Omni Nashville Hotel
Duration
4 days
Format
In person
Audience
Your Directors
Experience
Nashville, TN
You’re Invited to the Best Event in Nashville.
The curtain is rising on Directors Conference in Music City, USA! Join us for an electrifying lineup of headlining speakers, chart-topping topics and a backstage pass to dynamic networking opportunities.
Fine-tune your governance strategy and get your board working in perfect harmony with topics that are sure to resonate with CU leaders, such as:
- Credit Union Growth Strategies
- Building More Inclusive Teams
- Cybersecurity Risk Management
- Navigating Board Dynamics
- Business in an AI-First World
- And more!
We’re excited to have Thom Singer joining us for the first time as Emcee!
Thom is not just an Emcee but a master at intentional networking and community creation. Thom’s ability to connect with diverse audiences and foster meaningful relationships makes him a standout choice for Directors Conference. His presence will elevate the event experience, making it more impactful and memorable for everyone involved.
We live in a time of constant change. Ensure your CU leadership is ready for the new governance tempo by joining us in Music City this December!
New For Board Liaisons!
You asked, we listened—Board Liaison Workshop is back in person at Directors Conference, with new sessions. Learn more.
Snapshots from Directors Conference
Relive some favorite moments from Directors Conference 2023!
Why Attend Directors Conference?
Directors, see if this strikes a chord…
- Immerse yourself in a collaborative learning environment with 10 hours of dedicated learning time, and earn up to 12 CPE credits.
- Highly interactive content that is unique to your role as credit union board member.
- Part learning, part networking, and part inspiration—get wowed by our expert speakers, pick the brains of your peers, and head home energized with many new ideas to implement.
CEOs, this’ll be music to your ears…
- Your directors will learn governance best practices and key regulatory and fiduciary issues that will help keep your board—and your credit union—strong.
- Networking is an important part of this conference; your directors will form bonds with fellow board members they can reach out to once they are home.
- Conference speakers will provide cross-industry perspectives that can be invaluable in your boardroom.
"Very good conference; lots of diverse topics, made you think about the future. Excellent time to network and discuss similar and different ways for boards to function."
Frank Daniels | Dover Federal Credit Union
Asset Size — $463 Million
Sponsorship Opportunities
Forge new relationships with credit union directors and executives as they strengthen their skills and hear from expert speakers.
CUES is the industry leader in providing director-specific education. Board chairs, directors and committee officers from the nation’s top credit unions attend Directors Conference to receive world-class education and develop their peer networks.
The event’s popular sponsor showcase is an ideal venue for credit unions to seek out suppliers who offer innovative solutions for their needs, as well as essential products and services. Thanks to its relaxed setting, sponsors enjoy an unusually high level of face time with attendees. CUES Directors Conference has an average of 400 attendees from 182 credit unions.
Sponsorship Benefits
Platinum Sponsorship
CUES Supporting and Premier Supplier Members: $15,000
Limit 4 Sponsors
- 10’ x 20’ space in the showcase
- Company listing in the November CU Management magazine and conference app
- Conference registrations (4)
- Networking opportunities
- Logo and link on cues.org
- Recognition at general session
- (4) Company brochures in conference app
- Sponsor recognition on name badge
- Conference registration list
- Enhanced banner ad on cues.org or cumanagement.com
- Full-page, four-color ad in CU Management's November or December issue with 50% discount on the other issue
- Opportunity to present a brief company introduction before a General Session (or similar)
- Co-sponsorship of the Welcome Reception
- Sponsorship of the golf tournament (or similar)
- Golf registration (or similar)
- Two optional event registrations
- Recognition as a Platinum-level sponsor in attendee acknowledgement materials and conference marketing
For nonmember pricing, or more information on membership, contact Kari Sweeney at kari@cues.org.
Gold Sponsorship
CUES Supporting and Premier Supplier Members: $8,500
Limit 3 Sponsors
- 10’ x 10’ space in the showcase
- Company listing and description in the November CU Management magazine and conference app
- Conference registrations (2)
- Networking opportunities
- Logo and link on cues.org
- Recognition at general session
- (2) Company brochures in conference app
- Sponsor recognition on name badge
- Conference registration list
- Banner ad on cues.org or cumanagement.com
- 50% discount on November and December CU Management advertising
- Sponsorship of a breakfast
- Recognition as a Gold-level sponsor in attendee acknowledgement materials and conference marketing
For nonmember pricing, or more information on membership, contact Kari Sweeney at kari@cues.org.
