I was working in Newark and it was quite convenient to be able to finish work, eat dinner then attend class, Irwin explained. I was able to attend class two times a week and still complete nine credits per semester. I had a wife and young family at the time, so it was important to for me to only be out two nights each week instead of three or four.
Irwin (UC-N 72) earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in economics with honors from Rutgers University-Newark in 1972. Following his graduation, the Vernon resident has parlayed his hard work and outstanding academic performance at Rutgers-Newark into a long and successful career in the banking industry. Irwin was recently honored for his achievements by the University College-Newark Alumni Association when he was named its 2006 Distinguished Alumnus.
I was very flattered by the honor, Irwin said. I had no expectation of this award whatsoever and Im not sure that I have done anything all that special to earn it.
Although Irwin remains humble about his achievements, his resume paints an entirely different picture. Irwin launched his banking career at National State Bank of NJ, where he held positions ranging from teller to management trainee from 1962 through 1968. Following his time there, Irwin assumed several professional roles at United Jersey Bancorp (which would later become Summit Bancorp) from 1970 through 1976. While at United Jersey Bancorp, Irwin focused his efforts on the finance and operation of subsidiary banks and he is credited with opening Peoples Bank of Ridgewood and serving as interim president of Par-Troy State Bank, during his tenure.
He later rose to the position of Executive Vice President and Senior Commercial Loan Officer at Northeastern Bank from 1977 through 1984. Later, he became owner and president of LDP Funding, Inc., a firm created to broker loans to banks and other financial intermediaries. Following this position, Irwin was president and CEO of Greater Community Bancorp from 1985 through 2003.
Raised by Irish immigrant parents who did not attend college or finish high school, Irwin understands the importance of access to an affordable, quality education and the doors it can open for college students who may come from households with limited economic means.
I am an absolute, total believer in the value of education, particularly a liberal arts education, Irwin explained. It is extremely important for young people to have access to an affordable, quality education beyond high school. I believe in education for educations sake- it is a discipline that prepares you for life.
After retiring from Greater Community Bancorp, Irwin decided retirement wasnt for him and he assumed his present role of president and CEO of Highlands State Bank in Vernon, NJ. It was here that Irwin organized and capitalized Highlands State Bank as a New Jersey state-chartered bank.
Rutgers invites its alumni to stay connected. The university has 19 active alumni associations that represent graduates from all of the universitys colleges and schools. Each association is dedicated to improving Rutgers and assisting alumni through volunteerism, fundraising, mentoring, and providing networking opportunities. For more information, please view our web site at www.alumni.rutgers.edu. For information about joining the Rutgers-Newark Alumni Association, please call 973-353-5242.