UCU to Send Two Crashers to GAC!
January 29, 2026
The Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC)—the credit union industry’s premiere annual advocacy event—is nearly here, and University Credit Union (UCU) is thrilled that two of their own employees were selected to "Crash" this special event. Ree Anna Bridges, Community Engagement Manager, and Grace Mix, Marketing Specialist, are among the more than 60 emerging leaders from across the country chosen to be Crashers.
"We are thrilled—this is a wonderful opportunity for Ree and Grace to represent both UCU and all Maine credit unions," said Renee Ouellette, President/CEO of UCU. “Their fresh perspectives and voices will shine at the experience of being a Crasher, which I’m certain will enrich their careers for years to come.”
This is the seventeenth year of the Crash the GAC program, and according to the Filene Research Institute, it “continues to be one of the movement’s most visible pipelines for rising talent offering standout emerging professionals a front-row seat to the largest credit union advocacy event in the nation.
Crashers are given the opportunity to gain access to key industry conversations, meet with top credit union CEOs, and engage in unique leadership development experiences that reinforce both their individual careers as well as the larger credit union movement. "One of the things that gives me the most confidence in the future of this movement is the next generation stepping up," stated Scott Simpson, President & CEO of America’s Credit Unions. "The leaders selected to Crash the GAC represent the talent, passion, and purpose that will shape the future of cooperative finance, and I’m excited to see the impact they’ll have not just at GAC, but throughout their careers. Their presence strengthens our movement and ensures the credit union difference remains strong for years to come."
Contributed by the Maine Credit Union League.
Additional information:
Filene Names 2026 Crash the GAC Cohort
About Filene: Filene Research Institute strengthens organizations through innovative research and incubation, on a mission to improve consumer financial well-being. With cutting-edge insights, innovative solution testing, advisory and custom support, and connections formed through events and communities, Filene helps credit unions think forward and change lives.
