The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC), in collaboration with CUES, successfully hosted an engaging Northwest Sub-Council meeting on Friday, March 27, at Harborstone Credit Union headquarters in Lakewood, Washington.
The half-day gathering brought together credit union leaders from across the Pacific-Northwest (PNW) for a focused discussion on advocacy, leadership development, and the evolving needs of the industry.
Designed to foster collaboration and insight-sharing, the meeting featured timely advocacy and industry updates from DCUC, professional development perspectives from CUES, and an open forum where attendees discussed real-time challenges, opportunities, and priorities shaping credit unions in the region. Participants connected with peers over coffee and lunch while gaining practical takeaways to strengthen their institutions and communities.
Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO and retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, provided an in-depth briefing on current industry trends and DCUC’s strategic direction, and expressing DCUC’s commitment to addressing emerging needs within the industry.
“As the financial services landscape continues to evolve, it’s critical that we remain proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of the many communities and members we serve,” said Hernandez. “DCUC’s strategic plan is focused on strengthening advocacy, enhancing resources, and ensuring credit unions are well-positioned to meet all challenges ahead.”
CUES CEO Heather McKissick delivered an educational session focused on leadership readiness and how organizations can better prepare for leadership change. She highlighted that many organizations focus on titles and roles but often overlook the deeper sources of influence that enable leaders to move an organization forward.
“Successful leadership transitions require more than naming the next leader,” said McKissick. “Organizations need to understand where influence actually resides—from stakeholder relationships and institutional knowledge to leadership style and external credibility. When those factors are intentionally developed and shared across the leadership team, organizations are better positioned to navigate leadership change while maintaining momentum and trust.”
The Northwest Sub-Council meeting exemplifies the value of regional collaboration and dialogue, reinforcing DCUC and CUES’ shared commitment to supporting credit union leaders in a rapidly changing environment.