In a moving keynote address at America’s Credit Unions’ 2024 HR & Organizational Development Council Conference in St. Pete Beach, Fla., Amy Downs, the president and CEO of Allegiance Credit Union, shared her remarkable journey of resilience and transformation following the tragic 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City.
Downs, who was one of the last individuals rescued from the rubble and spent eight days in the hospital, emphasized the profound realization she had during that harrowing experience, stating, "I was about to die and realized I had never truly lived." This moment of clarity became a driving force behind her subsequent achievements.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by Allegiance Credit Union in the aftermath of the bombing, Downs highlighted the power of positive thinking and hard work in rebuilding the organization. Under her leadership, the credit union has experienced remarkable growth, expanding by 400% to an asset size of $351 million. Downs emphasized, "Your life can be better and brighter than your past, and you have the courage to make it happen with the power of hope."
Addressing the audience of HR and organizational development professionals, Downs encouraged a shift in mindset when dealing with employees seeking guidance, urging them to ask, "What do you want?" and prompting individuals to consider their easiest first steps towards their goals. She stressed the importance of introspection and forward thinking, stating, "If you are stuck and you don’t know the answer, spend some time to dig deep and think about it. Create time to think about how you’re moving forward."
Drawing from her personal journey of impossible transformation, Downs inspired attendees to embrace the power of hope and resilience in overcoming challenges. Her message resonated with the conference participants, reminding them that regardless of their circumstances, a brighter future is within reach through clarity of purpose and unwavering determination.