Madison, Wis. (December 3, 2014) – Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and The Cooperative Trust are pleased to announce that they are accepting applications for the 2015 Crash the GAC. They seek to select one young professional from each state and the District of Columbia to crash the CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference, which will be held March 8-12 in Washington, D.C.

“Crash the GAC opens the door for young professionals. It brings the focus back to the sustainability of the credit union movement,” explained James Marshall, Cooperative Trust Manager of Filene Research Institute. “Attendees can gain access to these bright young minds while crashers learn the true meaning behind the credit union difference. If they can even bring back one idea to their credit unions, then we have had a successful Crash the GAC.”

In addition to the core schedule of GAC events, crashers will take part in exclusive sessions that will provide a greater focus on state and federal credit union advocacy. Group work will build action plans on how young professionals can further engage in advocacy efforts once they return home.

“It is truly inspiring to hear about the impact that Crash the GAC has had on young professionals,” said Jim Nussle, president and CEO of CUNA. “The work doesn’t just end at GAC. Crash the GAC is about creating long-term relationships with the future of our industry.”

Each crasher will receive a full conference registration, courtesy of CUNA. All other costs are the responsibility of the young professional and their credit union. Assistance may be available from state leagues or associations. This year, we have 25 leagues committed to supporting their young professionals in the 2015 Crash the GAC.

“Leagues have been a huge success driver for expanding Crash the GAC,” commented Brett Thompson, president & CEO of The Wisconsin Credit Union League. “Without their ongoing support, young professionals across the nation would not have these priceless learning and networking opportunities.”

Applications are due on January 1, 2015. For complete detail on Crash the GAC 2015, please visit www.crashthegac.com or email the Cooperative Trust.