Learning that pays off

By Emily Becker

New partnership equips KU School of Education & Human Sciences students for financial success

This past spring class was in session for 10 KU School of Education & Human Sciences students who participated in a pilot program between the university and a financial literacy nonprofit to bring free financial education classes and one-on-one mentorship to Jayhawks who may not otherwise have access to such information.

Founded by KU alumnus Bob Swift, the program, called 3rd Decade, is focused on ensuring that all young adults have the knowledge to build healthy financial habits and financial futures before they turn 30. This is the first time the organization has partnered with a university, and for many of those in the program, it was the first time they were introduced to financial concepts that they will have to face head-on after graduation.

“As graduation in May approached, I was feeling more nervous about finances and how to manage them, so when the opportunity arose, it sounded like the perfect way to learn about these things and have an easier transition into life post-grad,” said Reagan Cherwin, who graduated with a degree in unified early childhood education in spring 2026.

The initial part of the program involves students completing an online course that is focused on financial concepts like investing, retirement accounts and taxes. Maya Welcher, a KU senior who participated in the program, comes from a low-income background and said she simply was never taught about many of the concepts presented in the program’s modules. The lesson around budgeting was especially “eye-opening” as she saw for the first time the full picture of what she was buying compared to the income she was bringing in. “Having that budget is really important, and it changed how I spend today,” she said.

After completing the course, students are paired with a mentor who can help personally guide participants through applying the concepts to their own financial situations. Cherwin, who met with her mentor in May, said the previous 3rd Decade programming helped her feel prepared for the meeting and gave them a solid foundation on which to start their conversation.

“I left the meeting with a much better understanding of my personal finances and a clear idea of the next steps I should take, particularly regarding budgeting, planning for student loan repayment, and evaluating my employee benefits,” she said.

Despite many of the students in the pilot program already preparing for graduation and applying for jobs, the opportunity was one that seemed like it shouldn’t be missed.

“No matter how busy you are, understanding and being able to manage your personal finances will only help you in the long run,” said Cherwin. “You can never be too financially literate.”

If you’re interested in learning more about the partnership between 3rd Decade and the KU School of Education & Human Science, reach out to Laura Meyer, senior development director at [email protected] or 785-832-7372.