California Credit Union is mourning the passing of Dr. Walt Greene, longtime board chair and volunteer, immediate past chair, and dedicated education leader — who passed away on May 26.
Dr. Greene gave more than 20 years of volunteer service to California Credit Union, helping guide the organization through a period of significant growth and transformation while remaining deeply committed to its members, employees and communities. He served on the credit union’s supervisory committee from 2002 to 2007, including as chair from 2005 to 2007, before being elected to the board of directors in 2007. He served as chair of the board from 2013 until transitioning to immediate past chair in 2026.
“Walt’s leadership helped shape California Credit Union in meaningful and lasting ways,” said Steve O’Connell, CEO of California Credit Union. “For more than two decades, he gave his time, wisdom and heart to our organization. Those who had the privilege of working with Walt knew him as a thoughtful leader, trusted mentor and genuinely kind person who cared deeply about others. His legacy of service, education and expanding opportunity will continue to inspire all of us.”
Dr. Greene’s career was rooted in education and public service. He spent nearly four decades with the Los Angeles Unified School District as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, coordinator and regional administrator, ultimately retiring as director of the Employee Service Unit and Personnel Division. He also served as an assistant professor in the University of Southern California School of Education and was a dedicated USC Trojan.
In recognition of his lifelong commitment to education and student success, California Credit Union recently announced the Dr. Walt Greene Excellence in Education Scholarship. The scholarship will support students from under-represented communities pursuing careers in education or demonstrating a strong commitment to learning and community impact.
Dr. Greene earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Southern California, an Elementary Teaching Credential from Cal State Los Angeles, a Master of Science from Pepperdine University, and a Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Greene was known for his warmth, generosity and commitment to helping others. He was passionate about volunteering, travel, USC football and supporting students in their educational journeys, including sponsoring minority female graduate students pursuing master’s degrees.
California Credit Union joins Dr. Greene’s family, friends, colleagues and the broader credit union community in honoring an extraordinary leader whose impact will be felt for years to come.
