GREENBELT, Md. — Rosemary Brinkley, chair at Educational Systems FCU, has been inducted into the African-American Credit Union Coalition’s (AACUC) Hall of Fame.
The induction took place during the AACUC’s 18th Annual Conference.
The Hall of Fame honors African-American professionals and volunteers in the credit union movement who display unparalleled leadership, mentorship and professionalism.
Brinkley has served on the board of Educational Systems FCU for more 40 years. “Throughout her tenure, she has led change by setting a positive example for members, employees and volunteers,” the AACUC said. “She has always led in the Maryland education and credit union communities with the philosophy that ‘we can do better.’”
Under Brinkley’s leadership as chair of Systems FCU, it has grown from $63 million in assets in 1986 to over $850 million today.
“A larger credit union does not just mean a bigger bottom line,” remarked Chris Conway, president/CEO of Educational Systems FCU, during his introduction of Brinkley at the Hall of Fame awards luncheon. “Rosemary believes that it means our credit union can do more good, and she ensures we remain steadfast in our commitment to support education while serving the education community.”
Brinkley’s leadership has inspired the credit union to support education by sponsoring 115,000 students from 350 elementary schools in baseball reading programs, awarding over $40,000 in student scholarships and professional development awards and donating nearly 7,000 backpacks to middle school students in need. During her acceptance speech, Brinkley said the main reason she became involved with the CU was that she wanted to find a way to help educators struggling to make financial ends meet while raising families. She believes in making a difference and is proud that Educational Systems FCU excels at helping the education community.
“Mrs. Brinkley’s achievements have been accomplished because of her strategic vision, her unwavering commitment to the education and credit union communities and her promise that we can do better,” said Conway. “Mrs. Brinkley is a true champion of education and credit unions.”