Events
State Treasurer Kicks Off Financial Literacy Month
RALEIGH, N.C. (April 4, 2025) – North Carolina State Treasurer Brad Briner is encouraging students to start planning now for their financial future.
Briner visited Wake Tech's Scott Northern Wake Campus on Friday to kick off Financial Literacy Month and announce his commitment to financial literacy education – not only for college students, but for everyone.
"According to a 2024 report, the level of financial literacy in the United States has been in the 50% range for eight consecutive years," he said. "That means that half of the nation — and North Carolina by extension — lacks sufficient skills and knowledge about things such as borrowing, earning, spending and insuring. Those are the vital building blocks of secure living and generational wealth."
The centerpiece of Briner's financial literacy initiative is a new monthly newsletter, which anyone can subscribe to for free. It will feature informative articles and guest columns from financial experts.
Wake Tech shares Briner's commitment to financial literacy. The college's Student Money Management program, funded by Truist, offers workshops, resources and one-on-one counseling to help teach students about budgeting, saving and developing good financial habits. The program has served more than 7,800 students so far this academic year.
"I hope to pursue higher education for many more years," said student Noor ul-aien.
Ul-aien is pursuing an Associate in Science degree with the goal of transferring to UNC-Chapel Hill to study biology and neuroscience, going on to medical school and becoming a neurosurgeon.
"Since I'll be in college for a long time, I have to be really organized with my money and learn proper spending habits," she said.
Ul-aien is among several students who have taken advantage of Wake Tech's program and is now working as a peer mentor for others.
Associate in Engineering student Ken Vreeland also spoke. "The program taught me how to budget better, so I don't get into financial difficulties," he said.
To learn more about Wake Tech's program, email [email protected].
