Vision and Values: Bob Taylor Inducted into the 2025 Hall of Fame
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The late Robert “Bob” Taylor is remembered as a trailblazer in the credit union movement, a leader whose legacy continues to shape the industry today. In recognition of his pioneering contributions, Taylor was posthumously inducted into the 2025 Cornerstone League Hall of Fame.
Taylor’s career began in 1966 with the Oklahoma Credit Union League, where he quickly distinguished himself as a rising star. His innovative mindset and youthful drive earned him a place among a group affectionately known as the “Kiddie Corps”—young leaders determined to modernize and expand the reach of credit unions.
Taylor became one of the youngest league presidents and quickly made a name for himself through his relationships and collaborations with other league presidents in Texas, Kansas, and Missouri.
Taylor was instrumental in organizing five credit unions across Oklahoma and was a key figure in the creation of OK Corp in 1979, a financial lifeline that provided liquidity during economic hardships. Now more than ever, credit unions know the importance of this safety valve, initiated under Taylor's leadership.
Taylor championed the use of ATMs and implemented a pilot share draft program in three Oklahoma credit unions. With encouraging results from these pilot programs, he later asked for permanent regulations to authorize all state-chartered credit unions to offer share drafts. As part of a group of 20 credit union representatives, he lobbied on the national level to empower all federally insured credit unions to offer share drafts.
Taylor’s daughter, Leslie, accepted the award on his behalf.
His legislative work helped credit unions expand their services, solidify their role in the financial landscape, and positioned credit unions for long-term success.
Upon his retirement in 1986, the League’s board of directors praised Taylor for building an organization “few could do without.” Joseph Perkowski, chairman of CUNA (now America’s Credit Unions) highlighted Taylor’s dedication and leadership in Oklahoma and throughout the credit union movement.
"The Oklahoma League is recognized nationally for its strong governmental affairs, education, and communications programs, and for the cooperation and support exhibited by its members,” said Perkowski. “Much of the credit for that stature is due to [Taylor’s] efforts.”
His colleagues admired his calm presence, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering belief in the credit union mission. As Taylor once said, “Credit unions were founded because people needed them; they will ultimately survive if we continue to benefit the people as our primary objective.”
Taylor’s contributions transformed institutions and upheld the enduring principles of people helping people. Taylor’s influence lives on in every credit union that continues to serve its members with integrity, innovation, and care.
