FHLBank Pittsburgh Announces Results of 2025 Board Election, Welcoming New and Returning Directors to Guide Strategic Vision
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank), one of the 11 regional banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System, has officially announced the results of its 2025 board election, marking another pivotal moment in the organization’s governance cycle. With newly elected and reelected directors set to begin four-year terms on January 1, 2026, the Bank continues its tradition of incorporating experienced financial executives, community leaders, and institutional visionaries into its governance structure. These board members will guide strategic decision-making and ensure that FHLBank remains aligned with its mission of providing liquidity, housing finance support, and community investment across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia.
This year’s election saw strong participation from member institutions across the tri-state district. The results affirm continued trust in the individuals who have long contributed to the stability and innovation of the region’s financial services landscape.
Reelection of Joseph W. Major: A Recognized Industry Leader
Among the most significant outcomes this year is the reelection of Joseph W. Major, Founder, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer of The Victory Bank. Major’s renewed role as a Pennsylvania member director reflects not only his long-standing leadership within the federally chartered community banking sector but also the confidence that member institutions continue to place in his vision.
Major, who co-founded The Victory Bank with the goal of establishing a community-focused financial partner for businesses and individuals, has been widely recognized for his pragmatic leadership style and commitment to responsible banking principles. Over the years, he has championed policies that support small business growth, expand access to credit, and strengthen the role of local banks in fostering economic vitality.
His reelection to the FHLBank Pittsburgh board reinforces his influence in regional financial policy and ensures that the perspective of community-oriented institutions continues to shape the Bank’s future. As regulatory landscapes evolve and housing finance challenges intensify, Major’s experience is expected to remain invaluable.
Election of Charles B. “Charlie” Crawford, Jr.: A New Voice with Deep Local Roots
Pennsylvania members also elected Charles B. “Charlie” Crawford, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Hyperion Bank, to serve as a Pennsylvania member director. Crawford’s election introduces a fresh voice to the board while simultaneously drawing on years of deep engagement with community financial services.
Crawford is known for bridging traditional banking practices with modernized approaches to customer service and digital transformation. Under his leadership, Hyperion Bank has strengthened its presence in the Philadelphia region through an emphasis on relationship banking, personalized service, and technological upgrades aimed at improving customer experience.
His addition to FHLBank’s board brings a blend of entrepreneurial energy and practical industry understanding. As FHLBank continues to refine its programs—ranging from its Affordable Housing Program (AHP) to liquidity products and member credit services—Crawford’s insights into modern bank operations and local economic challenges will be critical.
Reelection of Thomas H. Murphy: Representing Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia
Beyond the elections specific to the Pennsylvania seat, the tri-state voting bloc of Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia reelected Thomas H. Murphy, Chief Transformation Officer at the University of Pennsylvania. Murphy brings a unique skillset rooted not only in financial operations but in large-scale organizational management within one of the nation’s foremost academic institutions.
In his role at the University of Pennsylvania, Murphy has spearheaded initiatives related to operational efficiency, strategic modernization, and systems transformation—experience that translates naturally into the governance needs of a regional financial institution that serves a wide variety of members.
Murphy’s reelection underscores his effectiveness over his previous term and demonstrates the region’s trust in his continued contributions to the FHLBank board.
The Role and Importance of FHLBank Directors
Directors elected to the FHLBank Pittsburgh Board serve four-year terms, beginning January 1 following their election. Over the next term, these directors will contribute to oversight and strategic policy decisions concerning:
- The Bank’s capital and liquidity management
- Community investment and housing finance affordability initiatives
- Advances and credit products available to member institutions
- Risk management, regulatory compliance, and governance practices
- Development of new programs that respond to evolving economic conditions
Given ongoing shifts in housing affordability, regional economic variations, and broader national financial trends, the collective expertise of these directors will be essential for guiding FHLBank’s future.
A Diverse and Experienced 2026 Board
In addition to the newly elected and reelected directors, FHLBank Pittsburgh also highlighted other members who will continue serving on its Board of Directors through 2026. This group includes:
- Nathaniel S. Bonnell
- Glenn R. Brooks
- Romulo L. Diaz, Jr.
- James V. Dionise
- Angel Helm
- Louise M. Herrle
- Blanche L. Jackson
- Sheryl Jordan
- Brendan J. McGill
- Dr. Howard B. Slaughter, Jr.
- Jeane M. Vidoni
Collectively, these directors represent a rich tapestry of expertise spanning banking, academia, community development, corporate leadership, and public policy. Their continued service ensures continuity, stability, and institutional memory at a time when governance excellence is crucial.
Many of these directors have substantial experience in housing policy, cooperative financial frameworks, community development finance, and risk oversight—areas that are core to the mission of the FHLBank System. Their participation helps ensure balanced decision-making that considers the needs of communities of all sizes, from large urban institutions to small-town banks.
FHLBank Pittsburgh’s Mission and the Broader Context
FHLBank Pittsburgh plays an essential role in maintaining liquidity and stability across its district by providing low-cost financing, credit products, and community-focused programs to its member institutions. These members include:
- Commercial banks
- Credit unions
- Insurance companies
- Community development financial institutions (CDFIs)
- Housing finance agencies
The Bank’s mission is deeply intertwined with the national housing ecosystem. Through its Affordable Housing Program grants and other community programs, FHLBank supports the development of new affordable housing units, assists first-time homebuyers, and offers resources that help low- and moderate-income families secure stable housing.
The governance provided by its Board of Directors ensures that these programs continue to meet member needs, respond to emerging economic conditions, and comply with regulatory expectations set forth by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).
Why Board Elections Matter for Members and Communities
Although board elections often receive limited attention outside specialized financial circles, they are central to the effective functioning of the FHLBank System. Because the FHLBanks operate as cooperatives owned by their members, each election shapes the future of the region’s housing finance and liquidity landscape.
Directors set strategic direction, approve major financial decisions, evaluate senior management, and oversee risk. In the context of the current economy—characterized by inflationary pressures, fluctuating interest rates, and increasing demand for affordable housing—the importance of experienced and forward-thinking directors cannot be overstated.
The reelection of trusted leaders such as Major and Murphy, combined with the introduction of new voices like Crawford, creates a balanced board capable of guiding FHLBank Pittsburgh through both challenges and opportunities.
About FHLBank Pittsburgh
FHLBank Pittsburgh provides reliable funding and liquidity to its member financial institutions, which include commercial and savings banks, community development financial institutions, credit unions and insurance companies in Delaware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. FHLBank products and resources help support community lending, housing and economic development. As one of 11 Federal Home Loan Banks established by Congress, FHLBank has been an integral and reliable part of the financial system since 1932. Learn more by visiting www.fhlb-pgh.com.
