About Luminate

Thomas W. Doig from CUNA convened with a dozen credit union leaders to establish the Louisiana Credit Union League. At the time of formation, there were only sixteen credit unions in the state. The League was operated by volunteers until 1941. Pictured President Franklin signing the Federal Credit Union Act into law June 26, 1934.

The League rented their first office in 1941. Previously, the League was ran out of the managing director’s home. Louisiana credit unions grew to 150 statewide and the League had three chapters. In 1946, the League introduced their first publication, ‘The League Reporter’. Pictured is the building that housed the first League office.

In the 1950s, the LCUL supported amendments to the Federal Credit Union Act, which provided credit unions with greater operational flexibility and improved their ability to serve members effectively. These amendments helped lay the foundation for modern credit union operations. Pictured is League staff in 1950s.

In the 1960s, the League grew to 8 employees serving 387 credit unions with 7 chapters in the state. We added educational offerings for members including training sessions, workshops, and seminars, and advocated for our members in Baton Rouge. Pictured is the 1965 Annual Meeting.

In the 1970s, the League formed the League Data Services Corporation to provide data processing services to Louisiana credit unions. The executive team of the League recognized a need to develop new leaders to provide stability and growth to our credit unions, and with that they established the Youth Advisory Board. By the late 70s, Louisiana had a total of 486 credit unions and ranked 15th among the states with the highest number of active credit unions in the United States. Pictured below is the Youth Advisory Board in 1971.

In the 1980s, we say a number of new companies formed under the League. The LCUL Service Corporation was organized in 1981. Our ATM system became fully operational in 1983. Membership approved the organization of the Louisiana Corporate Credit Union in 1984. The League also moved into its current office in 1986. Pictured is Charles F. Eikel, Jr. of CUNA Mutual and LCUL President, Edgar L. Fontaine.

In the 1990s, the League embraced technological advancements, helping credit unions to modernize their operations. This included the adoption of computerized systems for better financial management and improved member services. In 1992, the League was instrumental in implementing the Credit Union Service Centers (CUSC) network in Louisiana. This network allowed credit union members to access their accounts and conduct transactions at shared branches, significantly enhancing convenience and accessibility.

Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita were pivotal moments for the Leage. We coordinated relief efforts and provided support to credit unions affected by the disasters. This included financial assistance, logistical support, and the establishment of recovery programs to help credit unions rebuild and continue serving their communities. In 2007, the LCUL established the Louisiana Credit Union Foundation. The Foundation's mission is to promote financial literacy, provide disaster relief, and offer professional development opportunities for credit union employees and volunteers. Pictured is the Louisiana Credit Union Foundation Board.

In 2011, The League created two new initiatives, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) and the Member Business Services Council (MBSC) to provide networking opportunities for young professionals and credit union professionals exploring member business services. Next up, in 2012 the League began offering Louisiana students the opportunity to earn their Financial Counselor Certification to aid them in assisting members with their financial futures. Ahead of her retirement in 2018, League President, Anne Cochran was named the first female chair of the World Council of Credit Unions in 2015. This accomplishment highlights Cochran's significant impact on the credit union movement, both within Louisiana and on a global scale.

Under new leadership with President/CEO, Juan Fernandez, the League is embarking on a bold new direction. We have rebranded from the Louisiana Credit Union League to Luminate Louisiana Credit Unions.