Merriman Financial Literacy program at WWU continues free peer mentoring, courses, workshops

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Merriman Financial Literacy program at WWU continues free peer mentoring, courses, workshops

September 22, 2025

As the local cost of living continues to rise, managing finances is as important as it has ever been for students - and the Merriman Financial Literacy Program at Western Washington University is ready to help with completely free resources for students to grow their financial literacy toolkit.

Starting in early October, students will be able to sign up for one-on-one peer mentoring appointmentswith fellow students who are specifically trained to offer resources and guidance in areas like budgeting, saving, and dealing with debt (among a range of others). Appointments are free and can be booked at financialliteracy.wwu.edu.

"I actually enjoyed learning about financial stuff, and who knew that was possible?!" wrote one student who took advantage of the opportunity. "The Peer Mentor was willing to help me do the research and provide me with resources!" wrote another, who rated the experience as extremely helpful.

Students can also claim their free iGrad account, which gives them access to a suite of courses, articles, and other resources related to financial literacy. This software allows students to take courses at their own pace - and they can even access the materials after they graduate. Students who use iGrad say the program has grown their knowledge base and are very happy with the suite. Courses on iGrad range from budgeting, to paying back loans, and some specific content related to the LGBTQ+ community.

"We are thrilled to build on last year's successes to help even more students take charge of their financial futures this year," said Eric Wehrly, Director of the MFLP. "At this stage in life, with minimal effort students can make a few better decisions that compound into meaningful and lasting improvements throughout their lives."

Peer Mentors with the program will also put on various workshops throughout the year, including one for first-year students to understand and manage the costs of groceries and transportation. This event will be on Oct. 8 in Communications Facility 105 and will include free food.

Other offerings include for-credit courses like Personal Finance (FIN 215) and Personal Investing (FIN 216) which are funded in collaboration with Western's College of Business and Economics.

The Merriman Financial Literacy Program was founded in 2024 through a generous donation by WWU alumnus and renowned financial educator Paul Merriman ('66) and his wife Zan Merriman to empower audiences with knowledge and tools to make sound decisions regarding their financial goals in a way that supports overall well-being. The program is housed within the College of Business and Economics.

If you are considering a gift to help grow this critical program, please contact The Foundation for WWU & Alumni.

CONTACT:

Peter Wagner, Program Specialist

Merriman Financial Literacy Program

[email protected]