CONFERENCE AGENDA
TUESDAY, JUNE 3
4:00 pm: Welcome
4:10 pm: Opening Keynote - Juan Bendana
5:00 pm: General Session - Platform Creep
5:15 pm: General Session - Association Advocacy
5:45 pm: Exhibitor Showcase
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
7:45 am: Breakfast
8:30 am: Business Meeting
9:00 am: Economic Update - Steve Rick
10:10 am: Exhibitor Networking Break
10:30 am: Panel - Why Clean Energy Lending?
11:00 am: General Session - Implications of AI in Payments
11:55 am: Lunch
12:45 pm: Foundation Annual Update
1:15 pm: Breakout Sessions
3:35 pm: Exhibitor Networking Break
3:40 pm: Exhibitor Prizes
4:00 pm: Closing Keynote - Robert Reed
4:45 pm: Panel - Advocacy and NM Trafficking
5:30 pm: Closing Reception
4:00 pm: Welcome
4:10 pm: Opening Keynote - Juan Bendana
5:00 pm: General Session - Platform Creep
5:15 pm: General Session - Association Advocacy
5:45 pm: Exhibitor Showcase
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
7:45 am: Breakfast
8:30 am: Business Meeting
9:00 am: Economic Update - Steve Rick
10:10 am: Exhibitor Networking Break
10:30 am: Panel - Why Clean Energy Lending?
11:00 am: General Session - Implications of AI in Payments
11:55 am: Lunch
12:45 pm: Foundation Annual Update
1:15 pm: Breakout Sessions
3:35 pm: Exhibitor Networking Break
3:40 pm: Exhibitor Prizes
4:00 pm: Closing Keynote - Robert Reed
4:45 pm: Panel - Advocacy and NM Trafficking
5:30 pm: Closing Reception
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Juan Bendaña
Juan Bendaña is a renowned speaker, trainer and entrepreneur. Every year, he delivers electrifying keynotes at conferences and trainings internationally. He speaks to over 100,000 people annually, helping them discover the strategies for lasting engagement and inspiration. He empowers high performing leaders to build confidence for the future of work. Bendaña is the creator of the Confidence Cycle — a science-backed framework to build enduring self confidence and engagement. He has built leadership programs for organizations such as Disney, Sotheby’s International, Sony Pictures, and the Siegried Group. He has coached entrepreneurs, actors, and Olympians on building confidence. Bendaña uses the art of storytelling, interactive activities, and humour to create an unforgettable experience. Going beyond the standard keynote presentation, he creates a customized experience that will have your audience leaving energized and inspired. With over 10 years of experience on countless stages, Bendaña has honed his skills and knows exactly what is needed for each event. His dynamic presentation style is tailored to the needs of your audience, whether it is a keynote in an arena for 10,000+ or a deep-dive training for an executive leadership team of 20. |
Steve Rick
Steven Rick is director and chief economist at TruStageTM. His primary responsibilities include conducting strategic research, analysis and forecasting of the financial services industry, with special emphasis on the consumer and credit union markets. Rick’s forecasts serve as a starting point for the strategic planning process and help to create a clear understanding of the underlying trends and links between the general economy, the financial services industry, and the company’s policy owners. Rick publishes the Credit Union Trends Report, a monthly “pulse check” on the economic state of the credit union movement. He has authored a textbook on asset-liability management for credit union executives. Before joining the company, Rick was the senior economist for CUNA & Affiliates’ economics and statistics department for 22 years. Rick also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the University of Wisconsin Credit Union, a $5 billion financial institution. Rick holds a senior lecturer position with the economics department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he teaches money and banking, and macroeconomics courses. He is also the facilitator and instructor for CUNA Management School’s Stanford Bank Game, a computerized bank simulation, and has two years’ experience as a bank simulation advisor for the Prochnow Graduate School of Banking. Rick has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Moorhead State University, a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Moorhead University, and a Master of Science in Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He also obtained a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. |
Glenn Wheeler
As Vice President of Payments Strategy and Product Innovation, Glenn directs Catalyst's FedNow® Service and RTP® Network initiatives for credit unions. He is actively involved in the payments industry, currently serving on work groups for the U.S. Faster Payments Council, including chairing the Education and Awareness Workgroup. Glenn's background includes 40 years’ experience in financial services, including serving as President/CEO of PaymentsNation and President of Viewpointe Clearing, Settlement and Association Services LLC. He also has served as Vice President, Float Management, for Bank One and provided consulting and strategic planning services for organizations in the payments and non-profit industries. Additionally, Glenn has served on the board of directors at Viewpointe, the Routing and Transit Number Board and the Central Oklahoma Clearing House Association. He has participated in various other industry work groups, including the Electronic Check Clearing House Organization (ECCHO) Operations Committee, the National Automated Clearing House Association (Nacha), Nacha Faster Payments Playbook, and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Glenn has spoken at payments industry events, including the Nacha Smarter Faster Payments Conference, U.S. Faster Payments Council events, BAI Payments Conferences, New York Float Management Roundtable, and as the keynote speaker at PaymentsNation's Conference. Glenn has a B.A. degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. |
Robert Reed
Robert M. Reed, a seasoned banking and finance professional, has established a remarkable career characterized by leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in the financial services sector. With extensive experience in operations and risk management, Robert has played a pivotal role in driving operational efficiencies and strategic growth initiatives through technological innovations. In his current role at Dark Watch, Robert is the Director of Operations ensuring Dark Watch's mission is executed daily as the premier data source for combating human trafficking. Robert also assists in creating methodology / technology to seek out previously undiscovered human trafficking networks providing that information to various industries to know their customer allowing them to act swiftly on information before costly mistakes occur. In addition to COO at Dark Watch, Robert works at a bank and is responsible for overseeing the bank's daily operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and implementing robust internal controls to mitigate risks. He has been instrumental in developing technology solutions to scale the bank's overseas payment collection and distribution business. Robert's leadership extends to developing and managing the BSA/AML office exam process, culminating in the successful termination of AML enforcement actions. He has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to ensuring positive experiences during exams, managing extensive regulatory documentation, and fostering collaborative relationships with regulatory bodies. |
EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS
June 3
Platform Creep
5:00 - 5:15 PM
Association Advocacy w/ Speaker Martinez & Dr. Castillo
5:20 - 5:55 PM
The Credit Union Association of New Mexico worked this year at the state and federal level to advocate on behalf of your credit union. Hear more about what accomplishments achieved, and advocacy priorities we anticipate moving forward in the next year.
