Dorothy J. Orr, chairwoman of the board of directors of BrightStar Credit Union, one of the largest in South Florida, has received the 2010 Circle of Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award from the Women’s Council of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and also the Welfare of Children Award by the Broward County Council of the PTA/PTSA.

Orr has served on BrightStar’s board for more than 21 years and has chaired the credit union  since 1988.
Orr got the 2010 Circle of Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her years of service while she served as Broward County school superintendent. Her dedication and commitment throughout the years made a significant impact in the community, improving the lives of thousands of school-age children. 

Orr received the Welfare of Children for demonstrating continuous exemplary support for children and education. She was presented with the award at the Broward County Council of the PTA/PTSA’s 79th annual installation ceremony.

A resident of Oakland Park, Orr is a strong advocate for education and has held a variety of positions in teaching and school administration, culminating in her 1999 appointment as superintendent of schools, a position she held until she retired.

Orr has a bachelor of science degree from Florida A&M University, a master of arts from the University of Michigan and a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University.

A champion of the credit union movement—and of BrightStar, in particular—Orr speaks often about the benefits of credit union membership. She often visits the seven branches to educate members about the services available..

For more information, log on to www.bscu.org.