Silver Sponsorship
CUES Supporting and Premier Supplier Members: $6,000
- 10’ x 10’ space in the showcase
- Company listing and description in the November CU Management magazine and conference app
- Conference registrations (2)
- Networking opportunities
- Logo and link on cues.org
- Recognition at general session
- Company brochure in conference app
- Sponsor recognition on name badge
- Conference registration list
- Banner ad on cues.org or cumanagement.com
- 25% discount on November and December CU Management advertising
- Sponsorship of a refreshment break
- Recognition as a Silver-level sponsor in attendee acknowledgement materials and conference marketing
For nonmember pricing, or more information on membership, contact Kari Sweeney at kari@cues.org.
Additional & Non-Attending Sponsorship Opportunities
You'll be there, even if you can't attend! Or, enhance your onsite sponsorship for maximum results.
CUES Supporting and Premier Supplier Member pricing
- Book sponsor: $10,000
- Conference Wi-Fi: $5,000
- Conference App: $6,000
- Conference tote bags: $7,000
- Badge lanyards: $3,500
- Pens and notepads: $1,500
- Hotel Key Cards: $4,000
For nonmember pricing, or more information on membership, contact Kari Sweeney at kari@cues.org.
Become a sponsor today!
Forge new relationships with credit union directors and executives as they strengthen their skills and hear from expert speakers.
Attendees by Asset Size
Attendees by Title
Percentage of Attendees by Region
Lineup
Sunday
Pre-Conference Session | 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
*Separate registration required.
Credit Union Growth Strategies - Leveraging Mergers, Acquisitions, Spinoffs, & Secondary Capital
Chris Pippett, Partner, Fox Rothschild
In an ever-evolving financial landscape, credit unions face unique challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable growth. This session delves into the essential tools and strategies available to credit unions seeking expansion and enhanced viability in the market.
Mergers, acquisitions, spinoffs, and secondary capital represent powerful mechanisms for catalyzing growth and strengthening market presence. Through insightful discussions and real-world examples, this session explores how credit unions can strategically leverage these tools to achieve their growth objectives while maintaining a mission-driven focus.
Whether you're exploring growth opportunities through strategic partnerships, seeking to enhance operational efficiency, or looking to expand your credit union's impact in the communities you serve, this session equips you with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the complexities of credit union growth and achieve long-term success. Join us to uncover actionable strategies and practical insights for driving sustainable growth in today's competitive financial environment.
Conference Registration & Welcome Reception | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Optional Event | 5:30–9:30 p.m.
Opry Country Christmas
$165 USD/person
Nashville’s coolest holiday show! Be part of Nashville’s can't-miss holiday show series. Enjoy a night of festive fun with special guests, spotlight artists, and nonstop surprises at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. There is no better place to spend your Music City holiday. The price includes a main-floor seat and round-trip transportation to the event.
Monday
Conference Information Desk | 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Breakfast | 7:00 – 8:00 a.m.
Welcome to CUES Directors Conference | 8:00 – 8:40 a.m.
Thom Singer, Keynote Speaker & CEO of the Austin Technology Council
Thom will set the tone for the event by creating an inclusive atmosphere that will encourage collaboration while emphasizing the importance of long-lasting connections. His expertise will not only keep you engaged but will ensure that every attendee feels like a part of a larger, connected community.
Opening General Session | 8:45 – 9:45 a.m.
Help Them Thrive: Boost Engagement, Retention, and Well-Being
Melissa Majors, Author, Keynote Speaker, Consultant, & Coach, Melissa Majors Consulting
"Unintentionally Toxic" is a dynamic plaguing our teams and wreaking havoc on workplace performance. No leader intends to cultivate unhealthy work environments, yet here we are. Gallup’s 2023 Global Workplace study revealed that engagement and employee well-being are the most critical problems to solve, and the way to fix both is- by becoming even better leaders. There's hope! High-performing leaders detoxify their workplaces through tactics that rehumanize themselves, their teams, and their company cultures. They simplify over-engineered experiences and embrace the humanity of those they lead and serve. During this fun, inspirational, yet actionable experience, Melissa Majors examines research, stories, and best practices for mitigating unintentional toxicities and boosting engagement, high performance, and team happiness. Based on neuroscience, research, and common sense, she illuminates profound insights and simple tips you can immediately use to become an even better leader. This discussion is relevant for all leaders.
Learner Outcomes:
- Articulate the case for rehumanized leadership in mitigating modern-day workplace challenges.
- Equipped with specific leadership tactics that can be used to overcome these issues.
- Ability to Access resources (infographics and pre-defined social posts) that can be used to continue the conversation with your network.
Concluding Connections: Share & Compare | 9:44 a.m.
Thom Singer, Keynote Speaker & CEO of the Austin Technology Council
Networking Refreshment Break | 9:45 – 10:05a.m.
