Amid discussions focused on accelerating digital efficiency and navigating an evolving regulatory landscape, the credit union movement took an evening to officially celebrate its finest during the annual Credit Union Awards dinner at REACH 2025 on Wednesday night.
(View and download event photos from the REACH 2025 Photo Galleries)
The ceremony honored 24 distinguished leaders, volunteers, and organizations for their exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to the “people helping people” philosophy, underscoring that human leadership remains the core strength of the movement even as technology takes center stage. The evening was a powerful blend of recognition and camaraderie.
The night’s highest recognition, the Leo H. Shapiro Lifetime Achievement Award, was bestowed upon Gary Perez, CEO of USC Credit Union. A leader known for his commitment to financial access and social impact, Perez was celebrated for over 35 years of service that has profoundly shaped the credit union movement, particularly within the greater Los Angeles area. His tenure highlighted successful strategies for engaging underserved communities, including USC Credit Union’s recognition as a Juntos Avanzamos-designated institution.
Upon accepting the award, Perez spoke to the movement’s enduring mission, which is essential as credit unions balance risk management with member growth. In this increasingly complex world, the work credit unions accomplish — the education, the access, the empathy — is more vital than ever, Perez said. Credit union leaders are the financial first responders, and it was humbling to see so many dedicated individuals and organizations in the room committed to making that difference every single day, he noted.
California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions President Scott Simpson presented the awards. Simpson, who is preparing to transition to his new role leading America’s Credit Unions in November, offered a heartfelt address that framed the honorees as models for navigating industry challenges and opportunities.
“If you’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing Gary or spent even a few minutes talking with him, you’ve likely felt the energy, the sincerity, and the deep and abiding passion he brings to everything he does,” said Scott Simpson, president of California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions.
He noted that Perez is the very definition of a “credit unionist,” a tireless advocate and leader, and a true believer in the mission of “people helping people.” For over 35 years, Perez has served as the CEO of USC Credit Union, guiding it with vision and purpose. Under his leadership, the credit union has grown to over $700 million in assets and now serves nearly 80,000 members, a testament to Perez’s ability to lead with both strategy and soul.
“Gary has been an icon not just within his credit union, but across the entire industry, and has served on numerous boards, including the African American Credit Union Coalition and Inclusiv, and on several committees at the league,” Simpson said. “We admire him for always stepping up, offering his time and wisdom to others. Gary has been a friend, a mentor, and a champion for so many in this room, and I am proud to present Gary with this year’s Leo H. Shapiro Lifetime Achievement Award.”
All of the evening’s awards acknowledged excellence across advocacy, social impact, and volunteerism, spotlighting leaders who have championed innovation at a pivotal time for the industry.
Congratulations to the 2025 Credit Union Award winners:
Congratulations to the 2025 Kim Bannan Eternal Flame Award winners:
Congratulations to the 2025 Network Award of Excellence winners:
Congratulations to the 2025 Advocacy Award winners:
“This year’s award recipients are a testament to the impact of credit unions,” Simpson said. “They are true inspirations within their communities, embodying the spirit of the credit union movement as they put their members first. Their exceptional contributions, commitment to our industry, and tireless efforts have transformed thousands of lives.”
Attendees and League staff will be sharing photos, comments, and memories through LinkedIn at #CUatREACH.
REACH is one of the credit union industry’s premier annual events, attracting leaders and system partners from across California, Nevada, and the United States. It is held from October 27-30 at JW Marriott Desert Springs in Palm Desert, CA this year.
