Iowa Credit Union League
Iowa Credit Union League is the nonprofit trade association representing the interests of Iowa’s credit unions and their 1.3 million members.
AUDIENCE: Statewide financial and credit union professionals (1,500 attendees)
LOCATION: Des Moines, Iowa
CHALLENGE: Staying proactive in advocacy and engagement with legislative and regulatory bodies while fostering collaboration and resource sharing among credit unions to continue thriving in a competitive environment
CARA BROOKINS’ SOLUTION:
1-hour opening keynote: “The Keys to Rebuilding: How to Get UN-Stuck”
Delivered live at the Annual Conference in the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
Early morning AV and tech check with event staff
Personalized greeting with Chief of Staff Deb Madison-Levi
The Iowa Credit Union League (ICUL), the nonprofit trade association for the state’s credit unions, plays a pivotal role in supporting over 1.3 million Iowans through advocacy, education, and leadership development. Each year, their statewide Annual Conference serves as a cornerstone event for professionals in the credit union industry, bringing together over 1,500 leaders and staff from across the state.
“Our event was a terrific end to Summer & the energy onsite was one-of-a-kind thanks to Cara.”
— Iowa Credit Union League
In August 2022, ICUL gathered at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines with a goal: to reignite momentum after a demanding year marked by economic uncertainty and operational strain. The League needed a keynote speaker who could connect with a wide-ranging financial audience while delivering a message of resilience, adaptability, and self-leadership, key traits for success in today’s evolving credit union landscape.
Cara Brookins was chosen to open the conference with her keynote “The Keys to Rebuilding: How to Get UN-Stuck.” Her story-driven presentation combined emotional impact with actionable insight, offering attendees clear strategies for overcoming personal and professional roadblocks. By weaving her message into the fabric of community-oriented financial work, Cara created an atmosphere that was both deeply motivational and industry-relevant.
In preparation for the high-profile session, Cara conducted an early morning AV tech check and connected personally with key ICUL staff, including Chief of Staff Deb Madison-Levi. Her professionalism and energy set the tone for a dynamic kickoff that had attendees fully engaged from the start.
The response was overwhelmingly positive. Meeting planners and attendees alike praised Cara’s contagious enthusiasm and the lasting inspiration she sparked. Her presence elevated the entire event, reinforcing her value as a sought-after keynote speaker for finance conferences, leadership events, and self-help summits focused on productivity and resilience.
“Cara’s drive and energy is not only motivating, but contagious. Her story had everyone feeling along with her and then leaving inspired to take on their next challenge. She was fabulous to work with and I highly recommend anyone to book her as your keynote speaker!”
— Caitlyn Frohmader, CUDE, Education Events Manager, Iowa Credit Union League
