John Buchanan, a retired career banker, has been dedicated to the cause of small business for more than 40 years. Even in retirement, he’s a leader in small business innovation in the Fayette County region.
Shortly after ending his banking career, 28 years of it with Mellon Bank, Buchanan joined the Uniontown SCORE chapter, and, with his knowledge and enthusiasm, soon became its chairperson.
During his three years of leadership, the chapter has grown from six active members to 23. Just five years ago, it was on the verge of disbanding; now, it averages 120 cases annually.
A native of Fairmont, W.Va., Buchanan earned a degree in business management from West Virginia University in 1954.
After serving as an officer with the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division, he returned to WVU and earned master’s degree in industrial relations. While at WVU, Buchanan also was an instructor in principles of economics and coached the wrestling team.
He came to Pittsburgh in 1960 and worked in virtually every facet of banking for more than 34 years. During his career, he was highly regarded for the extraordinary amount of time and energy he donated to educational, professional, civic and charitable causes.
Buchanan moved back to the Uniontown area upon retirement, and continues to work just as creatively and effectively as a volunteer in the small business community.
William McCloskey
