For over two decades, Filene’s i3 program has empowered credit union professionals with the skills, network, and mindset needed to lead transformative change. Participants collaborate, experiment, and design solutions that strengthen the credit union movement, ensuring members and communities thrive in an ever-evolving financial landscape.
This incredible opportunity fills me with pride and excitement as I look forward to contributing to the creation of innovative and life-changing solutions for members within the credit union landscape. The chance to bring ideations to life is a dream, and I am especially enthusiastic about the collaborative possibilities that this journey promises. The vibrant exchange of ideas and expertise with professionals across the credit union space, including FinTech innovators, new partnerships, and seasoned experts, is truly inspiring.
Chartway Federal Credit Union
Welcoming 23 New Leaders to the i3 Community
Joining a powerful network of over 380 past and present i3 participants, this new cohort is ready to challenge the status quo. Meet the innovators stepping up to shape the future:
- Zamarr Allen, Bethpage Federal Credit Union
- Gabrielle Ayeni, Golden 1 Credit Union
- Carlos Campuzano, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
- Kathleen Cook, Velera
- Jeffrey Crofts, Westerra Credit Union
- Remie Cruz, Wright-Patt Credit Union
- Dustin Daniels, Loyalty Credit Union
- Stephanie Harney, Chartway Federal Credit Union
- Erik Hawkins, Redwood Credit Union
- Caitlin Hickman, University of Michigan Credit Union
- Mary Kenosian, Financial Plus Credit Union
- Ireen Latimer, Chartway Federal Credit Union
- Danijel Ljuna, Suncoast Credit Union
- Keili McEwen, Tinker Federal Credit Union
- Ryan Nong, Millennium Corporate Credit Union
- Chris Rogers, Origence
- Taurean Seib, Coastal Community
- Adam Sobeck, 4Front Credit Union
- Raegan Walker, Air Academy Credit Union
- Emily Walton, Royal Credit Union
- Jessica Watson, Bethpage Federal Credit Union
- Justin Webb, Commonwealth Credit Union
- Nick Whiting, Chartway Federal Credit Union
The Power of i3: More Than Just a Development Program
Filene’s i3 isn’t just about professional development—it’s a transformative journey that benefits both participants and their credit unions. Through hands-on projects, exclusive research insights, and an unparalleled network of peers and mentors, i3 leaders develop the skills and confidence to drive innovation in their organizations.
Being selected for i3 is the most exciting accomplishment in my credit union career. I'm looking forward to connecting with forward-thinking leaders who share the vision of shaping the next generation of our industry. The opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and bring back insights to my credit union is invaluable.
Wright-Patt Credit Union
This year’s cohort will tackle some of the most pressing issues facing credit unions today—from engaging Gen Z and enhancing financial wellness tools to leveraging generative AI and rethinking member growth strategies. By working across disciplines, engaging with stakeholders, and testing real-world solutions, i3 participants will gain hands-on experience in designing, iterating, and scaling innovations that will have a lasting impact.
What's Next for Wave 21?
The journey officially begins following Filene’s GAC Breakfast, where this new wave of innovators will embark on their two-year development experience. Their first milestone will be at Filene’s big.bright.minds. event in December, where they will share their progress with the broader credit union industry.
Curious to see what i3 participants are capable of? Join us on March 12 (part 1) and 13 (part 2), when i3 participants from waves 19 and 20 will showcase the prototypes they’ve been developing to address some of the industry’s most significant challenges.
Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation, and the power of collaboration is what makes Filene’s i3 program truly special. As we celebrate the launch of Wave 21, we invite you to follow their journey, engage with their ideas, and be part of the movement that’s shaping the future of credit unions.
Stay tuned for updates, and join us in congratulating the new cohort of i3 innovators!
