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The Asterisk Magazine: Celebrating 35 Years of Filene!

As we commemorate the 35th anniversary of Filene, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact of leadership within the credit union industry. This special milestone is not just about looking back at our achievements but also about forging ahead with the same pioneering spirit that has been our guiding light.

Celebrating The Power of Leadership

In this 14th issue of The Asterisk, we celebrate the power of leadership that has driven Filene and our members for 35 years. We honor the credit union leaders who have been at the forefront of change, embodying a mindset geared towards growth, knowledge, and innovation. Their stories are a testament to the transformative influence of visionary leadership in our industry. 

Everwise has benefited greatly from the innovative research, incubation, advisory, and connections we have made in the credit union community through the years. Our credit union, our members and our community have all benefited greatly from this amazing 30-year relationship with Filene.
Jason Osterhage
President + CEO
Everwise CU (30+ year Filene Member)

Celebrating 3+ Decades of Innovation & Research

We also highlight the most significant research breakthroughs and innovations that have shaped the credit union landscape over the past three and a half decades. For example, Filene's first report "Field of Membership: An Evolving Concept" helped lay the groundwork for H.R. 1151, the Credit Union Membership Access Act, greatly increasing the potential for CUs to serve millions of additional Americans. These milestones represent our unwavering commitment to advancing the industry through evidence-based insights and actionable strategies. 

Celebrating Our Communities

This issue features heartfelt testimonials from our Inner Circle group, capturing the essence of our 2024 event. We share member impact stories that illustrate the real-world benefits of our research and the practical tools we've developed to empower credit unions and their members. We also highlight two additional important milestones, the 20th anniversary of the i3 program and the 15th anniversary of Crash the GAC. We recognize the enduring legacy of these initiatives in fostering cultures of innovation and learning within the credit union community. 

Participating in the Crasher program has been a transformative experience for me. As a kid from Mississippi, I wasn’t supposed to have access to these kinds of opportunities, but this program has opened doors I never thought possible. It has empowered me to be as authentic as possible and has enriched my life in ways I could never have imagined. I am truly better for having gone through it.
Sedric Brinson
Head of Collaboration
NACUSO

Looking Forward to The Next 35 Years

We invite you to explore the contents of this issue, which is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Filene and the collective achievements of our members. Visit our website to access the latest research reports, participate in upcoming events, and become an active part of the Filene community. 

Together, let's continue to lead with purpose, innovate with conviction, and research with rigor as we embark on the next 35 years of excellence.
Mark Meyer
President + CEO
Filene Research Institute

The Asterisk Magazine: Celebrating 35 Years of Filene!

Issue No. 14

In this 14th issue of The Asterisk, we celebrate the power of leadership that has driven Filene and our members for 35 years. We honor the credit union leaders who have been at the forefront of change, embodying a mindset geared towards growth, knowledge, and innovation.

Filene's Racial Economic Equity Incubator

Incubator

Filene’s Racial Economic Equity Incubator provided participants with access to national experts in financial inclusion, a network of like-minded innovators to share experiences and results, and a committed team of coaches and partners to help navigate the systemic and local inequalities that credit unions face.

The Center for The Next Generation of Member Growth

New Center of Excellence

Led by Filene Fellow Kim Lear, The Center for the Next Generation of Member Growth will identify strategies to attract, engage and retain younger credit union members.

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