As I come to the end of my term as a board member and chair of NAFCU, it is with particular pride that I reflect upon how our industry has evolved over the last decade.

I am impressed at the spirit of innovation that has continued to fuel us in times of both adversity and prosperity. While certainly much of the development has been driven by technological advances, at a deeper level there is a mindset that sees challenges as opportunities and recognizes untapped possibilities.

As I look at other industries, there always seem to be leaders. Whether in consumer products, technology or the food industry, certain firms define the category. Curiously, the products or services they provide may not be the most expensive, but they are distinctive. McDonald's, Apple, GE, IBM, Google, Sony and Nike are just a few of the organizations that come to mind.