SNELLVILLE, Ga.–The African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) has named Maurice R. Smith as the 2019 recipient of its Pete Crear Lifetime Achievement Award.
Smith is currently the CEO of both Local Government Federal Credit Union (LGFCU) and Civic FCU, and just completed a term as chairman of CUNA.
The AACUC said Smith, who has been involved in credit unions for 35 years, is “ committed to his beliefs (and) is an avid fan of credit union ideals. He believes that a business model that empowers its members to engage in democratic, self-help with strong principles that exceed socioeconomic status and class are superior to other business types. His sincere appreciation for local government and community service make him an exceptional leader and well suited for his role at LGFCU and Civic, and in the credit union industry.”
The AACUC added, “As the leader and CEO, Smith has always been a staunch supporter of employees reaching their potential through the development of talents, skills and creativity. He is committed to LGFCU’s mission: ‘To improve the lives of our members.’”
Numerous Industry Positions Held
During his career Smith has served as a board member of the AACUC, served on the CUNA Advocacy, Ethics and Corporate Governance Committees, served on NAFCU’s Accounting Standards Committee, and on North Carolina Credit Union League’s board. He was also chairman of the Filene Research Institute Administrative and a board member of the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.
The AACUC noted that under Smith’s leadership, LGFCU’s field of membership has provided an array of scholarship opportunities, including 120 college scholarships per year for members, professional development scholarships for local government employees, segment field of membership scholarship for law enforcement training, firefighter’s training, and EMS training.
“We are proud of Maurice Smith’s accomplishments and look forward to honoring him in Charlotte,” said AACUC Chairman Adrian S. Johnson.
Smith will be presented with the Pete Crear Lifetime Achievement Award during the 21st Annual AACUC Conference in Charlotte on August 9.