The University of West Florida announced today a $100,000 gift commitment from Pen Air Federal Credit Union in support of UWF College of Business students.
The gift will establish the Pen Air Federal Credit Union Betty M. Petree Endowment for scholarships and program support for College of Business students. Additionally, the Pen Air Federal Credit Union Financial Literacy Boot Camp for UWF students will be developed.
“It is critical for UWF to continually assemble a team of partners throughout the region to strengthen, support and reinforce opportunities for our students,†said UWF vice president of advancement Dr. Brendan Kelly. “This is an ideal example of a partnership that also richly enhances Northwest Florida.â€
The Pen Air Federal Credit Union Betty M. Petree Endowment will establish lasting support of the College of Business through scholarships provided to students who qualify through University enrollment requirements. The endowment will boost financial literacy for UWF graduates entering the labor force while contributing to their preparation for successful careers and lives. The endowment is named in honor of Betty M. Petree, who served as the general manager of Pen Air Federal Credit Union for 36 years. Currently, Petree serves on the Pen Air Federal Credit Union board of directors.
“On behalf of Pen Air Federal Credit Union, I am honored and privileged to know, that working with the University of West Florida, the credit union has the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our future leaders,†said Pen Air Federal Credit Union President and CEO Stu Ramsey. “Our financial literacy partnership with UWF is a perfect match with our Credit Union’s mission and vision. While this is definitely a milestone event in the history of Pen Air Federal Credit union, I believe it is just the first step in a long term partnership with the University to prepare students for all aspects of their future lives.â€
The Pen Air Federal Credit Union Financial Literacy Boot Camp will be offered once a semester, to junior and senior students, and cover topics such as personal financial planning, planning for retirement, the advantages of tax-deferred savings and 401-k plans. The course will also cover best options for health care benefits and savings plan, review of insurance, health and annuities and other significant financial topics. The boot camp will also host financial professionals, as guest lecturers, who will present topics to prepare students with the essential financial literacy they require prior to accepting their first professional position after graduation.
