Category: News/Accolades

Erick Danielson is the Vice President of Programs at the Iowa College Access Network (ICAN), an organization dedicated to helping students and families prepare for life after high school. Through ICAN, Erick plays a key role in delivering financial literacy and college planning resources across the state.

ICAN offers one-on-one appointments—both virtual and in-person—to assist families with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and reviewing financial aid offers from colleges and universities. In addition to these appointments, ICAN hosts a range of events called How to Pay for College, held virtually, in communities, and in schools throughout Iowa. These sessions typically begin in students’ sophomore or junior years, helping them prepare for the financial aid process well before senior year.

Erick’s responsibilities are broad and hands-on. “I supervise the day-to-day operations of all the ICAN locations state-wide,” he says, “as well as hold appointments, presentations, and FAFSA events in my territory in Central Iowa.” His involvement ensures that families across the state have access to accurate, timely information as they navigate college costs.

He is also a very active member of Iowa Jump$tart. “Iowa Jump$tart has been a great organization to be involved with over the years,” Erick says. “I have made some great friends and connections.” One highlight for him is the annual Financial Literacy Challenge, held each April. “I have had the pleasure of being a judge 3–4 times for the event and it is amazing to see the presentations students put together from a case study they just got that day and have an hour to come up with a game plan. Love seeing the different ways the students tackle the case study. I am always wishing I knew at their age what they have learned already.”

Outside of his professional work, Erick enjoys sports—both watching and playing—but says his favorite activity is his family’s yearly beach vacation. “If I had to choose one thing, it would be our family’s annual beach vacation to Destin, Florida. I absolutely love being a ‘Beach Bum’ down there.”

Through his leadership at ICAN and engagement with Iowa Jump$tart, Erick Danielson continues to support students and families as they prepare for one of life’s biggest financial decisions: paying for college.

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.