Walking Boldly: A Young Professional’s Journey at AACUC 2025

Last week, I had the profound honor of attending the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) Annual Conference in Alpharetta, Georgia. This year’s theme— “Not Like Us: We Are Bold, Mindful, and Brave”—was more than a slogan; it was a powerful declaration of purpose, identity, and movement. The experience left me deeply moved, recharged, and resolute.

AACUC’s mission is not only critical—it is catalytic. As a coalition, they are fierce advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the credit union industry. They are actively reshaping the face and future of our movement through scholarships, leadership development, intentional training, and mentorship. Their programs don’t just support—they uplift. They equip professionals to not only grow in their roles but to lead with purpose, confidence, and authenticity.

What AACUC offers is more than opportunity—it’s empowerment. It’s a space where voices are amplified, potential is ignited, and belonging is non-negotiable. In a world where representation still matters deeply, their work is nothing short of transformational.

Now that you’ve got the scoop on the powerhouse behind the conference, let me give you the 411 on my experience at this life-changing event.

The energy on Day 1 was electric. Music filled the conference center, photo and video reels lit up the screens, and it was immediately clear: AACUC did not come to play. We kicked things off with a CU4Kids Local Impact Event, stuffing backpacks with supplies for children in need—a powerful reminder of our “people helping people” mission in action. Chapter meetings followed, where I had the chance to connect with David Muse, President of the Eastern Regional Chapter, along with credit union professionals from across the Eastern Region— including Maryland, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and others neighboring my home state of Connecticut. We closed the night with a Karaoke Extravaganza—and let’s just say, the family spirit we felt during the day carried right into the evening. My voice? Gone. My heart? Full.

Days 2 and 3 were packed with breakout sessions and keynote speakers that fueled me both professionally and personally. One of my favorite sessions was “Networking with a Purpose,” featuring Espy Poblano, AACUC Training Manager; Tre’Vaugn Allen, AACUC Operations & Internship Manager; Damaris Carroll, Lead DEI and Employee Experience Partner at Velera; and Emma Hayes, Chief of Learning & Development at SECU. This session struck a deep chord with me—networking has always made me anxious and unsure. The idea of starting conversations with strangers felt overwhelming. But their guidance gave me the confidence to face those fears and start building meaningful connections.

Another standout was the “C-Suite Ladies: Let’s Check In” panel, which included Carlene Alexander, VP of Global Impact, Inclusion & DEIB at United Nations Federal Credit Union; Gloria Dixon, Director of Philanthropy and Executive Director of the BECU Foundation; Deborah Fears, CEO of Chicago Post Office Employees Credit Union; Emma Hayes; Day Matthews, Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel at Civic Federal Credit Union; and Melva McKay-Bass, Chief Community Development Officer at Suncoast Credit Union. Hearing these women share their journeys—the challenges they’ve overcome, the barriers they’ve broken, and the leadership they embody—was both humbling and empowering. Their stories reminded me that success is possible without losing your authenticity, and that paving the way for others is as important as advancing yourself. This panel didn’t just inspire me; it gave me a clearer vision of the leader I want to become.

The final day centered around powerful reflections led by AACUC President and CEO Renée Sattiewhite. Together, we explored what it truly means to advocate—for ourselves, for each other, and for the communities we serve. In alignment with the conference theme, we were challenged to identify how we will show up boldly, mindfully, and bravely moving forward.

For me, it starts here—by sharing my experience and highlighting the importance of this coalition with all of you. And I couldn’t reflect on this journey without mentioning the incredible young professional family I gained along the way. They brought laughter, support, perspective, and community to every moment of this conference. Their presence reminded me that the future of our movement is bright—and that we don’t have to walk this path alone.

So now, I extend that same challenge to you: How will you be bold, mindful, and brave—in your credit union, your community, and who you are as an individual? It’s in stepping up, sharing our voices, and embracing our stories that true progress happens. 

Because when we push ourselves to lift our voices and tell our stories, we not only honor the movement—we become part of it.

Makala Burage-Worthy
Senior Member Service Representative/Trainer
America’s First Network Credit Union