Center Point Fall 2014 by The Warren Group

fall.2014

A publication of the Massachusetts Credit Union League, New Hampshire Credit Union League and the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island

Stories Inside:

Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Credit Union Celebrates 100 Years

Credit Unions Nationwide Reach 100M Members

Digital Marketing Enhances Personal Service

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Massachusetts Credit Union League, Inc. www.maleague.org New Hampshire Credit Union League www.nhcul.org Credit Union Association of Rhode Island www.cuassociationri.org 800-842-1242 Paul Gentile, President/CEO

EDITORS: Robert B. Kimmett Marguerite A. Thorsen CONTRIBUTORS: Donna M. Bevilacqua Robert Delaney Bonnie L. Doolin William F. Nagle Beverly Purtell Charlotte Whatley

The marquee of the Riviera, a vintage theater, welcomes MA Credit Union League members to Charleston, SC.

Table of Contents PUBLISHED BY

04 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT The Warren Group

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©2014 The Warren Group Inc. All rights reserved. The Warren Group is a trademark of The Warren Group Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Advertising, editorial and production inquiries should be directed to: The Warren Group, 280 Summer Street, Boston, MA 02210. Call 800-356-8805.

06 CREDIT UNION NEWS

– Workers’ Credit Union Marks Centennial Anniversary – 100 Million Memberships Reached at Credit Unions Nationwide

09 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT – Credit Unions in Donate Record-Breaking Amount to Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire

– Massachusetts Credit Unions Donate Books to Kids in Need – Credit Unions of Rhode Island Donate $65,000 to Special Olympics Rhode Island – RI Volunteers Help Athletes Go for the Gold at Special Olympics Summer Games

12 GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR EDUCATION AND NETWORKING

18 HOW DIGITAL MARKETING CHANNELS FOR LENDING CAN ACTUALLY ENHANCE PERSONAL SERVICE 20 CREDIT UNION PEOPLE 22 CALENDAR

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M E S S AG E FRO M T H E P R E S I D E N T

| by paul gentile

‘COOPERATIVE CREDIT UNION ASSOCIATION’ PROGRESS CONTINUES; ADVOCACY FRONT CONTINUES TO BE A HOT TOPIC As we enter the fall season, the action in the credit union system here in New England continues its brisk pace. With merger vote dates tentatively scheduled for October 8 in Rhode Island, October 15 in New Hampshire and October 22 in Massachusetts, we have held a number of sessions in the region to educate members on the benefits of the planned merger and creation of the “Cooperative Credit Union Association.” One thing is clear – local advocacy will be preserved. Credit unions in each state will continue to enjoy a local brand. On the advocacy front, local advocacy committees will be maintained in each state and ensure local control over advocacy issues. Social responsibility will also maintain its local presence with each state keeping its individual Social Responsibility cause and committee. Those productive local elements will live on. If any credit union has questions on the merger, I urge you to reach out to me directly or any of your board representatives in your respective state. While we will maintain our local presences, we will also enhance our collaboration among the states. The merged League will have a regional annual convention in the New England area that will encourage engagement with your peers in other states. We have launched our new videoconferencing initiative that will allow credit unions in New Hampshire and Rhode Island to go to local facilities in their states to take in education that is being broadcast out of the headquarters in Marlborough, MA. This will save travel time and cost, while still delivering an interactive education experience. While each state has its own unique needs, many credit union issues remain ubiquitous. One constant is regulatory burden. This 4 | centerpoint | fall.2014

concern has always been and remains one of my core focuses. I believe strongly in efficient, effective regulation that preserves the integrity of the system, but overreaching regulation hurts credit unions’ ability to serve their members. It’s that simple. Our most important challenge right now is the NCUA’s Risk-Based Net Worth proposal. Based on the unprecedented public outcry from credit unions, lawmakers and other officials, we feel that there is no question that substantial revisions must and will be made to the proposal. As those changes are made, it is crucial that the credit union community is given an opportunity to voice their thoughts on whatever revised rule is produced. Because of this need, I sent a letter to NCUA in early September strongly urging the NCUA board to issue a supplemental proposed rule along comment period on the regulation. I am confident the revised regulation will be much more effective and palatable to the credit union system, but it is essential that we have the chance to review it and comment. On the topic of regulatory burden, I want all credit unions to be aware of our new online compliance tool, ComplySight. ComplySight is an effective compliance management tool that we are delivering at an affordable price to assist you with your compliance needs. We also continue to add credit unions to our Shared Compliance program, whereby credit unions can essentially lease compliance personnel support from the League. Recognizing the unique challenges small credit unions face in this area, we have launched an “On-Demand” option that allows credit unions to buy small blocks of on-site compliance support time.

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This means no long-term contracts and you get help when you need it. For our ever-important volunteers, I urge you to look at our upcoming Fall Conference offerings to be held in New Hampshire. We have added a number of key speakers on issues important to boards, including modern governance, reaching the underserved, and emerging technologies. If you haven’t checked out the agenda on our website, take a look and I’m sure you’ll find something that can help you back at your credit union. The fall season holds much enjoyment to offer, especially in New England, and I look forward to continuing our work with you to improve the operating environment for credit unions. •

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C R E D I T U N I O N N EWS

WORKERS’ CREDIT UNION MARKS CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

Original Workers’ Credit Union headquarters in Fitchburg.

John Souminen, founder of Workers’ Credit Union, treasurer for 32 years.

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Workers’ Credit Union, Fitchburg, MA, the eighth credit union to open its doors in the United States, is celebrating 100 years of business this year. Workers’ opened in 1914 to serve the local immigrant community only six years after the first credit union in the nation – St. Mary’s Bank Credit Union, Manchester, NH – was founded. An extensive feature article in the Fitchburg Sentinel and Enterprise documented the credit union’s fascinating history and provided a look at where it is today through interviews with President and CEO Doug Petersen and local community leaders. In the early 1900s, language and culture kept the largely Finnish immigrant community in Fitchburg from being able to do business with banks. To combat this problem, the founder of Workers’, a 26-year-old Finnish man, whom Petersen described as having “guts” for trying to cobble together his own financial institution, decided to form the credit union. The passion of Workers’ Credit Union’s founder, John Suominen, was captured in the meeting minutes of a 1914 Finnish Socialist Federation meeting held in Fitchburg. “The existence of workers’ banks in Amer-

ica is only a matter of time,” Suominen said, according to the article in the Sentinel and Enterprise. “If we consider just the Finnish socialist organizations, newspapers, buildings, cooperatives, and all the other efforts in America plus the private savings, we have huge amounts and shining results. So it is high time that we begin to organize matters in such a way that the resulting bank will be entirely our own. This is possible only by founding our own bank.” The credit union, which operated primarily in Finnish until 1963, thrived, Petersen told the Sentinel and Enterprise, topping $1 million in assets by 1929. Although Workers’ was created primarily to serve an underserved immigrant community, it has evolved into a credit union that serves the entire region. The credit union is a strong supporter of local charities, schools, and community groups giving money and man-hours to the local chamber of commerce, the Boys and Girls Club, Boy Scouts, the United Way, and Relay for Life. Recently, the president of the United Way of North Central Massachusetts, Phil Grzewinski, called the credit union a “class-A organization” and a major player in community betterment for the region, according to the Sentinel and Enterprise. The credit union carries on a rich history that has seen political turmoil, wars, and the Great Depression, but through it all, Workers’ has held true to its founding principles of helping neighbors and everyday people achieve their goals, whether that’s starting a business, buying a home, or paying for an education, Petersen told the Sentinel and Enterprise. “For one hundred years, Workers’ Credit Union has demonstrated the credit union difference,” said League President Paul Gentile. “It represents the power of the credit union model from the determination of the Finnish immigrants who founded it to the current leadership that supports so many community projects and implemented its innovative ‘Give Back Program’ that puts $2 million back into the hands of its loyal members.” •

