Florida State University (FSU) is making strides in enhancing student financial literacy through the expansion of its Unconquered by Debt program. This initiative, led by the Gus A. Stavros Center for the Advancement of Free Enterprise and Economic Education, is designed to transform student decision-making, enabling them to become future wealth creators. With backing from the Office of the Provost, FSU aims to solidify its position as a leader in minimizing student debt and promoting financial wellness. Unconquered by Debt, or UBD, is a financial wellness program that offers free workshops to students, focusing on balanced financial choices. These workshops cover essential topics such as career options, earning, spending, saving, investing, managing credit, evaluating risk, insuring assets, and planning for retirement. By imparting this knowledge, the program seeks to ensure that students are well-equipped to handle their current and future financial responsibilities. Tim Chapin, dean of FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, expressed enthusiasm about the university’s investment in the Stavros Center. He highlighted the role of Provost James Clark in spearheading this expansion, emphasizing the importance of reducing student debt as part of FSU’s broader educational objectives. FSU is already recognized as one of the Top 12 public research universities for low student debt, and the university aspires to become the leading public research institution for graduating students with minimal financial burdens. The support from the university’s administration underscores a commitment to holistic student development. Provost Jim Clark stated, ‘We are proud to support programs that support our students holistically. Providing students with access to financial wellness resources allows them to better focus on their education while taking that financial knowledge with them into their lives and careers beyond FSU.’ As part of the program’s expansion, a new assistant director position has been created within the Stavros Center. This role will further enhance financial literacy efforts on campus and within the community. Joe Calhoun, director of the Stavros Center, aims to prepare students to make sound financial decisions today and to begin building wealth after graduation. His goal is for FSU students to be among the most financially literate in the country. The program also includes a peer mentorship component, where student leaders conduct workshops and provide guidance on personal finance matters. These mentors, such as political science student Whitney Bouk and economics student Sebastian Saenz, play a crucial role in fostering a supportive learning environment. Bouk described her experience with UBD as incredibly fulfilling, while Saenz emphasized the confidence he has gained in discussing financial topics. To learn more about Unconquered by Debt and view upcoming financial wellness workshops, interested parties can visit the Stavros Center’s website. Note: This article is inspired by content from https://news.fsu.edu/news/university-news/2025/05/14/florida-state-university-expands-unconquered-by-debt-program-to-further-student-financial-literacy/. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.
FSU Expands Financial Literacy Program to Empower Future Wealth Creators
