KEY WEST, Fla.–The National Council of Firefighter Credit Unions, (NCOFCU) has recognized several people for their accomplishments.
During its annual meeting in Key West, NCOFCU announced that Judy DeLucca, CEO of New Orleans Firemen’s FCU, was honored with the NCOFCU Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Today, under her leadership, New Orleans Firemen’s Federal Credit Union has grown to 11 branch locations across southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi,” NCOFCU said in a statement. “It has been recognized as a Best Place to Work and a Best Credit Union for four consecutive years. The credit union now offers a comprehensive range of financial products, including checking accounts, mortgages, credit cards, IRAs, and more. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), it remains dedicated to serving the 35 parishes of underserved and underbanked communities, as well as over 500 select employee groups, while continuing its deep-rooted commitment to the New Orleans Fire Department and firefighters across the state.”
“As director of the National Council of Firefighter Credit Unions, DeLucca’s unwavering dedication has significantly contributed to the growth of credit unions serving first responders nationwide,” NCOFCU Chairman David Lantrip said in a statement. “We are honored to recognize Judy with this award, which reflects not only Judy’s hard work but also her passion for making a difference.”
Cowin is Honored
Also honored during the event was John Cowin, who was named Volunteer of the Year.
Cowin is on the board of Syracuse Fire Department Credit Union.
“With a remarkable 40 years of dedicated service on the board of the credit union, including 22 years as chairman, John’s steadfast leadership has been instrumental in navigating the organization through significant growth and development,” the organization said. “John’s incredible journey in public service extends beyond the credit union. He served the Syracuse Fire Department for 31 years, famously holding the role of chief for eight impactful years. His legacy of dedication continues to resonate, as he has devoted countless hours to various community organizations, including the Onondaga/Oswego chapter of the American Red Cross, the Everson Museum of Art, and the Onondaga Historical Association.”
Missed Just One Meeting
NCOFCU noted Cowin helped organize the association and has only missed one meeting in 25 years due to a family loss. His unwavering dedication has significantly contributed to the growth of firefighter credit unions nationwide, the organization added.
“John Cowin is not just a leader; he embodies the spirit of service and community,” Lantrip said. “His contributions have profoundly impacted our organization and the credit unions we serve. We are honored to recognize him with this award, which reflects not only his hard work but also his passion for making a difference.”
Board Members Named
During the event, NCOFCU named its board, including:
• Chairman: David Lantrip, director, Houston Firefighters FCU
• 1st Vice Chairman: Brian Kurzel, chairman, Charlotte Fire Dept. CU
• 2nd Vice Chairman/Treasurer: Bonnie Sensing, executive administrator, Nashville Firefighters CU
• Secretary: Andy Doyle, director, F&A CU
• Directors: Judy DeLucca, CEO, New Orleans Firemen’s FCU; Michael Tobler, chairman, NY Firefighters Bravest FCU; John Cowin, director, Syracuse Fire Department CU; Al Comeaux, chairman, Baton Rouge CU; Michael McCormick, chairman, San Diego Firefighters FCU
• Associate Directors: Emerilda Zeqo, CEO, CT Firefighters FCU; Johnny Player, treasurer, Akron Fire Police CU; Bob Whitaker, director, Baton Rouge Firemen’s CU
