancements to the CDFI Fund to expand access to capital in underserved communities.
OPPOSITION TO THE CREDIT CARD COMPETITION ACT (CCCA)
• Successfully helped prevent the inclusion of the CCCA in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), protecting interchange revenue and consumer benefits for credit unions.
REGULATORY RELIEF VIA SENATE BILL 2155
• Helped pass legislation easing Dodd-Frank burdens and expanding operational flexibility for credit unions.
EMPOWER:
STRENGTHEN THE CREDIT UNION DIFFERENCE BY HIGHLIGHTING HOW AS NOT-FOR-PROFIT FINANCIAL COOPERATIVES OWNED BY MEMBERS, CREDIT UNIONS ARE CONSUMERS’ BEST OPTION FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES.
ADVANCE:
MODERNIZE OUTDATED LAWS AND REGULATIONS TO BUILD CREDIT UNION OPPORTUNITIES, ALLOWING CREDIT UNIONS TO BE BETTER EQUIPPED TO SUPPORT MEMBERS’ GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT.
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
We’re here to help your credit union navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape with cost-effective compliance solutions designed to ease burdens and keep you up to date.
COMPLIANCE HOTLINE: Credit unions can submit unlimited regulatory and compliance questions to ViClarity by email: DakCU@viclarityus.com or phone: 833-978-6043.
COMPLIANCE UPDATES: Quarterly calls via ViClarity and DakCU to keep credit unions informed about regulatory and compliance issues.
INFOSIGHT360: This cutting-edge compliance research tool provides compliance information for 14 major operational areas. The AI Search feature intelligently analyzes all available content to provide comprehensive answers to your compliance questions. The new system includes the combination of InfoSight, CU PolicyPro and RecoveryPro on one integrated platform.
Please contact John Alexander, jalexander@dakcu.org, for any compliance related questions or comments.
COMPLIANCE CREDIT UNION TOUCHPOINTS
COMPLIANCE BSA TRAINING & ROUNDTABLE ATTENDEES
MEMBER SOLUTIONS
COMPLIANCE RELATED ARTICLES & BLOGS
DakCU Service Corp (DakCUSC) is the business services arm of DakCU, dedicated to helping credit unions thrive by delivering “best-in-class” solutions. By collectively negotiating, researching, and vetting products and services, DakCUSC empowers credit unions to leverage new technologies, expand resources, increase revenue opportunities, and reduce operating costs, all at significantly discounted pricing.
SYSTEM PARTNERS AND STRATEGIC ALLIANCES
Strategic partnerships are at the core of DakCUSC. These alliances provide credit unions with trusted tools, resources, and expertise to better serve their members.
• TruStage™ – As DakCU’s exclusive system partner, TruStage delivers innovative solutions from one of the industry’s most recognized leaders, helping credit unions remain competitive in today’s evolving marketplace.
• Cooperative Alliance Program (CAP) – Through CAP, DakCUSC connects credit unions with like-minded business partners who share a commitment to the credit union movement. CAP partners provide consistent service, educational opportunities, and sponsorship support for DakCU events, all while offering solutions that drive growth and financial success.
• CUNA Strategic Services Inc. (CSS) – Jointly owned by America’s Credit Unions and state associations, CSS offers additional cost-saving partnerships. Their vetted providers help credit unions strengthen member relationships, enhance peace of mind, and improve the bottom line.
When your credit union is considering a new product or service, reach out to DakCUSC first. If we don’t have a current alliance partner to meet your needs, we’ll work with you to find the right solution.
HR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW LEGAL SUPPORT
As a dues-supported benefit, DakCU members have access to legal expertise through Jackson Lewis, P.C., a nationally recognized law firm specializing in labor and employment law. Their guidance goes beyond compliance, helping employers implement proactive strategies that minimize risk and support effective workplace management.
Contact George McDonald at 701-250-3942 or gmcdonald@dakcu.org for more information on member solutions.