100 MILLION MEMBERSHIPS REACHED AT CREDIT UNIONS NATIONWIDE “Clearly, there is growing recognition for credit unions among consumers,” said CUNA President and CEO Bill Hampel. Hampel pointed out that, as cooperatives, credit unions are owned by their members and exist to provide financial services to those members. Banks, he noted, which are owned by shareholders, exist to return profits to those shareholders. In 2013, the Chicago Booth Kellogg School Financial Trust Index showed that consumers trust credit unions more than banks. The index, which is sponsored jointly by the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, showed trust in credit unions is at 62 percent

Credit unions have surpassed 100 million memberships nationwide, equating to one in every three Americans, it was announced August 1. The 100 million memberships count is based on data collected from credit unions and compiled by CUNA in its June 2014 “Monthly Credit Union Estimates.” CUNA estimates that credit union memberships expanded by 2.9 percent in the past 12 months ( June 2013 to June 2014), and the 100 million mark was eclipsed in June. This represents a continuation (and acceleration) of trends previously reported: In 2013 memberships expanded by 2.5 percent, and in 2012 memberships grew 2.1 percent. CUNA expects the membership growth to continue in the second half of 2014 and exceed the full-year growth of the previous year. Credit unions added a total of 2.85 million additional memberships over the past year – the largest reported increase in more than a quarter century. In percentage terms, the 2.5 percent increase was the fastest since 2000, according to the CUNA analysis.

while trust in big banks is at 28 percent. Not everyone can join the same credit union, but there is a credit union for everyone. Consumers wishing to find a credit union they are eligible to join should visit aSmarterChoice.org, a website that includes a comprehensive credit union finder, and helps consumers learn more about credit unions. Hundreds of credit union members have shared their credit union story with their photo on americascreditunions.org and social media to show they are part of an organization that focuses on their best financial interests. Learn more about the 100 million credit union memberships nationwide milestone by visiting www.americascreditunions.org. •

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C O M MU N I T Y I N VO LV E M E N T

CREDIT UNIONS IN DONATE RECORD-BREAKING AMOUNT TO MAKE-A-WISH® NEW HAMPSHIRE

Pictured with members of the Kavalauskas family during the check presentation made to Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire in memory of Northeast Credit Union CEO Peter Kavalauskas are from left: Jerry Dumoulin, NHCUL Chairman and Guardian Angel Credit Union, Berlin; Ron Covey, NHCUL Social Responsibility Committee Chairman and St. Mary’s Bank Credit Union, Manchester; Amy Clark and James Kavalauskas; NHCUL President Paul Gentile; Joe Capalbo (son-in-law); Julie Baron and Wish Child Hannah, Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire; Nancy Kavalauskas; Peter’s daughters Sarah Christie and Kerry Capalbo.

At the conclusion of the Richard Mahoney Charity Golf Tournament held June 12 at Candia Woods Golf Links in, Candia, NH, New Hampshire Credit Union League representatives presented a check for $180,000 to Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire. The record-breaking amount concluded a year of fundraising efforts by New Hampshire’s credit unions, and surpassed the original goal of raising $160,000. The funds were donated in memory of long-time friend and former Northeast Credit Union CEO Peter Kavalauskas. The 18-year total is now more than $1.97 million raised for wishes. Throughout the day, the 132 golfers were greeted with big smiles by Wish Child Isabella, her sister Lilly, and Wish Child Hannah, who served lemonade at the special Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire Lemonade Stand. Isabella loves the Disney princesses and she visited her favorite, Belle, during her wish at the Disney theme parks. During the awards dinner, Hannah took the microphone and thanked everyone for 8 | centerpoint | fall.2014

helping her. “Because of you, I was able to go to Disney World and see Cinderella’s Castle and have a princess makeover,” she said. “Thank you very much.” The crowd gave her a long and loud standing ovation. The foursome of Jerry Goveia, Chuck Tewell, Wanda Syphers, and Cheryl Nichols from Northeast Credit Union came in first place at the tournament with a score of 63 and took home the coveted golf trophy. Second place, also with a score of 63, went to the team from Triangle Credit Union. The most honest team, with a score of 84, was from Granite State Credit Union. Other winners at the event were as follows: • Men’s longest drive – Bill Dixon from Ben Franklin Printers • Women’s longest drive – Jillian May from Experian • Men’s closest to the pin – Dominic Lucente from Northeast Planning Associates • Women’s closest to the pin – Deborah Schreck from Service Credit Union

New Hampshire Credit Union League Social Responsibility Committee Chairman Ronald Covey extended his thanks on behalf of the Social Responsibility Committee to all credit unions, their members, and the chapters for their tremendous support they have given in the last 18 years. Julie Baron, CEO of, Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire, praised the efforts of the league, the credit unions, members, vendors, and the Social Responsibility Committee for their contributions each year. “We thank you for being our partner. Your donation orchestrates the greatest return, a child’s joyful heart, and for that we are most grateful. Thank you so much for your unending support,” Baron said. The league and its member credit unions remain the top corporate partner of Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire with the largest donation to date. The league’s Social Responsibility Committee extends a special thanks to all the tournament sponsors, including: • Benefactors – CUNA Mutual Group; New England Employee Benefits • Lunch – Tricorp Federal Credit Union; Synergent • Premier – Beliveau, Fradette, & Gallant, P.A. • Partners – A.M. Peisch & Company, LLC; Ben Franklin Printers; CU Direct Corporation; Experian; PSCU; Route 66 Extended Warranty; State National Companies • Sponsors – FairPoint Communications; JBR Associates • Supporters – CO-OP Shared Branching; Cranmore Fitzgerald & Meaney; Creative Office Pavilion; Devine Millimet; G&A Insurance; Harvey Construction; MassMutual; Merrimack Office Properties; Northeast Planning Associates, Inc.; Raymond James/Morgan Keegan; and Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. •

MA CREDIT UNIONS DONATE BOOKS TO KIDS IN NEED

PARTICIPATING CREDIT UNIONS: Attleboro Municipal Employees Federal Credit Union Berkshire Federal Credit Union Brookline Municipal Credit Union City of Boston Credit Union CPCU Credit Union Credit Union of the Berkshires Crescent Credit Union Everett Credit Union Fall River Municipal Credit Union First Priority Credit Union Freedom Credit Union

Standing (L to R) with some of the 3,607 books they helped collect and organize for the Massachusetts Credit

Goldmark Federal Credit Union

Union League’s statewide book drive are Hanscom FCU President/CEO David Sprague, Training Specialist

Grafton Suburban Credit Union

Sandy Imbrogna, Chairman of the Board Paul Marotta, and Senior Vice President, Operations James Potter.

