Recognizing the need for financial literacy education, the UHM Financial Literacy project began in 2006. The project started with the research findings from a 2005 assessment of student financial interests and preferred methods of delivery that led to having student peer educators teaching incoming students about financial literacy at New Student Orientation (NSO). The program has expanded its presentations from NSO to other campus programs as well as sponsoring events such as the annual Financial Wellness Fair. The Financial Literacy Program is a program of the Office of Civic and Community Engagement under the Office of the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate Education.
Vision
University of Hawaiʻi faculty, staff, student leaders, and financial professionals in the state build the financial capacity of our young people so that our families live responsibly, improve their economic opportunity, and obtain a desirable quality of life.
Mission
It is the mission of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UHM) Financial Literacy Program to impart financial education to our students and the community-at-large. The program provides accurate and reliable financial information through a collaboration of professionals and students who serve as educators, facilitators, peer leaders, and partners. The focus is campus-based with outreach to other colleges and high schools throughout Hawai'i.
Peer Educator Program
Our Financial Literacy Peer Educators come from a variety of majors, interests and backgrounds yet, they all share a passion to work directly with their peers to help them understand important concepts of financial wellness, provide them with practical resources and educational opportunities to aid in making informed, healthy financial decisions during their college career and beyond to obtain the rewarding life desired.