In a proactive effort to equip young learners with critical money management skills, Western Hills High School hosted an engaging financial literacy event for seventh-grade students. Spearheaded by Huntington Bank and supported by United Way of Greater Cincinnati and Junior Achievement, the program brought together over 240 volunteers, including banker Steve Mullinger, to educate nearly 2,000 eighth graders across the district. Through interactive workshops, participants explored key topics such as budgeting, credit awareness, and investment basics. The initiative, now in its seventh year, emphasizes the importance of early financial education, especially during the formative middle school years when students begin considering future career paths. By fostering open discussions about money, the program aims to build a generation capable of making informed economic decisions and avoiding common financial missteps later in life.

Interactive Workshops Spark Financial Awareness Among Students

In the bustling halls of Western Hills High School this fall, a group of enthusiastic seventh graders gathered for an enlightening session on personal finance. Led by experienced financial professionals from Huntington Bank, including Regional President Steve Mullinger, the event unfolded as part of a broader citywide initiative. Over the course of several days, a team of 240 dedicated volunteers—34 of whom represented Huntington—delivered hands-on lessons to nearly 2,000 eighth graders throughout Cincinnati Public Schools. Under the collaborative umbrella of the seventh annual Unite for Teen Financial Literacy event, organized by United Way of Greater Cincinnati and Junior Achievement, these sessions encouraged open dialogue around budgeting, credit scores, and the fundamentals of investing. Senior Huntington executives Diona Sherrill and Scott Taylor further enriched the experience by guiding students through real-world financial scenarios, helping them distinguish between essential needs and discretionary wants.

Shaping Responsible Financial Habits from an Early Age

As a journalist observing the growing emphasis on youth financial education, I find this initiative both timely and transformative. By introducing core financial concepts during the middle school years, educators and banking professionals are planting seeds of awareness that can blossom into lifelong fiscal responsibility. These early interventions not only demystify complex financial systems but also empower students to approach money matters with confidence and clarity. Programs like this serve as a blueprint for how communities can unite to prepare younger generations for the economic realities they will inevitably face, ultimately shaping a more financially literate and resilient society.