Hanscom Federal Credit Union

Since 2001, Massachusetts credit unions have collected and donated more than 267,000 books to a variety of family service agencies throughout the state, including the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, to benefit thousands of underprivileged children. Each year during the month of April, the Massachusetts Credit Union League promotes the collection of children’s books. In May, more than 16,000 books were distributed by 40 credit unions, including the league, for the Children’s Book Drive. It is hard to believe that the simple act of donating a book could make a difference in a child’s life, but it’s true. The credit unions that participated in the Children’s Book Drive went a long way in helping the coalition and other agencies give less fortunate and homeless children throughout the commonwealth a book of their own. Many credit unions work with local sponsor companies, schools, community groups, members, etc. City of Boston Credit Union, Boston, MA, received 1,200 books from a local West Roxbury children’s bookstore. The store was in the process of closing, and the owner was thrilled to find a use for all the children’s books. He had received a flier about the book drive at a community business meeting. Grafton Suburban Credit Union, Grafton, MA, received a little help from Cub Scout Pack 150 of Northbridge, which donated more than 400 books. Karla McCarron, marketing director at City of Boston Credit Union, and Pauline Tranter, human resources director at Grafton Suburban Credit Union, were happy with their book drive results and plan to participate again. Hanscom Federal Credit Union, Hanscom AFB, MA, collected 3,607 books, more than any other participating credit union. Each year the staff at Hanscom embraces this project as a full team effort by collecting books throughout the year. Rounding out the top five credit unions are City of Boston Credit Union, 2,642 books; Freedom Credit Union Springfield, MA, 1,425 books; Merrimack Valley Federal Credit Union, Lawrence, MA, 1,321 books; and MassMutual Federal Credit Union, Springfield, MA, 1,065 books. The agencies that received the books expressed their gratitude and pleasure with the quantity and quality of the books. Leominster Credit Union donated books within its local community to the Reading Aloud Challenge, which disbursed the books to more than 180 homeless Leominster students. The Children’s Book Drive celebrates the value of reading by providing children with thousands of books to open their imaginations and inspire them. Reading helps young children expand their vocabulary and writing skills, promotes healthy social and emotional development, and fosters longer attention spans, which translates to better retention in school. The League’s Social Responsibility Committee thanks the credit unions that participated in this year’s book drive for recognizing the value of reading and showing children a new world. •

Harvard University Employees Credit Union Haverhill Fire Department Credit Union IC Federal Credit Union Landmark Credit Union Leominster Credit Union Luso-American Credit Union Mass Bay Credit Union MassMutual Federal Credit Union Members Plus Credit Union Merrimack Valley Federal Credit Union Metro Credit Union Metro West Community Federal Credit Union New Bedford Credit Union Polish National Credit Union Premier Source Credit Union RAH Federal Credit Union River Works Credit Union RTN Federal Credit Union Seaport Credit Union Southbridge Credit Union Southern Mass. Credit Union STCU Credit Union St. Anne’s Credit Union of Fall River, Mass. St. Jean’s Credit Union Taunton Federal Credit Union Tremont Credit Union fall.2014 | centerpoint | 9

C O M MU N I T Y I N VO LV E M E N T

CREDIT UNIONS OF RHODE ISLAND DONATE $65,000 TO SPECIAL OLYMPICS RHODE ISLAND

A foursome from Navigant Credit Union was the winning team and took home the tournament trophy. Pictured from left are Joseph Beretta, Gary Furtado, Special Olympics Rhode Island Athlete Michael Lucca, and John McCarthy. Missing from photo is team member Jeff Furtado.

From left: Credit Union Association of Rhode Island Social Responsibility Committee Chair David Dupere and Association President Paul Gentile present the $65,000 check to Special Olympics Rhode Island Executive Director Dennis DeJesus (far right) and Special Olympics Rhode Island Athlete Michael Lucca during the awards dinner.

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The Credit Union Association of Rhode Island presented a $65,000 check to Special Olympics Rhode Island at the Credit Unions of Rhode Island Charity Golf Tournament on July 14. These funds represent the total amount raised this year by credit unions, members, sponsors, etc. The association’s Social Responsibility Committee set a goal of raising $65,000 in September 2013. This brings a 17-year total to $714,100. The event, which was the culmination of an outstanding year of fundraising, took place at the scenic Crestwood Country Club in Rehoboth, MA. One hundred and four golfers and 47 sponsors combined to make the Credit Unions of Rhode Island Charity Golf Tournament a tremendous success. The group enjoyed a great day of camaraderie and networking out on the course and afterward during the awards banquet. Special Olympics Rhode Island athlete Michael Lucca added a little extra challenge to the day by conducting a contest on the practice putting green with each team as they approached hole No. 1. The group from Dexter Credit Union – Stephen Angell, David Angell, Thomas Kiley, and Mark Shaw – won that competition with a score of 19. Navigant Credit Union claimed the winning Low Gross Team, and the credit union’s foursome of Gary Furtado, Joseph Beretta, Jeff Furtado, and John McCarthy was the trophy winner with a score of 66. The team from Greenwood Credit Union, which included James Irving, Joseph Lajoie, Tom Ahern, and Jack Bamford, won the Low Net Team honor. In addition, many individual skills contests were won: • Low Gross Individual: Jim Irving, 70 – Greenwood Credit Union • Low Net Individual: Mark McLaughlin, 64 – Pawtucket Credit Union • Best-Ball Scramble Format winning team: Tom Furtado, Rick Proulx, Jim Nagel, Jim Simmons – Navigant Credit Union • Men’s Straightest Drive: Ron LeClair – Pawtucket Credit Union • Women’s Straightest Drive: Laurie Flaxington – Pawtucket Credit Union • Closest to the Pin Contests: Brian McDonald – Winbrook/COCC; Jeff Rosen – NES Group, Inc.; Jeff Gagnon – Navigant Credit Union; Jeff Rosen – NES Group, Inc. After dinner, Dennis DeJesus, executive director of Special Olympics Rhode Island, with Special Olympics Rhode Island athlete Michael Lucca, accepted the special check for $65,000

from David Dupéré, the association’s Social Responsibility Committee chairman, Special Olympics board member, and executive vice president and chief operating officer of Wave Federal Credit Union, and Paul Gentile, association president. DeJesus expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the association and member credit unions. “Special Olympics Rhode Island is proud of our partnership with the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island. Through your year-round fundraising efforts, you support the concepts of acceptance, inclusion, and respect for those individuals with intellectual disabilities,” he said. “Thank you to the member credit unions of the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island. Your generosity and support is a testament to the credit union philosophy of helping people and a value we highly regard within the Special Olympics Rhode Island community.” •

THE CREDIT UNION ASSOCIATION OF RHODE ISLAND THANKS THE TOURNAMENT’S SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS Greenwood Credit Union Navigant Credit Union Pawtucket Credit Union People’s Credit Union Wave Federal Credit Union Westerly Community Credit Union Credit Union Association of Rhode Island The Kelliher Corbett Group at Morgan Stanley Partridge Snow & Hahn, LLP GOLD SPONSORS PGE Federal Credit Union CUNA Mutual Group Fiserv SILVER SPONSORS Rhode Island Credit Union Connecticut On-Line Computer Center (COCC) Winbrook BRONZE SPONSORS Cranston Municipal Employees Credit Union CO-OP Financial Services

RI VOLUNTEERS HELP ATHLETES GO FOR THE GOLD

RI credit union volunteers assemble at the beginning of a busy day at the Special Olympics Summer Games.

