Tun Wai, NAFCU's chief economist who vastly expanded the association's research operations, plans to retire in February, the trade group announced Friday.
Wai, who joined the association in 1987, was a founding member of the Credit Union Economics Group.
In the past 25 years, NAFCU's research operation has grown from a one-person department to four. During Wai's tenure, the department began several research publications, including the quarterly Cost of Funds Report and the monthly Economic and CU Issues Monitor.
He also regularly discussed the state of the economy at industry conferences.
NAFCU President/CEO Fred Becker praised Wai's contributions to the association and the industry.
"Throughout his distinguished tenure with NAFCU, Dr. Wai helped shape not only NAFCU's research division, but the economic landscape for credit unions," Becker said in a statement. "His insightful perspective made him a sought-after industry speaker. He will be missed."
Wai, who earned his doctorate from Georgetown University, worked at the World Bank and the Brookings Institution before joining NAFCU.
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