Pictured L to Right: Adrian Johnson, EVP & CFO, MECU Credit Union; Audra Pettus, Community Relations Director at SkyPoint FCU; Maryland State Senator Ben Brooks; Aziza Gary-Smith, Assistant VP of Financial Wellness, MECU Credit Union; Rory Murray, VP of Advocacy, MD|DC Credit Union Association; John Bratsakis, President/CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association

The Association hosted its Quarterly Financial Counselors Roundtable earlier this week where attendees and guest experts delved into effective strategies for supporting the well-being of credit union members and their communities. Senator Benjamin Brooks kicked off the event and shared credit unions commitment to empowering young people to be financially responsible.

Senator Brooks was joined by other featured speakers:

• John Bratsakis, President/ CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association
• Rory Murray, VP Advocacy, MD|DC Credit Union Association
• Leigh Philibosian, Director, CU Foundation MD|DC
• Cindy Jones, Youth Outreach Manager, First Financial FCU
• Jocelyn Strand, Youth Outreach Coordinator, First Financial FCU

Almost 30 credit union professionals joined in discussions about best practices for reaching credit union members and sharing topics to foster financial stability. Leigh Philibosian also gave an overview of the Millionaire Club, where high-schoolers can learn financial skills in a club-like setting through a combination of traditional course work, a virtual investment platform, a entrepreneurial project and fun competitions.