Bowling Green, Kentucky, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Abound Credit Union has made a significant commitment with a $500,000 donation to Western Kentucky University’s Center for Financial Success. This funding will enhance programming offered at the center, such as financial coaching and the WKU Personal Finance Summer Camp. The center will be renamed to reflect this sponsorship, symbolizing a partnership aimed at improving financial literacy within the community, equipping students with essential fiscal skills, and fostering a financially informed population.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – Abound Credit Union has announced a $500,000 gift to support Western Kentucky University’s (WKU) Center for Financial Success. This substantial donation will lead to the renaming of the center to the WKU Center for Financial Success sponsored by Abound Credit Union. The funding aims to enhance the center’s programming, including financial coaching and the annual WKU Personal Finance Summer Camp.
WKU President Timothy C. Caboni has indicated that this sponsorship will significantly improve the outreach and provision of essential financial services to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community. This partnership is designed to create a more financially knowledgeable community and provide tools for better financial decision-making.
Dr. Evelyn Thrasher, dean of the Gordon Ford College of Business, noted that the collaboration fosters financial confidence throughout the community, highlighting the importance of such partnerships in promoting educational growth and beyond. Student Emir Avdagic, who serves as the outreach coordinator at the center, shared how helping his peers has had a profoundly positive impact on his own experience.
Zach Jones, director of the center, emphasized the vital role of this partnership in empowering both students and the larger community, reinforcing the mission to provide financial literacy and practical skills necessary for success in today’s world. Amanda Trabue, WKU’s vice president for philanthropy and alumni engagement, pointed out that this donation is the largest contribution from Abound Credit Union to date, marking a significant milestone in their relationship with WKU.
Wanda Parker, chair of the Abound Credit Union Board of Directors, expressed that the donation reflects shared commitments to the community between Abound and WKU. Prior contributions by Abound Credit Union demonstrate a consistent endorsement of WKU’s mission to prepare students for real-world challenges. The Center for Financial Success aims not only to help students acquire crucial skills while pursuing their degrees but also to develop a generation of empowered, informed, and responsible learners within the community.
Through this partnership and financial commitment, Abound Credit Union and WKU are poised to make a significant impact on the financial well-being of students and the community at large, promoting awareness and education crucial for economic resilience.
FAQ
What is the amount donated by Abound Credit Union to WKU’s Center for Financial Success?
Abound Credit Union has announced a $500,000 gift to support Western Kentucky University’s (WKU) Center for Financial Success.
What will the funding support at the Center for Financial Success?
The funding will support the expansion of programming at the center, including financial coaching and the annual WKU Personal Finance Summer Camp.
What is the significance of this donation?
This donation is the largest from Abound Credit Union to date and allows for greater outreach and critical financial services for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community.
What is the aim of the Center for Financial Success?
The Center for Financial Success aims to equip students with real-world skills while earning their degrees and developing empowered, informed, and responsible learners within the community.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Donation Amount | $500,000 |
| New Name of the Center | WKU Center for Financial Success sponsored by Abound Credit Union |
| Funding Purpose | Expansion of programming including financial coaching and WKU Personal Finance Summer Camp |
| Significance | Largest donation from Abound Credit Union to WKU |
| Community Impact | Greater outreach and financial services for students, faculty, staff, and alumni |
| Aim of the Center | Equip students with real-world skills and develop responsible learners |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WNKY: WKU Receives $500,000 Gift from Abound Credit Union
- Wikipedia: Financial Literacy
- WNKY: WKU Cuts the Ribbon on New Amy and David Chandler Hall
- Google Search: WKU Gordon Ford College of Business
- ASU Mag: Business School Building Nears Completion at WKU
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business Organization
- PR Newswire: Introducing the Cerity Partners Financial Planning Program at WKU
- Google News: WKU Center for Financial Success
- WBKO: WKU Student Support Services Offers Inclusive Programs
- Google Scholar: Financial Coaching


