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Money Smart Day at SMWC

News | 04.06.2015
Money Smart Week

Credit scores, identity theft, financial independence, student loan debt – these loaded terms can seem quite daunting for college students preparing to graduate and enter the real world. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) offers an event to educate students on these important financial matters and more.

SMWC, a proud partner with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, will host debt experts on campus for Money Smart Day on Monday, April 20, 2015, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Money Smart Day is part of a public awareness campaign called Money Smart Week, created by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago in 2002 and designed to help consumers better manage their personal finances. Through collaboration and coordinated effort with organizations, such as SMWC, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago offers programming to all demographics and income levels.

“It’s important to share knowledge about establishing and protecting credit and other financial tips for life after college,” explains Jamie McCracken, associate professor of business at SMWC. “Students need to have a better grasp on their financial wellbeing, especially those about to graduate and enter the adult world.”

Although the event is geared toward college students, anyone is welcome to attend. The free event will take place in the Hayes Auditorium in Hulman Hall on the SMWC campus. For more information about Money Smart Day, please contact Jamie McCracken at (812) 535-5260.

Money Smart Day Agenda

Monday April 20, 2015

9 a.m. – Keynote Speaker and SMWC Alum Erin Robertson, CRPC®, CFP® & Financial Consultant – Retirement & Individual Financial Services, TIAA-CREF

“Credit is a system whereby a person who cannot pay gets another person who cannot pay to guarantee that he can pay.”—Charles Dickens

We’ve all heard of credit reports and credit scores, but what are they exactly?  How can you learn your score, and what are some steps you can take to boost it?  In this session, you will learn all about credit use and reporting.  You’ll learn about a four-letter word—debt—and how you can tell the difference between good debt and bad debt.  Come away with action steps you can take today to improve your financial future!

10 a.m. – Amy Wardlow, Indiana Attorney General’s Office

The Office of the Indiana Attorney General will offer practical tips for preventing identity theft and managing your credit report.  Learn how to protect your personal information, spot red flags of scams, and take advantage of free tools to monitor and protect your credit.

11 a.m. – Susan Gresham, Director of Career Development

Finances After College – Grow Money NOW!

Just as there are expenses for college, there will be expenses to start a professional life. Finances after College will identify important issues to consider, expenses to expect and strategies to ease the transition into a financially independent life.

12 p.m. – Darla Hopper, Director of Financial Aid

SMART Student Loan Borrowing

In recent news, there has been scrutiny regarding student loan debt. In this session, learn about different aspects of student loans including borrowing (undergraduate & graduate) levels, repayment and loan forgiveness options. 

1 p.m. – Robert P. Jean, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Ecology

How to Make a Difference (and Save Money)

Learn how small, everyday changes can add up to a big difference to the sustainability of our environment and at the same time help save you money.  Find out if it is worth buying that reusable drinking water bottle, whether insulation pays for itself or if LED bulbs are worth it.

2 p.m. – Frank Whittle, BS, MBA, CRC, and D.J. Wasmer, PhD, Business and Leadership Department Chair

This faculty panel will be discussing contemporary issues in today’s economy.