Board Member Spotlight: Robert Cashman
Robert Cashman serves as the Treasurer of the Foundation Board and serves as President/CEO of Metro Credit Union in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Learn more about Robert and his passion for the Foundation and credit unions below:
What piqued your interest in joining the Foundation Board?
Metro Credit Union had been following the Foundation for some time, but what really precipitated my becoming more involved and joining the Board were the conversations I had with others, specifically John Graham, President/CEO of Expree CU and Ed Williams, retired CEO & President of Discovery FCU, 2 individuals who were very much engaged and spoke highly of the great work being done. Gigi’s leadership and broad background was also something that intrigued me and quite honestly saw this as an opportunity to work with her so to observe, learn and personally grow.
What are you most proud of during your time on the Foundation Board?
What I am most proud of during my time on the Board has been the ongoing expansion of services, increased credit union leadership becoming aware of what we do, all while maintaining a strong financial position enabling us to perpetuate our strategies and objectives.
What is the Foundation’s most important role within the credit union system?
The Foundation plays a couple of significant roles in the industry, specifically being the main voice for promoting financial wellbeing and aiding credit unions who are affected by disasters. One is proactive and the other is reactive.
As we provide awareness of financial wellbeing, we are helping credit unions and members build a base for the future, and when unfortunate events occur, we are there to assist. We have seen those participating in both these arenas pay it forward so others benefit as well.
Why do you think it’s important for the credit union system to support the Foundation and its work?
It is everyone’s responsibility to do whatever is necessary to perpetuate the credit union movement. Not for profit not for charity but for service and of course people helping people have been 2 well known adages in our circle. That said, I see the National Credit Union Foundation being a portal for many of the essential building blocks and necessities to continue to move the industry forward. We can’t do it alone and whereby everyone in the industry benefits by its strength, we need credit unions and other partners to contribute financially to support our efforts and great work.
What inspires you to continue your work within the credit union system?
I was fortunate to grow up in a home and environment where volunteering and taking action allowed the opportunity to see positive outcomes. I have seen the hard work and dedication of those within our industry. It is unique, the collaboration to be there for others. There are so many personal stories about how credit unions have positively changed the lives of others. The feeling I get when creating one or hearing one is the fuel that feeds the fire to continue this journey. Lastly the people in the credit union industry are unique and very hard to replicate.
What’s one thing – either industry-related or not – you learned in the last 6-12 months?
Having been in the industry for over 40 years I would say I’ve seen a lot, learning as I’ve gone along, preparing me for what might come. The past year’s economic cycle has been unique, with no playbook to go by, so using a sports analogy, many of us have had to call an audible. What I’ve learned is to continue to follow your instincts, and it is ok to make mistakes, learn and change direction.
What is your favorite hobby?
When I am not working or volunteering, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. A few hobbies I fill my free time watching sports and playing one of them —pickleball. Great way to exercise and interact socially with others.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
A fun fact that not many people know —no judging —when I was a child, while watching Superman on the television, I tried to fly. Sometimes we fall short of our goals. Maybe that’s the problem…….