CREDIT UNION ASSOCIATION OF NEW MEXICO - News

New Mexico Credit Unions and Small Businesses Host Roundtable on Credit Card Competition Act

Fri, 08 May 2026 14:33:47 GMT

Albuquerque, NM – The Credit Union Association of New Mexico, in partnership with the Small Business Payments Alliance, hosted a roundtable with credit union leaders, small business owners, and congressional staff from the offices of U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján to share the negative impacts of the federal Credit Card Competition Act on community-based financial institutions and local businesses

When a consumer uses a credit or debit card, a small fee known as interchange helps fund the systems that make those transactions possible. That includes fraud monitoring, cybersecurity protections, and the ability to securely and quickly move money between accounts.

The proposed Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) would change how those transactions are processed by requiring certain credit cards to be enabled on at least two unaffiliated networks, allowing merchants to route payments through the network they choose – regardless of the risk from lower fraud and cybersecurity measures of unaffiliated networks.

“Credit unions are focused on protecting their members and ensuring they have access to safe, reliable financial services,” said Melia D. Heimbuck, President and CEO of the Credit Union Association of New Mexico. “Interchange supports the security and infrastructure behind everyday transactions. Proposals like the Credit Card Competition Act risk increasing fraud, reducing consumer benefits, and limiting access to credit for the people who need it most.”

Participant credit unions, including First Financial, Nusenda, Rio Grande, Sunward, and Zia, discussed concerns that changes would disrupt the current system, and likely weaken security protections while also reducing the resources available to prevent fraud.

Small business owners shared their perspectives on serving customers and managing payments, noting the importance of a system that is secure, consistent, and built to protect both businesses and consumers.
“The Credit Card Competition Act as currently written will help big-box stores, not New Mexico-based small businesses,” said Ashley Fathergill, owner of Upside Goods. “Local businesses and New Mexico consumers need a safe, fair system that minimizes costs while maximizing security.”

Most importantly, participants raised concerns about the broader impact on consumers. Changes to the current system could reduce availability of credit, especially for low-income households and underserved communities who often rely on credit cards to make ends meet.

Also, as losses due to fraud go up, lenders, including credit unions, will be forced to tighten credit options. Tighter credit options reduce credit availability. A reduction in credit availability will be felt most by those who are the most reliant on the credit in the first place.

The discussion also highlighted concerns about how the changes would be felt across the business community. Intended to reshape the payments landscape, participants noted that the largest retailers are most likely to benefit, while small businesses could be put at a competitive disadvantage. Research indicates that most potential savings would go to merchants with more than $500 million in annual sales, while small businesses could face reduced access to credit and fewer customer incentives tied to card use.
The roundtable provided an opportunity for congressional staff to hear directly from New Mexicans about how federal policy proposals could impact local communities.

The Credit Union Association of New Mexico will continue working with policymakers and partners to support a payments system that prioritizes security, access to credit, and the financial well-being of New Mexico communities.

New Mexico Credit Unions Read Expands Impact in Fourth Year, Bringing Financial Literacy to Classrooms Statewide

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:29:24 GMT

Albuquerque, NM — In recognition of Financial Literacy Month and in celebration of Youth Month across the credit union movement, the Credit Union Foundation of New Mexico proudly continues its statewide initiative, New Mexico Credit Unions Read.

Launched in 2023, New Mexico Credit Unions Read is a coordinated effort that brings credit union professionals directly into elementary school classrooms across the state to read a financial literacy-focused book to students. The program is designed to introduce foundational money concepts in a way that is engaging, accessible, and memorable for young learners. Volunteers not only read the selected book aloud, but also lead guided discussions with students about the themes—helping them begin to understand concepts like saving, budgeting, needs versus wants, and making thoughtful financial choices.
A key component of the program is its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. The Credit Union Foundation of New Mexico provides both the featured book and accompanying curriculum materials in English and Spanish, ensuring that more students and classrooms across the state can fully participate and benefit from the experience.

Now in its fourth year, the program continues to grow in both reach and impact. In 2026, 17 participating credit unions came together with more than 250 volunteers to visit classrooms throughout New Mexico, reaching approximately 14,500 elementary school students during the month of April.
This year’s featured book, A Budget for Bingo by Tori Filas, helped bring these lessons to life through storytelling, giving students a relatable and age-appropriate introduction to budgeting and decision-making.

“Great things are happening in New Mexico!” said Melia Heimbuck, President and CEO of the Credit Union Association of New Mexico. “This program is a powerful example of what happens when credit unions come together to invest in their communities. By offering these resources in both English and Spanish, we’re able to meet students where they are and make sure these important lessons reach as many young New Mexicans as possible.”

