National Credit Union Administration Chairman Kyle Hauptman participated in a financial literacy roundtable hosted by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency on May 13. The event brought together federal regulators and financial institutions to discuss best practices, successful programs, and opportunities for greater collaboration to support financial education.
The topic is significant as many Americans do not receive formal education about budgeting, saving, investing, or planning for their futures. “Practically every major decision we make in life has a financial component. Yet many Americans never receive formal education on how to budget, save, invest, and plan for their futures,” Hauptman said. He also stated: “President Trump understands the importance of early financial education and early access to financial opportunity, which is reflected…through his Trump Account program.” Hauptman encouraged credit unions to help members learn more about Trump Accounts as young people begin their financial journeys.
During the discussion, Atomic Credit Union President and CEO Thomas Griffiths described their Student Run Credit Union Program operating in over 100 schools across southern Ohio. The program provides students with hands-on instruction in budgeting, saving, credit management, and fraud prevention. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union CEO Bill Cheney highlighted efforts including more than 1,000 school presentations last year as well as workshops and online resources that reached over 36,000 students and adults through activities like “Bite of Reality” simulations.
Participants from banks and credit unions discussed developing curricula using digital tools and experiential learning programs while exploring ways to broaden access to trusted guidance at key stages of life. They emphasized the role that financial institutions can play in promoting Trump Accounts for young Americans seeking a strong foundation.
The National Credit Union Administration functions as a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating federally insured credit unions nationwide; it charters new institutions and offers regulatory oversight while providing tools such as Share Insurance Estimator for coverage details according to the official website.
Looking ahead, participants indicated ongoing collaboration between federal agencies and industry partners will be important in strengthening educational outreach efforts.
