Debbie Smith, CEO of Georgia United Credit Union and founder of Georgia United Foundation in Duluth, Ga., was presented Tuesday with the Councils’ 2025 Greg Inman Servant Leadership Award. Smith received the recognition from America’s Credit Unions President and CEO Jim Nussle along with Councils Executive Committee Chair Buddy Bennett at the Governmental Affairs Conference

“I have witnessed Debbie’s servant leadership firsthand, and she truly exemplifies the credit union movement’s ‘people helping people’ mission,” Nussle said. “She is generous, determined, and works hard to uplift everyone around her. Debbie’s efforts have elevated the credit union difference and given us all something to aspire to.”

“Councils is proud to present Debbie with the Inman Award for her dedication to her credit union, her community, and the entire credit union movement,” said Buddy Bennett, Councils Executive Committee Chair and Cyprus Federal Credit Union Chief Operating Officer. “Debbie truly embodies every aspect of the Inman reward and recognizes the importance of showing up for others and has made a positive impact on countless lives.”

Smith was recognized for her commitment to developing and helping others, strong leadership, service to the Georgia community, and efforts to advance the entire credit union system.

This industry-wide award honors and values the principles of servant leadership. It was created by the Councils in 2022 to honor the legacy of Greg Inman, Chief Operations Officer of Neighbors Federal Credit Union in Baton Rouge, La., who passed away in 2021.  

To receive this annual award, an individual must have a past or current connection to the credit union industry (a credit union employee or volunteer; a league, association or CUSO executive; a recognized industry provider/ supporter). Through their work and actions, the recipient demonstrates key servant leadership principles, including:

• Believing, serving and listening to others; 
• Helping others to learn and grow; 
• Building and supporting community; 
• Leading, by establishing goals and taking initiative; 
• Distributing leadership through facilitating and sharing of power; and
• Being authentic, open and accountable.