Katie BaileyThe League brought together credit union executives and system leaders for the Pacific Northwest Learning Journey, a five-day exploration of innovation, collaboration, and leadership across Washington State. Leaders from MembersFirst Credit Union (Georgia), Henrico Federal Credit Union (Virginia), RVA Financial (Virginia), FiCare Federal Credit Union (Florida), and Calhoun Liberty Credit Union (Florida) joined the program, which offered an inside look at some of the most forward-thinking credit unions, organizations, and community initiatives shaping the future of financial services.
The journey began in Seattle with a tour of the iconic Pike Place Fish Market, followed by a dinner hosted by regional credit union leaders. Over the following days, participants visited Peninsula Credit Union, Boeing Employees’ Credit Union, and Spokane Teachers Credit Union—experiencing firsthand the creative strategies these institutions use to drive member impact and community growth. Attendees also toured the Washington State Capitol, where the group met with Amy Hunter, Director of Credit Unions at the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions, to discuss how credit unions can strengthen consumer trust, advance financial well-being, and ensure a cooperative voice in shaping the future of financial services.
“It’s experiences like this that remind us of the power of collaboration. Each credit union we visited brought unique ideas to the table, and every conversation reinforced the importance of learning from one another,” expressed Terry Hardy, President and CEO of MembersFirst Credit Union. “I came away with both practical takeaways and meaningful connections.”
Highlights included a deep dive at Boeing Employees’ Credit Union, the fourth largest credit union in the U.S., where executives shared insights on data, technology, artificial intelligence, and community partnerships. At Spokane Teachers Credit Union, leaders outlined strategies around culture, succession planning, and innovative lending models, while also showcasing their investments in advocacy and philanthropy. The group concluded their experience in Spokane, visiting The Scale House Market at the Quarry—a repurposed community hub that connects local farms and small businesses with residents through sustainable, farm-to-table practices.
“The Pacific Northwest Learning Journey provided an invaluable opportunity to see innovation in action, while connecting with peers who share a passion for strengthening the credit union system,” said Cindy Lindsey, President and CEO of RVA Financial Federal Credit Union. “The conversations we had and the strategies we explored will have a lasting impact on how we serve our members.”
“This experience was the perfect combination of inspiration and hands-on learning. From cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence to community impact and advocacy, we witnessed the incredible possibilities credit unions can unlock.” said Thomas Flowers, CEO of Calhoun Liberty Credit Union. “I am deeply grateful to The League for making this opportunity possible and look forward to bringing these insights home to strengthen our work.”
The Pacific Northwest Learning Journey underscored the importance of bringing credit union leaders together to share, grow, and innovate. As participants return to their own organizations, the lessons learned, and partnerships built will continue to shape the future of cooperative finance.
