NAFCU Journal September October 2021

27 THE NAFCU JOURNAL September–October 2021 Chris Rutledge was named president and CEO of Gulf Winds Credit Union in 2002. Over his almost twenty years in the role, he has guided the credit union from the time of paper ledgers into the digital age. Through his open-door approach, Rutledge ensures all levels of the organization can feel comfortable introducing new ideas, suggesting improvements and offering feedback. This philosophy has translated into a successful credit union driven by satisfied employees. Rutledge has been a dedicated leader who is focused on creating a healthy workplace that is supportive of the Gulf Winds team and their families. A great example of his dedication in this area can be found in his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Before the official pronouncement of a global pandemic from the World Health Organization, Rutledge had gathered the leadership team through tabletop exercises to prepare for the possibility of a pandemic. Rutledge has always ensured the credit union would be prepared for disasters by being ready to respond quickly in the case of a disaster. In 2020, he asked the Board of Directors to approve a $100,000 donation to local hospitals and other first responders to address the personal protective equipment shortage they were experiencing at the onset of the pandemic. Rutledge believes that good credit union leaders are good com- munity leaders. He leads by example and prioritizes serving the communities where Gulf Winds operates. He spends his time as a volunteer “Big Brother” mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters and he volunteers regularly with Manna Food Pantries and the Ronald McDonald House. In addition, Gulf Winds offers staff up to 16 paid volunteer hours so that they may volunteer with the nonprofit of their choice. Rutledge also excels at working with the Gulf Winds Credit Union board of directors and supervisory committee volunteers. He learned the ability to communicate effectively, address diffi- cult issues, and forge positive outcomes through his experience as an NCUA examiner. CEO of the Year More Than $250M Chris Rutledge Gulf Winds Credit Union Pensacola, Florida “This year’s award winners have truly exemplified the credit union mission. Over the past year, they provided pivotal services to their communities as the nation faced financial hardships associated with the coronavirus pandemic,” says NAFCU Awards Committee Chair Melanie Kennedy, president and CEO of Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union. “NAFCU is honored to recognize these winners for representing the credit union industry and providing immeasurable support to both their communities and credit union members.” There are two asset-size categories with four awards each: credit unions with assets of more than $250 million and credit unions with assets of $250 million or less. For information on entering next year’s competition, visit www.nafcu.org/annualawards. Interested credit unions are encouraged to begin applying in January of 2022.