Top Lobbyist for Colorado League, Sheehy, to be Honored

DENVER – John P. Sheehy, the top lobbyist for the Colorado Credit Union League for 30 years and who retired last September for health reasons, will receive a special honor Jan. 29 during the League’s annual Legislative Forum. Sheehy, 58, joined the Colorado League in 1973 and has served as its senior vice president overseeing governmental affairs, public relations, member services and operations. A statement from the League, which also serves Wyoming, said Sheehy “made a lasting impact on the credit union movement through his diligent work over the years to shape the laws” affecting the industry. “His commitment and vision have made a difference in daily credit union operations-and the services credit unions are able to offer members.” The League said it has created The John P. Sheehy, Jr., Credit Union Legislator of the Year Award to be given to worthy recipients. Sheehy was hired as a League auditor and consultant in May 1973, was promoted to director of education in 1974 and became the staff legislative lobbyist in 1975. He was also assistant treasurer of Colorado Corporate Federal Credit Union during the organization’s first two years. Over the years Sheehy has conducted numerous seminars and planning sessions for CUs in Colorado and other states, assisting them in determining strategic direction. He has served on several national CU committees including the first chairman of the Dues-Supported Services Committee of the Association of Credit Union League Executives. Sheehy has also been a director of Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Denver for many years. He was appointed by three Colorado governors – Richard Lamm, Roy Romer and Bill Owens – to serve on the Council of Advisors on Consumer Credit. First appointed to the Council in 1977, Sheehy is currently serving as chairman, and was reappointed to his ninth consecutive three-year term in 2001 by Gov. Bill Owens. Carl Hedrick, League chairman, said a replacement for Sheehy would be made by a new president/CEO of the trade group. “We leave that decision to the new president,” said Hedrick referring to a Board search under way to replace James L. Holt, who was fired Sept. 4 for apparent problems connected to legislative contacts. Hedrick said a new CEO could be selected within a month. -