Lizeth GeorgeThe League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU & Affiliates) successfully concluded the second annual INSPIRE Conference, held November 13 – 15, in Tampa, Florida. This event, in conjunction with the Carolinas Credit Union League and the Global Women’s Leadership Network (GWLN), brought together credit union leaders, advocates, and supporters to celebrate the role of women in the credit union movement.
The conference opened with an impactful session titled, “EmpowerHER: Unveiling the Power of Women Leaders”, led by Linh Dang, CEO of Floridacentral Credit Union, and Maureen Bock, Senior Vice President of Member Experience at LSCU. This session set a powerful tone for attendees to explore their potential to effect change within their organizations and communities.
One of the standout conversations occurred with Demi-Leigh Tebow, Founder of The Tebow Group, and Samantha Beeler, President of LSCU. The candid discussion focused on identity and purpose, captivating attendees and encouraging them to embrace authenticity and the values that drive positive impact.
“Demi-Leigh’s insights on staying true to one’s identity and values were incredibly inspiring,” said Vicki Pest, CFO of Velocity Community Federal Credit Union. “Her story reminded me that embracing my purpose isn’t just a personal journey, it’s the foundation for making a real difference for my credit union.”
Attendees had the opportunity to hear from Rachel DeAlto, Communication and Relatability Expert, Media Personality, Consultant, Author, and Attorney, who led multiple sessions, where she provided transformative techniques to empower leaders by fostering engagement and motivation within their teams. In a dynamic table talk session, attendees exchanged ideas on strengthening workplace relationships and enhancing team morale.
The panel, “Leadership Chronicles: Inspiring Journeys in Credit Union Advocacy,” featured influential voices such as Nanci Wilson, Vice President of Member Solutions of Luminate Louisiana Credit Unions; Lauren Whaley, President of the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation; and Sarah Waters, Chief Advocacy Office of the Tennessee Credit Union League. Panelists shared their personal journeys, insights into credit union advocacy, and strategies for overcoming challenges to make a lasting difference. We appreciated Catalyst Corporate Federal Credit Union for sponsoring this exciting conversation.
On the final day, an impactful session called “Cooperation & Alliance – Our Call to Action,” was led by Renee Sattiewhite, President and CEO of the African American Credit Union Coalition; Debbie Smith, CEO of Georgia United Credit Union; Biana Murnane, President and CEO of BrightStar Credit Union; and Suzanne Weinstein, President and CEO of Orlando Credit Union, emphasized the importance of alliances and mentorship within the credit union industry. This discussion underscored the strength of cooperation as a transformative force in the evolving financial landscape.
“This panel was a true reminder of the difference we make when we collaborate and work together,” expressed Linda Wetherford, President and CEO of SPC Credit Union. “Hearing from these leaders has inspired me to foster stronger relationships within my own network, knowing that connections can drive real change in our communities.”
The conference wrapped up with a session on “ReVisionary Thinking™: The Science and Strategy of Adapting to Change”, led by Courtney Clark, Resilience and Change-Management Expert, Cancer Survivor, and CEO. Her session provided actionable strategies for navigating change and building resilience in both a personal and professional atmosphere. Thank you to Corporate America Credit Union for sponsoring Courtney’s session and being the title sponsor for the second annual INSPIRE Conference.
The success of the INSPIRE Conference underscores the importance of empowering women in the credit union industry and providing them with valuable resources and inspiration. LSCU would like to thank all attendees, organizers, and sponsors for making this event a success. The League looks forward to continuing this tradition in years to come and looks forward to welcoming attendees back on September 18 – 19, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina for the third annual INSPIRE Conference.
For more information about LSCU and future events, please visit https://lscu.coop/education/.
