We believe in providing our employees opportunities to flourish – including supporting them in their pursuit of higher education.
NWCU is proud to recognize the accomplishments of Member Solutions Director Paula Franz, recipient of the Victor P. Morris Outstanding Professional Studies Graduate award from Bushnell University. Each year, the Victor P. Morris Award is presented to a graduating Adult Degree Program student considered by the faculty as the most outstanding on the basis of academic excellence and leadership.
This award is given in honor of Dr. Victor P. Morris, who encouraged persons of all ages to complete college. He served many years as dean of the University of Oregon School of Business Administration (now Charles H. Lundquist College of Business). Dr. Morris also served with distinction as a member of the Bushnell University Board of Trustees, and twice he served as the acting president of Bushnell University (formerly Northwest Christian University).
Paula completed her studies in business administration, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2021. She says: “Our CEO John Iglesias has been a great support to me over the years, reminding me that I could do this, and that the satisfaction I would feel in the end would all be worth it. He was so right!”
John checked in with Paula on her accomplishment and award: John: Paula, you have a key role in the credit union, which means there must have been times when studies, work demands, and a few personal “projects” like building a new home and moving put a lot of pressure on you. What kept you “in the game” in any of your priority areas?
Paula: This was a 5-year process, because of family and work demands. When I started, I was a single mom of two teenagers; thankfully, my friends and family were a great support to me as well as many leaders here at the credit union who kept pushing me when I needed to be pushed. I had hoped to get it done in four years, but life happened, and it took longer! In order to further my career in management, I knew it was important to obtain a degree. I knew the end goal, and just kept taking one day at a time to get there.
John: Do you have any tips for others considering renewing or completing higher education goals they may have deferred while tending to a career?
Paula: It is never too late! I feel it is important to keep learning, no matter how old you are. Never settle, keep yourself engaged in the learning process, it will keep your mind sharp and prepare you for whatever life may throw your way. As for me, there may even be an MBA in my future, after a much-needed summer break!