More than 60 volunteers representing eight credit unions and the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island spent May 30 at the University of Rhode Island helping to make the Special Olympics of Rhode Island Summer Games a success. The volunteers were responsible for “clerking” the walking and running events. “Clerking” involves checking athletes in, gathering them into “heats” for their races and escorting them to the track. This assistance, according to the Special Olympics event organizers, is crucial to the success of the event. Many of the athletes’ families and coaches were appreciative of all the credit union volunteers’ efforts and commented on the wonderful job they do every year. This year’s credit union volunteers included employees from Alliance Blackstone Valley Federal Credit Union, Blackstone River Federal Credit Union, Navigant Credit Union, Pawtucket Credit Union, People’s Credit Union, Rhode Island Credit Union, Wave Federal Credit Union, and Westerly Community Credit Union. The credit union employees and volunteers at this event are an enthusiastic and committed group, and many have participated for several years. Peter Desilliers of Westerly Community Credit Union is a

great example of that spirit. Desilliers spent the first day of his retirement at the Special Olympics Summer Games, volunteering with the credit union contingent. Remarking on the experience, he said, “I couldn’t imagine not being here. It’s such a privilege to be here and see these athletes compete and to be able to help out.” All of the volunteers took a minute from their duties to give Desilliers a round of applause and congratulate him on his retirement after nearly 40 years of service at Westerly Community Credit Union. On ,June 1, 10 volunteers from Coventry Credit Union worked and served the barbecue lunch to athletes and guests at the Summer Games. The credit union has adopted this activity each year. A volunteer from Greenwood Credit Union also volunteered at the day’s events. Throughout the year, the association hosts a number of events to support the Special Olympics financially, including golf and bowling tournaments, candy sales, and direct fundraising. The Association Board and Social Responsibility Committee thank all of the volunteers that participated in the Special Olympics Rhode Island Summer Games on behalf of the association and its credit unions. • fall.2014 | centerpoint | 11

2014 Annual Meetings and Conventions Provide Credit Unions with

Great Opportunities for Education & Networking

Photos Top to bottom: Pictured, from left: NH Credit Union League Chairman Jerry Demoulin introduces Wish Mom Jen holding Wish Child Isabella; Donna Parker, Vice President of Development, Make-A-WishÂŽ New Hampshire, holding Isabellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister Lilly, with League President Paul Gentile behind. Association Chairman David Suvall (left) congratulates retiring Association Director Stephen White. Board members chat among themselves before the Annual Meeting is gaveled to order.

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nnual Meetings and Conventions have been a proud tradition among the credit unions of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. While conducting the business of their respective Association or Leagues, directors of credit unions have long used this opportunity to not only network about progress and problems and how to do their work better in their credit unions, but also to form genuine friendships – made and maintained during this annual rite. This spring, the Massachusetts Credit Union League and New Hampshire Credit Union League each held its Annual Meeting and Convention, and the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island held its Annual Meeting and Get-together. MASSACHUSETTS CREDIT UNIONS ‘CREATING COOPERATIVE POWER’ AT ANNUAL MEETING AND CONVENTION More than 300 credit union registrants, their guests, speakers, and sponsors attended the Massachusetts Credit Union League Annual Meeting and Convention, June 22-25 in Charleston, SC. The convention began when League President Paul Gentile welcomed the group, complete with honor guard and soloist from the Charleston Air Force Base, to lead all in the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. He expressed his appreciation for the support of the convention, saying that “when we come together like this to share ideas and learn together, we demonstrate our commitment to our cooperative roots – our theme for this year’s convention, ‘Creating Cooperative Power,’ reflects that commitment.” Attendees gathered for two days of insightful and valuable presentations by industry speakers. John Tippets, former CEO of American Airlines Credit Union and author, brought a motivational message with the harrowing tale of his father’s survival after an airplane crash in Alaska during WWII, which is also recounted in his book, “Hearts of Courage.” His lessons for credit unions were the value of cooperation, the importance of mastering core competencies, and the need for a positive mental attitude. In his “NCUA Update” presentation, NCUA Board Member Rick Metsger publicly declared he is joining Chairman Debbie Matz in supporting HR 719, a move which now means the bill is a legislative priority for the agency. Metsger focused most of his remarks on the Agency’s RBNW proposal. He described the relationship between performance and riskbased net worth. He stressed that RBNW measures the right things, but also noted that the proposed rule is not perfect and that changes must be made. He listed the following changes that he would be likely to support: • A longer phase-in period • Clarifying that examiners cannot raise individual credit unions’ capital requirements • Adjusting risk weights for CUSOs and corporate perpetual stock • Adjusting the risk weight for cash at the Fed • Adjusting risk weights where there are SBA, VA, or USDA guarantees

Metsger also fielded questions on the agency’s approach to small credit unions, interest rate risk, and amount of time examiners spend in the field at credit unions. Patrick Adams, president of St. Louis Community Credit Union, gave a lively presentation entitled “Marketing: More Than Spray and Pray.” Adams wove common sense, unique insight, and humor into a dynamic and interactive presentation that gave the audience plenty to think about. Mark Ayers from Macpage LLC presented a special breakout session on “Understanding Credit Union Financials” for new directors. This session provided a clear and step-by-step look at the financial reports. During her presentation, Harriet May displayed the combination of wit, grace, and common sense that has made her such an important figure in today’s credit union movement. She stated that credit unions must focus on the financial needs of their members and be guided by those needs. She also spent time addressing the importance of credit unions, concentrating on working together and seeking common ground. The panel of South Carolina credit union CEOs provided an interesting perspective for the Massachusetts credit union crowd. The dialogue with the audience also provided some useful ideas to the panelists. One interesting innovation that the panelists shared was a local lending CUSO that they have organized. In her session on succession planning, Maureen Kenney from Macpage LLC addressed this increasingly important topic for credit Continued on page 14 fall.2014 | centerpoint | 13

