The event was held in celebration of Financial Literacy Month.
Community residents received information from financial institutions, utility companies and government agencies during the financial literacy resource fair.
Photo by Ryan S. Brandenberg
Temple University students and Philadelphia residents learned about the importance of becoming financially literate during a resource fair held at the Liacouras Center.
The university partnered with Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor and Philadelphia Controller Christy Brady to host the event on April 8.
The Financial Literacy Resource Fair featured representatives from financial institutions, utility companies and government agencies who provided attendees with access to resources and educational materials.
“At Temple, we talk a lot about student success, and we mean that in a very real and practical way,” Temple Vice President for Student Affairs Jodi Bailey Accavallo said during a press conference held at the fair. “It is not just about academics. It is about whether a student has the stability and the confidence to move forward in their life, and finances are a big part of that.”
Bailey said Temple sees students who are navigating complex financial decisions often for the first time, noting that they are managing loans, understanding credit and budgeting for daily life.
“These are not small things, and they can shape whether a student is able to persist and graduate,” she continued. “Financial literacy is not just information. It is a tool. It gives people the ability to make informed choices, to plan ahead and to build a future with intention.”
Brady addressed the importance of financial literacy for Philadelphia residents.
“Financial literacy isn’t only about understanding numbers,” she said. “It’s about giving people the ability to make informed decisions, avoid exploitative financial systems and build generational stability. This work is directly connected to the financial health of our entire city. When our residents understand how to manage money, access banking systems and plan, we see stronger communities, greater economic mobility and more equitable outcomes across Philadelphia.”
DeFoor has been a strong advocate of financial literacy in the state. Throughout April, DeFoor partnered with elected officials, businesses, schools and universities to promote financial literacy resources through his Be Money $mart initiative and recognize organizations that are teaching essential skills for managing personal finances.
“Financial literacy is a critical life skill that everyone must learn to set themselves up for future financial success,” DeFoor said.
“I’m so grateful to partner with Philadelphia Controller Brady and Temple University for this event. By providing individuals with the tools they need to budget, save and invest, we’re creating the foundation for the next generation of financially secure Pennsylvanians.”
