Championing DEI in the Credit Union Sector: Insights from Leaders Driving Change
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are not just aspirational values within the Canadian credit union sector — they are guiding principles that shape workplaces, empower communities, and drive meaningful change. The Canadian Credit Union Association’s national DEI Working Group, a collective of industry professionals from across the credit union system, serves as a vital forum for advancing these efforts.
Here, we spotlight two DEI champions from the group: Carolyn Rodrigue of Synergy Credit Union and Leanna Beasant of Access Credit Union. Their stories highlight how credit unions are embracing DEI to build stronger, more inclusive organizations.
The Personal Side of DEI
For Carolyn Rodrigue, Human Resources Training Coordinator at Synergy Credit Union, the journey into DEI has been a transformative process of constant learning.
“To feel valued for who you are is the right of every human being,” she says. “I feel DEI gives us the standard to strive for.”
Leanna Beasant, Chief Financial & People Officer at Access Credit Union, reflects on her own experiences as a woman in leadership.
“I’ve had to work harder as a female to achieve the level of leadership I hold today,” she says, adding that her role has deepened her commitment to equity. “I want the next generation of women and other equity-seeking groups to excel without obstacles due to gender, sexual orientation, color, or disability. That is the essence of equity.”
Progress Through Action
Both Synergy and Access Credit Unions have taken deliberate steps to implement DEI initiatives.
At Synergy Credit Union, cultural competence has been a major focus. Over 100 employees attended a cultural awareness event hosted by the Emerging Leaders group, featuring employee presentations on their cultures and curated food packages. Synergy also offers ongoing DEI education, including an inclusion certificate, bias training, and the “4 Seasons of Reconciliation” course, which is mandatory for all new hires.
Access Credit Union is in the early stages of its DEI journey but has made significant strides, such as introducing a DEI policy, conducting a pulse survey to measure inclusion, and forming a roadmap committee to guide future initiatives.
Leanna highlights the importance of addressing differing views on DEI with grace and respect: “Yes, we can still celebrate Christmas — but let’s celebrate Diwali too. This is a great opportunity to learn about other cultures and beliefs.”
From Workplace to Community
The impact of these initiatives extends beyond the workplace. Synergy Credit Union actively supports community events like powwows, Diwali celebrations, and pride walks, with employees volunteering over 7,500 hours last year. Similarly, Access Credit Union integrates DEI into its strategic goals, ensuring that products, services, and outreach align with inclusive values.
Embracing Truth and Reconciliation
Both credit unions have embedded Truth and Reconciliation efforts into their DEI strategies. Synergy Credit Union has signed the Indigenous Engagement Charter and actively participates in reconciliation circles, while Access Credit Union collaborates with Indigenous artists and organizations to promote education and awareness.
As Leanna emphasizes, reconciliation requires continuous effort.
“Our Board and leadership team have made education a priority to deepen their understanding of Truth and Reconciliation,” she says.
The Road Ahead
Looking to the future, both leaders envision workplaces where every employee feels respected, valued, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work.
For Carolyn, this vision ties back to the cooperative principle of open membership.
“By fully embracing diverse talent, we grow as an organization and better serve our members and communities,” she says.
Leanna adds, “Achieving a united and diverse culture requires continuous focus at all levels. We must remain authentic, transparent, and committed to progress.”
The credit union sector’s commitment to DEI is not just about policies or programs — it’s about fostering a culture of belonging and opportunity.
Through the efforts of leaders like Carolyn and Leanna, credit unions are creating workplaces and communities that reflect the values at the heart of the cooperative movement.