HARRISBURG, PA — Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU), in partnership with Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor and Members 1st Federal Credit Union, has officially launched the 12th Annual Student Financial Literacy Scholarship Competition. The initiative aims to engage high school students across Pennsylvania in exploring the importance of financial literacy.
The theme for this year’s competition, “What Does Financial Literacy Mean to Me?” encourages students in grades 9–12 to submit essays or poems reflecting on the subject. The competition offers a total of six awards, recognizing three winners and three honorable mentions, with winners being announced in April during Financial Literacy Month.
“This is an event we look forward to each year,” said Harrisburg University Interim President David Schankweiler. “Developing wise money management skills early in life sets us up for success well into the future. Harrisburg University is proud to play a key role in hosting this competition and shining a spotlight on financial literacy.”
The top three winners will receive cash prizes of $2,500, $1,500, and $1,000, respectively. Honorable mentions will also be awarded $500 each. Winners enrolling at Harrisburg University will receive an additional $1,000 tuition scholarship. Students have until March 17, 2025, to submit their entries online.
Auditor General DeFoor highlighted the importance of financial literacy, noting its role in fostering responsible money management and accountability. “Financial literacy is crucial to the success of our Commonwealth,” he said. “This event inspires Pennsylvania learners to creatively explore financial literacy and start planning for their future financial success.”
For the fourth consecutive year, the Auditor General’s Office is collaborating with Harrisburg University to promote the competition. Members 1st Federal Credit Union, now in its third year with the event, also remains committed to supporting financial education for students. “We are proud to support this initiative and its positive impact on students across the Commonwealth,” said Karen Roland, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Members 1st.
Last year’s competition saw participation from 95 students representing 24 Pennsylvania counties. Winning entries were judged on creativity, substance, and understanding, with winners recognized at the Capitol Rotunda.
Launched 12 years ago by Harrisburg University, the scholarship competition continues to strengthen financial literacy among Pennsylvania students while encouraging them to think critically about the role of money in their lives. The initiative serves as a reminder of the long-term value of financial education, not only for personal growth but for cultivating informed and economically responsible citizens.
Visit HarrisburgU.edu for details on the student competition, PAAuditor.gov/BeMoneySmart for financial literacy resources from the Auditor General, and Members1st.org to learn about Members 1st Federal Credit Union’s services and free financial literacy programs.
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