To extend the impact beyond the classroom visit, the Foundation also provides teachers with a curriculum and classroom materials aligned to the book. This allows educators to turn the reading into a broader financial literacy unit, reinforcing key concepts and continuing the conversation with students after the volunteers leave.

New Mexico Credit Unions Read reflects the credit union philosophy of people helping people and highlights the movement’s shared commitment to strengthening communities through education. As the initiative continues to grow, the Foundation remains focused on equipping young New Mexicans with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions.

About the Credit Union Foundation of New Mexico
The Credit Union Foundation of New Mexico supports the credit union community through financial education initiatives, community outreach, and programs that promote economic well-being across the state. The Foundation is dedicated to advancing the credit union mission of people helping people.

Media Contact:
Sara Rochelle
VP, Public Affairs & Association Services
Credit Union Foundation of New Mexico
sara@cuanm.org
575-202-7227

Advocacy in Action – March 4, 2026

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Last week on Capitol Hill, New Mexico credit union leaders with branches in New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District (CD3) sat down with Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández to share the impact credit unions have in their communities. Along with sharing data, credit union leaders shared stories about helping to meet the needs of affordable housing, the impact of credit card rates and interchange, and how New Mexico’s CDFI credit unions achieved impact through $5.6 billion in active loans to members through the third quarter of 2025.

Just a few hours later, those conversations were already making a difference.

By lunchtime, Rep. Leger Fernández was on the House Floor speaking about the CDFI Fund and how credit unions leverage those funds to help New Mexicans manage the cost of living. Hearing those ideas echoed in real time was a powerful reminder of why we advocate and what advocacy in action looks like!

When credit union leaders bring their experiences, data, and stories to Capitol Hill, they help shape the conversation happening in America.

Credit Union Association of New Mexico Welcomes Christopher Burgos as Advocacy Coordinator

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:03:28 GMT

Albuquerque, NM — The Credit Union Association of New Mexico is pleased to welcome Christopher Burgos to the team as Advocacy Coordinator. In this role, Burgos will support the Association’s legislative, political, and regulatory advocacy efforts on behalf of New Mexico’s credit unions and the members they serve.

Burgos will help strengthen the Association’s advocacy efforts by building meaningful relationships with policymakers and member credit unions, support grassroots engagement, and communicate timely legislative, political, and regulatory updates. His work will support a unified credit union voice at the Roundhouse and in Washington, D.C., ensuring New Mexico’s credit unions are heard by those that make decisions affecting credit union operations.

Burgos brings a strong background in public policy, legislative affairs, and federal program administration. Most recently, he served as a Program Analyst with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, where he conducted policy research, evaluated multimillion-dollar grant programs, and delivered briefings to senior leadership. He previously worked as a Loan Officer with the U.S. Small Business Administration, supporting disaster recovery efforts nationwide, and has experience in legislative liaison work and nonprofit advocacy.

“Advocacy is about ensuring communities have a seat at the table and that policy decisions reflect real-world impact,” said Burgos. “I’m excited to join the Credit Union Association of New Mexico and to work alongside our member credit unions to strengthen relationships, support smart policy, and advance the credit union difference across the state.”

“Christopher’s experience in policy analysis, legislative engagement, and coalition building will be a tremendous asset to our members,” said Melia Heimbuck, President and CEO of the Credit Union Association of New Mexico. “Advocacy is core to the work of our Association, and his addition strengthens our ability to elevate the credit union voice and deepen engagement across New Mexico.”

The Credit Union Association of New Mexico represents credit unions across the state through advocacy, education, and collaboration, ensuring credit unions can continue improving the financial lives of New Mexicans.

January 2026 Newsletter

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:36:01 GMT

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The monthly update from the Credit Union Association of New Mexico aims to enhance the benefits for member credit unions by providing insights into upcoming initiatives and events.

We are thrilled to provide these updates and hope that you will distribute this information among your entire team!

Education & Events

Save the Date: Exploring the Why — April 13–15, Ruidoso

Exploring the Why is a three-day experiential workshop that helps credit union professionals of all roles better understand the credit union difference, connect their work to mission and member value, and explore practical ways to apply those insights back at their organizations. Registration and mentorship details will be shared soon!

Register for our Webinars!

Unable to attend an in-person event or looking for some more targeted training opportunities? We offer webinars to help bolster your knowledge base even further. With countless categories to choose from, these webinars are a valuable training tool for you and your staff, right at your fingertips!

