In all, there are 35 nomination categories divided into specific areas for credit unions and credit union partners. All categories are listed below. All category descriptions can be found here.

Credit Unions

Branch Experience – Credit Unions (new category): Honoring credit unions delivering exceptional in-branch member experiences across three asset tiers: $4 billion and higher, $1 billion to $4 billion, and under $1 billion.
Community Impact – Credit Unions: Recognizing credit unions making measurable differences in their communities across the same asset tiers.
Excellence in Marketing – Credit Unions: Celebrating creative and results-driven campaigns across digital, social and traditional channels.
Executive Leadership – Credit Unions (expanded category): Awards for standout leadership among Presidents/CEOs and C-suite executives across all asset classes.
Innovation in Technology – Credit Unions (expanded category): Highlighting advancements in AI, cryptocurrency and stablecoin innovation, and major technology rollouts.
Rising Star – Individuals: Spotlighting emerging credit union leaders making a meaningful impact early in their careers.

Credit Union Partners

Consulting Excellence – Organizations (new category): Recognizing top-performing firms across credit union operations, marketing, human resources, legal/compliance, strategic planning, and mergers and acquisitions.
Consultant of the Year – Individual (new category): Honoring an individual consultant demonstrating exceptional impact and industry leadership.
Executive Leadership – Individuals (expanded category): Celebrating leaders across CUSOs, leagues and trade associations, and technology providers.
Product Innovation – Organizations: Recognizing advancements in AI, payments solutions, and cryptocurrency/stablecoin innovation.
Rising Star – Individual: Awarding emerging talent within fintechs, CUSOs and industry partners.

Submit a nomination here before the submission deadline on July 10.

Finalists will be announced in September and winners will be announced live at the Credit Union Times Luminaries Awards Gala on Nov. 5 at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa in Orlando, Fla.

Instant Insights /

Last Week to Nominate for CU Times 2026 Luminaries Awards

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