I Still Can’t Believe It

Blink. Blink. Type. Backspace. Blink, blink, blink. Type. Blink. – my cursor

I have tried to string together the eloquent words to express the gratitude and honor that I have felt in the previous six weeks since being named the CUES Next Top Credit Union Executive. Without much luck, I will just say the entire experience has been exciting and humbling and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to advocate for support of local non-profit organizations. 

It still feels a bit “unreal” to have this honor among such a distinguished group of nominees. Emily, Blaine, Clark, and Jodi are equally as deserving; their professionalism, expertise, and diligence cannot go unnoticed. These are the real MVPs and I cannot wait to see where their journeys lead the credit union movement. Be sure to check out their ideas! I was my honor to meet them and be among this group of professionals.

The CETNET conference was a whirlwind for me. The team at CUES did an incredible job with the education, entertainment, and networking. Nashville is a fun town full of music, history, art, and food. I was able to meet professionals from credit unions around the country and make great connections that I have been able to use as resources for projects we are working on at our organization. Michael Berger, with Currency, is the silent hero of this competition. From constant communication to challenging questions during rehearsal, I felt well prepared through the competition and Nashville was no different. Speaking of challenging questions, the executive coaching from DDJ Myers was the most beneficial element of this program to date for me. Peter Myers gave me direct, candid feedback that strengthened my presentation and strategic thinking skills. 

The most popular question I have been asked in the last six weeks is “How did it feel to have your name called as the winner?” Of course, my first reaction was surprise but that was quickly replaced by excitement that we had brought awareness and support to non-profit organizations. While I have an honor being named the winner, I hope the real winners are non-profit organizations that are supported and lifted by credit unions that take on this challenge. I was given a platform to advocate and educate about the impact non-profit organizations have in our communities; for that, I am eternally grateful. 

Lynette Cupps