free, member-only online communities were developed exclusively for credit union professionals to connect with others who serve in similar roles to share best practices, enjoy robust discussion, and problem solve in an informal setting. In keeping with NAFCU’s promise to listen and act on what members need and want from us, the association expanded the footprint of NAFCU Networks last year, adding virtual roundtables, educational opportunities exclusively for Network members, and in-person networking opportunities. As always, each of NAFCU’s conferences and online trainings are opportunities for credit union professionals to earn credits for prestigious designations, including the award-winning NAFCU Certified Compliance Officer (NCCO), NAFCU Certified Bank Secrecy Officer (NBCSO), NAFCU Certified Risk Manager (NCRM), and NAFCU Certified Volunteer Expert (NCVE). The association’s dedication to keeping credit unions informed remains constant and the dynamic nature of educational offerings stayed the course throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Credit unions’ commitment to serving their 135 million members and Main Street small businesses was unstoppable in 2022. NAFCU focused heavily on giving credit unions a voice on important issues and sharing unique stories with lawmakers, regulators, and members of the media. The association was featured in more than 1,700 news articles in 2022, including 400 national mentions in support of credit unions and NAFCU’s industry priorities. NAFCU also published five op-eds in key outlets including American Banker, The Hill, and RealClear Markets – and top trade publications like Credit Union Times and CUInsight. In addition, several of the association’s lobbyists were featured among The Hill’s Top Lobbyists. NAFCU’s advocacy was heavily recognized throughout business trades, including MarketWatch, Yahoo Finance, and Financial Regulation News, as regulations related to digital assets continued to be a focus in the financial industry. Outlets including the Wall Street Journal, POLITICO and Bloomberg amplified NAFCU’s unwavering advocacy to battle burdensome interchange regulation, inaccurate big bank claims, and onerous policies and rulemakings from regulators and lawmakers. NAFCU Chief Economist and Vice President of Research Curt Long was a key source for all things economy and inflation for Fox Business, MarketPlace, and PYMNTS. MEDIA UNDERSCORING THE CREDIT UNION DIFFERENCE ACROSS MEDIA 27 THE NAFCU JOURNAL July–August 2023
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