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Registration and Participant Meet & Greet
3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Directors Conference Welcome Reception  
4:00 – 5:30 p.m.

Board Liaison Networking Breakfast
7:00 – 8:00 a.m.

Welcome to CUES Directors Conference & General Session
8:00 – 9:45 a.m. 

Networking Refreshment Break
9:45 – 10:05 a.m.

Board Liaison Session #1 
10:05 – 11:05 a.m.

Becoming an Effective Board Liaison
Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director, Diligent Institute

Whether you're new to the board liaison role or looking to strengthen your foundation, this session offers a helpful overview of key responsibilities and practical tools to support your board. We’ll start with a look at the core functions of the liaison role, including how to build strong, collaborative relationships with the board chair and officers. From there, we’ll explore what makes a credit union board meeting effective covering how to prepare board packets, how to leverage board portals and other technologies to support board and committee work, and how to best structure meetings for clarity and engagement. The session will conclude with a focus on board books and governance policy manuals, offering guidance and tools to help participants develop, organize, and maintain these important governance resources.
 

Networking/Travel Time

11:05 – 11:20 a.m.

Board Liaison Session #2
11:20 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.

Board Meeting Management
Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director, Diligent Institute

This session will explore best practices for having more productive and effective board meetings. We’ll look at ways to structure agendas, prep materials and communications in ways that lead to better outcomes during meetings. We’ll also explore some of the common challenges that arise in the boardroom and how board liaisons can play a pivotal role in helping the board and management team navigate them effectively. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the roles of the board liaison in helping ensure board meetings are great experiences for all involved.

Luncheon
12:20 – 1:25 p.m.

Networking/Travel Time

1:25 – 1:35 p.m.

Board Liaison Session #3
1:35 – 2:45 p.m.

Peer Exchange: A Facilitated Discussion Focusing on Hot Topics in the Board Liaison Role
Moderator: Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director, Diligent Institute
Guest Speakers: Sara Dyer, Senior Director of Meetings & Digital Events, CUES; Russell Evans, VP/Sales & Member Relations, CUES

This interactive session invites board liaisons to engage in a facilitated roundtable discussion focused on today’s most pressing and relevant governance topics. Through guided conversation and peer-to-peer exchange, participants will have the opportunity to share insights, ask questions, and learn from one another’s experiences. Topics may include board engagement, evolving expectations of board service, governance technology, mergers, and more. This collaborative format is designed to surface real-time challenges and practical strategies while fostering a strong network of support among board liaison professionals.

Directors Conference General Session
2:45 – 3:45 p.m.

Directors Conference Concluding Connections
3:45 – 4:00 p.m.

Networking Breakfast
7:00 – 8:00 a.m.

Directors Conference General Session
8:00 – 9:20 a.m. 

Networking Refreshment Break
9:20 – 9:40 a.m.

Board Liaison Session #4 
9:40 – 10:40 a.m.

The Board Development Cycle
Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director, Diligent Institute

In this session, we’ll review the 4-part board development cycle, from planning and member recruitment, to onboarding and orientation, to ongoing board engagement, to board evaluation and assessment. Throughout the session, we’ll provide practical tips and tactics that board liaisons can use to help their boards be the best versions of themselves. You’ll leave the session with specific things you can take home to try with your own board.

Networking Refreshment Break

10:40 – 11:00 a.m.

Board Liaison Session #5
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Program Wrap-Up: Key Takeaways & Looking Ahead 
Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director, Diligent Institute

This final session offers an opportunity to reflect on the key themes and takeaways from the program. We’ll revisit core concepts such as the evolving role of the board liaison, strategies for supporting effective board meetings, fostering healthy boardroom dynamics, and distinguishing between strategy and operations. Through group discussion and guided reflection, participants will identify practical next steps they can take to apply what they've learned within their own credit unions. The session will also provide space to share final insights and strengthen connections with fellow professionals before departing.

Optional to join last day of Directors Conference

Conference Information Desk
7:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Breakfast
7:00 – 8:00 a.m.

Wednesday Welcome & General Session
8:00 – 9:20 a.m.

Networking Refreshment Break
9:20 – 9:40 a.m.

Closing General Session
9:40 – 10:45 a.m.

Final Insights
10:45 – 11:00 a.m.

Conclusion of Conference, Safe Travels!
11:00 a.m.

CUES has negotiated a discount when you book with Enterprise and National for this meeting. You can take advantage of our discounted rates by booking online using the below links. Be sure to reference account number SMB3601 when making all reservations.
 
Enterprise Reservations | National Reservations

We also invite you to enroll in the Emerald Club loyalty program. As an Emerald Club member, you can bypass the counter and choose your own vehicle, earn free rental days, receive arrival & return alerts, receive e-receipts, and maximize benefits while still enjoying our CUES corporate discount. Click here to enroll in Emerald Club (Emerald Club benefits applicable to both Enterprise & National reservations).  

The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is 3 miles or about 10 minutes from San Diego International Airport (SAN).

Sunday, December 7
9:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
$195/person 

Embark on a private tour of the USS Midway Museum, an authentic naval aircraft carrier that offers an unforgettable journey through American naval history. This 69,000-ton warship features over 60 immersive exhibits and 29 restored aircrafts, each telling a powerful story of courage, innovation, and service.

