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Billionaire Profile
Michael Dunlap & family
Global Rank
#2790

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Michael Dunlap & family

CEO, Nelnet Inc.
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$0.572B
As of December 2025
Age
62
Source
Loan servicing
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
US

Biography

Michael Dunlap, the Executive Chairman of Nelnet, Inc., is a prominent figure in the finance and loan servicing industries. His career spans over three decades, marked by significant leadership roles and entrepreneurial ventures. Dunlap's expertise in financial services, particularly in student loan servicing, has been instrumental in Nelnet's growth and success. His estimated net worth is $572 million as of December 3, 2025. Dunlap, along with his family, is recognized for their contributions to the financial sector and their commitment to leadership within the industry. His career is highlighted by co-founding Nelnet and guiding its strategic direction, focusing on innovation, customer service, and operational excellence.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Michael S. Dunlap, born in the United States, began his career with a solid educational foundation. He earned a Bachelor of Arts/Science and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Rise to Success

Dunlap's career is marked by his co-founding and leadership at Nelnet, a loan servicing and payment processing company. He started the company in 1996 with Stephen Butterfield and took the company public in 2003. Dunlap served as Chairman and CEO of Nelnet, guiding the company's strategic direction with a focus on revenue diversification and operational efficiency. He has over 30 years of experience in banking, financial services, and strategic operations. Michael's son, Matthew, is the chief business development officer and serves on the board of Nelnet.

Key Business Strategies

Dunlap's strategic focus has been on diversifying Nelnet's revenue streams, achieving economies of scale, and ensuring high-quality earnings. This approach has positioned Nelnet as a key player in student loan servicing and related financial services. Dunlap is also focused on developing leadership across Nelnet’s management team and emphasizes that the customer is the number one priority.

Philanthropy

While specific philanthropic amounts aren't available, Dunlap is involved in various organizations. His commitment to community and education is evident through his board memberships.

Career Milestones

1996

Cofounder of Nelnet

Co-founded Nelnet, a loan servicing and payment processing company.

2003

Nelnet Goes Public

Took Nelnet public.

2014

Executive Chairman of Nelnet

Assumed the role of Executive Chairman at Nelnet.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Raikes School Board

$N/A

Serves on the board.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I believe the strength of a corporate leader lies in leadership by example.""

Leadership Principles

Leadership by Example

Dunlap believes in leading by example to foster a strong corporate culture.

Controversies & Challenges

2007

Deceptive Lending Practices Investigation

New York Attorney General launched an investigation into alleged deceptive lending practices by student loan providers, including Nelnet.