CUBFI DE Scholarship Winner Completes DE Training

Congratulations to Maria Lazor, VP Risk & Strategy Management at Mutual Security Credit Union, for her successful completion of the National Credit Union Foundation’s Development Education program in February. DE training is an immersive experiential learning experience that is designed to be transformative for credit union professionals. Attendees come back from the training energized, informed and excited to help their credit union leverage the CUs unique social mission for business growth. Connecticut has more than 30 active DEs in its network.

Here’s Maria recounting her experience, which was made possible by a 2023 scholarship from the League’s foundation—Credit Unions Building Financial Independence (CUBFI).

“Attending the National Credit Union Foundation's Development Education training was truly a transformative and enriching experience. I am immensely grateful for the scholarship provided by CUBFI, which made this opportunity possible. The insights gained and connections made during the training have been invaluable to my growth as a credit union leader.

Networking with fellow credit union leaders allowed me to exchange ideas, strategies, and best practices, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at strengthening our institutions and the communities we serve. The shared commitment to cooperative principles and financial inclusion was inspiring and reaffirmed the profound impact credit unions have in empowering individuals and communities towards financial independence.

Through the training, I gained a deeper understanding of the vital role credit unions play in fostering economic resilience and social equity. By promoting financial literacy, providing affordable access to financial services, and investing in local communities, credit unions are catalysts for positive change. My biggest takeaway is the power of connection and collaborating with other credit unions, state leagues, CUNA and other community leaders to make the biggest impact in the communities in which we serve.  I am honored to be part of a movement dedicated to financial wellness for all.”

Stay tuned for our 2024 scholarship information which will be available this spring for the fall 2024 DE trainings.