National Credit Union Foundation Certifies 40 Leaders As Development Educators

The National Credit Union Foundation certified 40 credit union leaders as Credit Union Development Educators (CUDEs) after completing the Foundation’s signature Development Education (DE) program in the year’s only virtual class. 

The 2025 virtual DE class, delivered over four weeks, offers a unique opportunity for those who might not otherwise be able to participate—an innovative and connected alternative to the program’s traditional week-long, in-person experience, NCUF stated. 

“The DE program provides lessons in credit union structure, purpose and the ‘why’ that differentiates credit unions from other financial institutions. Participants engage in interactive speaker sessions and collaborative group exercises designed to deepen understanding of the credit union difference, emotional intelligence, and the importance of advancing financial well-being. This class joins the more than 3,300 credit union advocates from 35 countries who have graduated from the United States DE program since its launch in 1982,” NCUF said. 

“Congratulations to the newest 40 members of the DE family! For 43 years, the Foundation’s Credit Union Development Education program has served as a source of unstoppable energy to drive the powerful mission of the credit union movement ever forward,” said the Foundation’s Executive Director Lauren Culp. “Participants leave with a deeper understanding of how credit unions are uniquely positioned to build a world where everyone can achieve financial well-being.”  

Registration for the 2026 Virtual DE class is still available. To register, or for more information on future opportunities, visit ncuf.coop/development-education/program.