Read Time:4 Minute, 53 Second
Support Good Morning Gwinnett
Celebrating Excellence in Credit Union Leadership in Washington, DC
Snellville, GA – Over 400 attendees gathered at the historic Organization of American States Building in Washington, DC, for a prestigious evening honoring five distinguished leaders as they were inducted into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame. Hosted by the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) during the Governmental Affairs Conference, the event recognized individuals who have significantly contributed to financial access and equity within communities of color.
A Night of Legacy and Inspiration
“I’m overwhelmed by the memories and moments we’re able to capture during the Hall of Fame,” said Renée Sattiewhite, AACUC President/CEO. “The evening bridges the gap between our seasoned veterans and the next generation, reminding us of the work that’s been done and what’s still needed to advance equity and access to financial capital. This event continues to be one of our most consequential gatherings, honoring those past and present who have shaped our movement.”
Originally established as a fundraising initiative, AACUC’s Hall of Fame has evolved into a highly regarded platform recognizing pioneers in the credit union movement. To date, 81 diverse leaders have been inducted for their unwavering dedication to financial inclusion.
2024 Hall of Fame Inductees
This year, five trailblazers were honored for their significant contributions to the credit union industry:
- Tony LaDarryl Black, Sr. (Posthumously) – President/CEO, Baylor College of Medicine Federal Credit Union
- Barbara J. Leonard (Posthumously) – Board Chair, Unitus Community Credit Union
- Harold Roundtree – President/CEO, UNCLE Credit Union
- Girado Smith – President/CEO, Educational Systems Federal Credit Union
- Pearl Wicks – Chief Retail Officer, Hope Credit Union
Honoring Visionary Leaders in the Credit Union Industry
Tony LaDarryl Black, Sr. (Posthumously)
With a finance career spanning over four decades, Tony LaDarryl Black, Sr. began his journey in 1983 at United Gas and Pipeline Federal Credit Union in Houston, TX. He later became President/CEO of Baylor College of Medicine Federal Credit Union, where he led for 25 years, fostering financial growth for members across the Greater Houston area. A dedicated advocate, Black served as the AACUC Texas Regional Chapter Secretary (2021-2024) and was actively involved with AACUC for over 20 years. He also operated a successful business for two decades and earned both his bachelor’s and MBA from the University of Houston.
Barbara J. Leonard (Posthumously)
A visionary leader, Barbara J. Leonard served over 20 years on the Unitus Community Credit Union Board, becoming its first female chair. A Portland native, Leonard earned a business degree from the University of Oregon and dedicated 30 years to U.S. West Communications. Beyond finance, she was a staunch advocate for education, raising over $500,000 in scholarships through The Links organization. A mentor and community champion, Leonard left an enduring legacy before her passing in 2012 at age 65.
Harold Roundtree
Bringing over 30 years of executive leadership, Harold Roundtree has transformed UNCLE Credit Union as its President/CEO since 2011. His strategic vision has propelled the organization’s financial success and community impact. Roundtree’s leadership extends beyond his credit union, serving as a member of the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation’s Credit Union Advisory Committee and the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco’s Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council. In 2024, he was elected as At-Large Director of the California Credit Union League Board.
Girado Smith
A financial leader with a passion for education, Girado Smith has been a driving force at Educational Systems Federal Credit Union, first as Chief Financial Officer (18+ years) and now as President/CEO. Under his leadership, the credit union expanded financial services for educators, championing innovative solutions. Smith also played a key role in launching the AACUC’s Rosemary Brinkley C-Level Leadership Development Program, fostering diversity and executive mentorship.
Pearl Wicks
As Chief Retail Officer of Hope Credit Union (HOPE), Pearl Wicks has overseen critical financial initiatives impacting 40,000 members. Notably, she spearheaded HOPE’s Hurricane Katrina Recovery program, directing $600 million to rebuild 10,000 homes. Wicks also played an integral role in seven credit union mergers and repurposed 10 former bank branches in majority-Black communities. A Jackson State University graduate, she has served on the Opportunity Finance Network board.
The Legacy of the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame
The African American Credit Union Hall of Fame was established to honor trailblazers and unsung heroes who have dedicated their careers to financial equity. To be inducted, nominees must meet three key criteria:
- A minimum of 10 years of service in the credit union industry.
- A commitment to financial accessibility, ensuring communities have access to essential financial services.
- Significant contributions that enhance economic empowerment, particularly for African Americans and majority-ethnic communities.
Since its founding in 2008, the Hall of Fame has continued to recognize leaders who break barriers and drive change.
About the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC)
Founded in 1999, the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the credit union industry. The organization supports professionals through advocacy, leadership development, and mentorship programs.
AACUC gained national recognition in 2022, receiving the Anchor Award from the National Credit Union Foundation for its leadership in eradicating racism and fostering financial inclusion amid the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest of 2020.
With a mission to amplify diverse voices and drive financial equity, AACUC remains a leading force in the credit union movement.
For More Information:
📞 Dohnia Dorman
African-American Credit Union Coalition
📧 Email: Click Here
🌍 Visit: AACUC Website
📱 Follow Us: Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Instagram
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0
Average Rating