Location
6705 Sugarloaf Parkway
Duluth, 30097
United States
Date & Time
Price
About This Event
Discover the heart of the credit union movement at the Principles and Philosophy Conference, an inspiring event presented by the Credit Union Impact Foundation.
This unique, interactive conference dives deep into the Eight Cooperative Principles, connecting credit union professionals to our rich history, social purpose, and core values. Through engaging discussions and practical tools for community impact, you’ll gain insight and inspiration to make a meaningful difference for your members. No matter where you are in your career, the Principals and Philosophy Conference will reignite your passion for the credit union mission and equip you to serve your community with purpose and pride.
Who should attend? Young professionals new to credit unions, seasoned professionals from other industries interested in learning about the credit union model, and long-time credit union employees looking to deepen their connection to our purpose.
About This Event
Discover the heart of the credit union movement at the Principles and Philosophy Conference, an inspiring event presented by the Credit Union Impact Foundation.
This unique, interactive conference dives deep into the Eight Cooperative Principles, connecting credit union professionals to our rich history, social purpose, and core values. Through engaging discussions and practical tools for community impact, you’ll gain insight and inspiration to make a meaningful difference for your members. No matter where you are in your career, the Principals and Philosophy Conference will reignite your passion for the credit union mission and equip you to serve your community with purpose and pride.
Who should attend? Young professionals new to credit unions, seasoned professionals from other industries interested in learning about the credit union model, and long-time credit union employees looking to deepen their connection to our purpose.
Conference Highlights
The Principles and Philosophy Conference will begin on Tuesday, September 30 at 1:00 PM ET and conclude on Thursday, October 2 at 12:00 PM ET.
Exploring Why: The Credit Union Difference
Led by Tobi Weingart, SVP Member & Industry Engagement and Bobbi Grady, ED Credit Union Impact Foundation
Start your journey by diving into the foundational values that set credit unions apart. Through storytelling, reflection, and dialogue, this session reconnects participants with the Eight Cooperative Principles and the movement’s historical roots — helping you lead with greater clarity, purpose, and conviction.
Connecting the Dots: Community Impact & Policy Change
Speaker: Samantha Beeler, President, League of Credit Unions
This powerful session illustrates how community-based credit union work directly strengthens our collective advocacy. Learn how your service to members fuels policy change and why local impact is a critical lever in legislative influence.
Understanding ALICE: Making the Invisible Visible
Speaker: Brittany Burnett, Presidenet & CEO, United Way of CRSA Explore the realities facing ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households and how this data can inform credit union strategies. Brittany will share how United Way and credit unions can partner to develop responsive, local solutions that support financial wellness and equity.
The Poverty Simulation
Facilitated by Lauren Whaley, President, Carolinas Credit Union Foundation
This immersive simulation places participants in the shoes of working individuals and families navigating life with limited resources. Over four "workweeks," you’ll face the pressures of balancing jobs, bills, and responsibilities — offering a visceral understanding of the challenges many members face every day.
Cultivating Wellness and Opportunity: The Mobil Movement
Speaker: Emily Nail, VP Cooperative Strategies / ED, Coastal CU Foundation
Learn how a bold partnership between Coastal Credit Union, its foundation, and Ripe for Revival is tackling food insecurity and economic opportunity. From mobile markets to culinary trailers, this initiative connects financial wellness, health, and education in innovative, community-centered ways.
Closing Keynote: Leading with Heart
Speaker: Debbie Smith, CEO, Georgia United Credit Union
Debbie’s personal journey and unwavering commitment to the credit union mission serve as an inspiring close to the conference. Her story reminds us of what’s possible when we lead with purpose, compassion, and community at the center.
Getting There
Georgia United Credit Union
6705 Sugarloaf Parkway
Duluth, 30097
United States
Location
6705 Sugarloaf Parkway
Duluth, 30097
United States
Date & Time
Price
Accomodations
A room block has been secured at the Westin Atlanta Gwinnett for attendees of the conference.
Hotel:
The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett
6450 Sugarloaf Parkway
Duluth, GA 30097
(Approximately 1 mile from the event venue)
Room Rate: $239 per night
Reservation Deadline: Sept. 15th at 2:00 p.m. ET
Booking Link
We encourage attendees to book early, as rooms may fill quickly.