History of the National Equipment Finance Association

The founding meeting in San Francisco led to the creation of WAEL

WAEL is formally established with Steve Dunham as its first President

The Eastern Association of Equipment Lessors (EAEL) was founded in 1979 as Bob Krause as its first President

WAEL launches the Certified Lease Professional (CLP) designation program.

WAEL rebrands as the United Association of Equipment Leasing (UAEL).

Inception of the Certified Lease Professional (CLP) program as originally developed by the UAEL. Today the Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) designation is the preeminent credential for equipment leasing and finance professionals who have demonstrated competency through testing of knowledge, continuing education and a commitment to their business practices and dedication to the industry. Every CLFP has at least two years in the equipment finance industry and has passed a rigorous 8-hour exam.

Bette Kerhoulas becomes UAEL’s first female President.

Nancy Pistorio becomes EAEL’s first female President.

Beginning of Merger EAEL and UAEL and development of new logo:

The three intertwining circles to the left of the initials are symbolic of the unity between the UAEL and EAEL into the new association, NEFA, with the two smaller circles representing the UAEL and EAEL and the larger circle representing NEFA. The shape of the circle was chosen to symbolize the following cyclical relationships pertaining to the organization:
1) the reciprocation of membership and benefits within the association,
2) the relationship between committees and members, and
3) the financial relationship between lessor and lessee.

November 4: NEFA was officially formed after the merger of UAEL and EAEL, with Brent Hall as its first president.

NEFA holds its inaugural conference in Orlando.

Gerry Egan is appointed Executive Director.

The Chris Walker Education Fund was launched to support scholarships and professional development.

First female President of NEFA: Tara Assand, LTi Technology Solutions

First Virtual Conference: 2021 NEFA Finance Summit, March 16-17

NEFA celebrates its 15th anniversary as a national leader in education, advocacy, and community building.