Madison, WI—World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) CEO Pete Crear will receive the Michigan Credit Union League’s (MCUL) 2007 Distinguished Service Award and be welcomed into the Michigan Credit Union Hall of Fame later this month.

Crear, who grew up in Detroit and began his credit union career with MCUL as a management trainee while attending Wayne State University, will be the 101st member inducted into the Hall of Fame. MCUL will present him with the award May 19 at the Honors Luncheon during the 2007 MCUL Annual Convention and Exposition in Detroit. Although Crear was born in Alabama, the MCUL awards committee noted that he is recognized as one of "Michigan's favorite sons," and that his achievements and distinguished credit union career will forever be a point of pride for the state.

"Pete is very deserving of this prestigious recognition," said MCUL president and CEO David Adams. "His knowledge, experience and enthusiasm have helped launch dozens of credit unions, both across the United States and around the globe. He has encouraged and mentored hundreds of credit union volunteers and professionals, inspiring them by both word and example."

On receiving the award, Crear commented, "I am honored by this recognition, particularly from MCUL, where I first began to understand the credit union difference. I feel fortunate since then to have been in positions throughout my career that have afforded me opportunities to do what credit unions do best—help people."

World Council welcomed Crear as CEO in May 2005. Since then, he has traveled the world promoting, educating and encouraging the worldwide credit union movement.

World Council chairman Gary Plank applauded the announcement, noting, "Pete and I have been together through thick and thin for many years. It’s great to see the state where Pete started his credit union career honor him."

Prior to joining World Council, Crear was the executive vice president of external relations for Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and had also served as CUNA’s chief operating officer. Active in the credit union movement since 1965, Crear has organized 23 credit unions, many serving low-income and minority members. He has served as president of the Connecticut Credit Union League, vice president of information and technical services for the MCUL and executive director of the American Association of Credit Union League Executives.