APEX 2025

Join us for APEX 2025, presented by the Cooperative Credit Union Association and the Credit Union League of Connecticut! Taking place from October 15th through October 17th at Mohegan Sun Resort in Uncasville, Connecticut, this premier event offers unparalleled networking and learning opportunities for credit union professionals.

Connect with colleagues from Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, and discover how APEX 2025 can inspire and advance your credit union. Enjoy a dynamic mix of keynote speakers, practical workshops, and a comprehensive vendor showcase in a convention-level setting.

Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and take your credit union to new heights. 

Secure your spot at APEX 2025 today!

Credit Union Registrant: $649 per person
The Credit Union registration ticket covers access to all APEX keynote sessions, learning labs, as well as APEX-related breaks, receptions, and meals. Guests are welcome to join for an additional fee, listed below.

Small Credit Union Registrant: $449 per person
Credit union assets less than $200 Million
The Small Credit Union registration ticket covers access to all APEX keynote sessions, learning labs, as well as APEX-related breaks, receptions, and meals. Guests are welcome to join for an additional fee, listed below.

Young Professional Network Member: $449 per person
The Young Professional registration ticket includes access to all APEX keynote sessions and learning labs, along with breaks, the Wednesday welcome reception, Thursday's breakfast, awards lunch, and reception, and Friday's breakfast. Attendees must be members of CCUA's Young Professional Network. Guests are welcome to attend for an additional fee, listed below.

Guest: $349 per person
The Guest registration ticket covers access to all APEX keynote sessions, learning labs, as well as APEX-related breaks, receptions, and meals. Guests are welcome to join for an additional fee, listed below.

Annual Meeting Attendance on Thursday Only: 
Any CCUA member credit union in good standing may attend the Annual Business Meeting ONLY and at no charge.

Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be received in writing. If received by CCUA on or before Friday, September 26, 2025 registrant is entitled to a full refund. Cancellations after this date will incur a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds on cancellations received after Friday, October 3, 2025. Substitute registrants will be accepted at any time without penalty.

Information
For further information about APEX 2025, please contact info@ccua.org.

CCUA CREDIT UNION REGISTRATION

Check back for updates on sessions, speakers, and all the exciting details we have in store for APEX 2025.

PRECONFERENCE
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 15, 2025

THURSDAY OCTOBER 16, 2025

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025

Check back for updates on the inspiring leaders and industry experts joining us at APEX 2025.

Christine Cashen

Award-Winning Author & Hilarious Motivational Speaker

Opening Keynote Session
Wednesday, October 15th at 1:00 pm 
How to Stay Inspired When You're So Darn Tired
 

Christine Cashen is a dynamic speaker known for her humor, energy, and insightful perspective on life. A member of the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame, she blends positivity with productivity, helping audiences find laughter in everyday moments. Christine is a certified speaking professional and author of The Good Stuff and It’s YOUR Business. 

With a background in communication, adult education, and corporate training, she brings a wealth of experience to the stage. A cancer survivor, devoted mother, and wife, she inspires others to embrace life with resilience and joy.

Allison Cerra

Chief Marketing Officer of Alkami Technology

Keynote Session
Thursday, October 16th at 9:15 pm 
The Top Forces Shaping the Future of Finance
 

Allison Cerra is an award-winning thought leader exploring the intersection of technology, culture, and economies to anticipate the future. 

As Chief Marketing Officer of Alkami Technology, she drives innovation in digital banking solutions. Previously, she led marketing at Hewlett Packard Enterprise and McAfee, shaping brand strategies and digital transformations. With a career spanning major tech disruptions—from broadband to fintech—she simplifies complex trends and empowers audiences to harness change.

Information about our Learning Lab presenters and panelists will be available soon! Stay tuned for more updates on the experts and thought leaders who will be sharing their insights at APEX 2025.

Dean DeCarlo

Founder of Mission Disrupt

Learning Lab: Boosting Membership and Loans—High Converting Campaign Strategies for Credit Unions
Wednesday, October 15th at 3:00 pm [Shinnecock]

Dean DeCarlo is a digital marketing strategist and founder of Mission Disrupt, a performance marketing agency helping credit unions Build, Focus & Scale their marketing efforts. With expertise in website conversion optimization, paid media, and predictive analytics, he helps credit unions eliminate wasted spend, improve member acquisition, and maximize marketing ROI.  Dean has partnered with credit unions nationwide, pioneering innovative testing frameworks that enhance digital ad performance and member engagement. 
 
A passionate educator and speaker, he delivers tactical, actionable insights on analytics, digital ad strategies, and best practices for increasing website conversions. He has spoken at credit union and financial marketing events, sharing data-driven strategies that help marketers attract new members, deepen relationships, and drive long-term growth in an evolving digital landscape. 

