AFCPE Announces 2024 Award Recipients, Honoring Excellence in Financial Education, Research, and Practice WESTERVILLE, Ohio, January 3, 2025 – The Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE®) proudly recognized outstanding individuals and projects at the 2024 AFCPE Symposium, held in Columbus, Ohio from November 20-22. These awards celebrate groundbreaking contributions to financial education, research and practice, advancing the mission of improving financial well-being for all.“This year’s award recipients highlight the transformative impact that financial professionals and programs can have on communities and individuals,” said Rachael DeLeon, AFCPE Executive Director. “Their dedication, innovation, and passion inspire us all as we work toward a future where all people have access and opportunity to achieve financial well-being.”The awards were presented at the AFCPE 2024 Symposium, which brought together more than 850 attendees (virtual and in-person) this year, including practitioners, researchers, educators, and students dedicated to advancing the personal finance field. These awards highlight the diverse ways AFCPE members are driving meaningful change through education, research, and practice. The 2024 award recipients included: Setting the Standard: Compass Working Capital – Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program Compass Working Capital is transforming financial security for families in federally subsidized housing through its innovative Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. As the first nonprofit to deliver an asset-building model for FSS, Compass combines savings incentives with financial coaching to help families achieve lasting financial stability. Committed to excellence, Compass invests in AFCPE training and certification for its coaching staff and prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion to create equitable spaces for clients and strengthen the national network of FSS practitioners.Mary O’Neill Mini Grant: Pilar Pangelinan, AFC® Title: “Asset Management Properties (AMP) Financial Empowerment Project” The AMP Financial Empowerment Project delivers accredited financial counseling and coaching services to HUD-assisted families living in public housing under the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority (GHURA). The program enhances money management skills and equips residents with the tools to achieve long-term financial stability. Mary Ellen Edmondson Educator of the Year: Virginia Solis Zuiker, Ph.D., AFC® An Associate Professor in the Department of Family Social Science at the University of Minnesota, Dr. Solis Zuiker has dedicated her career to personal and family finance education, teaching over 8,300 students and contributing significantly to financial research. Her commitment to advancing the field and fostering financial understanding has impacted individuals and families nationwide. Financial Counselor of the Year: Sue Rogan, AFC® Sue Rogan’s leadership with The CASH Campaign of Maryland exemplifies her commitment to financial education, counseling, and equity. She has expanded financial education accessibility, integrated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles, and supported professional development by mentoring staff through AFC certification. Her innovative programs have reached thousands and achieved a 98% client satisfaction rate. Outstanding Educational Program: 3RD Decade Financial Education Program The 3RD Decade Financial Education Program is a transformative initiative empowering young adults aged 18-35 with financial literacy skills. Through remote classes and personalized mentorship, the program has reached over 1,000 participants across 46 states, fostering a community dedicated to financial empowerment and independence. Outstanding Financial Counseling/Planning Center: Virginia Commonwealth University Financial Success Center by Virginia Credit Union This center promotes financial literacy, debt reduction, and stability through workshops, webinars, and one-on-one guidance. Serving students and the Richmond community, it addresses financial challenges and builds strong money management skills, empowering individuals to achieve financial success. Outstanding Consumer Financial Information: Rahkim Sabree, AFC® Title: Overcoming Financial Trauma “Overcoming Financial Trauma” is an award-winning Substack newsletter that redefines how people understand and manage their financial and mental well-being. It explores the causes and effects of financial trauma, addressing psychological impacts, generational patterns, and modern insights while offering practical strategies for healing and growth. Through personal stories, relatable case studies, and multimedia tools, it simplifies complex topics and provides actionable steps for diverse audiences, empowering readers to achieve lasting financial stability and holistic well-being. Outstanding Research Journal Article of the Year Title: “Could Coaching Improve Consumer Credit Use Behavior? Evidence From a State Program” Authors: Theodos, B., Teles, D., & Docter, B. (2023) Published in the Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning, this paper examines the impact of financial coaching on consumer credit behavior. The research highlights improvements in delinquent account resolution, credit utilization, and debt management, showcasing the potential of state-supported financial coaching programs. To learn more about the AFCPE awards and recipients, visit www.afcpe.org/membership/awards. About AFCPE® The Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education® (AFCPE®) is dedicated to certifying, educating, and supporting financial professionals to serve as qualified motivators of change for individuals pursuing their life goals, regardless of their financial history. The Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) credential is accredited by The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), and nationally recognized by the Department of Defense and the CFPB. Please visit www.afcpe.org. Comments are closed.