Explore the inner workings of life at sea as you walk through the ship’s galleys, officer’s quarters, and sleeping areas. Every corner of the Midway offers a glimpse into the challenges and camaraderie of naval life.

Anchored in the heart of “Navy Town USA” and majestically overlooking San Diego’s iconic harbor, the USS Midway is more than a museum—it’s a living tribute to those who served aboard her. 

Join us for a truly immersive experience, where every exhibit and aircraft ignites a deeper appreciation for the naval forces that safeguard our seas. 

Tuesday, December 9
1:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m.
$345/person

Embark on a breathtaking journey along San Diego’s stunning coastline, where natural beauty and dramatic landscapes take center stage. This tour offers a refreshing contrast to the city-focused highlights tour, showcasing the region’s most awe-inspiring views.

We’ll begin at the historic Cabrillo National Monument, where panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay set the tone for the day. Explore the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, wander through fascinating tide pools, and learn about the early explorers who first landed on these shores.

Next, we visit the dramatic Sunset Cliffs in Ocean Beach, where waves crash against rugged sandstone formations, creating one of the most photogenic spots in the city. From there, we head to Mission Bay, a vast aquatic playground known for its calm waters and popularity with kayakers, paddleboarders, and sailors.
 
The journey continues to the world-renowned Glider Port, where hang gliders and paragliders soar above the cliffs. We conclude at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a pristine coastal park known for its rare Torrey pine trees, dramatic bluffs, and some of the most scenic hiking trails in California.

Tuesday, December 9
1:30 p.m.– 3:00 p.m.
$195/person 

Embark on a private tour of the USS Midway Museum, an authentic naval aircraft carrier that offers an unforgettable journey through American naval history. This 69,000-ton warship features over 60 immersive exhibits and 29 restored aircrafts, each telling a powerful story of courage, innovation, and service.

Explore the inner workings of life at sea as you walk through the ship’s galleys, officer’s quarters, and sleeping areas. Every corner of the Midway offers a glimpse into the challenges and camaraderie of naval life.

Anchored in the heart of “Navy Town USA” and majestically overlooking San Diego’s iconic harbor, the USS Midway is more than a museum—it’s a living tribute to those who served aboard her. 

Join us for a truly immersive experience, where every exhibit and aircraft ignites a deeper appreciation for the naval forces that safeguard our seas. 

Monday, December 8
9:00 a.m.– 2:00 p.m.
$695/person 

Experience the best of San Diego on this comprehensive, all-in-one tour, highlighting the city’s most iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and breathtaking scenery.

We’ll begin with a visit to Coronado Island, renowned for its pristine beaches and the historic Hotel del Coronado. From there, we’ll head to the Historic Gaslamp Quarter, where charming Victorian architecture meets a lively urban atmosphere filled with shops, dining and entertainment.

Next, explore the cultural heart of the city—Balboa Park. For lunch, we’ll stop at Felipe’s in Little Italy, a beloved local favorite known for its authentic Italian flavors and warm, welcoming ambiance.

The tour continues to La Jolla, affectionately known as the “Jewel of San Diego.” We’ll ascend Mount Soledad, where you’ll be treated to 360-degree panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains. Then, we’ll visit La Jolla Shores, a serene, family-friendly beach, and the picturesque La Jolla Cove, where playful sea lions and seals bask in the sun along the rocky shoreline.

This thoughtfully curated tour offers the perfect blend of San Diego’s top landmarks, cultural treasures, and natural beauty, giving you a rich and memorable experience of America’s Finest City.

Separate registration required

Your companion is welcome to join you at the Welcome Reception on Sunday, as well as register for any of our optional activities. We also offer a companion meal program, which includes breakfast Monday through Wednesday for $325 USD.

ALL CANCELLATIONS MUST BE IN WRITING. (cues@cues.org)

• Prior to 60 days – full refund
• 31-60 days before start of event – 50% refund
• 0-30 days before start of event – no refunds or credits for future events given
  • Due to financial obligations incurred by CUES, no refunds or credits will be issued on cancellation requests less than 30 days prior to the start of the event.
  • Substitute attendees are welcome, subject to eligibility.

CUES reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the event due to unforeseen circumstances, and will refund fees if the event is rescheduled or location is changed and you are unable to attend.

We are currently working on an Information Sheet for you; it contains everything you need to know about attending this event. Once available, you will be able to find it here.

The comfort and well-being of our attendees is of utmost importance to us; we will make every effort to make sure you are comfortable at our events!

Please email events@cues.org as soon as you know you’re attending a CUES event. Be sure to include your name, credit union, the CUES event you are registered for, and everything we need to know to accommodate your request.

We’ll be in touch with any questions we have, and let you know how we can help.

In addition to the great content and speakers we have lined up, your registration includes:

• All educational sessions & materials
• Sunday's welcome reception for attendees and their guests
• Three breakfasts
• One luncheon

Suggested dress for the conference is business casual. Although we try to keep meeting room temperatures comfortable, we suggest you bring a sweater or jacket.

Yes, and it’s all included in your Board Liaison Workshop in person registration! See our Agenda tab for details.

If you have any questions or inquiries, please contact CUES Headquarters at 800.252.2664 or outside the U.S. call 608.271.2664 or email cues@cues.org.