The Heart of NAST: 50 Years of People, Purpose, and Progress

Over the past 50 years, the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST) has grown into something truly special—an institution defined not only by integrity and collaboration, but also by the lifelong friendships forged through a shared commitment to excellence and public service. As we recently gathered in Denver, Colorado, to celebrate NAST’s Golden Jubilee, we honored not only the organization’s remarkable history, but also the values that continue to inspire and sustain us.

At a time when partisanship too often divides, NAST shines as a model of principled, non-partisan cooperation. Its longevity reflects the integrity and dedication of its members, past and present, who have always placed the public good above politics. That spirit of respect and collaboration is more than a hallmark of NAST—it is the very foundation of its enduring impact and mission.

This year’s Jubilee was especially moving in the way today’s state treasurers, corporate affiliates, and dedicated NAST staff honored those who came before. Their recognition was heartfelt and genuine—more than a celebration of the past, it was a reminder that our collective experience remains a living asset for the future. That reverence for continuity and shared wisdom is a powerful sign of strength ahead—a wonderful omen for the next 25 years, and a reflection of NAST’s deep family spirit.

I carry so many NAST memories close to heart. I’ll never forget the solemnity of Santa Fe in 2001, when our Annual Conference unfolded against the backdrop of the 9/11 tragedy; the weight of testifying before Congress on municipal securities and 529 matters; or even the sharp words delivered to the New York Stock Exchange about its governance lapses. Those moments reminded us of the seriousness of our work. Yet NAST was never only about gravity—it was also about joy, camaraderie, and a touch of mischief. I think of us marching proudly (and a little noisily) through the streets of Natchez, Mississippi; ringing the opening bell on Wall Street with wide grins; standing in awe during visits to the White House; and—perhaps most memorably—solving the world’s problems late at night in conference hotel bars. Serious or lighthearted, each of these memories reflects the enduring spirit and family that make NAST so special.

In the end, NAST’s greatest strength has always been its people—members of uncommon character, talent, and dedication—always with a healthy dose of fun. Serving as a state treasurer—and still being an active part of the NAST family 35 years after my very first encounter with a state treasurer—remains one of the greatest privileges of my professional and personal life.

As we look back with pride and ahead with purpose, I am confident that NAST’s best chapters are still to come.

Happy 50th Birthday, NAST! 🎉

Brian Krolicki
Former Treasurer – State of Nevada (1999-2007)