Want fewer, more targeted emails from our webinar partners? Click here!

Foundation Updates

Leadership 101

Promoting someone into leadership is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming for them and for you. Leadership 101 is here to make that transition smoother.

Offered in partnership with the Leadership Development Group, this six-session live virtual training gives your new or emerging managers the skills, coaching, and confidence they need to lead strong, cohesive teams.

Learn More

New Mexico ALICE Report

The Credit Union Foundation of New Mexico is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the United Way ALICE Report in our state.

ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) represents the many hardworking New Mexicans who earn above the poverty line yet still struggle to afford basic needs.

This data will be a powerful tool to better understand financial hardship in our communities and guide solutions that make a real difference.

ALICE Report

Apply for Professional Development Scholarships

Do you see a conference above or have an educational opportunity that you would like to take advantage of? The Credit Union Foundation Of New Mexico may be able to assist!

Apply

Credit Unions in the News

NMSU Aggie Uptown Continues to Grow with White Sands Federal Credit Union Groundbreaking

U.S. Eagle FCU Announces CEO Transition

Del Norte Credit Union earns Education Support Designation for Employee Growth

Partner Updates

Help Grow Your Business By Adding Life Insurance

Learn More

Catalyst Launches First Sharetec Core Integration with The People's FCU for Advanced Integrated Teller Capture

Embracing the Future of Payments: Strategic Considerations for Banks and Credit Unions in the Age of Stablecoins and Tokenized Deposits

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President's Playbook vol. 3.2

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:37:26 GMT

Great things are happening in New Mexico!

With the holidays in full swing, I celebrate the opportunity to serve you and our New Mexico credit union movement. As always, your Association took the field with one game plan in mind: advance credit union success through advocacy, education, and collaboration. And thanks to your engagement, it seems we ran the right routes in 2025.

Advocacy:
This year reminded us why strong defense wins championships. Together, we held the line on Interchange—successfully defeating an attack at the Roundhouse—and we continued to amplify the message and came away with a win on “Don’t Tax My Credit Union.” We met with every member of our U.S. Congressional delegation and showed them your credit union strength with stories of how you served members through the unprecedented government shutdown.

Regulatory advocacy came with a lot of curve balls in 2025. Active communication with NCUA and FID ensured regulators understood the real impact their decisions have on your operations and ability to serve members.

Education:
From Exploring the Why to BSA-AML/Fraud programs to the International Credit Union Contact Center Conference and hundreds of webinars, 2025 was another strong year for learning and connection. The Annual Meeting continued to be Credit Union True – bringing New Mexico’s credit union leaders and future leaders together to share ideas, sharpen skills, and leave with renewed energy. When we gather volunteers, young professionals, and long-time leaders, our greatest competitive advantage comes to life.

Collaboration:
In true people-helping-people fashion, our game plan was created in collaboration with credit unions, community partners, and service providers. By tackling the challenges of today with an eye towards tomorrow, we help New Mexico credit unions be positioned to grow and thrive.

We added a new partner, ModernFI, to the roster and would not have a winning team without our all-star - TruStage. For decades, TruStage has not only shown up on game day, but supports us from the off-season through the championship game. Their commitment to your Association allows us to deliver the advocacy, education, and support that keeps the credit union movement moving.

Speaking of all-stars, congratulations to the 2025 industry and local award winners and recognized New Mexico credit unions: Del Norte CU, First Financial CU, FirstLight FCU, GECU, Guadalupe CU, Nusenda, Otero FCU, Railroad Employees CU, Sunward, U.S. Eagle, White Sands FCU, and Zia CU.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of your team. As we put the 2026 game plan into action, please let me know how your Association can support your success and create a winning game plan for your credit unions and the over one-million New Mexicans we serve.

Melia D. Heimbuck Esq.

President & CEO

Advocacy

Collaboration

Education

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Credit Union Association of New Mexico Announces Leadership Expansion: Sara Rochelle Promoted to VP of Public Affairs & Association Services; Kelsey McKahin Returns as Director of Programs & Events

