To celebrate CU Times' 25th anniversary, we asked readers which leaders have influenced the credit union industry most since 1990.
Based on our readers' picks, we compiled a list of 64. Round two is now underway so get voting as it ends Friday at 11:59 pm ET.
There's no login required, just select "Vote Now." Remember to vote daily on all 16 match-ups to ensure your picks make it to the next round before the clock runs out.
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This week we're showcasing the new match-ups on CUTimes.com. Here's the last set of four for this round:
Harriet May, former president/CEO of GECU (1978-2011) and former CUNA chair, earned a reputation as a tireless crusader for financial education and counseling for housing, credit and foreclosure prevention.
Jim Blaine, president/CEO of North Carolina's SECU, has remained true to pure credit union philosophy while growing his credit union to the second largest in the country. He continues to influence the industry as a blogger.
Henry Wirz, president/CEO of SAFE CU, grew the credit union from $142 million to $2.1 billion and has served on boards of several industry organizations, including CO-OP, CUDL and the CCUL/NCUL task force.
Lois Kitsch is program director of the National Credit Union Foundation's REAL Solutions program and Development Education program. She has been called the industry's cooperative conscience.
John Tippets was president/CEO of American Airlines FCU and came out of retirement to serve as interim president/CEO of North Island CU.
Stan Hollen, CO-OP Financial Services CEO and former CEO of Liberty Enterprises, greatly influenced credit union products and services and increased access for members.
Gigi Hyland is executive director of the National Credit Union Foundation and was also a former NCUA board member (2005-2012) and CUNA executive.
Kim Sponem, president/CEO of Summit CU since 2010, was one of the youngest women lead a billion dollar credit union.
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