WAIKOLOA, Hawaii -- BrightStar Credit Union Board Chairman Dr. Dorothy J. Orr, has been named the 2007 CUES Director of the Year.
"I am deeply humbled for this recognition. I am truly grateful that I belong to this grand and multi-faceted, worldwide credit union industry. I believe in it. I trust it. I am learning more and more about it. I love it," said Orr upon accepting the award at a ceremony during the CUES 2007 Directors Conference.
A strong advocate for education, Orr has held a variety of positions in teaching and school administration, culminating in her 1999 appointment as Superintendent of Schools for Broward County, Fla., a position she held until her retirement. She has served the BrightStar CU Board for more than 19 years and has held the position of chairperson since 1988.
In nominating her for this honor, BrightStar CU President/CEO Crockett noted, "Orr's presence has been and continues to be extraordinary," pointing to her commitment and contributions to the credit union and the community it serves.
"Women who have been honored for greatness as often as Dr. Orr are a great asset to our society," said Crockett.
Orr holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida A&M University, a Master of Arts degree from the University of Michigan, and a Doctorate of Education from Nova Southeastern University. As a champion of the credit union movement--and of BrightStar in particular--Orr speaks often and convincingly about the benefits of credit union membership. In fact, it is not unusual for her to visit the local branch to educate members about the services available to them through the credit union, and she annually "hikes the Hill" in Washington, D.C. for the advancement of all credit unions.
The CUES Director of the Year award recognizes board members who offer excellence in credit union volunteerism; judging is based on leadership positions held at the credit union, contributions to other credit unions and credit union organizations, professional development, community service and credit union performance during the time the nominee has been on the board. In recognition of the award, CUES will donate $250 to a charitable organization on Orr's behalf.
--mdigiovanni@cutimes.com