DakCU dues are calculated using a fair and balanced formula that considers both asset size and membership. This ensures financial support is shared equitably across credit unions of all sizes. Your investment helps sustain our long-term vision: advancing political and regulatory advocacy while strengthening awareness of the credit union difference. We carry out this mission through five core strategic areas:
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & NETWORKING
To keep our members informed on the latest industry trends and to foster meaningful networking, DakCU offers a wide range of opportunities for credit union volunteers and staff to collaborate and innovate. In addition, we provide convenient on-demand and remote learning options that make professional development accessible anytime, anywhere. As a DakCU member, you also have access to high-quality local and regional conferences and educational events, delivered at a value that fits every budget.
IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN
Annual Meeting & Summit
New Ideas Conference
Roundtable Dialogues
Chapter Meetings
Legislative Events
Training for Volunteers
GAC Crasher Program
DakCU Summit Crasher Program
iLead@11 DakCU Emerging Leader
SalesCU Training
CEO Town Halls
Pints & Politics Events
ON-DEMAND & REMOTE LEARNING
Board Member & Supervisory Committee Responsibilities
Compliance Issues and Regulations
IRA Training
Consumer Collection
Lending
HR Topics
Strategic Planning
Cyber Security and Fraud
Online Education and Webinars And More!
iLEAD@11 DAKCU EMERGING LEADER PROGRAM
STRENGTHEN YOUR LEADERSHIP BENCH
The need to develop and train future credit union leaders remains a consistent priority identified in Dakota credit unions’ strategic planning sessions. To meet this need, DakCU created the iLead@11 Emerging Leader Program, built on the cooperative principles of the credit union movement. This program helps credit unions define and strengthen leadership skills, build deeper bench strength to meet future demands, and support personal and professional growth for staff and the next generation of leaders.
In partnership with Eleven Performance Group, DakCU delivers a tailored program designed specifically for Dakota credit unions, removing the burden of costly travel through a virtual yet highly personal course of instruction. The program is centered on three key pillars of leadership: leading yourself, leading others, and leading the organization.
Now entering its fourth year, the iLead@11 Emerging Leader Program continues to equip and advance talented professionals across the Dakotas. With support from the Dakota Credit Union Foundation and other strategic partners, participants may also apply for scholarships and grants that can cover up to 50 percent of tuition costs.
For more information on how the iLead@11 Program can benefit your credit union, please contact George McDonald at 701-250-3942 or gmcdonald@dakcu.org.
DAKCU CRASHER PROGRAM
DEVELOPING TOMORROW’S CREDIT UNION LEADERS
DakCU is committed to cultivating the next generation of credit union leaders through our annual “Crasher” Program, held in conjunction with the Annual Meeting & Summit each spring. This unique track is designed to inspire and equip emerging professionals from the Dakotas with career-building opportunities. Selected participants receive complimentary conference registration and take part in specialized sessions led by an experienced credit union industry leader. The only costs incurred are travel and lodging, making this program an accessible investment in professional growth.
At the national level, leadership development continues through the Cooperative Trust’s Crasher Program at the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC). Each year, one outstanding representative from every state is selected to attend this premier industry event. In addition to waived registration, DakCU provides scholarship support to help offset expenses. State Crashers proudly represent their leagues during the opening ceremonies’ grand procession, engage in league hill hikes, and gain invaluable experience through targeted training, high-level networking, and exclusive events.
STATE-WIDE AWARENESS PROGRAM
DakCU’s State-Wide Awareness Program (SWAP) continues to drive consumer awareness and consideration of credit unions across North and South Dakota. Developed in-house in partnership with a local production firm, this Dakota-focused campaign features authentic, locally produced creative assets and a bold, relatable new theme: “Your Money. Your Values. Your Credit Union.”
The Dakotas have been a proud participant in the credit union awareness movement since 2019, when DakCU became one of the first state leagues to join the national consumer campaign. As the national initiative shifted in 2024, DakCU assumed full ownership of its regional strategy, tailoring SWAP to reflect the unique values, lifestyles, and financial needs of Dakotans.
