Michael J. Connery, Jr.

The United Nations Federal Credit Union’s mission is serving the people who serve the world. As President and CEO from May 1989 to January 2013, Michael J. Connery, Jr., was the driving force in the institution’s inclusive, purposeful, and values-based approach to bettering people’s lives. His legacy continues today through the growth of UNFCU’s positive impact, its numerous sustainability initiatives, and the expansion of its representative offices to UN duty stations worldwide.

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Connery set in motion an empathetic, roll up your sleeves philosophy while meeting with members where they lived and worked around the world. His ideals and principles are felt by each UNFCU employee today. UNFCU’s vision to be the life-long financial home for people who value purpose, progress, and peace of mind is rooted in this enduring leadership philosophy and deep commitment to the credit union movement. As a result, values of trust, integrity, social responsibility, and people helping people are woven into UNFCU’s fabric.

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Reaching the summit of Tanzania’s 19,341-feet above sea level Mount Kilimanjaro is a metaphor for overcoming life's adversities. As a staunch advocate for NGO Kilimanjaro Initiative, Connery, who ascended this “rooftop of Africa” many times, did so to create positive, social change for scores of marginalized youth climbers on the journey. As a result of their new-found self-belief, youth involved in the climbs have strengthened their communities and raised visibility for humanitarian causes. Connery’s humble, effective, and enduring influence has continued to foster progress at UNFCU and in every life this servant leader has touched.