ARLINGTON, Va.—Janet Powell, chief of Regulation and Supervision, Credit Unions at the Oregon Department of Financial Regulation has received the 2025 Pierre Jay Award, the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors (NASCUS) announced.
With more than 33 years of service, Powell has been a steadfast leader, mentor, and innovator within the state credit union system. Since joining the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation in 1992 and being appointed to lead Oregon's credit union program in 2004, she has helped shape one of the strongest and most progressive state charters in the nation, NASCUS said.
"Janet exemplifies the qualities of leadership, collaboration, and innovation that strengthen the state credit union system,” said Brian Knight, president and CEO, NASCUS. “For more than three decades, her work has ensured that Oregon's credit unions—and the millions of members they serve—have benefited from a safe and resilient charter. Janet's recognition through the Pierre Jay Award underscores the vital role state regulators play in advancing a strong dual-charter system.”
NASCUS outlined Powell’s accomplishments:
- No Oregon state-chartered credit unions failed during her tenure, even through the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic
- She safeguarded credit unions from unnecessary federal conservatorship, while providing regulatory oversight and guidance that strengthened institutions in times of challenge
- She partnered with the GoWest Credit Union Association and state leaders to modernize the Oregon Credit Union Act, expand community field of membership opportunities, preserve business lending flexibility, and enact legislation allowing unlimited public funds deposits in credit unions
- She championed regulatory innovation, including frameworks for marijuana-related businesses, while maintaining strong consumer protection and fair examination practices
NASCUs shared responses from CU leaders:
"As a regulator, Janet has demonstrated exceptional leadership which has made a positive and enduring impact on our community. Her belief in collaboration and her trust in management teams was critical in helping Point West overcome challenges and thrive. Janet's remarkable career culminates with her having never experienced a credit union failure in 33 years of service—a truly incredible accomplishment."
— Amy Nelson, CEO, Point West Credit Union and NASCUS Advisory Council Board Vice Chair
“I’m thrilled to recognize the extraordinary and tireless leadership of Janet Powell in receiving the prestigious Pierre Jay Award. Over the course of her 33-year career at the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, Janet demonstrated unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to maintaining a vibrant and safe credit union system for Oregon's 2.3 million credit union members. We congratulate Janet on her decades of work to protect and support people and credit unions.”
— Troy Stang, President and CEO, GoWest Credit Union Association
"The combination of a progressive charter, honest and open feedback, and fair examination practices have helped Oregon become one of the strongest state-chartered networks in the U.S. Janet Powell's leadership has been the catalyst for this strength. If every state had a Janet Powell, we would have a much stronger credit union system."
— Steven Stapp, President/CEO, Unitus Community Credit Union
"I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the Pierre Jay Award than Janet Powell. Her care for credit unions is genuine, her support unwavering, and her leadership inspiring. She is truly a role model."
— Amy Hunter, Director of Credit Unions, Washington State Department of Financial Institutions, and NASCUS Regulator Board Vice Chair