A dedicated group of credit union professionals gathered in South Dakota’s capital city of Pierre Jan. 29^th for Credit Union Association of the Dakotas’ (CUAD) annual Legislative Credit Union Day. This year, more than 30 credit union advocates representing 15 unique credit unions, in addition to CUAD staff, united in their message that the state’s credit unions offer a crucial financial services alternative for South Dakotans.

The day began with a meeting for members of the South Dakota Governmental Affairs Committee, and then continued with the larger group making their trek to the Capitol, where they were recognized in both chambers. Later in the afternoon, a leadership dialogue was held, where CUAD staff provided a briefing of current legislative issues, as well as helpful resources that are new this year to CUAD member credit unions.

The evening concluded with the very popular Legislative Social, which brought the credit union advocates together for more networking and discussion, and also saw nearly 60 state legislators in attendance as honored guests.

The entire day was summed up by Jeff Olson, CUAD President/CEO.

“The South Dakota Legislative Credit Union Day is our best vehicle to meet face-to-face with our state lawmakers and educate them on the credit union difference,” he stated.

“While the event is designed as a social activity, credit union leaders from across the state did a great job connecting with legislators from their respective districts. The success of this event certainly helps us build better relationships with our legislators and our overall relevance at the state capitol,” he added.

CUAD thanked the many credit union professionals for their presence, and expressed appreciation to the following credit unions that were represented at te event:

• Aberdeen Federal Credit Union;
• Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union;
• Black Hills Federal Credit Union;
• Dakota Rail Line Federal Credit Union;
• Dakotaland Federal Credit Union;
• Highmark Federal Credit Union;
• Med5 Federal Credit Union;
• M-O Federal Credit Union;
• Norstar Federal Credit Union;
• Northern Hills Federal Credit Union;
• Oahe Federal Credit Union;
• Sentinel Federal Credit Union;
• Sioux Falls Federal Credit Union;
• Sioux Valley Co-op Federal Credit Union; and
• Voyage Federal Credit Union.

PHOTOS: Credit union advocates gather on the steps at the South Dakota State Capitol on Legislative Credit Union Day; members of the South Dakota State Legislature recognize credit union advocates while in session.