2024 South Texas Conference & Expo Speakers

Maria J. Martinez is the President/CEO of Border Federal Credit Union. 

April has several years of experience working with credit unions through the Cornerstone Credit Union League (formally the Texas Credit Union League) and as Operations Manager at Texas Telcom Credit Union in Dallas, TX. My experience working at the credit union brings firsthand knowledge of the “People Helping People” philosophy. As Political and Grassroots Director, I am responsible for working with and energizing credit unions and chapters to become more politically engaged through the CU: R.O.A.R program.

 Working as inside counsel and assistance for member credit unions in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas on banking issues. As part of our Advocacy team, I provide regulatory and legislative assistance, including analysis of Federal Register and state regulatory proposals, dissemination of relevant legislative and regulatory changes and their impact, legislative research and bill analysis, ongoing monitoring on banking issues, and legal research. I am also responsible for the management and production of our in-house, online Infosight Manual, providing topical banking information in an encyclopedic format for use by our member credit unions. 

Debbie Lindsey-Opel began Three Dimensional Development in 2004, to provide strategic stakeholder engagement and public relations services to public and private sector organizations. She is recognized for her innovation, perception, and ability to work well with diverse, multi-stakeholder groups. Her primary focus is developing internal & external communications, community engagement strategies. As a consultant, her strengths include strategic planning, media relations, facilitation, presentations, bringing together polarized groups, internal and external communications, solving problems and increasing profits.

The connection between internal and external communication. Develop strategies for fostering a positive and collaborative workplace culture. Enhance member relationships through personalized and member-centric communication. Adapt communication approaches to align with changing consumer preferences. Gain insights into the interconnectedness of internal and external communication. Learn practical approaches to create a thriving workplace and enhance member satisfaction.

 The Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) encompasses Bikes, Directed Patrol Officers, Enduros, and Crime Prevention.  CRU diligently collaborates with citizens, businesses, community leaders and other city departments to combat crime and quality of life issues from different vantage points to find solutions that cannot be met by a singular entity. CRU participates in community events and meetings providing presentations and information. Because the Corpus Christi Police Department believes strongly in supporting our community, CRU maintains an active role in numerous functions - Operation Safe Return, Shop with a Cop, Christmas food basket and toy delivery, and Neighborhood on Watch.