David Strege, CFP®, CKA®, of Syverson Strege, has been a dedicated supporter of financial literacy in Iowa for over two decades. As a board member of NEFE which is a founding member of Jump$tart, David has played a significant role in supporting the organization’s mission to prepare young people for lifelong financial success.
David’s interest in personal finance began during his time at Drake University. Originally studying actuarial science, he worked with the dean of the business school to help establish a personal financial planning track within the finance major. This early academic initiative set the stage for his broader impact on the profession, eventually leading to service on both national and state-level boards, including the Financial Planning Association and the CFP Board of Standards, where he helped shape best practices and educational standards. His leadership and expertise later led to an invitation to join the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE).
David’s early work with the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) helped him become familiar with Jump$tart. NEFE’s high school financial planning program was one of the first initiatives he supported locally, providing essential resources for teachers and students alike. NEFE has since evolved to try to understand best techniques for teaching and learning about money.
Over the years, David has contributed his professional expertise and time to further Iowa Jump$tart’s goals. Whether through participating on the board or speaking at events, his contributions have helped the coalition grow in scope and impact.
David emphasized the growing impact of financial literacy programs in high schools, noting that “some of the students… had gone through the NEFE materials,” and are beginning to understand key principles like tracking spending and managing cash flow. He highlighted the importance of avoiding consumer debt, especially as students receive their first paychecks and mistakenly feel financially secure. To reinforce real-life financial lessons, Strege uses a “life-size game of life,” used at Wildwood and in schools, where students make decisions about education, careers, and life events to see the consequences play out. “It gives them a practice run at life,” he said, teaching them about topics like insurance, saving, and investing.
Strege also reflected on the challenge of combating financial apathy, saying, “I run into a lot of people [who think] ‘I’m not going to worry about money,’” warning that such avoidance leads to greater issues later. He praised Iowa Jump$tart and other organizations for raising awareness and concluded with a powerful reminder: “This education and applying it is literally worth millions of dollars to them over their lifetime.”
David’s passion for financial education is grounded in personal values shaped by biblical stewardship and a commitment that has spanned four decades. “[Money] is one of our biggest tests during this lifetime,” he shared, highlighting the importance of open communication and practical decision-making around finances to create a peaceful world. He explored these ideas further in his article, The Societal Benefits of Financial Literacy, published in Financial Advisor Magazine. David continues to share this message with youth at Wildwood Hills Ranch and with members of his church community.
Through his leadership and ongoing commitment, David Strege exemplifies the spirit of Iowa Jump$tart. His work continues to inspire others to prioritize financial literacy and invest in the future of Iowa’s youth.
Iowa Jump$tart Coalition 