Annaloro is widely credited with creating one of the most progressive state-charter environments in the nation, the NWCUA said, crediting him with “fostering a cohesive credit union community in the Northwest that maximizes the industry's collective strengths.”

“(He also) is known as a promoter of aggressive and effective government affairs programming, and he has earned numerous awards for his efforts over the past 15 years, including the Eagle Award from the American Association of Credit Union Leagues for his outstanding record of achievement as a system leader,” the NWCUA said in a statement.

Annaloro also is the recipient of the Herb Wegner Memorial Award from the National Credit Union Foundation for his work with the PBS series “Biz Kid$,” a program launched in Seattle with credit union funding.

Former CUNA CEO Dan Mica cited Annaloro's leadership advocating for passage of the Credit Union Membership Act of 1998. The act significantly opened credit union membership eligibility to consumers. Today, nearly 93 million Americans belong to a credit union.

“John spared no effort advancing the credit union charter. He clearly established Washington state as what I would call a 'soldier on the ground,' taking critical issues door-to-door to the people,” Mica said.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with and get to know John over the past few years,” said Bill Anderson, NWCUA chairman and CEO of the $164 million Mid Oregon FCU in Bend. “His focused and agile leadership he has put in place the very foundation that has made this organization—and indeed, our industry—such a success.”

Annaloro said, “Serving the credit union system has been an honor in every way. I appreciate the trust vested in association executives by our credit unions. These appointments are noble endeavors, worthy of anyone's best efforts to provide a brilliant future. I will miss many friendships, as well as the staff, board members and past chairmen who have been my partners.”