Senate approves McWatters for NCUA post

The U.S. Senate confirmed J. Mark McWatters Thursday to the National Credit Union Administration board. He will join NCUA Chair Debbie Matz and board member Rick Metsger to form the three-person board.

Matz said of the newest board member, “Mark is experienced, thoughtful, judicious and values a collaborative process to get things done. I know credit unions and their members will be well served by his presence on the board.”

She noted that as she welcomes McWatters to the board, she also says farewell to board member Michael Fryzel. “For the last five years, I have considered Mike a partner in the agency’s efforts to contain the fallout from the corporate credit union crisis and mitigate the effects of the Great Recession. Credit unions were well served by his judgment during some very dark days, and he left the system better than he found it. I wish Mike all the best in his future endeavors.”

Bill Hampel, interim president/CEO of the Credit Union National Association, offered CUNA’s congratulations to McWatters.  Hampel said Thursday, “His extensive experience in business, the private practice of law, teaching, congressional staff work, and other endeavors will help him bring a unique perspective to the issues.

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