Breakout Sessions | 10:05 – 11:05 a.m.
Fair Lending, BSA, and Cybersecurity - Daily Issues for Directors
Chris Pippett, Partner, Fox Rothschild
In the fast-paced world of finance, credit union directors’ shoulder significant responsibilities in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while safeguarding member interests and organizational integrity. This essential session dives into the critical issues of fair lending, Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) compliance, and cybersecurity, providing directors with the knowledge and strategies needed to address these challenges effectively on a daily basis.
Topics Covered:
- Fair Lending Compliance: Understanding fair lending laws and regulations, identifying potential areas of risk, and promoting fair lending practices throughout the credit union.
- BSA Compliance: Navigating the complexities of BSA regulations, strengthening compliance frameworks, and fostering a culture of compliance and transparency.
- Cybersecurity Risk Management: Assessing cybersecurity risks, implementing robust controls, and developing incident response plans to protect against cyber threats and safeguard member data.
- Director’s Role and Responsibilities: Clarifying the director's role in overseeing fair lending, BSA compliance, and cybersecurity efforts, and fostering collaboration between the board and management to address daily challenges effectively.
Navigating Board Dynamics for Effective Governance
Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director, The Diligent Institute
Building a collaborative and high-performing board means dealing with a wide range of individual personalities and perspectives. Especially meant for board officers (current and aspiring), this session will equip you with tools and strategies for fostering productive conversations and driving to a better decision-making environment in the board room.
Protect Assets and Reputation through Technology
Mike Robins, Chief Operating Officer/Integrator, Dynamic Edge
In 2024, the average ransomware payout skyrocketed to $2M, up from $570,000 in 2023. Robust security and cyber insurance are more important than ever, particularly for credit unions. However, the proper solutions and policy applications become more complicated every day. When executives and board members put cybersecurity matters on “auto pilot,” they place their members’ assets and their credit union’s reputation at significant risk. This session will identify the critical components of an acceptable cyber insurance policy, discuss the challenges of proper network security, and explain how to collaborate with your providers in the event of a cyberattack. Finally, it will explain the “why” behind key conditions and exclusions, so that executives and board members may make informed decisions.
Session to be Announced
Chad Helminak, VP/Talent Development Programming, CUES
Session Description Coming Soon
Networking/Travel Time | 11:05 – 11:20 a.m.
Breakout Sessions (repeated from the morning)| 11:20 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
Luncheon | 12:20 – 1:40 p.m.
General Session | 1:40 – 2:40 p.m.
AI is Eating the World: How to Reimagine Your Business in an AI-First World
Brian Solis, Best-Selling Author, Futurist, Digital Anthropologist, & Head of Global Innovation, ServiceNow
Since the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, generative AI has become the world’s fast-growing technology and the subject of much debate regarding the threats and opportunities that come along with it. The truth is that no leader has experienced a technology like genAI before, one that performs tasks as good as or better than humans. What’s clear, we have now catapulted toward a post digital transformation era. AI has forever changed the trajectory of business evolution, putting ‘business as usual’ in the rearview mirror. Leaders now face an entirely new set of prospects and challenges that will test their creativity, resilience, and vision. In this rousing keynote, world-renowned futurist and best-selling author Brian Solis will share why this is the moment for leaders to reimagine their organizations for an entirely new future. He will explore why automation is no longer the goal, but instead the norm, and why augmentation will be the key to differentiation and how leaders can forge the mind shift required to unlock a new future as an AI-first exponential growth business.
Concluding Connections | 2:40 – 3:00 p.m.
Thom Singer, Keynote Speaker & CEO of the Austin Technology Council
Tuesday
Conference Information Desk | 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Breakfast | 7:00 – 8:00 a.m.
Welcome Back | 8:00 – 8:10 a.m.
Thom Singer, Keynote Speaker & CEO of the Austin Technology Council
General Session | 8:10 – 9:20 a.m.
Regulatory Update
Ronnie Blue, Supervisory Examiner, NCUA
We'll explore agency priorities aimed at providing regulatory clarity to enable credit unions to thrive in an ever-changing market. We will discuss recent trends, highlight supervisory focus areas, and engage with attendees for questions.
Networking/Travel Time | 9:20 – 9:40 a.m.
Breakout Sessions | 9:40 – 10:40 a.m.
5 Practices of Leadership: Navigating the Future of Credit Unions
Jamie Leddin, Ed.D., Consultant, The Leddin Group LLC
In this session, Jamie Leddin inspires and empowers credit union leaders with actionable insights on:
- Thinking Like a Leader: How to get every leader in your organization to embrace a leader’s mindset.
