Lizeth GeorgeThe League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU & Affiliates) is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of its inaugural INSPIRE Conference, held Wednesday, October 11 – Friday, October 13, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia. This groundbreaking event brought together 124 credit union leaders, members, and supporters from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, along with members of the Global Women’s Leadership Network (GWLN) and its sister societies in the region.
The INSPIRE Conference, a multi-state collaboration, was designed to be the most powerful and impactful women’s conference for credit unions in the Southeast. Attendees had the unique opportunity to network with peers, gain valuable insights from influential speakers, and explore topics designed to resonate and motivate.
Maureen Bock, Vice President of Education and Training at LSCU & Affiliates, addressed the crucial topic of self-care and mental well-being in her session titled “Put Your Oxygen Mask on First.” She shared personal experiences and insights into the importance of prioritizing self-care.
“I couldn’t have imagined how incredibly exciting and transformative this event would become. Witnessing the vibrant energy, the outstanding speakers, and the profound impact these sessions had on attendees was truly remarkable,” Bock said. “Speaking at this inaugural event was an absolute privilege, and it’s been awe-inspiring to see our vision brought to life.”
One of the highlights of the conference was the session titled “Empowering Women Leaders: Insight from A Male CEO Surrounded by Female Leadership,” featuring Pete Pritts, CEO of Corporate America Credit Union, along with Lauren Howle, Lisa Coffey, Ashley Daniels, and Kayla Barnett from the same organization. This panel discussion provided unique perspectives on empowering women leaders in the financial services industry.
Debbie Smith, CEO of Georgia United Credit Union in Duluth, Georgia, was also glad to attend and take part in the event after she and Bock first discussed the idea of the INSPIRE Conference at the Southeast Credit Union Conference & Expo two years ago.
“Collaborating with credit unions from all three states to create an event that highlights the achievements and potential of women in our industry was truly an honor,” Smith said. “The success of this conference reaffirms the importance of supporting and empowering women in credit unions, and I look forward to its continued impact when the conference takes place in Tampa, Florida next year.”
Lena Giakoumopoulos, Director of Global Women’s Leadership Network, discussed the network’s impact on women around the world, emphasizing the power of women supporting each other in leadership roles. In addition to the enlightening sessions, attendees enjoyed networking opportunities, including a cocktail reception, hands-on lunch activity, and an Italian feast.
The conference concluded with a session by Samantha Beeler, President of LSCU, titled “Be the Leader You Need Now!” She shared insights on leadership and encouraged participants to find inspiration and confidence in their careers.
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 happen. The League looks forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come, to make a measurable difference in the lives of women, credit union members, and communities throughout the Southeast.
For more information about LSCU and future events, please visit https://lscu.coop/education/.
