NCOFCU Celebrates 25 Years with Highly Successful Annual Conference in Tucson, Arizona

 

National Council of First Responder Credit Unions Celebrates 25 Years with Highly Successful Annual Conference in Tucson, Arizona

Credit union leaders from across the nation gather to celebrate a milestone anniversary, exchange ideas, and prepare for the future of first responder credit unions.

MIAMI, FL – October 8, 2026 – The National Council of First Responder Credit Unions (NCOFCU) proudly celebrated its 25th Anniversary Annual Conference, held September 28 through October 2, 2026, at the beautiful Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona. The event brought together credit union executives, board members, industry leaders, business partners, and exhibitors for five days of education, networking, collaboration, and celebration.

Under the theme “Looking Towards the Future,” this year's conference marked an important milestone in NCOFCU's history while reinforcing its commitment to strengthening credit unions serving America's firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders.

The conference featured an outstanding lineup of speakers, industry experts, and interactive discussions addressing some of the most pressing issues facing credit unions today. Topics included leadership and governance, regulatory developments, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, membership growth, financial performance, and long-term sustainability.

One of the highlights of this year's program was the introduction of expanded CEO and Board of Directors Roundtable Discussions. These interactive sessions gave participants an opportunity to exchange experiences, discuss common challenges, and explore practical solutions with peers who understand the unique responsibilities of serving first responder communities.

“The success of this year's conference was about much more than celebrating 25 years,” said Grant Sheehan, Founder and CEO of NCOFCU. “It was about bringing people together who share a common purpose. The conversations, exchange of ideas, and willingness to help one another are what make this organization so special. We may represent different credit unions from different parts of the country, but we all share the same commitment to serving those who serve and protect our communities.”

The anniversary celebration also provided an opportunity to reflect on NCOFCU's beginnings in 2001 and its evolution into a national organization dedicated to supporting the volunteer leaders and professional staff of credit unions serving first responders.

Beyond the educational sessions, attendees enjoyed opportunities to renew friendships, establish new professional relationships, and experience the beauty and hospitality of Tucson. From the opening reception to the golf outing, local excursions, and memorable closing celebration at the Coyote Corral, the conference offered a balance of professional development and camaraderie.

NCOFCU also recognized the important contributions of its speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, and business partners, whose participation helped make the anniversary conference a success.

“After 25 years, one thing remains clear: the greatest strength of NCOFCU is its people,” Sheehan added. “Our members are not simply attending another industry conference. They are building relationships, sharing knowledge, and helping each other become stronger credit unions. That spirit of cooperation is what has carried us through our first 25 years, and it is what will guide us into the future.”

Looking Ahead to Amelia Island in 2027

Building on the enthusiasm and success of the Tucson conference, NCOFCU is already preparing for its 2027 Annual Conference, September 27–30, 2027, at the Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa in Amelia Island, Florida.

The 2027 event will continue the Council's commitment to delivering relevant educational programs, meaningful peer-to-peer discussions, valuable industry partnerships, and opportunities for credit union leaders to learn from one another.

NCOFCU invites credit unions serving first responders throughout the United States and Canada to become involved and experience the benefits of belonging to a national organization dedicated to their unique needs.

“We are proud of what we have accomplished over the past 25 years, but we are even more excited about what lies ahead,” Sheehan concluded. “Our mission continues to grow, our opportunities continue to expand, and our commitment to first responder credit unions has never been stronger. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Amelia Island in 2027.”

About NCOFCU

Founded in 2001, the National Council of Firefighter Credit Unions, Inc., doing business as the National Council of First Responder Credit Unions (NCOFCU), is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the education, support, and advancement of credit unions serving firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders.

Through its annual conferences, First Responder Credit Union Academy, educational resources, advocacy efforts, and business partnerships, NCOFCU helps credit union executives, directors, and volunteers strengthen their institutions and better serve their members.

Media Contact:

Grant Sheehan, Founder & CEO
National Council of First Responder Credit Unions (NCOFCU)
Email: info@ncofcu.org
Phone: 305-783-5433
Website: www.ncofcu.org
2027 Conference: www.ncofcu.org/2027-omni