When you bring nearly 450 credit union professionals together for four days of connection, learning and intentional reflection, something transformative happens. You feel it in the energy of a shared greeting and in the quiet moments between sessions when hallway conversations shift someone’s purpose. You hear it in the stories, the laughter, the affirmations, and the harmonies of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” You see it in the eyes of first-time attendees who say, “I truly felt seen.”

As Chief Experience Officer for the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), I have the privilege of experiencing our annual conference from two perspectives: the operational side that brings every detail to life, and the human side that feels its impact in real time. No matter how carefully you plan, there’s always uncertainty about how it will all come together. But I can say with full conviction, this year, it landed differently. This year’s theme, Not Like Us: We’re Bold, Mindful and Brave (complements of AACUC President/CEO Renée Sattiewhite and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Executive Vice President, Strategic Integration & Member Experience Kevin Martin), wasn’t just branding—it was a lived experience. And what we witnessed together in Alpharetta, Georgia, continues to resonate across our movement as evidenced by the overwhelming testimonials shared on social media—and inspiration for my reflections.

A space where people build people

AACUC’s conference has long been known for its family-reunion feel. This year, that sense of belonging was amplified. From the main stage to the breakout rooms, to the informal meetups over coffee, or at the community impact event or karaoke extravaganza, attendees shared how deeply they felt “poured into” and how committed they were to pouring back into others.

One attendee described being “welcomed, valued and encouraged” by everyone she met and another shared, “This wasn’t just a conference—it was a mirror, a catalyst and a call to action.” That’s the AACUC difference: We create space where people don’t just network; they connect. They don’t just learn; they evolve. And they don’t just attend; they belong.

Centering the work and the why

The conference offered an impressive lineup of thought leaders, innovators and credit union champions, including long-time AACUC partners, industry executives, and new voices shaping the future of the movement. From powerful keynotes to a reimagined Young Professionals Summit (shoutout to AACUC Operations and Internship Program Manager Tre’Vaughn Allen and AACUC Director of Programs and Training Espy Poblano), every session was designed with intention.

Attendees were inspired by leaders like Atlanta Braves Chief Culture Officer DeRetta Cole Rhodes, retired Local Government Federal Credit Union and Civic Federal Credit Union CEO Maurice R. Smith, Civic Federal Credit Union Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel Day Matthews, TruStage President/CEO Terrance Williams, BCU President/CEO Mike Valentine, and Georgia United Credit Union’s President/CEO Debbie Smith. We were moved by JP Enterprises CEO James Pogue, whose role as emcee blended brilliance, joy and challenge. We celebrated six extraordinary recipients of the Maurice R. Smith DEI Leadership Award—Carlos Calderon, Ronaldo Hardy, Susan Mitchell, Jim Morrell, George Ombado, and Joe Thomas—a moment that reminded us that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not optional but instead are essential. In a climate where DEI is increasingly under scrutiny, AACUC stood firm: DEI means “Definitely Earned It” as one presenter put it.

Several attendees reflected that this year’s event helped them reconnect to their "why"—why they serve, why DEI matters and why this work must continue. One attendee described this intentional inclusive mindset as “our superpower.”

Young professionals found their voice and their village

One of the most moving aspects of the conference was the presence and power of our young professionals. Whether they were speaking on panels, engaging in mentorship conversations, or participating in the Young Professionals Summit, their reflections pointed to something profound: representation and connection matter.

Many young professionals spoke of how important it was to see leaders who looked like them, who had walked similar paths and who showed them what’s possible. Several remarked, “You have to see it to believe it.” They left the conference not just inspired but committed to their own development, to lifting others, and to taking their place in this movement.

Restoring the soul while advancing the mission

We were deliberate about supporting the whole person, recognizing that true leadership and professional development is rooted in self-awareness, self-care, and overall well-being. The conference design prioritized opportunities to reflect, recharge, and be real. For some, that came through the deep wisdom of a hallway conversation. For others, through the music, the celebration, or the unspoken yet palpable spiritual connection shared among many.

From our opening to our closing, there was a steady current of authenticity. This wasn’t about posturing or performance. It was about honest conversations, vulnerable leadership, and a shared vision for what’s possible when we lead with boldness, mindfulness, and bravery.

Transformation in the making

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of AACUC staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to bring this experience to life. I’m proud to say we built more than a conference; we built a platform for transformation. The moments we curated, the connections we facilitated, and the space we held for truth and evolution are already rippling through the industry. No one left the conference the same way they arrived.

One reflection said it best: “This year’s AACUC conference wasn’t just another industry gathering. It was fellowship in its truest form.” We know that true fellowship doesn’t end when the conference does. Instead, it continues through action, accountability, and collective growth.

Looking ahead

As we reflect on the impact of our event, one thing is clear: we’re not just moving the credit union movement forward—we’re reshaping it to be more inclusive, more courageous, and more human. We’re investing in leaders who lead loudly, live boldly, and show up mindfully and bravely for their members, their teams, and their communities.

To everyone who showed up this year: thank you. Thank you for bringing your whole self, for sharing your truth, and for helping build the kind of industry we all deserve.

And to those who have not yet joined us: there’s a place for you at AACUC. We hope to see you in 2026 or even sooner.

Because together, we are Bold. Mindful. Brave. And we are just getting started.

Original article available here.