The Credit Union Association of New Mexico worked this year at the state and federal level to advocate on behalf of your credit union. Hear more about what accomplishments achieved, and advocacy priorities we anticipate moving forward in the next year.
June 4
Economic Update
9:00 - 10:00 AM
Join Steve Rick, Chief Economist at TruStage™, for an in-depth look at the 2025 economic landscape. Rick will break down key trends in loan growth, delinquency rates, savings patterns, and the housing market—all with a focus on what these shifts mean for credit unions. Gain practical insights to help your institution navigate the year ahead with confidence.
Join Steve Rick, Chief Economist at TruStage™, for an in-depth look at the 2025 economic landscape. Rick will break down key trends in loan growth, delinquency rates, savings patterns, and the housing market—all with a focus on what these shifts mean for credit unions. Gain practical insights to help your institution navigate the year ahead with confidence.
Why Clean Energy Lending with Inclusiv
June 4 - 10:30 - 11:00 AM
Inclusiv is a mission-driven non-profit organization with a primary mission to investing in the community development credit union movement. This panel will discuss the purpose of clean energy lending and the potential impact to your credit union and community.
Inclusiv is a mission-driven non-profit organization with a primary mission to investing in the community development credit union movement. This panel will discuss the purpose of clean energy lending and the potential impact to your credit union and community.
Credit Union Volunteer Duties, Responsibilities, and Audit Essentials
1:15 - 1:55 PM
When it comes to the annual audit and managing overall risk, credit union volunteers play a vital role. In this session we will discuss the credit union volunteer’s overall duties and responsibilities with respect to the annual audit. We will also highlight some audit essentials related to hiring and working with outside auditors and managing other required audits. The session will end with some real-life cases showcasing different areas of weak internal controls.
When it comes to the annual audit and managing overall risk, credit union volunteers play a vital role. In this session we will discuss the credit union volunteer’s overall duties and responsibilities with respect to the annual audit. We will also highlight some audit essentials related to hiring and working with outside auditors and managing other required audits. The session will end with some real-life cases showcasing different areas of weak internal controls.
Enterprise Risk and Financial Considerations in an Uncertain Economy
June 4 - 1:15 - 1:55 PM
Today’s financial landscape is complex and ever-changing, with evolving risks that can impact the bottom line. In this session, Sheila Balzer of Singer Lewak will help credit union executives and board members understand the critical financial risks facing institutions today—and how to manage them proactively. From interest rate fluctuations to regulatory compliance challenges, this session offers insights to help leaders navigate uncertainty and maintain financial resilience.
Today’s financial landscape is complex and ever-changing, with evolving risks that can impact the bottom line. In this session, Sheila Balzer of Singer Lewak will help credit union executives and board members understand the critical financial risks facing institutions today—and how to manage them proactively. From interest rate fluctuations to regulatory compliance challenges, this session offers insights to help leaders navigate uncertainty and maintain financial resilience.
Charting the Course: Credit Union Payments in a Shifting Landscape
June 4 - 1:15 - 1:55 PM
An in-depth overview of evolving dynamics within the credit union payment space, where trust remains a key differentiator and opportunity. Consumers continue to rank credit unions among the most trusted financial institutions, but expectations are shifting rapidly with increased adoption of digital banking, alternative payment methods, and personalized rewards. At the same time, challenges such as rising credit card debt, growing delinquency rates and regulatory uncertainty, including potential changes to interchange fee structures, demand strategic focus. As debit and credit card usage grows and members rely more heavily on digital channels, credit unions must proactively adapt their payment portfolios to remain competitive, deliver meaningful value, and preserve the member-centric model that sets them apart.
