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Over the course of a 44-year career with the Maine Credit Union League and Synergent, including the past 25 years as President, John Murphy made a lot of friends, both in and out of state. On Friday, April 28, more than 400 of them gathered at the Westin Portland Harborview Hotel in Portland to pay tribute and to honor Murphy's career that was highlighted by "vision, integrity and leadership." Family, friends, co-workers, colleagues, past and present, and political leaders acknowledged the impact and legacy of an individual "who tirelessly worked on behalf of credit unions and his employees and put their interests first." A video tribute including messages from some of those who worked closely with John over the course of his career was played at the event, and Murphy received a long and well-deserved round of applause when it ended.
From an 18 year-old who started as the first employee in Direct Marketing Services to someone who rose to lead the Maine Credit Union League and Synergent to one the respected and successful organizations that they are today, Murphy was recognized as "someone who was a consistent leader that you could trust." From Dan Egan, Retired President of the Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island Credit Union Leagues, and past Board Chairs of the Maine Credit Union League, such as Donna Steckino, Retired President/CEO of Community CU, to members of the Senior Leadership Team at the Maine CU League and Synergent and long-time Legal Counsel, Rod Rovzar, Murphy was lauded for bringing the same "energy, enthusiasm, commitment and attitude on his last day of work as he did on his first day."
"When I hear the name John Murphy, one word comes to mind above all others, and that word is 'integrity'," reflected Donna Steckino. Egan agreed, adding, "John exudes integrity. He is above any challenge as to his intentions and why he is doing things. He is always doing things for the right reason." Rick Lachance, current Board Chair at the Maine CU League, said, "John has been such a great leader for our organizations, because of his commitment and dedication to being honest and for putting the needs of others above his own. We are all better for his leadership." Senator Susan Collins even sent a message that was included in the video, and remarked on the positive impact John has had on credit union advocacy. "It just won't seem the same when Maine's credit unions come to Washington to speak with me on issues, and to not have John there. He was such a great advocate for credit unions, and someone I could always trust."
After hearing others pay tribute, both on the video and in speeches, Murphy finally had the opportunity to speak. In customary fashion, Murphy gave much of the credit for his success to many others for believing in and supporting him, including his wife and children, CU leaders and others. "I have been fortunate to have been surrounded by many great people in my personal and working life. I have also been fortunate to be able to do something I love for all these years. I've never considered it a job, and to be able to say that makes me very lucky. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of a something so special. It has been an honor and a blessing."
While Murphy is no longer serving as President/CEO, he is still assisting new President/CEO, Todd Mason, with his transition, and will remain engaged in that process for the next few weeks.
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