The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) is proud to announce its 2025 class of DCUC Crashers—an inspiring group of young credit union professionals who will bring their energy, insights, and passion to this year’s Annual Conference, set to kick off next Monday in Palm Desert, California.
Handpicked to attend the conference through the Cooperative Trust’s dynamic Crash program, DCUC’s crashers will join a national cohort of changemakers for a week of immersive learning, relationship-building, and leadership development. This year’s Crasher class includes eight rising stars from credit unions across the country:
- Daniel Lagunez, Business Development Officer, AltaOne Federal Credit Union
- Jeremiah Butalid, AVP of Member Services, America’s Christian Credit Union
- Briana Pulido, Marketing and PR Assistant, Border Federal Credit Union
- Erin Maloney, VP, Culture Development, Cobalt Credit Union
- Landon Smoak, System Administrator, GeoVista Credit Union
- Sache’ Rodriguez, Title Clerk and Loan Processor, GeoVista Federal Credit Union
- Natalie Kitt, Digital Marketing Specialist, Global Credit Union
- Joshua Lockridge, Branch Manager, Service Federal Credit Union
These professionals will participate in the DCUC Crasher Experience, an immersive opportunity designed to engage emerging leaders with exclusive access to general sessions, one-on-one mentorship from senior credit union executives, and meaningful networking opportunities that extend far beyond the event.
“We are thrilled to welcome this year’s class of Crashers to our DCUC family,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO. “These professionals represent the future of the credit union movement—and their dedication, talent, and passion for service perfectly reflect the values that drive our mission. We’re excited to see the impact they’ll have, both at our conference and in the years to come.”
The DCUC Crasher program has proven to be a career-defining experience for many participants. From impactful speaker sessions to real-world insights and lasting connections, this opportunity is crafted to inspire a lifelong commitment to serving the military and veteran communities through credit unions. Read more about DCUC’s Crashers program here!
All Eyes on Palm Desert: DCUC’s 2025 Annual Conference Kicks Off Monday
As the DCUC Crasher Class gears up for an unforgettable week, so does the broader credit union community!
Starting Monday, July 28, DCUC will welcome industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries to its 2025 Annual Conference, a one-of-a-kind event tailored exclusively to assist and empower credit unions dedicated to serving our nation’s military and veterans.
Unlike any other industry gathering, DCUC’s conference combines strategy, service, and honor to its founding traditions—offering:
- Expert-led sessions from DoD and financial leaders
- Keynote speakers, including Mark Nutsch, Sage Steele, and Mike Rayburn
- Impactful networking opportunities and sponsor breakouts
- Signature traditions like DCUC’s Hall of Honor Gala and Annual VADM Vincent Lascara Golf Tournament
- “Conference with a Purpose” charity, this year supporting the Fisher House Foundation
This year’s conference is not just about professional development—it’s about coming together as a community committed to a higher purpose: ensuring financial readiness and support for military members, veterans, and their families. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or attending for the first time, DCUC’s Annual Conference offers a rare and inspiring space to connect, learn, and lead with purpose.
“We invite all attendees to engage with our Crashers and feel the energy they bring,” says Hernandez. “Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected credit union community—one that honors our service members and drives innovation forward!”
For more information, visit dcucannual.org.