#NFEC #FinancialEducators #EconomicEmpowerment

Unity for Financial Education in the Southeast Coastal Region

In a remarkable move to uplift financial literacy across the Southeast Coastal region, the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) is proud to spotlight its burgeoning network of state chapters in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. This coalition aims to bridge the financial education gaps that hinder learners and families, reinforcing the necessity of robust systems for quality instruction and advocacy.

Goals and Objectives

Operating independently yet collectively under a common vision, these chapters are dedicated to promoting economic empowerment and sustainable financial wellness. Their advocacy extends to creating equitable access to financial education, ensuring that educational standards align with those of other core academic subjects. The initiatives encompass enhanced statewide graduation policies, the employment of certified instructors, outcome-based assessments, and structured K-12 educational pathways. By engaging families and securing reliable funding, this alliance aspires to position financial education as a fundamental skill vital for life success.

Driving Change Through Collaboration

Advisors from each chapter lend their expertise to regional strategies aimed at enhancing the influence of financial education mandates at the state level. Their diverse backgrounds in finance, public policy, education, and community leadership shape the coalition's direction. Key figures in this collaboration include:

• - Laquetta McGill, CFEI®, CPFWC (South Carolina): With over 20 years in financial services, Laquetta serves as a Lender Optimization Consultant and has founded MyPLAN Consulting Group, focusing on making financial education accessible.
• - Michael D. Fluker, CFP®, CFEI® (Florida): He leverages two decades of experience to advance economic opportunities through educational initiatives in his role as Manager of the Financial Wellbeing Program at Credit Union 1.
• - Chicarra Jones, MBA (South Carolina): As an author and financial educator, Chicarra has successfully led the BankWork$ program, training over 200 individuals for careers in banking.
• - Dr. Shameka Jones, MD (Georgia): A physician and community leader, Dr. Jones is dedicated to expanding STEM education access and enhancing financial decision-making skills among young learners.
• - Renee Price, CFEI®, CPM (Alabama): An entrepreneur and financial strategist, Renee helps small businesses prepare for sustainable growth through her firm, Work Smart Solutions.
• - Erick Sanon (Florida): With over 20 years in financial services, Erick advocates for practical financial knowledge for underserved communities while co-managing BrightBridge Insurance.
• - Jannese Torres, MS, CFEI® (Florida): Host of an award-winning podcast, Jannese empowers marginalized communities by teaching them about entrepreneurship and financial independence.

Through these empowered leaders, the coalition aims to drive evidence-based solutions, fostering improved financial wellness outcomes in Southeast Coastal communities.

Commitment to Community Needs