The Young Professional Initiative's (YPI)
Palmetto Protege Competition

In 2012, each of South Carolina's credit union chapters will name a chapter Palmetto Protege who will attend the Young Professional Initiative (YPI) at the April 19-21 SCCUL Annual Meeting and compete in state finals there for a chance to be the first-ever South Carolina Palmetto Protege. The statewide winner and two runners-up will receive special benefits, and the SC Palmetto Protege becomes the state's spokesperson for the education and opportunity credit unions provide to younger generations. Chapter winners have opportunities and benefits provided by his or her chapter.

To participate, CU professionals between the ages of 18-30 must complete the Palmetto Protege application and submit it the chapter in which his or her credit union is headquartered. Credit unions may only have one nominee (multiple applicants will be forwarded back to CU management for review). All confirmed participants will complete a standard examination and create for a chapter meeting a five-minute presentation from a range of available topics. Chapters will select their winners by Tuesday, March 6.

Chapter Manual - Chapter officials will conduct their regional competitions under rules and conditions from the Palmetto Protege Chapter Manual.

Palmetto Protege Application - All participants must first complete the competition application and return it to his or her local chapter (in which his/her employer CU is headquartered) along with a signed photo release form and photo (4"x6" jpeg).

Standard Written Examination - The Palmetto Protege written examination assesses knowledge of common credit union principles, history, and background based significantly on content in Staff Training and Recognition (STAR) Module S1304 (formerly S10), "Introduction to Credit Unions." Each chapter has a copy of the module for shared reference among candidates, and it is available to any credit union active with CPD Online.

Presentation Topic List - Candidates will choose from this list the topic for his or her brief presentation to the chapter assembly. This document also suggests resources that can help candidates prepare for the written exam.

Promotional Material - Chapters can help generate awareness and interest using the Palmetto Protege table tent, poster, and promotional postcard.