National Public Pension Fund Association Welcomes Gerald Alain P. Chen-Young as Chief Investment Officer

Elgin, IL – The National Public Pension Fund Association (NPPFA) is proud to announce the appointment of Gerald Alain P. Chen-Young as Chief Investment Officer (CIO), effective December 8th, 2024. In this role, Mr. Chen-Young will oversee investment strategies, portfolio management, and innovation efforts for The Wise Choice Co-Op, which supports nearly 300 participating governmental units, over 15,000 active monthly participants, and manages nearly $1 billion in assets.

Founded in 2019 with roots tracing back to 1985, the NPPFA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to supporting public pension systems, deferred compensation plans, and institutional investors. Through its flagship initiative, The Wise Choice Co-Op, the NPPFA leverages the collective purchasing power of local governments to deliver cost-effective, high-quality investment solutions. The association also provides training, advisory services, and resources to public employers and their stakeholders.

Mr. Chen-Young brings over 30 years of institutional investment and advisory experience to the NPPFA. Previously, he served as Vice President and Chief Investment Officer for the United Negro College Fund, where he successfully managed multiple portfolios, collaborating with external consultants, managers, and custodians. His expertise, strategic vision, and dedication to delivering innovative investment solutions align seamlessly with the NPPFA’s mission to enhance retirement outcomes for stakeholders.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gerald Alain P. Chen-Young as our new CIO,” said James McNamee, President of the NPPFA. “His extensive experience and exceptional leadership will be instrumental in advancing our investment capabilities, strengthening The Wise Choice Co-Op, and delivering outstanding value to our clients. Gerald’s strategic insight and deep commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader to guide our investment initiatives.”

“I am deeply honored to join the leadership team at the NPPFA during this pivotal time,” said Gerald Alain P. Chen-Young. “The organization has a strong legacy of improving retirement outcomes for its stakeholders, and I look forward to building on that foundation. Together, we will continue to develop innovative strategies and drive the exceptional growth that has defined The Wise Choice Co-Op’s success.”

The National Public Pension Fund Association (NPPFA) was founded in 2019, though its origins trace back to a state-specific organization representing public pensions in 1985. NPPFA offers educational seminars, annual conferences, and professional service referrals. It's contracted with NPPFA Benefits to manage education, sales, and marketing for the NPPFA 457(b) Wise Choice for Public Employees® Plan, the Retirement Healthcare Funding Plan/115 Trust, and the Wise Choice for Educators® 403(b)/457(b) Plan.