ALEXANDRIA, Va.–Herbert “Bertie” Bowman, an icon on Capitol Hill and long-time board member of U.S. Senate FCU—after whom the credit union’s new headquarters is named—has died. Mr. Bowman was 92.
Bowman was the longest-serving African-American congressional staffer in the history of Congress and he served on the board of the credit union for more than 50 years.
“For over six decades, Bertie Bowman bore witness to history's relentless march. From the poignant loss of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the turbulent times of World War II to the transformative moments of Brown vs. Board of Education, the Civil Rights movement, the Vietnam War, and the tumultuous Watergate scandal, Bertie's life became intertwined with the tapestry of our nation's journey,” U.S. Senate FCU said. “Bertie’s journey wasn't marked solely by the historical events he observed, but also by the deep and enduring friendships he nurtured throughout his illustrious career on Capitol Hill. Former President Barack Obama, with whom he toiled on the Foreign Relations Committee for three years, was a firsthand witness to Bertie's unwavering dedication.
Presidents & Secretaries of State
“Moreover, former President Bill Clinton embarked on his political journey as a messenger for the committee during his formative years at Georgetown University, guided by Bertie's wisdom,” the credit union added.
USSFCU noted Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton and John Kerry, as well as Vice President Joe Biden, all had the “privilege of experiencing Bertie's exceptional partnership and unwavering commitment on Capitol Hill.”
Bowman’s service with the now $1.31-billion credit union began in 1966 when he volunteered for the Credit Committee. In 1975, he joined the board where he would serve for 44 consecutive years, including two terms as chairman.
‘Unrivaled’ Service
“For fifty-three years, Bertie's dedication and support to the credit union stood unrivaled, a record of service unmatched within the organization,” USSFCU stated. “He wasn't just a member of the USSFCU; he embodied its spirit and values.”
During his tenure, Bowman also served as chairman of the credit, personnel, and supervisory committees, co-chaired the Assets/Liability Management Committee and the By-Laws Committee.
In 2020, Bowman was inducted into the African American Credit Union Coalition’s Hall of Fame.
“As the longest-serving board member and the distinguished holder of emeritus status, Mr. Bowman leaves behind a profound imprint on the United States Senate Federal Credit Union,” the credit union said. “In 2019, USSFCU honored Mr. Bowman by dedicating its new headquarters and flagship branch in his honor in a ceremony held in the Foreign Relations Committee hearing room. His legacy will forever resonate in the halls of the Bertie Bowman Building, a living testament to his unwavering dedication and leadership.”
‘Giant Among Men’
Added President and CEO Timothy L. Anderson, “Mr. Bowman was not simply a giant among men; he was a revered icon on Capitol Hill, the very conscience of the credit union, and, above all, an unwavering servant to his community. We mourn the loss of an exceptional individual whose absence will be deeply felt throughout our USSFCU family. It was an honor to call Mr. Bowman colleague, mentor, and friend."
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