Caroline Vahrenkamp

Director at Filene Research Institute

Learning Lab: Pursuit of Scale—Industry Mergers & Consolidation
Thursday, October 16th at 2:00 pm [Oneida]

Caroline Vahrenkamp brings over 20 years of experience in and around credit unions to Filene where she will help build out our Member Insights competency. With her extensive experience in finance, marketing, and product development, Caroline finds trends and patterns in consumer behavior that will lead to the development of new products and services to transform the credit union industry. 

She works to help credit unions reestablish their identity to remain relevant, competitive, and provide the right solutions. Prior to her work with Filene, Caroline was at Raddon where she was responsible for Raddon Research Insights, the Raddon national consumer research program, and authored more than 20 research studies. 

Wednesday, October 15, 2025
 

Opening Keynote Session: How to Stay Inspired When You're So Darn Tired

Christine Cashen, Award-Winning Author & Hilarious Motivational Speaker

Get ready to feel inspired and energized with Christine’s presentation! Learn to “Compose and Dispose” of worry like a boss and figure out what really gives you energy (spoiler alert: it’s not just that double-shot latte). With tips to leverage levity, you’ll be leading by example and inspiring others in no time.

Get your groove back with tips to “flip the script” and choose your emotional state. You’ll leave feeling charged up and motivated to work your magic in both your personal and professional life. So don’t miss out on these creative and fun ideas that will help you be less tired and ready to rock every single day!

Learning Lab: Boosting Membership and Loans—High Converting
Campaign Strategies for Credit Unions

Dean DeCarlo, Founder of Mission Disrupt

In an increasingly competitive financial landscape, credit unions need marketing strategies that don’t just attract attention but drive real action. This session uncovers the key ingredients of high-converting digital campaigns designed to increase membership and loan applications. Learn how to craft compelling offers, optimize your targeting, and fine-tune your messaging to maximize conversions.

Join Mission Disrupt to discover practical, results-driven marketing strategies that empower your credit union to attract more members and grow loan volume efficiently. Whether you're looking to optimize existing campaigns or launch new ones, this session will provide the insights you need to drive sustainable growth

Thursday, October 16, 2025
 

Keynote Session: Top Forces Shaping the Future of Finance

Allison Cerra, CMO at Alkami Technology

Financial institutions, especially credit unions, are navigating a wave of unprecedented changes, from shifting generational dynamics among consumers and employees to increasing regulatory pressures and a rapidly evolving technology landscape. Identifying the most significant trends can be challenging, and viewing these shifts as opportunities rather than threats is even more difficult. This talk explores how changes in consumer behavior, business models, workforce expectations, regulatory demands, and technology are reshaping the future of banking. Attendees will gain insights from recent market research, learn a mnemonic device to enhance recall, and receive practical W.I.S.D.O.M. for key functional areas, including IT, sales, marketing, and human resources.

Learning Lab: Pursuit of Scale: Industry Mergers & Consolidation

Caroline Vahrenkamp, Director at Filene Research Institute

Consolidation continues to reshape the credit union industry as credit unions look for economies of scale. This presentation provides a data-driven perspective on aligning the pursuit of scale with member value and organizational sustainability. This session helps leaders answer critical questions like: How do economies of scale help credit unions do more for their members? How is the merger landscape shifting through mergers of equals, bank acquisitions, and system-level consolidation? What are the drivers, risks, and rewards of mergers? Together, we discuss how to decide whether and when a merger makes sense and what considerations leaders should keep in mind to navigate a merger and position credit unions for renewed success.

Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT
October 15 – 17, 2025

APEX 2025 registration fees do not include overnight room accommodations. 

Make Your Mohegan Sun Hotel Reservation

Room Rate

Single/Double Rooms: $179.00 per night.
The above rate is subject to applicable taxes, currently 15% (subject to change) plus a reduced facility fee, $24.95. 

The reduced facility fee of $24.95 per room per day, inclusive of tax, will provide the following service inclusions listed below:

• In-room Wi-Fi access
• Complimentary valet and self-parking (gratuity not included)
• Access to fitness center (24 hours with guestroom key)
• Access to pool
• In-room bottled water (2), coffee, and tea
• Unlimited local phone calls and up to 30 minutes of toll-free usage

The room rate will be offered, based on room and rate availability, two days pre-APEX 2025. For additional room reservations outside of the room block dates, attendees must call the hotel directly via toll free at 866-708-1340 and using the group discount code: APEX25.

Room Reservations Methods and Deadline

To be assured of accommodations, please make Mohegan Sun room reservations online using the discounted CCUA room block, available by clicking here.  Reservations may also be made by calling the hotel directly via toll free at 866-708-1340 and using the group code: APEX25.

All reservations must be guaranteed by a valid major credit card, which will be supplied at the time of reservation. Mohegan Sun requires a deposit equal to one night’s guestroom and tax to be submitted with each reservation. This deposit will be refunded if the reservation is cancelled prior to forty-eight (48) hours before arrival, after which time, this deposit is non-refundable.

• Make your Mohegan Sun hotel reservation using the online portal
• Reserve your hotel room in the CCUA room block with the code: APEX 25 by calling: 1-888-226-7711

Federal Tax Exemption

To qualify for the federal tax exemption, federal credit unions must print and submit the Federal Tax Exemption Form to Mohegan Sun.

