CMU’s New Partnership with Canvas Credit Union Takes Center Court

The partnership announcement for CMU and Canvas Credit Union was a smashing success, uniting students, the community, faculty and staff to celebrate the first of many milestones in this new initiative

Colorado Mesa University and Canvas Credit Union proudly kicked off their partnership on February 6^th with a series of engaging activities that showcased the spirit and value of this new collaboration. Partnering with Canvas Credit Union aims to strengthen ties with the university community and broader Western Slope region.

This partnership is designed to benefit students by providing them with essential financial skills and supporting various university programs that foster community engagement. Beyond offering financial services to students that will support their goals and create new opportunities for growth, this initiative will include custom financial education programs and resources tailored to meet the specific needs of students and the local community.

The announcement began in the University Center, the vibrant heart of campus, where students gather to eat, connect and unwind. This central location provided the perfect backdrop for unveiling the partnership, highlighting its significance to the student body and their daily campus life.  

"The event overall was really well put together, I loved how interactive it was and how the CEO and everyone working for Canvas was interacting with students,” said CMU student Rafael Cuellar-Solis. “I don't know much from Canvas, but I heard they're a really good bank for students and I do think it can help a lot of students on that aspect.”

CMU President John Marshall and Canvas Credit Union CEO Chad Shane formally announced the partnership against a backdrop of both brands, symbolizing the unity of our community and marking the first of many milestones. Following the announcement, Shane and other Canvas executives mingled around the University Center, engaging with students and distributing custom CMU x Canvas decorated cookies and high-tech, co-branded hand warmers. This gesture not only celebrated the new partnership but also demonstrated Canvas Credit Union’s commitment to fostering a supporting and engaging environment for CMU students.

After the announcement ceremony concluded, Canvas executives made their way to Brownson Arena to continue the celebration during the women’s basketball game where the Mavericks took on MSU Denver. They engaged with the campus community in a fun and dynamic way, showcasing their commitment through various activities. The highlight of the event was a spirited pickleball match at halftime, where Canvas CEO Chad Shane faced off against CMU tennis coaches and students.

Shane, embodying the values of courage, humility, and curiosity, eagerly connected with students through this match. As a nationally recognized pickleball player and a passionate advocate for the sport, Shane was more than ready to take on the challenge. His enthusiasm for pickleball, combined with his dedication to engaging with the CMU community, made the event a memorable highlight of the celebration.

The Canvas team was also honored at halftime with a basketball signed by the CMU team, and all Canvas representatives had the opportunity to come together on the court with CMU and community members. This moment symbolized the new partnership in a memorable way. Additionally, the partnership was highlighted once more during the halftime announcements, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of this exciting venture.

Canvas and CMU representatives are in the initial stages of creating customized financial education programs and initiatives designed to meet the unique needs of students and the surrounding community. They are also planning fun events to engage the university community. As this partnership evolves, both Canvas Credit Union and Colorado Mesa University are committed to fostering a supportive environment for students. With a shared vision for the future, they look forward to many more collaborative efforts that will benefit the university and beyond. This exciting journey has only just begun, and the best is yet to come.