2014 Annual Meetings and Conventions Continued from previous page

unions. She addressed the demographics of credit union senior managers and the necessity of a solid plan and best practices. The “Future of the Massachusetts Credit Union League” session, presented by League President Paul Gentile, provided an in-depth look at the merger of the Massachusetts Credit Union League, New Hampshire Credit Union League, and the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island, about which credit unions will vote this fall. He explained the operational synergies that will allow the League to continue to introduce new programs and services. It is proposed that the new, merged group will operate under the name “The Cooperative Credit Union Association.” Gentile also shared the unique plan that has been devised to ensure that the credit unions of each state have a distinct brand and identity, important for legislative and regulatory advocacy, social responsibility, and public awareness. On June 25, the Massachusetts Credit Union League held its 2014 Annual Meeting. A number of reports were made to the membership. In his chairman’s report, David Surface, president of St. Jean’s Credit Union, addressed the future of the League, saying, “We have a long history of working together as a group of credit unions. In fact, our League is the oldest in the nation. Now we are in the process of taking our cooperative principles to the next level by bringing about a merger.” Paul Gentile thanked the board of directors and the credit union community for the support that they have given him during his early days as League president. He said, “Massachusetts is a truly wonderful state with a strong credit union system. I have been impressed with the cooperative spirit that I have seen in our credit union community.” The Credentials Committee presented the results of the recently held elections for Director-at-Large: Robert Cashman, CEO, Metro Credit Union; Roland Draper, CEO, Somerville Municipal Federal Credit Union; and David Surface, president/CEO, St. Jean’s Credit Union. At recent Chapter annual meetings, the following Chapter directors were re-elected: Evelyn Torrey, president/treasurer of Berkshire Federal Credit Union, and David Plantier, president/CEO of MassMutual Federal Credit Union. The Annual Meeting also provides the opportunity for the League to recognize credit union’s that have achieved milestone anniversaries: • Leominster Credit Union – 60 years • Brookline Municipal Credit Union – 75 years • Harvard University Employees Credit Union – 75 years • Brotherhood Credit Union – 80 years • First Priority Credit Union – 90 years • Crescent Credit Union – 95 years • Workers’ Credit Union – 100 years Boston Firefighters Credit Union was recognized with a proclamation, praising the credit union’s efforts on behalf of the firefighters, Lt. Edward J. Walsh and Firefighter Michael R. Kennedy, who were killed battling a nine-alarm blaze in Boston’s Back Bay earlier this year. Additionally, two members of the League staff were recognized by the board with proclamations that cited their years of service and many accomplishments. League President Paul Gentile presented John E. (Jack) Morrill, vice president, educational programming, and Marguerite A. (Peggie) Thorsen, vice president, publications and conventions, with framed copies of the proclamations. In their free time, attendees enjoyed the many historic sights, ex14 | centerpoint | fall.2014

Photos Top to bottom: League Chairman Jerry Dumoulin (right) and League President Paul Gentile at the Welcome Reception held in Gentile’s honor. Rhode Island General Treasurer Gina Raimondo was presented with the Desjardins Financial Education Award by Chairman David Suvall (left) and President Paul Gentile on behalf of CUNA.

ceptional restaurants, and the aura of the beautiful city of Charleston. The League thanks those sponsors whose generous support helped make the 2014 Annual Meeting and Convention a success: MSIC, CUNA Mutual Group, Synergent, CO-OP Financial Services, Balance Sheet Solutions, and South Carolina Federal Credit Union. ‘LEADING THE WAY … 60 YEARS:’ NEW HAMPSHIRE CREDIT UNION LEAGUE CELEBRATES AT ANNUAL CONVENTION More than 170 credit union CEOs, directors, and guests gathered June 6-8 at the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, NH, for the New Hampshire Credit Union League’s 60th Annual Meeting and Convention. The League celebrated its leading the way through innovation and leadership to create solutions, services, and programs exclusively to meet the needs of its member credit unions. The group attended several informative and impactful general sessions on Friday. League President Paul Gentile moderated a panel consisting of New Hampshire Deputy Bank Commissioner Ingrid White, League Retained Lobbyist David Collins, and League Retained Counsel Russell Hilliard. The discussion focused on the legislative and regulatory issues affecting credit unions in the Granite State, including an update Continued on page 16

2014 Annual Meetings and Conventions Continued from previous page on the recodification of New Hampshire’s banking statutes as an overhaul to make processes simpler. “This is a great opportunity for credit unions and banks to work together with legislators,” Collins said of the changes. CEOs and directors sat in a special presentation given by Gentile, “The Future of the League.” The group listened to the details of the proposed merger of the three state leagues – New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Several questions were asked that initiated positive dialogue among the participants. Lt. Colonel Robert Darling recounted his eyewitness account of the first 24 hours of the terrorist attack on the U.S. on September 11, 2001. During that hour, the room was enrapt in his story, describing his personal experience inside the President’s Bunker and the minuteby-minute drama that unfolded beneath the White House – including actual dialogue that ensued among our nation’s leaders. He ended with a message to all: “Because of you, our first responders and military members will continue to protect us because they know you are doing your part here at home to take care of their families. On behalf of those war fighters, thank you. Never underestimate the enormous impact you have on the lives of so many!” The guests kicked off the evening with a special welcome reception for League President Paul Gentile and a look back at more than 100 years of credit union moments in New Hampshire during dinner. At the Saturday morning Business Meeting, delegates heard reports from numerous League committees, as well as Chairman Gerald Dumoulin and Gentile. They also heard from special guest speakers including Deputy Bank Commissioner Ingrid White, CUNA Chairman Dennis Pierce, and CUNA Mutual Group Sales Executive Jeffrey Pierce. Attendees were reminded about the importance of family and how credit unions are a valued member of the Make-A-Wish® family as expressed by both Make-A-Wish® New Hampshire Director of Development Donna Parker and Wish child Isabella’s mom Jen. The nominating committee announced the results of the election held for positions on the League’s Board of Directors. Gerald Dumoulin, president/CEO, Guardian Angel Credit Union; Brian Hughes, president/CEO, Holy Rosary Credit Union; and John Young, president/CEO, New Hampshire Federal Credit Union, were re-elected to the board for three-year terms. Credit unions celebrating anniversaries this year were recognized at the meeting, including: • Guardian Angel Credit Union – 85 years • Triangle Credit Union – 75 years • MembersFirst Credit Union of NH – 65 years • Cheshire County Federal Credit Union – 55 years • St. Joseph Hospital Employees’ Credit Union – 45 years Those celebrating anniversaries but not in attendance were Anheuser-Busch Employees Credit Union, 75 years, and NH Community Federal Credit Union, 55 years. Ten sponsors helped support the 2014 Annual Convention. The League would like to thank this year’s sponsors: Tricorp Federal Credit Union, Experian, CUNA Mutual Group, Synergent, CO-OP Financial Services, CUAlliance, Macpage, LLC, CU Direct Corporation, New Hampshire Higher Education Loan Corporation, and OM Financial Group. 16 | centerpoint | fall.2014

Photos Top to bottom: MA Credit Union League attendees enjoy a reception at the antique Riviera Theater. Special Olympics Rhode Island athlete Christina Peacock (left) and Special Olympics Rhode Island Executive Director Dennis DeJesus speak at the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island Annual Meeting. League President presents a board proclamation to Boston Firefighters Credit Union for their assistance raising funds for of the families of the firefighters killed in the Back Bay blaze. Chairman David Suvall speaks to the members at Credit Union Association of Rhode Island Annual Meeting.