- Clarifying Purpose: How to gain clarity on purpose from an organization’s leaders down to every individual contributor.
- Defining Priorities: How to set big goals and drive alignment.
- Creating Plans: How to get broad input into the creation of actionable plans at every level.
- Inspiring Performance. How to overcome 7 leadership obstacles that hold back performance.
The session not only addresses the current challenges faced by leaders but also provides a clear framework for thinking and leading effectively in a rapidly evolving landscape in the credit union industry.
Board Succession and Nominations
Jennie Boden, CEO, Quantum Governance, L3C
This session will focus on the critical aspects of board succession planning and nominations, essential for maintaining strong governance and leadership continuity within a credit union. The discussion will cover key strategies for effective board succession planning, the role of nominating committees, and the importance of aligning board competencies with the credit union’s strategic goals. Attendees will gain insights into creating a robust succession plan that supports the long-term success and stability of their credit union.
The Board’s Role in Governing Transformation
Steve Williams, CEO, Cornerstone Advisors
In this session, Cornerstone’s Steve Williams will provide best practices and share industry case studies for how directors can strategize and hold management accountable for ensuring the credit union transforms digital delivery, embraces automation, leverages data and ai, and builds a next generation work force. Directors have a duty of care but must take caution not to delve into operations – join us as Steve Williams share how directors can ensure their credit union does not strategically become the Blockbuster or Sears of tomorrow.
Networking Refreshment Break | 10:40 – 11:00 a.m.
Breakout Sessions (repeated from the morning) | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m..
Wednesday
Conference Information Desk | 7:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Breakfast | 7:00 – 8:00 a.m.
Wednesday Welcome | 8:00 – 8:10 a.m.
Thom Singer, Keynote Speaker & CEO of the Austin Technology Council
General Session | 8:10 – 9:20 a.m.
A Whole New World - The Rapid Transformation of Financial Services
Mark Sievewright, Chief Strategy Officer & Founder, Sievewright & Associates, a SRM Company
In the fast-evolving landscape of financial services, adaptation is not just a choice, but a necessity. Join us for an insightful session as we delve into the dynamic shifts and disruptive innovations reshaping the financial sector at an unprecedented pace. From digital banking to fintech and AI, explore how emerging technologies are revolutionizing traditional banking models and customer experiences. This session promises to provide valuable perspectives on thriving in a world where change is the only constant.
Networking Refreshment Break | 9:20 – 9:40 a.m.
Closing General Session | 9:40 – 10:45 a.m.
The Hero Effect® - Being Your Best When It Matters the Most!
Kevin Brown, Author & Motivational Speaker
In a fresh and entertaining style, Kevin shares ideas, strategies and principles that will inspire and equip participants to show up every day and make a positive difference. At the heart of Kevin’s message is a simple, yet powerful philosophy for life that drives every thought, every action and ultimately every result we achieve both personally and professionally. Your team will be motivated to reach beyond what is required and do something remarkable!
This keynote is designed to help attendees:
- Achieve greater results by eliminating “ordinary" thinking and mastering the habit of excellence.
- Own the moments that matter (and they all matter) by taking responsibility for their attitude, their actions, and their results.
- Create meaningful relationships and deliver an extraordinary experience for every “customer” at work and at home.
Wrap Up & Final Insights | 10:45 – 11:00 a.m.
Thom Singer, Keynote Speaker & CEO of the Austin Technology Council
Conclusion of Conference, Safe Travels! | 11:00 a.m.
Optional Events
Sunday, December 8
Opry Country Christmas
5:30–9:30 p.m.
$165 USD/person
Nashville’s coolest holiday show! Be part of Nashville’s can't-miss holiday show series. Enjoy a night of festive fun with special guests, spotlight artists, and nonstop surprises at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. There is no better place to spend your Music City holiday. The price includes a main-floor seat and round-trip transportation to the event.
Headliners
Directors Conference Emcee
Thom Singer
KEYNOTE SPEAKER & CEO OF THE AUSTIN TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL
Headliners
Ronnie Blue
SUPERVISORY CREDIT UNION EXAMINER
Jennie Boden
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Kevin Brown
MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER & AUTHOR
Chad Helminak
VP/TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
Jamie Leddin, Ed.D.
