First City CU is proud to announce the dedication of its newly refurbished board room in honor of Dr. James D. Likens.
Likens, a distinguished credit union industry leader, served on the board of directors of First City CU for more than 45 years. His service to credit unions has made significant contributions to the credit union and the industry as a whole.
Now officially named the Dr. James D. Likens Board Room, it serves as a testament to Dr. Likens’ unwavering commitment, leadership, and vision. It is a space where First City CU’s focus on empowering each individual member is embodied, critical decisions are made, strategies are shaped, and collaboration thrives.
Dr. Likens was first elected to the First City CU Board of Directors in 1978 and has served many terms as board chair. His unwavering commitment to the credit union movement, education, leadership, and the “head and heart” philosophy underscores his belief in “people helping people.”
In addition to his volunteer leadership with the credit union, Likens served as president and CEO of Western CUNA Management School (WCMS) for many years (starting in 1972) where he educated credit union professionals that to this day continue to be instrumental in shaping the credit union movement. Academically, he was professor of economics at Pomona College in Claremont, CA from 1983 – 2015.
During his career, Likens earned multiple prominent awards and recognitions, including the California Credit Union League’s Outstanding Volunteer Award, as well as the League’s highest distinction — the Leo H. Shapiro Lifetime Achievement Award. The National Credit Union Foundation (NCUF) recognized his contributions with the prestigious Herb Wegner Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.
“We are what we are today, people helping people, a servant leader culture, a community builder, a financial wellness center — because of you, sir,” said First City CU CEO Nav Khanna about Likens when thinking about his legacy. “A few words come to my mind: impact, legacy — but there’s also other words that come to my mind, like selfless, volunteer, and legend.”
Diana Dykstra, president and CEO of the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues, said Likens has changed her life and trajectory.
“I don’t think I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for him,” Dykstra said. “I can’t thank him enough for all the head and heart that he pours into everybody. He is just a remarkable individual that I’ve been so blessed to know all these years.”
First City CU Board Chair Dr. Michael Steinberger said Likens is a man that taught generations of credit union leaders what leadership actually is.
“He’s kept an infectious focus throughout his career on individuals and leadership,” Steinberger said. “Naming of this room in Dr. Likens honor will emblazon his passion upon the mission and the leadership of everybody that sets foot in this boardroom.”
The dedication of the Dr. James D. Likens Board Room symbolizes First City CU’s deep appreciation and commitment to Likens’ contributions. A reception and ceremony was held to commemorate this historic credit union event and was attended by more than 60 guests, including retired First City CU leadership, credit union industry leaders, representatives of the Leagues and Likens, along with his wife, Christine.
The First City CU Board of Directors and executive leadership team were privileged to hold their inaugural in-person board meeting in the newly minted board room, with Likens presiding as a guest.
As the credit union moves forward, this space will continue to inspire creativity and foster innovation, ensuring the institution remains a beacon of financial empowerment for its members.
