Everything from loans to credit to personal priorities will be explored at five April events when Washington State University’s Office of Academic Engagement (OAE) offers Financial Literacy Month activities.
“We are partnering with BECU and WSU Student Financial Services (SFS) to bring information, resources, and experts to WSU students, faculty, and staff all month long,” said Maja Gillespie, director of OAE’s College Affordability Programs.
“Financial wellness is a life-long journey but learning the skills and engaging in finances does not have to be overwhelming. Financial Literacy Month offers a range of in‑person and virtual events tailored to the needs of those in our community.”
Four Tuesday workshops and a fair will help raise awareness and engage people in their financial well-being. Workshop dates, times, and topics offered over Zoom are:
- April 4, 4–5 p.m.
“Know Your Loans” will take a deep dive into federal student loans, covering details, expectations, borrower responsibilities, payments, and loan forgiveness. This session is organized by SFS. - April 11, 4–5 p.m.
“Personal Values and Your Financial Priorities” will explore a values-based approach to mastering finance, looking at the individual’s personal values to understand financial needs and priorities. This workshop is organized by the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. - April 18, 4–5 p.m.
“So What’s the Deal with Cougar Money Matters?” led by Jose Velazquez, financial education coordinator, will explore the CMM learning portal’s tools such as the loan payment calculator and scholarship search engines. College Affordability Programs is organizer of this session. - April 25, 4–5 p.m.
“Building Credit” will look at the powerful impact of credit on lives. This session is organized by BECU.
The in‑person Financial Wellness Fair is set for Wednesday, April 12, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. in the CUB Junior Ballroom on the Pullman campus. Financial experts from WSU and the region will talk about banking, credit, money management, budgeting, student loans, work study, and more. Students credited with attending at least seven experts’ tables will be entered to win a prize. The two grand prizes are $250 scholarships from OAE and SFS. Pizza will be available.
“There’s something for everyone at the fair and workshops, and we invite the WSU community to allow us to assist them on their financial journey,” said Gillespie.