Federal Tax Exemption Letter  Federal Tax Exemption Form 

Check-In/Out

On the day of arrival, room availability cannot be guaranteed until 4:00 p.m.  On the day of departure, check-out time is before 11:00 a.m. All attendees arriving early will be accommodated as guestrooms become available. Luggage can be stored complimentary at the Bell Desk.

Getting there is simple. Leaving, well, that is the tough part…

Mohegan Sun
1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard
Uncasville, CT 06382
(888) 226-7711

A world at play and a world to its own, Mohegan Sun, created in 1996 by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut, is one of the world's most amazing destinations with some of New England's finest dining, hotel accommodations, retail shopping, live entertainment and sporting events. Getting there is easier than you think. Mohegan Sun is within 45 minutes from Providence and just over 90 minutes to Boston. Guests travelling from New Hampshire will find the drive to be just over 2 hours. And with more than 13,000 on-site guest parking spaces, parking is never a hassle.

Restaurants at Mohegan Sun

With 41 dining options, an endless array of culinary delights awaits at Mohegan Sun. From bountiful buffets to casual dining to renowned gourmet restaurants, every bite is a palate-pleasing, unforgettable experience.

For guests under the age of 21, accompanying a parent or legal guardian is required in restaurants serving alcohol. A legal guardian refers to a responsible adult with legal responsibility for a minor. Explore detailed information about dining options and reservations at Mohegan Sun.

Restaurants & Dining Options

Activities

While staying at Mohegan Sun, guests can indulge in a variety of on-site activities. Additionally, there are numerous off-site adventures available for those seeking further exploration.

The Mandara Spa

Mandara Spa, established in 1995 in Bali, Indonesia, has become a globally recognized spa brand with locations across four continents and fifteen aboard cruise ships. Their ethos combines well-being practices from various cultures, offering unique spa treatments blending ancient Balinese healing, European therapies, and regional influences. With sumptuous massages, rejuvenating facials, and luxurious facilities including treatment rooms, wet lounges, and a full-service salon, Mandara Spa provides a truly indulgent and therapeutic experience where time seems to stand still.

Click Here for More Info on Mohegan Spas & Make Reservations

For the most up-to-date information on the Mandara Spa offerings, please read the Current Spa Offerings or contact the Spa Concierge at 860.862.4500

Fitness Center

The Sky Fitness Center, available exclusively to hotel guests, offers a wide array of facilities including cardiovascular and resistance machines, free weights, and accessories. With the convenience of being open 24 hours, guests can enjoy their workout at any time, ensuring flexibility and accessibility during their stay.

Sun Terrace Pool 

Indulge in relaxation at the hotel's Sun Terrace Pool, boasting a 10,000 square-foot solarium with an indoor/outdoor pool and whirlpool for guests to enjoy. Located in the Sky Tower, the pool is open seven days a week for guests' convenience.

Attractions

Explore the abundant attractions near Mohegan Sun, ranging from maritime museums and historic sites to parks, galleries, and breweries. Experience seasonal recreational activities and year-round entertainment like performing arts shows, shopping at fine outlets, and exploring local shops. Discover the relaxed charm of Mystic Country, nestled between New York and Boston, offering compelling museums, vineyards, and attractions. For more about local attractions in southeastern Connecticut, visit Think Mystic.

Unlock the ultimate opportunity to connect with credit union decision-makers and showcase your solutions at APEX 2025, happening October 15-17 at Mohegan Sun Resort. This premier event brings together leaders from Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island for unmatched networking and educational experiences.

With nearly 100 sponsorship and exhibitor booths available, APEX 2025 is the perfect platform to elevate your brand and demonstrate how your innovations can address industry challenges. 

Explore sponsorship opportunities today! Click the link below to view and secure available options, or contact info@ccua.org for more details.

View and Purchase Your APEX 2025 Booth and Sponsorship

Cancellation policy:
All cancellations must be received by email to Dean Martino (dmartino@ccua.org) or Janelle Mullen (jmullen@ccua.org).

Join us in acknowledging our trusted partner community whose generous support makes this premier event possible for our members. Sponsors are continuously being added, so remember to visit this page frequently for the latest APEX 2025 updates!

Learn more about each sponsor by clicking on their logo. 

APEX 2025 Title Sponsor

APEX 2025 Event Sponsors

APEX 2025 Sponsors

Get ready for APEX 2025 at the pre-conference meeting and reception of the Global Women's Leadership Network. On Tuesday, October 14th join us at the Global Women's Leadership Network (GWLN) pre-conference event, an inspiring and transformative gathering dedicated to empowering women in the credit union industry. This event is designed to foster leadership skills, build professional networks, and promote gender diversity in the financial sector. 

Check back often for more details and how to register!

Explore our diverse range of exhibitors. Don't miss the chance to connect with our trusted partner community at APEX 2025!

APEX 2025 Exhibitors