CREDIT UNION ASSOCIATION OF RHODE ISLAND HOLDS 80TH ANNUAL MEETING Rhode Island credit union representatives gathered for the 80th Annual Meeting of the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island on Wednesday, May 7, at Alpine Country Club in Cranston, RI. Prior to the official start of the annual meeting, Rhode Island General Treasurer Gina Raimondo was presented with the Desjardins Financial Education Award by Chairman David Suvall and President Paul Gentile on behalf of CUNA. Accepting the award, the treasurer spoke about what a great honor it was and how pleased she was that Rhode Island was achieving this type of recognition. She went on to speak of the commitment to providing financial education to young people that she and the credit unions of Rhode Island share. She said, “It’s what we do together, strengthening Rhode Island one young person at a time, one family at a time.” Attendees heard reports from Association committees, as well as Chairman David Suvall and Gentile. A number of special guest speakers also addressed the meeting, including Tracy MacNeil, sales executive, CUNA Mutual Group, and Special Olympics Rhode Island Executive Director Dennis DeJesus and Global Ambassador Christina Peacock, who received a standing ovation. At the annual meeting, four directors were re-elected to three-year terms: Ellen N. Ford, CEO, People’s Credit Union; James M. Irving, president/CEO, Greenwood Credit Union; Eugene V. Leco, president, Kent Hospital Federal Credit Union; and Kenneth Saunders, president/CEO, Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union. The following individuals submitted nominations and were elected for threeyear terms: Stephen J. Angell, Esq., president/CEO/general counsel, Dexter Credit Union; Robert T. Falso, executive vice president/CFO, Westerly Community Credit Union; and David L. Root, CEO, Coventry Credit Union. Director Stephen White, who chose not to seek re-election, was honored as a Credit Union Association of Rhode Island retiring director and recognized for more than 35 years of service to the credit union movement. He has been an association director since 2002, served as chairman from 2010-2011, served on numerous Association committees, and has been president/CEO of Westerly Community Credit Union for the last 14 years. Suvall noted, “I would like to thank Steve for his many years of service to the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island and to the credit unions in Rhode Island.” Suvall presented White with a gift in appreciation of his many years of service to the Association. Two credit unions celebrating anniversaries in 2014 were recognized but not in attendance: Postal Employees Regional Federal Credit Union, 85 years, and Pawtucket Municipal Employees Federal Credit Union, 50 years. Photos Top to bottom: Attendees bid on items at the silent auction for Make-A-Wish® of New Hampshire Foundation NH Credit Union League Chairman Jerry Demoulin addresses attendees at the Annual Convention. MA Credit Union League Board members enjoy friendly conversations before the Annual Meeting starts. Lt. Col. Robert J. Darling relates his experience in the White House bunker on

THE BOTTOM LINE Each year, they meet to glean information and network with each other to gain new insights and methods so they can do more for their members while earning a stable return, so they can, once again, do more for their members. They are all decent business people, sharing what unifies them – the credit union ideals, chief among them, “People Helping People.” •

September 12, 2001, to the NH Credit Union League Annual Convention.

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HOW DIGITAL MARKETING CHANNELS FOR LENDING CAN ACTUALLY ENHANCE PERSONAL SERVICE By Ben Klepzig

Financial institutions clearly see how important digital marketing channels have become as more consumers shop for loans online, especially on smartphones and tablet computers.

Traditional marketing, however, is still crucial to driving loan growth. The key is to integrate your marketing strategies across all channels. This is especially important to credit unions because our industry’s brand is a commitment to personal service, which you may believe is diluted by remote lending channels.

CAPTURE SMARTPHONE AND TABLET USERS WITH A MOBILE-FRIENDLY WEBSITE If your traditional media lending product ads refer people to your website, smartphone and tablet users should be able to read the content and navigate the loan process relatively easily.

THE 550 CREDIT UNIONS USING THE COMPANY’S ONLINE LENDING PLATFORM, LOANLINER.COM, RECEIVE $2.4 MILLION IN LOAN REQUESTS PER DAY FROM MOBILE DEVICES. That doesn’t have to happen. You can actually extend the reach of your personal interactions with members – and improve their lending experience – by using your traditional and remote marketing channels to reinforce one another. 18 | centerpoint | fall.2014

Web designers call this “usability,” and it’s becoming more critical for mobile device users every day. According to CUNA Mutual Group statistics, the 550 credit unions using the company’s online lending platform, loanliner.com, receive $2.4 mil-

lion in loan requests per day from mobile devices. Providing a customized lending experience for mobile users appears to improve the online application completion rate. In the first year after CUNA Mutual Group added Smartphone Loans—which customizes loanliner.com for mobile devices – the average overall completion rate for loanliner.com applications grew nearly 10 percent. Consider improving mobile users’ lending experience by implementing responsive web design, a method of coding your website so it adapts to whatever device is being used. Be sure to coordinate any responsive web design coding with your loan operating system provider. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MOBILE DEVICE CAPABILITIES Smartphones and tablets do more than display web pages. Look for ways to take advantage of two other attributes: mobility and cameras. If members have access to your credit union while they’re on an auto dealer’s lot, for example, you could deliver significantly better loan terms and payment protection values than they’re likely to get from the dealer’s in-house finance rep. Offer members an app that helps them shop and compare cars by using their phones to scan VINs, and use traditional media campaigns to publicize this mobile capability. You can also use mobile device cameras’ ability to read QR codes. For example, a traditional direct mail piece could include a QR code that opens a loan application for the product you’re promoting. It’s convenient, and you can clearly track how often members use the channel. FEED SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS A REGULAR, VARIED DIET Unfortunately, it’s not hard to find a credit union Facebook, Twitter, or other social network account that hasn’t been updated in months or years. If you look at

the posts on these accounts, you’re likely to see something akin to traditional ad campaigns and little else. Your social media followers may value news about loan promotions and other products or services. But you must also provide relevant, useful, entertaining, and engaging content regularly – daily in most cases – and you must be ready to respond immediately when people post questions, concerns, or comments. In addition to providing staff with the ability and authority to post and respond quickly, it’s best to have several weeks of lending campaign content planned, written, and reviewed by a compliance expert in advance. This allows you to coordinate your traditional ad campaigns with Facebook posts, tweets, Pinterest images, etc. THE ‘CASH MOB’: MARRYING SOCIAL AND TRADITIONAL MEDIA A great example of marketing channel integration is the “cash mob.” Credit unions seeking to increase their business lending portfolios have augmented traditional ads with social media campaigns

that direct followers to a local business on a certain day, when the credit union provides gift certificates to a limited number of customers. It’s a good public relations tool for the credit union, as local media may pick up the story and social media followers will disperse the message virally. It also supports small businesses and the community while building goodwill among folks who get something free courtesy of the credit union. All that, plus the credit union accomplishes its main marketing goal: increasing awareness of its business lending program. Campaigns such as the cash mob demonstrate that social media networks work best when you integrate their culture of interactivity, creativity, and spontaneity. EXPAND THE ‘PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE’ PARADIGM For a credit union, the word “social” in “social media” should mean more than multiple, virtual connections and immediate two-way communication. It should also mean that members learn more about your employees – what they’re like, how they can help, why they set your credit union apart

from your competitors. For example, use social media to conduct webinars and promote face-to-face presentations in branches, schools, community centers, local service organization meetings, etc. Offer credit counseling, home buyer/ seller seminars, youth financial literacy programs – whatever your community needs most. And here’s the important part: Let the personality of your employees shine through. Use candid photos and videos and have fun. Also, help employees develop their presentation and writing skills so they’re more effective ambassadors in person and on social media. In order for your employees to communicate a consistent message through whichever channels they use to interact with members, your credit union must keep them up to date on your key marketing strategies and tactics. • Ben Klepzig is a senior marketing manager for CUNA Mutual Group. Reach him at ben.klepzig@ cunamutual.com.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RISING STARS 2014

