Ohio University Eastern has been recognized by Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague as a recipient of the Compass Award for the month of October.
The monthly recognition program commends organizations, programs, and individuals across the state who are working to guide Ohioans toward financial literacy and empowerment.
Treasurer Sprague visited the Eastern Campus on Friday, Oct. 16 to offer a formal congratulations to Eastern’s team.
“Financial literacy education plays a critical role in preparing our young people to navigate the challenges of adulthood and the modern workforce,” said Treasurer Sprague. “The Compass Award program recognizes the people and organizations across the Buckeye State who are making a lasting impact on young Ohioans and putting them on a path toward success.”
The Eastern Campus was lauded for playing a key role not only in the academic education of students, but also in their career-related decision-making and financial choices. Financial aid staff guide students and families through the application process and work with them to find and understand financing options, including scholarships and student loans.
Through one-on-one career coaching, mock interviews, networking events, employer panels and career fairs, Ohio University Eastern Campus offers students an individualized approach to career readiness to prepare them for life after graduation.
“Deciding whether to attend a university is a huge financial decision, and we want to make sure our students have all the information available to help them make an informed choice,” said Warren Galbreath, interim associate dean for academic and administrative operations of the Eastern Campus. “Our staff is committed to helping students become knowledgeable about the enrollment and financial aid process, and they strive to enhance students’ financial literacy through career-readiness opportunities throughout their academic journey at Eastern.”
Diann Nickerson, Eastern’s enrollment management and financial aid manager, said students do not always realize there are financial options outside of loans to help pay for tuition.
“In addition to federal grant money, many students qualify for scholarships based on their academic standings, community service efforts or financial need,” Nickerson said. “Not only do we want to help our students take advantage of as many financial opportunities as possible, but we hope to impart a sense of financial responsibility they can take with them for the rest of their lives.”