Cash America marked 25 years to the day on the New York Stock Exchange by Ringing the Closing Bell on Monday, August 24. Click here to watch the full video.

Founder Jack Daugherty and his wife, Shelley, were joined on the platform at the NYSE by company executives and representatives: Tom Bessant, Chief Financial Officer; Randy Blubaugh, VP of Total Rewards and Corporate HR; Dee Littrell, Director of Investor Relations; Yolanda Walker, VP of PR and Corporate Communications; Curtis Linscott, General Counsel and Secretary; and Wendy Walton, VP – Managing Associate General Counsel.

The milestone was commemorative for many reasons. Chief Executive Officer Dan Feehan recalls the challenges and ridicule Jack faced when he talked about taking Cash America from private to public.

“People laughed at Jack,” recalled Dan. “You can never take pawnshops public, people would say.”

But in typical entrepreneurial fashion, Jack ignored the mockery, kept his eye on the mission and leaned on those who could help.

“Gene Estep played a huge role in taking our company public,” said Jack. Gene worked with Jack in the early days and later served on the board of directors before passing away in 1992. Gene Estep is captured in archived photos at the Exchange, watching Cash America’s first trade.

On Monday, Cash America enjoyed a warm welcome from the New York Stock Exchange upon arriving to ring the bell. In a short ceremony, Jack was presented a large commemorative coin and framed declaration in honor of the 25th anniversary.

Exchange representatives even put together a display of pictures and documents marking Cash America’s original listing on the Exchange in 1990.

“When you think of Jack and all he’s done to build this company, it’s really about his vision and drive,” said Tom. “He’s an incredible entrepreneur.”

Jack humbly credits all those who helped him get started. But he especially pauses to thank all those who work for Cash America.

“It’s the hard-working people who make Cash America a success. It’s all the employees who work day-in and day-out to make it a great company,” Jack said. “I appreciate each one.”