Robert G. Boucher Award

Founded 1981

Presented periodically to an individual who has made a substantial contribution to the furthering of joint efforts between the public and private sectors in support of the free enterprise system and the preservation and improvement of the Mortgage Lending Industry. Individuals from the public and private sectors as well as individuals from the mortgage lending industry are eligible to receive this award.

There was no 2024 Award Winner

Mortgage Bankers Association National President, 1980

Mr. Boucher was born in Connecticut in 1924 he served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. After D-Day he was sent to France where he was assigned to an antiaircraft battery protecting Allied airfields from German attacks. After the war Bob attended Middlebury College where he earned a bachelor's degree in economics. At Middlebury he was a four-year member of the golf team and served as the team's captain in 1948.

After graduation Mr. Boucher was on his way to California when he stopped to visit friends in Denver. He was invited to stay for dinner and to spend the night, an invitation that extended over a number of weeks. Bob was introduced to Axel Nielsen who subsequently offered him a position at United American Life Insurance Company. There he became treasurer and chief investment officer. After eight years at United American life he joined the Mortgage Investment Company as Senior Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors. When the mortgage banking operations of the First National Bank of Denver were spun off he became President and Board Chairman of the new First Denver Mortgage Corporation.

Middlebury College could always count on Bob to recruit and mentor top-flight students from the Rocky Mountain area.  The college recognized him with prestigious Middlebury Medal for his dedication to his alma mater.

Mr. Boucher had a strong sense of social responsibility. When President Eisenhower asked Mr. Nielsen to develop plans to bring the federal government and the private sector together to build low-income housing Nielsen turned the task over to Bob.  He was a recognized national leader in the origination and servicing of FHA multifamily loans. He had a strong interest in historic preservation becoming involved in making loans for a number of major historic preservation projects in lower downtown Denver.

Mr. Boucher was elected president of the Mortgage Bankers Association in 1980. He was a strong supporter of the School of Mortgage Banking, a leader of MBA’s public policy activities and a Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB). President Reagan appointed him to his Commission on Housing. His strong commitment to affordable housing led Bob to be a founding board member of the Colorado Housing Finance Authority in 1973 his service lasted for 10 years including a term as treasurer.

On 17th St. he was always recognized for his signature bowtie.

Past Award Winners