Harahan, LA and Snellville, GA (August 22, 2023) – Louisiana Credit Union League (LCUL) and the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) are excited to announce a transformative strategic partnership aimed at fostering greater financial inclusion and empowerment within diverse communities. This groundbreaking collaboration brings together the collective strengths and expertise of two esteemed organizations committed to driving positive change in the credit union industry.

Renée Sattiewhite, President & CEO of AACUC stated, “I am delighted to announce our strategic partnership with the Louisiana Credit Union League.” By leveraging LCUL’s regional presence and AACUC’s extensive experience in championing the economic interests of diverse communities, this alliance seeks to promote educational initiatives and advocate for equitable opportunities across Louisiana. The partnership heralds a new era of cooperative advancement and underscores both LCUL and AACUC’s shared dedication to building a more resilient and inclusive financial landscape.

As stated by Juan Fernández, Louisiana Credit Union League President & CEO, “We are excited to implement this strategic partnership to support innovative programming for credit union professionals. LCUL and AACUC stand poised to create enduring impacts that will resonate throughout the credit union movement and beyond. Together, we pave the way for innovation, professional development, growth, and inclusivity in the credit union industry, empowering communities, fostering financial well‐being for all, and helping credit unions be relevant into the future.”

Across the credit union movement, AACUC delivers high‐impact programming such as the DEI Leadership Academy for the Financial Professionals, the Cross‐Cultural Exchange Program, the Rosemary Brinkley C‐Level Leadership Development Program, and two Board‐Ready offerings for development of prospective nonprofit and credit union board members. Under this strategic partnership, AACUC and LCUL will jointly deliver innovative professional development programs with specific customization for LCUL credit union professionals.

Sattiewhite remarked, “I truly believe that without the 8th Cooperative Principle as part of our core values, credit unions may not maintain their relevance.” Fernández agreed, “this is a groundbreaking partnership that will deliver an essential sustainability strategy for LCUL member credit unions, operating in a state with more than 33% Black population and 6% Hispanic population. It is our first step into providing all of our emerging leaders with the tools they need to break glass ceilings and thrive in our movement.”

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About LCUL

Louisiana Credit Union League (LCUL) is the state trade association offering advocacy, information, professional development, and networking solutions to help Louisiana credit union serve grow and remain relevant. LCUL guards credit union rights at the state and national levels. As financial laws and regulations are changed or challenged, the League is there, protecting credit union interests and fighting for/against issues that are important to the vitality of the industry. For more information, visit www.lcul.com

About AACUC

The African‐American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) was created to increase the strength of the global credit union community. We are a 501c3 non‐profit organization of professionals and volunteers in the credit union industry. Over the years, AACUC has grown and is ever changing to meet the needs of the dynamic credit union community which it serves. AACUC has adopted the 8th Cooperative Principle and encourages all credit union

and affiliated organizations to adopt it as well. AACUC has also created the Commitment to Change: Credit Unions Unite Against Racism Initiative and it has gained great momentum within the credit union industry. For more information, visit: www.aacuc.org. Follow us on social media at: Facebook.com/AACUC1, Linkedin.com/company/AACUC, Twitter.com/AACUC1 or Instagram.com/aacucctc.