Maryville University and Vantage Credit Union Launch Landmark Partnership to Enhance Student Financial Literacy and Wellness

$1.25 million investment will support financial literacy, scholarships, and D1 hockey capital campaign

Maryville University and Vantage Credit Union today announced a long-term partnership designed to boost financial literacy, expand career pathways, and improve well-being for students, families, and the broader St. Louis region.

Backed by a $1.25 million investment from Vantage Credit Union, the 10-year partnership connects financial education, wellness, and workforce preparation and represents a first collaboration of its kind for both institutions.

"Financial wellness is not just a critical component of overall well-being-it's foundational to student success, academic achievement, and long-term career prosperity. When students gain the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions, the positive impact extends far beyond campus, strengthening families, local economies, and communities for generations to come," said Raphaella Prange, Vice President of Student Affairs at Maryville University . "We're thrilled to be partnering with Vantage Credit Union to expand access to trusted financial resources and career opportunities as part of Maryville's holistic commitment to student wellness and success."

Surveys consistently show the need to improve financial literacy among college students. A 2023 study from the Spark Institute found that just 26% of college students rated their financial knowledge "somewhat high" or "very high," and only 55% thought they knew enough to reach their financial goals.

Vantage Credit Union will serve as Maryville's exclusive financial wellness partner, ensuring a consistent, trusted presence and providing a number of direct, tangible benefits for Maryville students, including:

• Financial Literacy & Wellness Programming:
  Vantage will co-host quarterly financial literacy workshops on campus, covering topics such as budgeting, credit, saving, and long-term financial planning - skills students can use immediately and for years to come.
  
• On-Campus Access to Financial Resources:
  Regular tabling sessions and drop-in support at McNally House , Maryville's recently-revamped student wellness hub, will provide students with easy access to financial guidance during high-traffic hours. Vantage financial experts will be on campus once a week to offer guidance on topics from starting a savings account to financing homes, vehicles and even planning for retirement.
  
• Scholarships for Working Learners:
  New scholarships of $1,000 per semester will be available for Vantage Credit Union employees, members, and their dependents enrolled at Maryville, supporting adult learners and working families across the region.
  
• Internship and Career Pathways:
  New internship opportunities with Vantage Credit Union will give students hands-on experience in finance, marketing, operations, technology, and customer engagement-helping them build resumes and professional networks before graduation.
  
• Co-Branded Student & Alumni Benefits:
  A future Maryville-Vantage co-branded card will offer tailored perks for students and alumni, reinforcing long-term financial relationships beyond graduation.

"Vantage was built to serve our community, and that commitment hasn't changed," said Eric Acree, President & CEO, Vantage Credit Union . "This partnership reflects our belief that when students are equipped with strong financial skills and meaningful career pathways, entire communities benefit. We're proud to work alongside Maryville to support students today and help build a stronger future for our region."

The investment also represents the largest donation to date to Maryville's $5.5 million fundraising campaign to elevate its men's hockey program to NCAA Division 1. The campaign is centered on major upgrades to the Maryville University Hockey Center in Chesterfield, at which Vantage will have a prominent presence as exclusive financial institution sponsor.

"This partnership with Vantage Credit Union truly reflects our shared commitment to supporting student success," said Brittany C. Fennell, Director of Athletics at Maryville . "Their investment not only strengthens our programs but also creates meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes, both on and off the ice. This generous donation and partnership will truly have a lasting impact on Maryville University's athletic community."

John Hogan , Head Coach & Director of Hockey at Maryville University , added: "Together, we're building opportunities that extend off the ice and help prepare our students for long-term success."

The partnership follows Maryville's second annual SMART Money Week, a three-day event designed to empower students, faculty and staff with tools and knowledge to achieve financial wellness. The 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.

"We were excited to jump in as Maryville University's exclusive financial partner," said Mike Gatrell, Chief Growth & Revenue Officer at Vantage . "With Maryville's focus on student success and our mission to strengthen communities by building financial wellness, it felt like a perfect match."

"Students are navigating a lot. Money stress is real. We're proud to be there with the services and guidance to help them feel more confident, not more overwhelmed. And we're equally proud to partner with Maryville's new leadership team and support them on their growth journey," he added.

Read more about student wellness at Maryville at: https://www.maryville.edu/student-experience/thrive-wellness/

About Maryville University

Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a comprehensive and nationally ranked private institution with an enrollment of well over 9,000 students. 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 third fastest-growing private university in the United States by The Chronicle of Higher Education, serving students from 50 states and 56 countries. More than 50,000 Maryville alumni globally, many of whom work and live in the St. Louis region.

About Vantage Credit Union

Vantage Credit Union is a leading, full-service financial institution with over $1 billion in assets and 68,000 member-owners. The credit union's 14 locations serve 19 counties in eastern Missouri, including St. Louis County, St. Louis City and St. Charles County, along with Madison and St. Clair counties in Illinois. Vantage Credit Union believes financial services should make life easier, not more complicated. Since 1957, Vantage has put members first with solutions designed to save time, save money and reduce financial stress.