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:30:33 GMT

Albuquerque, NM — The Credit Union Association of New Mexico is pleased to share two leadership updates that strengthen its mission to advocate, educate, and collaborate with New Mexico’s credit unions.
Sara Rochelle has been promoted to Vice President of Public Affairs & Association Services. Sara, who earned her Credit Union Designated Educator (CUDE) designation in 2025 and is a Credit Union Certified Marketing Executive (CUCME), will oversee advocacy communications, partnerships, member engagement, and other key Association services that strengthen statewide collaboration.
Kelsey McKahin has returned to The Association as Director of Programs & Events, bringing expanded experience from her time with Montana’s Credit Unions along with her newly earned master’s in project management and CUDE designation. Kelsey began her credit union career at The Credit Union Association of New Mexico in 2023 and returns to lead the growth and execution of statewide programs and educational events.
“These two changes are a big win for credit unions in New Mexico,” said Melia Heimbuck, President & CEO. “Sara has stepped into every challenge with creativity and dedication, and her leadership has made a real difference for our members. Additionally, having Kelsey return feels like welcoming home someone who already understands the heart of our work. I’m looking forward to seeing what they accomplish together.”
Sara reflected on her new role and the direction ahead. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep growing with The Association,” said Rochelle. “New Mexico credit unions are doing incredible work, and I’m proud to support that. Having Kelsey back only strengthens what we’re building, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Kelsey shared her excitement about returning to the credit union community where she began. “I’m really happy to be back at The Association and working with New Mexico credit unions again,” said McKahin. “This place shaped the start of my career, and I’m looking forward to building programs and events that bring people together and support the work credit unions do every day.”
The Association looks forward to the impact both leaders will have as they work together to advance advocacy, collaboration, and education for New Mexico’s credit unions.
About The Credit Union Association of New Mexico
The Credit Union Association of New Mexico is the trusted trade association for New Mexico credit unions, supporting member success through legislative advocacy, professional development, communications, and cooperative engagement. 
Media Contact:
Sara Rochelle, VP of Public Affairs & Association Services
Credit Union Association of New Mexico
sara@cuanm.org
575-202-7227

November 2025 Newsletter

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 07:00:00 GMT

The monthly update from the Credit Union Association of New Mexico aims to enhance the benefits for member credit unions by providing insights into upcoming initiatives and events.

We are thrilled to provide these updates and hope that you will distribute this information among your entire team!

Education & Events

GAC 2026 Registration is Open!

Governmental Affairs Conference 2026 is built for a new era of advocacy and registration is now open! From March 1 - 5, 2026, thousands of credit union leaders will meet in Washington, D.C., to connect, collaborate, and command attention where it counts. This is where we shape the future together.

Conference Registration Fees

Member: $1,395
Small Credit Unions (less than $50M in assets): $795
Guest: $475

Crash the GAC

The Cooperative Trust's largest and original Crash—Crash the GAC—Celebrates 17 years of connecting emerging leaders to our industry's brightest minds, deepening their connection to the credit union mission. Apply to CRASH the GAC 2026 and take your career to the next level!

CRASH

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Foundation Updates

Leadership 101

Learn More

New Mexico ALICE Report

ALICE Report

Apply for Professional Development Scholarships

Do you see a conference above or have an educational opportunity that you would like to take advantage of? The Credit Union Foundation Of New Mexico may be able to assist!

Apply

Credit Union Updates

Local credit union raising funds to help fight food insecurity in New Mexico

Campaign matching community donations, feeding hungry kids in New Mexico

Nusenda Credit Union partners with UNMH for annual holiday toy drive

State Employees Credit Union holds holiday Stuff the Bus food drive

News to share? Contact sara@cuanm.org if you want to see your credit union’s stories shared here and on our social media!

Partner Updates

2025 Committed to the Movement Infographic

Catalyst Expands FedNow® Instant Payments, RTP® Real-Time Payments and P2P Payments Reach for Trailhead Credit Union

WEBINAR:

Cyber Attacks Don’t Knock — Can You Detect Them in Time?

Cybercriminals are moving faster, using automation and AI to launch sophisticated attacks that slip past traditional defenses. Credit unions are now prime targets and the stakes for missed detection have never been higher.

Join SilverSky for an exclusive webinar and find out how to proactively identify and close cybersecurity gaps before a breach occurs.

Key Takeaways:

· Cybersecurity Landscape: Some of the key trends and threat activities observed on a global scale.

· Detection: How to spot early warning signs.

· Practical strategies to strengthen your defenses: To counter these challenges and mitigate threat activity, credit unions must adopt a proactive and holistic approach to cybersecurity.

Don’t wait for a breach to find out your gaps learn how to stay one step ahead.

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The road to a stronger credit union movement

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 07:00:00 GMT

A message from Scott Simpson, America’s Credit Unions new president/CEO

To the credit union movement:
I’m just getting started in my new role as President and CEO of America’s Credit Unions, and while I am not new to credit unions, I recognize that there is a lot for me to learn, and a lot of opportunities to strengthen our movement.

