Hal Thomas, a visionary, distinguished leader, honorable gentleman, loyal friend, helper and counselor, retired in 2007 from Community Resource Credit Union after an illustrious 40+ year career in the credit union movement.
Thomas’ service to the movement began in 1964 as an accountant for Humble Employees Federal Credit Union. His work ethic, determination and drive earned him the position as president in 1971, about the time the credit union changed its name to Exxon Credit Union.
Having built a name – and solid reputation – for himself, Thomas was quickly snatched up to take over as president of the then struggling Houston Area Teachers Credit Union.
Under his leadership, the credit union was restored to financial health. Although Thomas may have left Exxon Baytown Credit Union to restore the financial viability of another credit union, he was not forgotten.
When Exxon Baytown Credit Union faced its own financial struggles, its board of directors turned to the one person they knew could help. Today, that credit union is known as Community Resource Credit Union; has $217 million in assets.
The organizations that benefited from Thomas’ service are plentiful and include the Houston Chapter of Credit Unions, Texas Credit Union League, Credit Union National Association, Texas Credit Union Department, Town North Bank and Credit Union Executives Society.