Investing in Tomorrow: JA's National Financial Awareness Day Panel
Author: Junior Achievement of Southwest New England
Corporate Responsibility
Published:
Thursday, 21 Aug 2025
Sharing
Image caption: Panelists stand proudly at JA's National Financial Awareness Day Panel
On August 14, Junior Achievement of Southwest New England and the Connecticut Office of the Treasurer co-hosted a special National Financial Awareness Day Panel, bringing together state leaders, educators, and students for a meaningful conversation on the importance of financial literacy in shaping Connecticut’s future.
The morning's panel reflected a wide range of perspectives, each bringing unique ideas to the table. The Honorable Erick Russell, Connecticut State Treasurer, spoke about financial policy and education initiatives at the state level. Joseph Gianni, Bank of America president in the Greater Hartford market, shared industry insights on financial services and consumer protection. Akilah Franklin, a dedicated teacher at Weaver High School and CT Financial Scholars Teacher Partner, shared her experience bringing financial literacy into the classroom. And perhaps most powerfully, Trinity, a third grader from Bloomfield, and Cole, a twelfth grader from Simsbury, lent their voices to remind everyone why this work matters for the Connecticut students of today.
Image caption: With expertise spanning different areas, each panelist contributed a unique perspective on financial awareness topics.
The conversation was both practical and personal. Topics ranged from first-time money decisions and consumer protection to the role of financial education in schools and Connecticut’s long-term economic future. This authentic and open dialogue between panelists, along with thoughtful questions from the audience, shows just how crucial early financial education is for empowering young people, and how valuable it remains at every stage of life. As Treasurer Russell shared, “Financial education is not a destination, it’s something you pick up on and build on throughout your life.”
The students, however, were the true core of the discussion. Cole's reflection on why hands-on financial education programs work particularly resonated with the audience. "It makes financial education more practical and less theoretical. I think it's something that JA and the Treasurer's Office have both helped to make more of a reality, and that can really benefit students my age." His words showed that through practical learning and the experiential programs that JA offers, students can connect classroom concepts to real-world decision-making. Trinity’s bright presence showed that even at an early age, students can share perspectives that reshape how we think about the future of financial education.
These contributions demonstrated that building financial literacy is essential, extending beyond the classroom and relying on the strength of community commitment. The combination of questions and ideas between the audience and panelists made it clear that true progress happens when government, educators, business leaders, and students come together to make change and impact.
Image caption: The Honorable Erick Russell, Connecticut State Treasurer, joined local students and educators for a photo after the panel discussion.
Junior Achievement programs, alongside partners like the Connecticut Office of the Treasurer, continue to give students across Connecticut more than just financial knowledge. They build confidence, provide real-world skills, and prepare young people to make informed decisions about their futures. We are deeply grateful to Treasurer Russell, our panelists, and everyone who joined us for this important event. Conversations like these ensure that Connecticut’s next generation is ready not only to navigate their financial journeys, but also to thrive in building the state’s economic future. While National Financial Awareness day may have ended, the work continues, one student, one classroom, one community at a time.
Select a button below to see how you or your organization can get involved with Junior Achievement of Southwest New England, Inc..
Donate Volunteer Request A Program