I took this job because I believe wholeheartedly in the credit union mission. We’ve got challenges ahead, but I also know we’ve got something special here. I’m excited about what’s possible when we work together.

For those who don’t know me, I have been part of the credit union movement for over two decades, most recently in the League System serving California’s Credit Unions, Nevada’s Credit Unions, and Utah’s Credit Unions. Before that, I worked for a U.S. Senator and led the Utah Republican Party. I grew up as a “political hack,” if you will, but the call to protect and empower credit unions is something I felt connected to the first time I experienced the unique power of cooperative finance. I was hooked.

Over the last 20 years, I’ve remained astounded by what you do for your members. Credit unions change lives. You help folks build a better future, one member at a time. You rise to a greater calling every single day.

That kind of impact doesn’t happen by accident. It takes the right political, legislative and regulatory environments that allow you to focus on your members, build strong relationships, and meet their needs. That’s where America’s Credit Unions and the League System come in. We’re here to be your voice in Washington, to help create an environment where credit unions can exist without barriers, and ultimately thrive.

We’ll be working closely with you, your league, and industry partners to tackle the tough issues and make sure your voice is heard loud and clear in Washington, D.C., and beyond.

I know the road ahead won’t always be smooth. There’ll be bumps, detours, maybe even a few potholes. But if we stay focused on where we’re headed—a stronger, more connected credit union movement—we’ll get there together.

In the coming months, I’d love to hear from you. Your membership is important to me and your feedback will help shape our unified voice and direction.

I look forward to working closely with you and can’t wait to see what we accomplish.

Warm regards,
Scott Simpson
President & CEO
America’s Credit Unions

October 2025 Newsletter

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The monthly update from the Credit Union Association of New Mexico aims to enhance the benefits for member credit unions by providing insights into upcoming initiatives and events.

We are thrilled to provide these updates and hope that you will distribute this information among your entire team!

Education & Events

GAC 2026 Registration is Open!

Conference Registration Fees

Member: $1,395
Small Credit Unions (less than $50M in assets): $795
Guest: $475

Crash the GAC

CRASH

Register for our Webinars!

Want fewer, more targeted emails from our webinar partners? Click here!

Foundation Updates

Leadership 101

Learn More

New Mexico ALICE Report

ALICE Report

Apply for Professional Development Scholarships

Do you see a conference above or have an educational opportunity that you would like to take advantage of? The Credit Union Foundation Of New Mexico may be able to assist!

Apply

Credit Union Updates

New Mexico Credit Unions Support Members Through Government Shutdown

New Mexico’s credit unions continue to step up for their members during the ongoing government shutdown—offering flexible loan options, skip-a-pay programs, and other relief measures to help ease financial strain.

As of October 27, 2025, credit unions across the state have reported:

268 low- or zero-interest loans totaling $138,000
760 skip-a-pay loans totaling more than $7.1 million deferred
29 loan modifications or forbearances totaling $31,813

These numbers continue to grow as credit unions identify and support members affected by the shutdown.

We want to thank every New Mexico credit union for your ongoing commitment to your members and communities. Please continue to share updates with us so we can communicate your impact to our legislators and the broader credit union system.

See More Resources

Zia Harvest Food Drive

The Zia Harvest will run November 3-21, benefitting The Food Depot, a nonprofit that distributes food across nine counties in Northern New Mexico. Bring nonperishable items to the bins at any Zia branch, and (whether the government is shut down or not) let’s celebrate shared meals and togetherness in New Mexico. The Food Depot also accepts monetary donations online.

Nusenda boosts microloan amounts to $50k

News to share? Contact sara@cuanm.org if you want to see your credit union’s stories shared here and on our social media!

Partner Updates

Credit Union System Partnership Report

Catalyst Launches FedNow Service With Beehive Federal Credit Union, Powered by New Flex Core Integration

WEBINAR: Drive Member Engagement & Deposit Growth

In today’s competitive financial landscape, credit unions must find new ways to grow deposits and deepen member relationships. This exclusive webinar reveals how your credit union can leverage integrated business services to stand out and thrive.

Join Barry Sloane, CEO & President of NewtekOne [NASDAQ: NEWT], as he shares actionable strategies to:

Boost small business member loyalty with high-value offerings like lending, insurance, and payment solutions.
Drive deposit growth through payroll and merchant services tailored for business members.
Differentiate your credit union with seamless, integrated solutions that keep members engaged and invested.

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