BEAVERTON, Ore.–Tom Sargent, the former CEO of First Tech FCU who was well-known to many for his role at CO-OP Network and Children’s Miracle Network, has died.
Sargent retired from First Tech Credit Union in 2010 where he oversaw strong asset growth during his 25-year tenure, overseeing growth from $120 million in assets to $2.1 billion at the time of retirement. Sargent also led a merger with the then Addison Avenue Federal Credit Union in California. Today, the credit union, which operates from both San Jose, Calif., and Beaverton, Ore., has $14.7 billion in assets.
"Tom dedicated his career to the financial services industry and began his journey at an early age of 17." the credit union said in a statement. "During his tenure, Tom put the credit union on a strong trajectory for innovation and growth including developing the nation’s first online banking solution, providing a wide variety of digital banking options with secure internet transactions for members."
Tribute Statements
- “Tom was one of the most passionate leaders in our industry and long after his retirement, Tom continued to advocate for our members, employees and communities as a member of our board of directors and as an active supporter of First Tech’s charitable efforts,” said Greg Mitchell, First Tech’s President and CEO. “Tom was an inspirational leader who always placed the interests of members first. He was open to new ideas and developed collaborative relationships which contributed to a positive member experience and a challenging, exciting, and rewarding work environment for employees.”
- “All of us at CO-OP are saddened to learn of the passing of Thomas Sargent,” said CEO Todd Clark. “As our board chairperson from 2003 to 2005, he served during a time of growth for the CO-OP Network. The former CEO of First Tech Federal Credit Union went on to become the first credit union CEO to serve as Chairman of Children’s Miracle Network, building more credit union participation by founding a seven-member Credit Unions For Kids National Advisory Board and helping to generate millions of funds raised. His passion for the credit union movement was unparalleled. Tom’s leadership, mentorship and friendship will be missed. We are better for having known him and we will continue our support of Children’s Miracle Network and the movement to carry on his legacy.”