CO-FOUNDER
Melissa Majors
AUTHOR, KEYNOTE SPEAKER, CONSULTANT & COACH, MELISSA MAJORS CONSULTING
Chris Pippett
PARTNER
Fox Rothschild, LLP
Mike Robins
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICE/INTEGRATOR
Dynamic Edge
Dottie Schindlinger
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mark Sievewright
CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER & FOUNDER
Sievewright & Associates, a SRM Company
Brian Solis
BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, FUTURIST, DIGITAL ANTHROPOLOGIST, & HEAD OF GLOBAL INNOVATION, SERVICENOW
Steve Williams
PRESIDENT & PARTNER
Hotel
Omni Nashville Hotel
250 Rep. John Lewis Way S
Nashville, TN 37203
Hotel rates in the CUES block are $319/night.
CUES has reserved a limited number of rooms at the Omni Nashville Hotel at the discounted rate above. To make hotel reservations, book online here. Room rates and availability are not guaranteed, so CUES recommends making your reservations early. The discounted CUES rate will expire when the block is full or on Monday, November 11 2024, whichever happens first. The hotel offers great amenities, discounted rates, and the best networking opportunities available. Staying within the CUES room block will help keep registration prices down.
* Remember that all hotel arrangements are strictly between you and the hotel. If you have accessibility needs for your stay, please request those directly with the hotel. In the event you are no longer able to attend or your flight is canceled, you are responsible for calling to cancel your room reservation.
Check-in time is 4:00 p.m., and check-out is 11:00 a.m.
Airport
Omni Nashville Hotel is located 8 miles (approximately 20 minutes) from Nashville International Airport (BNA). Taxis and Ride App vehicles (Uber/Lyft) pick up at the Ground Transportation Center, Level 1 of Terminal Garage 2.
Car Rental
CUES has negotiated a discount when you book with Enterprise and National for this meeting. You can take advantage of our discounted rates by booking online using the below links. Be sure to reference account number OSMB44A when making all reservations.
Enterprise Reservations | National Reservations
We also invite you to enroll in the Emerald Club loyalty program. As an Emerald Club member, you can bypass the counter and choose your own vehicle, earn free rental days, receive arrival & return alerts, receive e-receipts, and maximize benefits while still enjoying our CUES corporate discount. Click here to enroll in Emerald Club (Emerald Club benefits applicable to both Enterprise & National reservations).
Information You Should Know
Your registration includes:
- Sunday's welcome reception for attendees and their guest
- Three breakfasts
- One luncheon
- All educational sessions & materials
*subject to change
Cancellation Policy
- ALL CANCELLATIONS MUST BE IN WRITING (cues@cues.org)
- Prior to 60 days – full refund
- 31-60 days before start of event – 50% refund
- 0-30 days before start of event – no refunds or credits for future events given
Due to financial obligations incurred by CUES, no refunds or credits will be issued on cancellation requests less than 30 days prior to the start of the event. Substitute attendees are welcome, subject to eligibility.
CUES reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the event due to unforeseen circumstances, and will refund fees if the event is rescheduled or location is changed and you are unable to attend.
Accommodations for diet, mobility, or other needs
CUES will make every effort to make sure you are comfortable at our events. Email events@cues.org with your name, credit union, the event you are registered for, and everything we need to know to accommodate your request. We will follow up with you on how we can help.
This conference meets the following standards:
- CPE credits earned: up to 12
- Program Level: Overview
- Delivery Method: Group-Live
- Advanced Preparation: No advance preparation is required
- Prerequisites: Not required for this program
CUES is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, through its website linked above.
*subject to change.
Who should attend Directors Conference?
CUES Directors Conference is for credit union directors, board chairs, board officers, supervisory committee members, and CEOs. Consider sending your entire board so your group can benefit from learning and participating in discussions together, and heading home on the same page.
We can also help you arrange a board meeting while you’re at Directors Conference, contact us at events@cues.org and let us know you’d like the details.
What to Pack
Plan on resort casual attire. We suggest you bring a sweater or jacket along in case you find the meeting room temperature chilly.
What’s available for guests?
Your companion is welcome to join you at the Welcome Reception, as well as register for any of our optional activities. A companion meal program is also available, which includes breakfast Monday through Wednesday.
I’ve registered; where can I get more information?
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Where to stay
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What airport to fly into, and other transportation information
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When to arrive
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What to pack
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Spouse/guest information, if applicable
Bring your entire board!
Take your learning even further by bringing your entire board for an onsite jam session—er, we mean, board meeting. Contact us at events@cues.org for details.
Plus, bond with your board at Opry Country Christmas — Nashville's coolest holiday show! Limited seats available. Learn more and register in the Lineup tab.
DATES
December 8-11, 2024
UNLIMITED/
UNLIMITED+
MEMBER
$2,445
$3,700 CAD
INDIVIDUAL
MEMBER
$3,245
$4,240 CAD
NON-MEMBER PRICE
$3,195
$4,715 CAD
Want to send your entire board? Email events@cues.org for details.
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