Building on the success of the national campaign, SWAP uses a multi-tiered marketing approach, including digital, streaming, outdoor, and social media advertising, to reach consumers where they are. This year’s campaign is even more Dakota-centric, featuring real credit union staff and local institutions to connect authentically with local audiences. The campaign primarily targets Gen Z and Millennials, with a secondary focus on underbanked or unbanked individuals who may be unfamiliar with credit unions or their eligibility to join. By highlighting credit unions as a better, values-driven, member-first financial option, SWAP communicates with light, flexible, and emotionally resonant messaging.
Looking ahead, DakCU remains committed to its strategic goal of achieving 40% credit union membership across the Dakotas by 2030, through collaboration, creativity, and shared purpose. For more information or to become a contributing credit union, contact Lindsey Hefta at lhefta@dakcu.org or visit www.dakcu.org/cuawareness.
Over 13 million impressions served in the Dakotas (May
2024-May 2025)
THANK YOU 2025 CONTRIBUTORS
HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST
The DakCU Health Benefits Trust (HBT) is a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA) that allows South Dakota credit unions to pool resources and provide employees with enhanced health insurance options. Payments are based on the number of employees and projected costs, making coverage more manageable and cost-effective.
Launched in 2018, the HBT offers a “best-in-class” benefits program, managing a $11 million in self-funded coverage for 716 employees and their families. In partnership with Brown & Brown Insurance, the trust provides premium health coverage through Wellmark, giving credit union employees access to comprehensive, high-quality healthcare.
For questions regarding the Health Benefits Trust, contact:
Lisa Zinno, Brown & Brown Senior Account Manager 720-279-3438 or lisa.zinno@bbrown.com
DAKOTA CREDIT UNION FOUNDATION YOUR YEAR IN REVIEW
As the philanthropic arm of the Dakota Credit Union Association, the Dakota Credit Union Foundation (DCUF) plays a vital role in advancing community well-being across the Dakotas. Thanks to the generous support of credit unions and individual donors, DCUF continues to deliver on its mission:
To enhance and uplift the communities we serve by providing grants, scholarships, and financial support to individuals and initiatives that promote financial wellness for credit union members.
In 2025, DCUF proudly distributed more than $13,000 in grants, scholarships, and charitable contributions. These funds supported a range of impactful initiatives, including:
• Financial Counseling Certifications (FiCEP) – equipping credit union professionals
with the tools to guide members toward financial stability.
• Leadership Development – through the DakCU iLead@11 Emerging Leader Program, cultivating the next generation of credit union leaders.
• Youth Financial Education – investing in programs that help young people build strong financial foundations.
In addition, DCUF extended support to several charitable causes, including:
• CU Aid for disaster relief efforts,
• Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
• The Credit Unions for Kids Micropreemie Unit at Sanford Children’s Hospital in Fargo, ND, which opened in May.
All of this is made possible through your continued generosity. Whether through annual donations, participation in fundraising events, or support of ongoing campaigns, every dollar contributed to DCUF helps us make a meaningful impact, strengthening communities and elevating the visibility of the credit union difference.
To learn more or explore additional ways to support DCUF, visit: www.dakcu.org/Foundation.
DAKOTA ADVOCACY FUND
Unexpected legislative proposals and shifting regulatory pressures can significantly affect the operating environment for credit unions. That's why DakCU remains vigilant and ready to defend our interests through the Dakota Advocacy Fund (DAF). This fund empowers us to respond swiftly and effectively to local legislative or regulatory threats that could negatively impact Dakota credit unions.
To ensure we are always ready, a steady and reliable source of funding is essential. The DAF is supported through a shared, voluntary assessment of Dakota credit unions with assets exceeding $125 million. These funds are managed by the DAF Steering Committee and are pooled from affiliated credit unions as non-dues contributions. In addition to supporting rapid-response advocacy efforts at the state level, DAF also contributes an equitable share to the National Advocacy Fund (NAF), strengthening our voice on the national stage.
OUR TEAM MEMBERS
