ARLINGTON, Va. — Robert Cashman, president and CEO of Metro Credit Union in Massachusetts, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Pierre Jay Award, the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors’ highest honor.
Cashman received the award during NASCUS’ 61st Annual Meeting and State System Summit in Philadelphia.
The Pierre Jay Award, established in 1997, recognizes outstanding service, leadership and commitment to NASCUS and the state credit union system.
Cashman has spent more than 40 years in the credit union industry. During his tenure leading Metro Credit Union, the institution has grown from $316 million in assets to more than $3.3 billion and now serves nearly 215,000 members, according to NASCUS.
Strengthens the System
“Robert’s commitment to the industry extends well beyond his leadership at Metro Credit Union,” NASCUS President and CEO Brian Knight said. “His advocacy, service, and willingness to share his experience have strengthened the credit union system, along with the people and organizations it serves.”
NASCUS said Cashman has regularly testified before the Massachusetts Legislature on credit union issues and played a leading role in enactment of the state’s Credit Union Modernization legislation.
He has also served on the NASCUS Credit Union Advisory Council and with the National Credit Union Foundation, Cooperative Credit Union Association and New England Automated Clearing House.
NASCUS also cited Cashman’s efforts to develop future credit union leaders, noting that numerous employees who worked at Metro during his tenure have gone on to lead other credit unions.
The Family Business
Cashman’s ties to the credit union movement span three generations. His grandfather founded what was originally Chelsea Credit Union in 1926, and his father served as CEO from 1957 to 1998. Cashman now leads Metro as the credit union marks its 100th anniversary.
“Through his service on the CCUA Board and his unwavering commitment to the credit union movement, he has helped shape a stronger, more innovative state credit union system,” Cooperative Credit Union Association President and CEO Ron McLean said.
The Pierre Jay Award is named for Pierre Jay, who served as Massachusetts banking commissioner from 1906 to 1909 and worked with credit union pioneer Edward Filene to advance the cooperative credit union movement in the United States.
