President/CEO of Central Banc Mortgage Recipient of 2004 CWU Distinguished Alumni Award

October 20, 2004

Contact: Tess McShane (509-963-1423/fax 509-963-2301/e-mail: mcshanet@cwu.edu)

ELLENSBURG, Wash. - The Central Washington University Alumni Association presented its Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Business (COB) to John W. Delaney, president and chief executive officer of Central Banc Mortgage, during the annual homecoming banquet and awards ceremony on Friday, Oct. 15.

The annual award is presented to alumni of the CWU College of Business who have attained outstanding success in business and made significant contributions to their profession and the business community.

"John is a shining example of the timeless benefits of a CWU education," said Roy Savoian, COB dean. "The knowledge he gained as a student, including preparing him for the workplace and instilling a sense of confidence, is reflected in all that he has achieved in the business world."

Delaney was a student leader in academics, student activities and athletics - including football and track - while at CWU. His continued support of CWU athletics and COB represents his interest in giving back to a university that was so important in his development.

Headquartered in Mercer Island, Wash., Central Banc Mortgage was founded in 1954 and has seven offices nationwide. Delaney has been with the company for more than 10 years. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of Archon Corporation, a public company that owns and operates hotel casinos in Las Vegas.

In 1978, Delaney founded Cityfed Mortgage Co. It went on to become one of the largest mortgage originators in the U.S. In 1980, he designed and implemented the first adjustable rate program sold to Federal National Mortgage Association.

Delaney continues to be active with his peers by speaking at numerous national conventions on various topics related to real estate lending and mortgage banking. He is a member of Mortgage Bankers Association of America and has been honored by the Federal National Mortgage Association as the largest portfolio lender in the nation.In addition, he has served his community by volunteering as a coach, fundraiser and member of the board of directors of the Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club.

Originally from Walla Walla, Wash., Delaney earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from CWU in 1970 and a master's degree in mortgage banking from Northwestern University in 1972. He has two children, a son Johnny and daughter Lisa.