Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Uncasville, CT – The Cooperative Credit Union Association’s (CCUA) and the Credit Union League of Connecticut (CULCT) proudly announce the final keynote speaker lineup for APEX 2025, the premier credit union convention taking place October 15 – 17 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut. This year’s program features some of the most dynamic, accomplished, and recognizable voices in leadership, sports, marketing, and strategy, making it one of the most exciting lineups in APEX history.
Kicking off the convention is Christine Cashen, award-winning author and motivational speaker, known for her signature blend of humor, energy, and practical advice that helps audiences tackle challenges with positivity and resilience.
Headlining the lineup is Drew Bledsoe, legendary franchise quarterback for the New England Patriots, Super Bowl champion, and successful entrepreneur. Bledsoe brings powerful lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and reinvention, drawn from his career on the field and his ventures in business, including his acclaimed wine company.
The program continues with Allison Cerra, Chief Marketing Officer of Alkami Technology, whose expertise at the intersection of marketing, technology, and financial services provides a cutting-edge perspective on how credit unions can thrive in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace.
Closing out the convention is Linda Nedelcoff, Chief Human Resources Officer and Strategy at TruStage. Nedelcoff will deliver an inspiring keynote on organizational culture, strategy, and leadership, providing practical insights for building workplaces that empower employees and position credit unions for long-term success.
“APEX is designed to inspire, educate, and connect the credit union community across the region, and this year’s keynote speakers reflect that mission,” said Ron McLean, President & CEO of the Cooperative Credit Union Association. “From leadership and innovation to resilience and humor, each keynote brings a powerful perspective that will equip attendees with new insights to carry back to their credit unions.”
“Credit unions compete for mindshare—for people’s imagination. That’s why we built APEX 2025 around voices who will stretch our thinking, challenge our assumptions, and expand the possibilities," said Bruce Adams, President and CEO, Credit Union League of Connecticut. "From the gridiron to the boardroom, and from culture to technology, this lineup delivers lessons in resilience, innovation, and leadership that will stay with us long after the lights dim at Mohegan Sun.”
In addition to these marquee keynote sessions, APEX 2025 will feature an expansive exhibit hall, including the debut of a new Solutions Stage for live product demonstrations and interactive educational sessions. Attendees will also benefit from insightful Learning Labs covering critical topics for credit unions, along with networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration across the industry.
With this lineup and program, APEX 2025 promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that will empower, inspire, and energize credit union professionals from across the region.
For more information on sessions, speakers, and registration, visit www.ccua.org/apex.
The Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) is the leading regional trade organization, acting as the advocate for nearly 200 credit unions spanning Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. These member credit unions collectively manage assets exceeding $75 billion, serving a combined membership of over 5 million consumers. Visit www.ccua.org for more information.
Janelle Mullen
Vice President of Member Engagement
Email: jmullen@ccua.org