MADISON, Wis. (1/28/15)--The record number of applicants for the 2015 Crash the GAC program means every state and the District of Columbia will be represented by a young credit union professional at this year's Credit Union National Association Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC).

For the second year, The Cooperative Trust and CUNA received a record number of applications. This year, the 220 applications came from all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

"We have a terrific opportunity to engage young professionals within credit unions," said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. "These new leaders will be key in helping to position credit unions as Americans' best financial partner, and therefore to the future success of the movement."

James Marshall, manager of The Cooperative Trust, noted the work of the state credit union leagues in achieving the record-setting attendance.

"Without the dedication and hard work from the league system, I don't think we would have achieved this incredible feat," he said.

Each crasher receives a scholarship for full conference registration, courtesy of CUNA, for the March 8-12 event in Washington, D.C. All other costs are the responsibility of the attendee and their credit union.

Some state credit union leagues are providing additional travel support for crashers.

The Cooperative Trust also is hosting its annual Thunderpunch event, sponsored by PSCU, on March 9 at a new venue near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.