Martha Correia, VP Regional Branch Manager

Ross Silva, Marketing Manager

fall.2014 | centerpoint | 19

C R E D I T U N I O N P EO P L E

In Memoriam Daniel Golden, 50, of Merrimac, MA, lost a short but tough battle with cancer on July 26. He was a Director of Align Credit Union, Lowell, MA, for many years. The directors and staff of the League/Association extend their most sincere condolences to the Golden family. Daniel Golden

Bernard J. McDonald III Appointed to Board of Directors at St. Anne’s Credit Union of Fall River, Mass. Board Chairman William R. Bouchard announced Bernard J. McDonald III’s appointment to the board of directors at St. Anne’s Credit Union of Fall River, Mass. McDonald is the register of deeds for the Fall River District Registry of Deeds, a position he has held for 20 years. “I am extremely pleased to welcome McDonBernard McDonald III ald to the board and look forward to a long association,” Bouchard said. “BJ is a great addition and is already working hard representing the best interest of St. Anne’s members.” McDonald said he is “happy to join the board at St. Anne’s,” and “looks forward to helping the credit union attain its goals of success and prosperity.” McDonald is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and B.M.C. Durfee High School. He is a lifelong resident of Fall River, and resides there with his wife Michelle, and their children, BJ and Kate. McDonald is a past president of the MA Registers and Asst. Registers of Deeds Association, and past chairman of the Bristol County Insurance Advisory Board. McDonald is also a board member of the Fall River Boys and Girls Club, a position he has held since 1997. He is active in the following organizations: CYO and Milliken/Silva boys and girls basketball teams, North Park baseball and PAL girls softball, Fall River youth soccer boys and girls, and the coach of the Durfee High School boys J.V. basketball team. He has also helped with the Durfee After Prom Committee, is a former mentor at the Boys and Girls Club, and is an avid participant of many other local activities.

L’Ecuyer Honored by NH Business Committee for the Arts Michael A. L’Ecuyer was selected as the Leadership Award winner by the New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts on May 12. L’Ecuyer, president and CEO of Bellwether Community Credit Union, Manchester, NH, received the Leadership Award for his longstanding record of board service to the Palace Theatre Michael A. L’Ecuyer and for successfully leveraging his leadership and business knowledge into supporting a variety of arts in the state. 20 | centerpoint | fall.2014

He received the award at the organization’s 30th annual celebration at the Center of New Hampshire/Radisson Hotel in Manchester, NH. The event was attended by some 325 supporters.

Greylock Federal Credit Union’s Sperling Receives ‘Women of FIRE’ Award Marilyn L. Sperling, president of Greylock Federal Credit Union, Pittsfield, MA, has been named a Women of FIRE by Banker & Tradesman newspaper. The Women of FIRE awards recognize key female players in the local FIRE (finance, insurance, and real estate) sector. Sperling was one of 14 exceptional women Marilyn L. Sperling to receive the award. Sperling said, “Women of FIRE is a prestigious award in our industry. It is gratifying to be recognized and an honor to be in the company of such accomplished women. I am thankful to Banker & Tradesman for being chosen.” The fourth annual Women of FIRE Awards celebrate the best and the brightest women who are paving the way for other women to rise to the top of what used to be male-dominated industries. An awards luncheon was held for the winners at the Sheraton Commander in Cambridge, MA., on July 17. State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump gave the keynote speech. Banker & Tradesman featured profiles of each woman in a special section on July 14.

National Trade Publication Names Service Credit Union CRO Foret a ‘Woman to Watch’ Service Credit Union, Portsmouth, NH, Chief Risk Officer Ana Foret was recently named a “Woman to Watch,” an honor given by the Credit Union Times publication. Foret was nominated by her peers. The honor spotlights influential, forward-thinking women reshaping the future of the credit union community. Ana Foret Credit Union Times recognizes women across all departments, ages, and experience who are challenging the status quo and pushing creative solutions to address the challenges facing their credit union or the national financial industry. As the credit union’s CRO, Foret identifies, manages, assesses, and monitors risk enterprise-wide to ensure strategic initiatives are accomplished. Foret is in charge of information security to assure that the highest-level security pertaining to member data is maintained. She oversees the company’s business resumption plan, vendor due diligence, and project management risk. Service Credit Union President and CEO Gordon Simmons promoted Ana Foret to CRO, a newly created position at the credit union, at the beginning of 2014. Foret previously served as the credit union’s chief internal auditor for the past 10 years, managing a staff of five. Prior to coming to the credit union, she was employed by McGladrey & Pullen LLP where she conducted internal audits for credit unions.

“Service Credit Union is honored that Ms. Foret was recognized for this prestigious honor,” says Simmons. ”She is innovative and forward-thinking, and has been a great asset to our senior leadership team. I am proud of Ms. Foret’s accomplishments and congratulate her.” Foret earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Hampshire and is a certified public accountant in New Hampshire.

Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union Announces New CFO Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, Lowell, MA, announced that Susan Hannigan, CPA, has joined the credit union as its new senior vice president and chief financial officer. Hannigan has more than 25 years of experience at Wolf and Co. P.C. with a concentration in financial institutions. She is a graduate Susan Hannigan of Stonehill College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Hannigan currently resides in Hanover, MA, with her husband, and has two grown daughters. “Susan Hannigan has extensive experience in audit and accounting principles, and we are pleased to bring her expertise to Jeanne D’Arc,” said Mark S. Cochran, president and CEO of Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union.

Service Credit Union’s Harrigan to Serve on NH Foreclosure Study Commission The New Hampshire Credit Union League has selected Patrick Harrigan, vice president of regulatory compliance and general counsel at Service Credit Union, Portsmouth, NH, to serve on the commission to study New Hampshire mortgage foreclosure law, new federal regulations, and fair foreclosure practices pursuant Patrick Harrigan to Senate bill 306. The bill stipulated that the league would nominate an individual to serve on the commission, which is required to hold its first meeting on or before August 25.

Brotherhood Credit Union Welcomes Drake as Vice President of Lending & Business Development At a recent meeting of the board of directors, Brotherhood Credit Union, Lynn, MA, elected Alden H. Drake was as vice president of lending and business development. Having received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in urban studies and city planning from M.I.T., Drake started his professional career as Alden H. Drake the director of neighborhood development and the assistant director of community development for the city of Lynn. Working with the community showed Drake the important role that financial education plays in the life of individuals, fami-

lies, businesses, and communities. This inspired him to pursue a license as a professional Certified Financial Planner, which allows him to help friends, family, clients, and community members manage credit and make sound financial decisions. Drake noted, “Members can expect to receive personalized service with integrity and someone ready to help them along the way.” When he is not helping community members realize their dreams of home ownership and business growth, Drake and his wife enjoy reading, gardening and hosting guests and visitors at their home in Wenham, MA. The Brotherhood Credit Union team is delighted to welcome Drake aboard.

