09/24/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/23/2025 15:43
Southwestern has teamed up with Dallas-based NexBank to launch a financial literacy initiative that will equip students with critical personal finance skills.
September 24, 2025
Andrew Felts
Southwestern University students now have access to another powerful tool that will pay dividends long after graduation. In a partnership with NexBank, the largest privately held bank in Texas, Southwestern is excited to introduce the NexBank Financial Literacy Initiative.
The new program will impact students across all class years through uniquely tailored educational programming. The NexBank Financial Literacy Initiative is built to equip students with critical personal finance skills, fostering long-term financial well-being and professional success.
“NexBank has a long-term commitment to empowering students and our communities through financial education,” NexBank Chief Compliance Officer Sharon Lahr said. “With this new initiative, Southwestern University students will have access to information and resources that should help them make financial decisions with confidence.”
Financial literacy is consistently cited by employers, graduate schools, and parents as a critical life skill. By weaving this education into existing career development milestones, Southwestern ensures students graduate with the confidence to manage their finances, transition into independence, and build a stable foundation for their futures.
“Financial literacy is such an important skill for navigating college and postgraduate life,” Director of Southwestern University’s Center for Career & Professional Development Adrian Ramirez said. “We extend our thanks to NexBank for investing in our students as they reflect on and plan for long-term financial health.”
During their participation in the Initiative, students will engage in co-curricular programming promoting financial literacy throughout the year. By fostering an understanding of financial concepts such as credit, debt management, and long-term planning, students’ financial confidence will be enhanced within the first year of enrollment.
As part of the First-Year Experience, students will have the opportunity to receive personalized learning through the Next Dimension Leadership Program, which consists of modules focused on financial literacy and foundations.
During the Center for Career & Professional Development’s annual SOAR Summit each January, participating sophomores will each engage in a financial literacy module, as well as have the chance to participate in a live session integrating real-world financial knowledge. Attendees will have an opportunity to engage with program content made available thanks to NexBank’s partnership.
Finally, juniors and seniors will have access to a series of financial literacy workshops related to planning for the future and financial independence. This year, programming will culminate with a capstone event for participating students featuring a catered dinner and a keynote address from “America’s Financial Educator,” Peter Bielagus.
“Through this partnership with NexBank, we are able to advance our commitment to holistic student development, ensuring our students are prepared for life well beyond their college years,” Southwestern University Associate Vice President of Student Life and Dean of Students Gerald Jones said. “Plus, we are thrilled to work with Peter. He’s known to change financial lives for students nationwide.”
Headquartered in Dallas, NexBank is the largest privately held bank in Texas. It operates in three divisions – Institutional Banking, Commercial Banking, and Mortgage Banking – and also provides Personal Banking services to individuals and families nationwide. NexBank is actively involved in the community and strives to make sustainable changes through programs that support financial literacy and youth empowerment, as well as community development, housing, and essential services.