The League’s Convention provided learning, networking and fun

More than 865 credit union representatives from 93 credit unions attended The League’s Annual Convention in Milwaukee May 9-11 to gain insights that can help their credit union thrive and have some fun in the process. This year's convention theme, "Cooperative Spirit" celebrated the value cooperatives offer as unique, member-owned businesses.

Check out some of the highlights:

• Education. Convention again offered multiple days of learning value for less than what attendees might have paid for a single training elsewhere! Topics included beginning or enhancing a mortgage program, lending in the bottom of the 9th, the 10 best sales and service strategies to maximize growth and profitability, proactive technology strategies, plastic card fraud trends, disaster recovery, social media, asset/liability management, the regulator’s perspective and more.

• Technology Insights. Salim Ismail – whose Singularity University studies technological change – talked about the University’s role in engaging technology innovators in developing solutions to complex problems. He wowed attendees describing capabilities in biotech, robotics, medicine, AI, energy, nanotech and computing, and shared insights for credit unions during a breakout session on how to remain relevant as new technologies shape the world.

• Branding Strategies. Jeff Manning, who helped develop the world-renowned "GOT MILK?" marketing campaign, shared tips on successful branding that credit unions can apply as financial services providers.

• Young Professionals Sessions. Close to 70 young professionals networked and enjoyed exclusive presentations on issues affecting the credit union movement. See our related article on the Convention "Crash!" event and The Network, which continues to involve the next generation of young credit union leaders in current issues.

• Lunch & Ideas with Frank Diekmann. Publisher & Editor of Credit Union Journal Frank Diekmann got credit unions laughing and thinking during a networking lunch and shared 25 ideas working for credit unions now during a breakout.

• The League's Annual Meeting. The League’s President & CEO Brett Thompson and The League’s Board Chair Kevin Hauser discussed the impact of the past year on credit unions as well as the future of the movement going forward. The 2013 dues schedule was also approved with no changes. The 2012-2013 League Board and League Committees were introduced. 

• Exhibition Hall. More than 275 exhibitors showcased products and services. The racing sausages, made famous at Miller Park, made a few laps down the aisles and posed for photos.

• Conduit Lunch. More than 66 Members’ Conduit account holders heard from nationally renowned polling expert Charles Franklin, who previewed what polls predict for the Wisconsin recalls as well as the fall presidential race.

• World view. Dr. Brian Branch, President & CEO of the World Council of Credit Unions, showcased the effect of savings-based financial services of credit unions worldwide. Valerie Breunig, also of WOCCU, shared even more eye-opening stories about cooperating in different countries.

• Clark Howard. TV and radio personal finance guru Clark Howard shared insights on the economy, housing market, saving and more. Attendees got to meet him, take pictures and purchase autographed copies of his latest book.

• Golf Outing. Close to 95 credit union representatives participated in this year’s golf outing held at Ironwood in Sussex. Proceeds from the outing benefited Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Check out the winners.

• Pep Rally Party. The Boomers band, featuring Brewery Credit Union President Jim Schrimpf on the bass, got attendees in party mode with 50s’-80s’ rock and roll.

• Foundation raffle. The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation  raffled off several items including a 3rd generation iPad, Packers tickets and more that raised $4,340 to help The Foundation promote the growth and health of credit unions and their communities. Check out the  raffle winners.

• Legendary Voices in Concert & WCULAF auction. Las Vegas’ own voice impressionist and comedian Larry G. Jones wowed the WCULAF auction crowd with his award-winning Legendary Voices in Concert show. His all-star celebrity cast of impressions included Cher, Elton John, Neil Diamond, Elvis, the Phantom of the Opera and The Rat Pack. The auction raised close to $4,000 to help pro-credit union allies in government.

• Brewers game. Beautiful warm weather, a fun tailgate sponsored by Corporate Central Credit Union, and Cooperative Spirit by convention goers helped the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs in 13 innings.

• Rollie Fingers. Former Brewers pitcher and Cy Young Award winner Rollie Fingers revealed personal insights and the backstory of pro baseball. He also posed for pictures during a meet-and-greet.

Thank you to all those who attended and helped to make our Convention a great success! Right click to save and share photos from this year’s Convention and become a fan of The League on our Facebook page at   www.facebook.com/WILeague. Also, please take just moments to click and complete this year’s Convention evaluation.