Maryville University Announces Inaugural SMART Money Week to Empower Financial Wellness

Maryville University is excited to announce its inaugural SMART Money Week, a three-day event designed to empower students, faculty and staff with tools and knowledge to achieve financial wellness. Taking place from January 28-30, 2025, this event is part of Maryville University’s MaryWELL program, which is committed to fostering personal and professional growth through its 8 Dimensions of Wellness framework.

SMART Money Week will feature an engaging lineup of workshops, keynote lectures, one-on-one consultations and interactive sessions to help participants build strong financial literacy skills and make informed financial decisions. By providing practical resources and strategies, the event aims to promote a culture of financial equity and inclusion throughout the Maryville community. 

“SMART Money Week is a powerful initiative that underscores Maryville University’s dedication to holistic wellness,” said Dr. Oliver Tacto, Dean of Student Wellness. “We’re thrilled to offer this opportunity for our community to learn, connect and take charge of their financial futures.” 

Key Highlights of SMART Money Week: 

  • Opening Keynote Address: Delivered by Vanessa Okwuraiwe, Principal at Edward Jones, and Dr. Oliver Tacto, the keynote will explore financial inclusion and strategies for overcoming barriers to financial security. 
  • Workshops and Interactive Sessions: Topics include salary negotiation, loan repayment options, health insurance literacy and budgeting for students. 
  • One-on-One Financial Consultations: Experts from TIAA and other financial institutions will provide personalized advice on retirement planning, investments and more. 
  • Community Engagement: Attendees can explore financial literacy tools through pop-up tables, information sessions and the MyMilestones financial education platform. 

 The primary goals of SMART Money Week are to: 

  • Equip participants with strategies for managing personal finances, including debt, savings and financial planning. 
  • Enhance understanding of financial resources and tools available on and off campus. 
  • Foster a culture of financial inclusion and empowerment within the Maryville community. 

SMART Money Week is free and open to all Maryville University students, faculty and staff. For more information about the schedule, speakers, and how to register, visit the SMART Money Week event page.

About Maryville University
Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a comprehensive and nationally ranked private institution. Maryville offers over 90 degrees at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels, as well as several certificates that align with the undergraduate and graduate education levels. Maryville is recognized as the fourth fastest-growing private university in the United States by The Chronicle of Higher Education, serving students from all 50 states and 56 countries. More than 20,000 Maryville alumni work and live in the St. Louis region.


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