Rocky Mountain CU Taps New CEO/President: In a recent media release, Rocky Mountain CU announced the appointment of Cyrus Malkin as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Kristen Bouchard, chair of the credit union's board of directors said, "Cyrus has spent almost 17 years with our credit union. He knows the organization’s history, culture, and community."

Congratulations to Cyrus and Rocky Moutain CU!

Montana Farmers Union Foundation Grants: Applications for the Montana Farmers Union (MFU) Foundation grants are being accepted through May 1. Successful candidates will demonstrate alignment with the MFU Foundation's mission to "create new opportunities and contribute to the growth and enhancement of Montana agriculture and rural communities." The foundation also noted that "projects must include an educational component for youth and/or adults, with priority given to rural communities." 

If your credit union has — or is interested in starting — a financial education program to support rural Montana, you should strongly consider applying. Email Michelle if you need help with the application or want to brainstorm ideas.

Power Up Registration: Join us for a fun and educational annual Power Up Conference & Expo on May 21-22 at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort! We'll begin the festivities with fundraisers benefiting MCUCD on Wednesday and follow them up with a vendor expo. Thursday is full of education sessions, MCU’s 88th Annual Business Meeting, and our annual Awards Dinner. Register yourself, staff, and volunteers before May 7.

Save the Dates 🗓️: Exciting opportunities to grow and learn are coming your way! Be sure to mark your calendars and keep an eye out for more details on these events. (Click on each for more information):

• Women’s Community Conference: March 18-20
• Personify Leadership: April 2-3
• Take the Lead: April 15-17
• Lending Conference: April 23-24

• MCUL Trust Collaboration in Wellness: May 20 morning
• Small Credit Union Workshop: May 20 afternoon
• Power Up: May 21-22

What We're Reading, Watching, and Listening To

When you Need a Break from Work: We hope you caught 50 Years of SNL's Music on Monday. The music, artists, and SNL defined most of our childhoods, so we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. If you're looking for a little nostalgia, here's the official trailer.

Helping Millenials Navigate Student Loan Increases: Everyone knows the importance of appealing to younger generations. You've built a strong digital presence, and you're highlighting your social responsibility efforts. A recent CUInsight article highlights the importance — and lifetime value — of adding student loans and refinance options into your arsenal.

Affordable Housing Study: The Montana Cooperative Development Center conducted a survey on senior and workforce housing in Montana. Many credit unions are looking for ways to support affordable housing in their communities, and this survey is a great place to start. 

Stay Informed: MCU Advocacy in Action! The 2025 Montana Legislative Session is in full swing, and MCU is actively tracking bills, engaging with lawmakers, and advocating for credit unions. Check out our latest Legislative Session Update and tune into our Advocacy Podcast for insights on key issues. Stay engaged and make an impact! For more information, contact Karen.

This Week's Blogs

A Direct Line: Training your board of directors is crucial to running a successful credit union. This week's blog offers several opportunities from our partner Credit Union Webinar Network that will provide your board with timely, necessary knowledge.

Recently, we visited with Sean Paulauskis, VP of Community Engagement with Valley CU, to learn about his involvement with Gallatin Valley Connect and the #CUDifference they recently made with the HRDC Warming Center. Here's what he had to say.

"Valley Credit Union empowers me to support our community however possible and whenever possible. I'm involved in Gallatin Valley Connect, which comprises leaders in the community who lead with their hearts. As a group, we committed to our community that we would learn about and support a non-profit four times a year. We do this by volunteering our time and giving 80% of our member dues back to the community. 

'With the cold setting in and negative temperatures on their way, we decided to see what services are offered during winter, and HRDC Warming Center came to the top of the list. We received a full tour of the facility where we learned it was once a roller skating rink. The warming center is the best option for the underserved in the community to get out of the cold and sleep in a bed during the colder months. When it drops below 10 degrees, the center stays open 24 hours/day until the temperature increases. This warming center literally saves lives. 

"A warm place to sleep seems so simple but to a person who has nothing but the challenges they face, whether physically or mentally, this service is not only a life saver but also a reminder: I am not alone, there is good in the world, and there is HOPE."

These services are always needed. While the number one request is for hygiene products like shampoo, deodorant, soap, shower sandals, and feminine products, money is always welcome.