A HISTORY OF SUCCESS.
A VISION FOR GROWTH.
We’re proud of our humble beginnings – grounded in integrity and a commitment to helping people and communities thrive.
Our history demonstrates success despite challenging odds. We have experienced steady growth and staff continuity in an industry known for high employee turnover. It is a success that can only be accomplished through high client satisfaction and lasting relationships. Through decades of doing business, we remain committed to maintaining our culture as we continue to deliver on our promises and look forward to fueling a prosperous future – together.
From A Single Coffee Pot To A Trusted Name
In 1979, seven dedicated founders began building a company. From one room, one phone line and one coffee pot given as a wedding gift, they began serving clients. From these humble beginnings, the firm has grown to nearly 200 strong, earning a solid reputation along the way for competence, dependability and lasting client relationships.
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Adron Crews
Rep #1
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R.B. Chitwood
Rep #2
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Rush Harding III
Rep #3
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Jim Lake
Rep #4
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Rob Owens
Rep #5
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John Bailey
Rep #6
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Jim Jones
Rep #7 Current President
Our firm began under the leadership of Adron Crews. He and six other leaders formed Crews in 1979, bringing together a team of well-experienced professionals and ambitious trailblazers. Together, they built a company that quickly grew and remains successful today.
A Brief History Of Crews
July 1979
Crews & Associates Incorporated
September 1979
Crews becomes NASD member
June 1983
First Bloomberg installed
August 1986
First Municipal bond Underwriting ($2.3 million)
December 1989
Crews moves from Hall office building to Union Bank Building
September 1994
Crews opens its first Public Finance office (Charleston, WV)
May 1996
Founder Adron Crews passes away (RR01)
May 2000
First Security acquires Crews
July 2004
Crews acquires Beardsley Public Finance
November 2004
Crews moves into First Security Center
August 2005
Sole Underwriter for first $100+ million financing
June 2007
Crews’ largest underwriting commitment — Co-Manager, WV Tobacco ($911 million)
January 2008
Crews becomes founding member of RBDA
July 2008
Crews processes first electronic ticket
2009
Crews trading volume exceeds $20 billion for first time
2015
Crews ranks as #1 Underwriter in Arkansas for Volume and # of issues
2018
First Security Beardsley ranks as leading Financial Advisor in Arkansas
January 2020
Dennis Clay becomes CEO
September 2025
Crews moves to First Security Park
Since 1979, Crews has built a nationwide reputation for helping institutions, individuals and communities navigate markets and exceed financial goals. Whether it's securing investments, building infrastructure or planning for the future, we're here to make it happen.