CUNA President/CEO Bill Cheney

Hi, I’m Bill Cheney, the President and CEO of CUNA, the Credit Union National Association and I’m very sorry that I can’t be with you this year in Montana. I had a great time out there last year. In fact, I was in Montana several times last year as many of you know, but congratulations on the 75th Anniversary of the Montana Credit Union League. Congratulations to all of you for all that you’re doing to serve your members. And, congratulations on the theme of your conference: Credit Unions—Superheroes for Those in Need. That’s certainly the case in Montana. It’s the case all across the country. Our survey show us that Montana credit unions save credit union members more than $21 million a year — $21 million a year, just by doing business at a credit union. That’s about $53 a member, more than $100 per household. And the great thing about that is that’s the average. If you do more business with the credit union, you save more. And I know that everyone is interested in growth.

I very much wish I could be there. I do want to recognize a couple of your leaders. Chris Sisco from Montana 1st Credit Union, the chairman of your league, as well as Tracie Kenyon who does such a great job as your league president. And also, Tracie serves on the executive board of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues and provides leadership to credit unions all across the country.

I’m looking forward to coming back to Montana soon. You’ve got a beautiful state. You’ve got a beautiful credit union movement out there. I hope you’re having a beautiful conference, and I look forward to seeing everyone again soon. Congratulations on your 75th anniversary and have a great conference.