King Appointed New Hampshire Federal Credit Union’s Vice President of Finance Timothy King of Gilmanton, NH, was recently appointed as the vice president of finance at the $240 million New Hampshire Federal Credit Union. In this new position, he will be responsible for overseeing asset liability management, investments, and general accounting operations. Timothy King King most recently held the position of assistant vice president of finance for Fidelity in Merrimack, NH. He has 30 of experience in community banking and brokerage firms, and is anxious to get to work in the credit union environment. “I have always enjoyed working in the family-style environment found in smaller, local institutions like New Hampshire Federal Credit Union,” King said. “I am excited to join such a well-respected leader in the credit union industry and in the local community.” Originally from Maryland, King earned his bachelor’s degree at Mount Saint Mary’s University. He moved to New Hampshire in 1999 and considers the state a beautiful place to live, work, and raise a family.

Jendzejec Joins Rhode Island Credit Union as VP/Lending David B. Suvall, president and CEO of Rhode Island Credit Union, Providence, RI, announced that Maureen K. Jendzejec has joined the credit union as vice president of lending. She is responsible for directing and coordinating all lending activities within the credit union, including mortgages, consumer loans, credit cards, and Maureen K. Jendzejec collections. In addition, she is responsible for ensuring that lending operations are compliant with all regulations and conform to established policies and procedures. Jendzejec has more than 35 years of lending experience. She is the treasurer of the Coventry Housing Associates board, treasurer of the CHS Alumni Association, and Parish Council member of SSJP Church. • fall.2014 | centerpoint | 21

C R E D I T U N I O N C A L E N DA R

Special Events

Webinar And Webcast Sessions

CONFERENCES AND CONVENTIONS

Member Business Lending: Risks, Rewards, Controls & Common Mistakes October 2

Small Credit Union Conference October 5.......Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside, Portsmouth, NH Fall Leadership Conference October 24-26................Wentworth by the Sea, New Castle, NH

Networks COMPLIANCE NETWORK Compliance Network Meeting November 6....................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA

HR NETWORK HR Network Meeting November 20..................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA

QuickBites

Traditional & Roth IRA Reporting Responsibilities: Requirements, Issues & Answers December 4

12 Fundamental Audit Steps to Strengthen Internal Controls October 7 Compliance & Legal Issues in Employee Screening: PreHire & Post-Hire October 8 Reg E for the Frontline: Compliance & Guidance for Error Resolution October 9 Recent Accounting Developments & Future Issues October 16 Emerging Leader Series: Turning Financial Statements into Useful Ratios & Trends October 21 Safe Deposit Boxes: Compliance, Legal Issues, Delinquencies & Death October 22

Creating a Lending Machine November 6

Seminars and Schools IRA Essentials October 7........................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA IRA Advanced October 8 .......................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Developing Great Managers – Part I of III – 2nd Session Open October 14......................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Developing Great Managers – Part I of III – 1st Session Filled October 15......................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Account Essentials October 21......................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Developing Great Managers – Part II of III – 2nd Session Open November 4....................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Developing Great Managers – Part II of III – 1st Session Filled November 5....................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Credit Union Employee Boot Camp November 19..................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA 2014 BSA Update November 13..................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Developing Great Managers – Part III of III – 1st Session Filled December 3....................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Developing Great Managers – Part III of III – 2nd Session Open December 4....................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Bankruptcy & Collections I December 9....................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA Bankruptcy & Collections II December 10..................Credit Union Center, Marlborough, MA

Real Estate Lending Series: Residential Appraisal Review December 9 Self-Examination for Fair Lending Compliance December 10 Director Series: What Can We Learn from Failed Credit Unions? December 11 Denied Loan Requirements: Consumer, Commercial & Residential December 16 Advertising Compliance: Website, Print, TV & Radio December 17 eBanking Incident Response: Do You Have a Plan if a Member is a Cybercrime Victim? December 18

Chapter Meetings – MA

Reduce IT Risk Assessment Time by 70% & Still Satisfy Examiners & Your Board October 28 Social Media Update: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter & YouTube October 29 Mobile Payments: What You Need to Know Now, What You Need to Do Next November 4

CENTRAL MA CHAPTER

Chapter Meeting November 11.............................. Coral Seafood, Worcester, MA

METRO-BOSTON CHAPTER

Joint meeting with Tri-County North Chapter October 15……………………….Seasons 52, Burlington, MA

PIONEER VALLEY CHAPTER

Top 10 Ways to Improve Skills as a Supervisory Committee Member November 5

Chapter Meeting October 14........................................................................ TBD December 9 ………………..TBD

Increasing the Bottom Line by Preventing Losses November 6

SOUTHERN MA CHAPTER

Chapter Meeting October 22.................................... Venus DeMilo, Swansea, MA December 10…………………. Chateau Restaurant, Norton, MA January 21, 2015…………Benjamin’s Restaurant, Taunton, MA

Obtaining & Securing Judgment Liens November 12 HR Audits for Credit Unions November 13 IRS Reporting Requirements: 1098s, 1099s, TINs, Backup Withholding & More November 18 Expanding Loan Portfolios & Improving Loan Profitability Using Credit Migration Modeling November 19 ACH Specialist Series: Handling ACH Exceptions & Returns December 2

Chapter Meetings – NH MERRIMACK VALLEY CHAPTER

Chapter Meeting October 21 …………… Fratellos Restaurant, Manchester, NH December 1 ……………. Executive Courtyard, Manchester, NH

MONADNOCK CHAPTER

Chapter Meeting December 11 ……………. Papagallo’s Restaurant, Keene, NH

Opening Accounts for Nonprofit Organizations December 3

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2014 WINNERS! PRES EN T E D B Y

Niki Charalambous

Thomas Hankard

Rica DeMoranville

Nicole James

Branch Manager Community Credit Union

Kelly Baldwin

Marketing & CRA Officer St. Anne’s Credit Union

Branch Manager First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union

Sharon Birchall

Lloyd L. Hamm Jr.

Business Development Officer Metro Credit Union

President & CEO Grafton Suburban Credit Union

22 | centerpoint | fall.2014

Trecia Marchand

Michael Shuman

Senior Vice President of Retail Services RTN Federal Credit Union

D. Oscar O’Connor

Jonah Wein

Linda Lagoy

Edward Petras

Branch Manager Webster First Federal Credit Union

Vice President, Regional Manager Workers’ Credit Union

Vice President of Marketing and Business Development, Pioneer Valley FCU

Vice President of Lending Operations Leominster Credit Union

Commercial Banking Officer Sharon Credit Union

Vice President of Lending Merrimack Valley Federal Credit Union

Vice President of Marketing Crescent Credit Union

CAP COM Federal Credit Union 117,000 sq. ft. Main Office Financial Center Albany, NY

They say a picture is worth a thousand words

www.nes-group.com

is worth 117,000 sq. ft.