League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates and Virginia Credit Union League Members Approve Powerful New Alliance
On Thursday, November 21, members of the League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU & Affiliates) and the Virginia Credit Union League (VACUL) voted in favor of consolidation, a strategic move designed to amplify the reach and impact of the credit union industry across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia. This landmark decision, following months of thoughtful exploration and deliberate feedback from member credit unions, sets in motion a partnership that will expand both advocacy and service offerings.
On January 1, 2025, both associations, foundations, and service corporations will be formally integrated, with LSCU President Samantha Beeler leading the new association alongside Steve Willis, President of Affiliates Consolidated Services and LEVERAGE, overseeing the combined service corporation.
"As a combined entity, the League will be in a stronger position than ever before to empower credit unions and their communities with the resources needed to succeed and thrive in today’s marketplace,” stated Richard J. “Rick” Skaggs, Chairman of the LSCU & Affiliates Board and President and CEO of USF Federal Credit Union. “This is the beginning of a very fruitful future, with a shared vision for greater industry influence and lasting benefits for members.”
“Thanks to the support of the membership, we are embracing a powerful opportunity to strengthen credit union engagement and our collective advocacy impact,” shared Jeff Bentley, Chair of the VACUL Board and President and CEO of Northwest Federal Credit Union. “We are now positioned to provide more customized services, innovative solutions, and a stronger voice for our members.”
“We are elated to bring together the best of both legacy organizations to provide greater value for our members and the communities they serve,” highlighted Samantha Beeler, President of LSCU. “Together, we will be a powerful voice and resource in supporting and growing credit unions across our expanded region.”
With the consolidation approved, the combined organization will represent 386 credit unions and 31.5 million members, bringing the power of unified advocacy, collaboration, and growth to the forefront of its mission.
More resources and information on the consolidation can be found here.