Former Scott Credit Union Board Chair Betty Renth leaves legacy of service

Credit union reflects on her 60 years of volunteerism  

The Scott Credit Union family is mourning the loss this week of former long-term Board Chair Betty Renth.

Renth, who retired from the SCU board in 2016, passed away early this week. She had volunteered as a director and chairman of the Board for over 60 years.

“It is with great sadness that we are mourning the loss of someone who played a major role in our success for six decades,” said Scott Credit Union President and CEO Frank Padak. “It’s hard to put into words the impact that Betty had on Scott Credit Union over her years of volunteer service.”

Renth, who had lived in New Baden and had served on the SCU Board from 1955 through 2016, was a driving force in Scott Credit Union’s growth and development over that time, according to Padak. Renth had served as SCU’s board chair since 1971.

“When she retired, we elected Betty as an emeritus director,” Padak added. “Betty was truly an inspiration, a mentor and friend to many people over the years here at Scott Credit Union.”

Renth was presented with a lifetime achievement award upon her retirement to mark her years of service as a leader.

“Betty’s service to Scott Credit Union set a standard of excellence and dedication that will likely be unmatched,” Padak said. “Betty truly defined the greatness we want Scott Credit Union to achieve each and every day. Betty’s service to Scott Credit Union is synonymous with excellence.  We were extremely fortunate to have Betty as a leader in our organization.”

Renth received national and state recognition for her dedication and service to SCU and the credit union industry.

Starting in 1988, she served two, three-year terms on the board of the National Association of Credit Union Chairmen. In 1997, she was awarded the Spirit of Service Award and named Volunteer of the Year by the Illinois Credit Union System. She was inducted into the Illinois Credit Union Hall of Fame in 2002.

In 2005, Betty was honored during the national annual convention of the National Center for Credit Unions as a second runner up for the Director of the Year Award. The award was a national contest to acknowledge the work of the top three credit union directors in the nation, Padak noted.

In 2006, Betty was inducted into the Defense Credit Union Council Hall of Honor. The Hall of Honor was established to acknowledging individuals whose exceptional contributions over the years have made a significant difference in the defense credit union community.

In 2008, Renth was inducted into Who’s Who in America’s Credit Unions. She was honored among the top leaders for her accomplishments and service in the credit union industry. Who’s Who in America’s Credit Unions annually recognizes those who have contributed most to the nation’s credit union movement.

In 2012, Scott Credit Union’s state-of-the-art Home Office building was named the Betty Renth Building, Padak added.