WASHINGTON – Ken Robinson, who served as president and CEO of NAFCU from 1984 to 2000, has passed away.
Dan Berger, current president and CEO of the trade association, praised Robinson and thanked him for his contributions to the credit union movement.
"Gen. Robinson was an extraordinary leader, a compassionate man and consummate credit union advocate," Berger said in a statement released late Tuesday. "Throughout his 16 years leading NAFCU, he was a true champion, and his efforts culminated in one of the most important legislative campaigns ever waged for the industry – preservation of multiple-group charters through passage of the 1998 Credit Union Membership Access Act.
"Ken laid the early groundwork for much of credit unions’ growth in recent years, and he did it by keeping his eye on what was important to credit unions and to their future," Berger continued. "His contribution to the industry and to NAFCU has been enormous, and he will be greatly missed."
Before joining NAFCU, Robinson had substantial experience with credit unions. The trade association said Robinson served on the board of three credit unions and as a management consultant for the National Credit Union Administration.
Prior to completing his active duty with the Marine Corps., Robinson was Commanding General of the Marine Corps Base at Camp Pendleton in California. He attained an undergraduate degree from Boston College and a Master of Science in Business Administration from George Washington University.
"There are few folks, if any, that I respected—and truly liked—more than Ken Robinson," said Dennis Dollar, former NCUA Chairman and current principal of Dollar Associates consulting group. "He left a lasting legacy in credit union land, contributed greatly to this industry and will be absolutely missed by everyone who knew him. Ken was not only a credit union champion—he was a great American patriot who loved his country and served it with distinction."
