Maryville University is set to launch its inaugural SMART Money Week, a transformative three-day event aimed at equipping students, faculty, and staff with the knowledge and tools necessary for achieving financial wellness. Scheduled from January 28-30, 2025, this initiative falls under the MaryWELL program, which focuses on holistic personal and professional development through an innovative 8 Dimensions of Wellness framework.

Unlock Your Financial Future with Expert Guidance and Engaging Sessions

Promoting Financial Inclusion Through Keynote Insights

The opening keynote address will be delivered by Vanessa Okwuraiwe, Principal at Edward Jones, alongside Dr. Oliver Tacto, Dean of Student Wellness. This session will delve into the importance of financial inclusion and provide actionable strategies for overcoming barriers to financial security. The speakers will highlight real-world challenges faced by individuals in securing their financial futures and offer practical solutions to navigate these obstacles. By fostering a deeper understanding of financial inclusion, participants will gain valuable insights that can significantly impact their financial decision-making processes.Moreover, the keynote will emphasize the role of community support in achieving financial stability. Drawing from her extensive experience in the financial sector, Okwuraiwe will share success stories and case studies that illustrate the transformative power of inclusive financial practices. Participants will leave with a renewed sense of empowerment and a clearer path toward building a secure financial foundation.

Interactive Workshops for Practical Financial Skills

SMART Money Week will feature a series of interactive workshops designed to enhance participants' financial literacy. These sessions will cover critical topics such as salary negotiation, loan repayment options, health insurance literacy, and budgeting for students. Each workshop will be led by experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the table. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities that simulate real-life financial scenarios, ensuring they leave with tangible skills they can immediately apply.For instance, the salary negotiation workshop will teach participants how to effectively advocate for fair compensation. Through role-playing exercises and group discussions, attendees will learn to articulate their value and confidently negotiate better terms. Similarly, the loan repayment session will explore various repayment plans, helping participants make informed decisions that align with their financial goals. These workshops are crafted to empower individuals with the confidence and expertise needed to manage their finances wisely.

Personalized Financial Consultations for Tailored Advice

One of the highlights of SMART Money Week is the opportunity for one-on-one financial consultations. Experts from TIAA and other leading financial institutions will be available to offer personalized advice on retirement planning, investments, and more. These consultations provide a unique platform for participants to receive customized guidance tailored to their specific financial situations. Whether it's planning for long-term investments or addressing immediate financial concerns, attendees will benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals.Participants can expect detailed discussions on investment strategies that align with their risk tolerance and financial objectives. The consultants will also delve into retirement planning, offering insights on maximizing savings and minimizing tax liabilities. By leveraging this personalized advice, individuals can make more informed financial decisions that lead to greater long-term stability and prosperity.

Community Engagement for Financial Empowerment

Beyond structured sessions, SMART Money Week encourages active community engagement through pop-up tables, information sessions, and the MyMilestones financial education platform. These interactive elements allow participants to explore a wide range of financial literacy tools and resources. The pop-up tables will showcase various financial products and services, providing attendees with opportunities to ask questions and gather information.Information sessions will cover essential topics like credit management and debt reduction strategies. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to build and maintain good credit, which is crucial for accessing favorable loan terms and financial opportunities. Additionally, the MyMilestones platform offers self-paced modules that guide users through key financial milestones, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to achieve their financial goals.

Fostering a Culture of Financial Wellness

The overarching goal of SMART Money Week is to foster a culture of financial wellness within the Maryville community. By equipping participants with practical strategies for managing personal finances, enhancing their understanding of available financial resources, and promoting inclusivity, the event aims to create a lasting impact. Participants will not only gain valuable financial skills but also become advocates for financial literacy within their circles.Maryville University's commitment to holistic wellness extends beyond the event itself. The university continues to provide ongoing support and resources to help students, faculty, and staff maintain their financial well-being. Through initiatives like SMART Money Week, Maryville reinforces its dedication to empowering its community members to take charge of their financial futures and thrive in all aspects of life.