An in-depth overview of evolving dynamics within the credit union payment space, where trust remains a key differentiator and opportunity. Consumers continue to rank credit unions among the most trusted financial institutions, but expectations are shifting rapidly with increased adoption of digital banking, alternative payment methods, and personalized rewards. At the same time, challenges such as rising credit card debt, growing delinquency rates and regulatory uncertainty, including potential changes to interchange fee structures, demand strategic focus. As debit and credit card usage grows and members rely more heavily on digital channels, credit unions must proactively adapt their payment portfolios to remain competitive, deliver meaningful value, and preserve the member-centric model that sets them apart.
Credit Union Volunteer AML/CFT Annual Training
2:05 - 2:45 PM
Although not involved in the credit union’s day-to-day anti-money laundering activity, the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee have a crucial role in ensuring an effective program is implemented and maintained. In this session we will cover an overview of the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulatory requirements. The discussion will include the roles of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee, statistics related to suspicious activity reports in New Mexico, and some credit union cases illustrating the importance of a strong and effective anti-money laundering program. This session will count as the annual required volunteer BSA training.
Although not involved in the credit union’s day-to-day anti-money laundering activity, the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee have a crucial role in ensuring an effective program is implemented and maintained. In this session we will cover an overview of the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulatory requirements. The discussion will include the roles of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee, statistics related to suspicious activity reports in New Mexico, and some credit union cases illustrating the importance of a strong and effective anti-money laundering program. This session will count as the annual required volunteer BSA training.
Clean Energy Lending with CCIA Funds
June 4 - 2:05 - 2:45 PM
Interested in hearing more about clean energy lending? Join this break out session to further your learning on how to grow a clean energy lending program in your credit union.
Interested in hearing more about clean energy lending? Join this break out session to further your learning on how to grow a clean energy lending program in your credit union.
Fraud from a Prosecutor's Perspective
2:05 - 2:45 PM
Fraud can devastate credit unions and their members—but understanding it from a prosecutor’s viewpoint can offer valuable insight for prevention. In this session, Alex Uballez, former U.S. Attorney for New Mexico, will share real-world examples from his career, discuss the latest trends in financial crimes, and provide practical strategies for credit union leaders to help protect their institutions. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn how law enforcement approaches fraud, investigates cases, and works to hold bad actors accountable.
Fraud can devastate credit unions and their members—but understanding it from a prosecutor’s viewpoint can offer valuable insight for prevention. In this session, Alex Uballez, former U.S. Attorney for New Mexico, will share real-world examples from his career, discuss the latest trends in financial crimes, and provide practical strategies for credit union leaders to help protect their institutions. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn how law enforcement approaches fraud, investigates cases, and works to hold bad actors accountable.
What Should I be Focused on Now in My Role? - Volunteer Track
June 4 - 2:55 - 3:35 PM
As a credit union volunteer, staying informed and aligned with the credit union’s financial priorities is key to fulfilling your role effectively. This session, led by Sheila Balzer of Singer Lewak, will offer practical insights into how volunteers can best support their credit union’s mission and navigate their responsibilities in today’s environment. Whether you’re new to the board or a seasoned volunteer, this session will help you focus on the right areas to make a meaningful impact.
As a credit union volunteer, staying informed and aligned with the credit union’s financial priorities is key to fulfilling your role effectively. This session, led by Sheila Balzer of Singer Lewak, will offer practical insights into how volunteers can best support their credit union’s mission and navigate their responsibilities in today’s environment. Whether you’re new to the board or a seasoned volunteer, this session will help you focus on the right areas to make a meaningful impact.
Credit Union Advocacy: Why It's Important
2:55 - 3:35 PM
In this conversational breakout session we will share experiences of credit union advocacy purpose, objectives, tools and ways to get involved.
In this conversational breakout session we will share experiences of credit union advocacy purpose, objectives, tools and ways to get involved.
State PSA Campaign Insights
2:55 - 3:35 PM
This collaborative workgroup session will focus on shaping a statewide PSA campaign for New Mexico credit unions. We’ll explore key themes, messaging strategies, and community impact—drawing from the insights and experiences of credit union leaders across the state. Bring your ideas, your questions, and a willingness to think creatively as we discuss how this campaign can reflect the values of credit unions and resonate with members across New Mexico.
This collaborative workgroup session will focus on shaping a statewide PSA campaign for New Mexico credit unions. We’ll explore key themes, messaging strategies, and community impact—drawing from the insights and experiences of credit union leaders across the state. Bring your ideas, your questions, and a willingness to think creatively as we discuss how this campaign can reflect the values of credit unions and resonate with members across New Mexico.
NM Trafficking Discussion
4:45 - 5:30 PM
The I-25/I-40 intersection is the central point for transfer of goods in the US. This leads to a significant amount of drug and human trafficking in the state. Hear from legislators about the policy efforts to combat this issue in New Mexico and what we can do as credit unions to be part of the solution.
The I-25/I-40 intersection is the central point for transfer of goods in the US. This leads to a significant amount of drug and human trafficking in the state. Hear from legislators about the policy efforts to combat this issue in New Mexico and what we can do as credit unions to be part of the solution.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
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