WACO, Texas–The Lending and Collections Council of the Cornerstone Credit Union League has recognized long-time executive committee member Gary Parker for his leadership and many contributions with a new scholarship in his name.
Parker, president and CEO of 1st University Credit Union, has been honored with the Gary D. Parker Legacy Scholarship, which will be awarded annually to a young professional in the credit union movement and will allow the recipient to attend the Southwest Lending and Collections Conference at no cost to them or their credit union, according to the Cornerstone league.
“Gary has a heart of gold and lives and breathes the credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people,’” said Elizabeth Newman, vice chair of the Lending and Collections Council. “He has a passion for mentoring young professionals, and because of that this scholarship will allow one Young Professional in the Cornerstone region to attend the Southwest Lending and Collections Conference at no cost. We plan to launch the scholarship in 2022.”
Youngest CEO in State
During the presentation at the group’s meeting, Parker was given a vase that bears his name and an inscription that reads: “In recognition and appreciation of your many years of leadership and commitment to the Lending and Collections Council Executive Committee.”
Parker, who has been the president and CEO of 1st University Credit Union in Waco for the past 26 years, began his credit union career in 1975 at Bison Federal Credit Union in Shawnee, Okla., the association said.
“At the age of 20, he became the youngest president of a credit union in the state,” the organization stated. “Since joining 1st UCU, he has been an active participant in the Cornerstone League. Parker was a founding member of the Lending Council in 2001 and served on its executive committee for 20 years. Additionally, Gary has served on the executive committee of the Small Credit Union Council and is the current incoming chairperson.”
He has also filled many roles for the Central Texas Chapter of Credit Unions including serving as its current president, the organization added.
‘Extraordinary Moment’
“Receiving this recognition from my colleagues is an extraordinary moment in my life,” Parker said. “And knowing that young credit union professionals will benefit from this scholarship for years to come is an incredible honor.”