Sunday, February 7, 2016

Magaziner will chair national panel on Financial Literacy

Work will support national effort to provide information and training for smart financial decisions
Seth, speaking in Charlestown (photo by Will Collette)

PROVIDENCE, RI -- General Treasurer Seth Magaziner has been selected to serve as the 2016 Chairman of the Financial Literacy Committee for the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST).

"As Treasurer, supporting the financial well-being of all Rhode Islanders is among my top priorities. So I'm honored to take a leadership role in the effort to promote financial literacy across our nation," Magaziner said. 

"Far too many people don't have the financial education they need to navigate the complex financial system. As State Treasurers, we have a vital role to play in empowering all people to manage their finances, support their families and reach their financial goals."


NAST's Financial Literacy Committee seeks to support State Treasurers' initiatives related to personal money management that will empower all people with the information, tools and training they need to make smart financial decisions throughout their lifetimes.

NAST 2016 President and Washington State Treasurer James McIntire said, "Treasurer Magaziner has a deep commitment to financial empowerment for all, and I know he will excel as the chairman of this important committee. I am grateful that Treasurer Magaziner and our fellow State Treasurers are stepping up to lead on this vital issue."

Treasurer Magaziner's administration is working to provide increased, effective financial literacy programming across Rhode Island. In partnership with industry leader Everfi, the Rhode Island Financial Scholars Program serves high school students across Rhode Island, with a commitment to serving schools in the highest need.

Rhode Island's students who have participated in the program have significantly increased their scores on assessments on such topics as banking, credit scores, financing higher education, renting versus owning a home, insurance and taxes, consumer protection and investing. The course students receive aligns with state, national, and Jump$tart Coalition financial literacy standards.

In addition to chairing NAST's Financial Literacy Committee, Treasurer Magaziner also serves on the national association's Pension and Debt Management Committees.