Tag: finance

Member Minute, News/Accolades

September 2025 Partner Spotlight

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At the heart of ISL Education Lending’s mission to support Iowa students and families in achieving postsecondary success is Shelly Adams, a dedicated Program Administrator and Communications Specialist. With a passion for financial literacy and a talent for clear, impactful communication, Shelly plays a pivotal role in helping families navigate the often-complex world of college planning and student loans.

ISL Education Lending, a nonprofit organization more widely recognized by its original name, Iowa Student Loan, offers private student loans with competitive interest rates—thanks to its nonprofit status. But its impact goes far beyond lending. Through a variety of free college planning tools, resources, and scholarships, ISL is committed to making higher education more accessible and affordable for Iowans.

One of Shelly’s most impactful contributions is her leadership of the SP3 – Student Planning Pointers for Parents program. This free email service delivers timely, grade-specific college and career planning advice to parents of students in grades 8 through 12. Every month, Shelly curates and distributes two insightful articles designed to empower parents in their role as advisors and supporters of their children’s educational journeys. The program also includes a quarterly drawing, where 40 participants are randomly selected to receive a $250 contribution to a 529 college savings plan—a meaningful incentive that makes planning for college even more rewarding.

Shelly is also deeply involved in promoting ISL’s scholarship initiatives. The ISL Education Lending Scholarship program, which runs in both fall and spring, awards 45 deposits of $1,000 into ISave 529 accounts. These awards benefit Iowa high school and undergraduate students—or their families—helping to ease the financial burden of higher education.

Looking ahead, Shelly is excited about ISL’s upcoming partnership with ICAN to launch Step1, a new scholarship search tool designed to simplify the process of finding financial aid opportunities. This initiative reflects her ongoing commitment to innovation and accessibility in education funding.

Beyond her work at ISL, Shelly is an active advocate for financial literacy across the state. Her involvement with Iowa Jump$tart, a coalition dedicated to advancing financial education, has allowed her to connect with like-minded professionals and contribute to events like the annual Educator’s Retreat. She also integrates many of these valuable resources into her SP3 content, ensuring families receive the most relevant and practical guidance available.

When she’s not championing financial literacy, Shelly enjoys the simple pleasures of life—spending time in her flower gardens, enjoying the outdoors, and relaxing with her three beloved cats (who she assures us do not make her a crazy cat lady!).

Shelly’s work is a testament to the power of education, communication, and compassion. Through her efforts, countless Iowa families are better equipped to plan for the future—and that’s something truly worth celebrating.

Member Minute, News/Accolades

August 2025 Partner Spotlight

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Dan James, a dedicated high school math teacher at Dallas Center-Grimes High School, is making a powerful impact both in and out of the classroom. Teaching all of the school’s financial literacy courses as well as a geometry class, Dan has become a cornerstone of financial education for his students. His influence extends beyond academics—he also coaches the girls’ high school soccer team and leads the local Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) huddle, building strong relationships and modeling leadership for the next generation.

Dan’s passion for teaching financial literacy stems from personal experience. Having learned some key financial lessons the hard way, he recognized the importance of equipping students with the knowledge to make smarter decisions early in life. What began 15 years ago as a small elective with only eight students has now grown into a graduation requirement at DCG—proof of Dan’s vision and the value students and families see in the course. His ability to connect curriculum to real-world situations has made a lasting difference in the lives of his students.

Favorite Classroom Resources: In his classroom, Dan makes great use of high-quality resources like Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF) and the MIMIC personal finance simulation, helping students experience realistic scenarios that prepare them for life beyond high school. He is constantly seeking to improve and innovate, and credits organizations like Jump$tart for giving him opportunities to learn from other educators—both locally and at the national level. These connections have helped him bring fresh ideas and strategies back to his own school community.

Outside of his professional life, Dan enjoys traveling with his family and hunting during the fall and winter months. Whether in the classroom, on the court, or in the outdoors, Dan brings commitment, authenticity, and a desire to serve—qualities that make him a truly outstanding educator.

Member Minute, News/Accolades

July 2025 Partner Spotlight

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As Marketing Coordinator for the Iowa Bankers Association (IBA), Disa Erickson plays a role in supporting the organization’s mission to strengthen financial literacy across Iowa. Through leadership and coordination, the IBA equips member banks with key resources to help their customers achieve financial success and stay protected from fraud. These resources include best practice sharing, communication tools, sponsorship opportunities, and support for community outreach programs.

       Disa manages several of the IBA’s signature marketing programs, including the Student Athlete Achievement Awards, the Scenes of Iowa Calendars, and the annual Directory of Financial Institutions. She also leads the planning and execution of the association’s Iowa PBS Festival banker volunteer night and the IBA Convention silent auction. In addition to event and project management, she oversees the organization’s CRM system data and coordinates the marketing peer group to foster collaboration among industry professionals.

       Her contribution to financial education extends beyond her day-to-day responsibilities through her involvement with Iowa Jump$tart. Since stepping into her role at Iowa Bankers nearly five years ago, Disa has served on Iowa Jump$tart’s communications committee and currently chairs the group. Her efforts have helped expand the coalition’s reach and impact through newsletters and initiatives that share valuable financial education resources across the state.

        Outside of her professional commitments, Disa enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their 20-month-old daughter, Vivienne. She also enjoys taking PowerLife barre classes and binge-watching a good TV series.

Member Minute, News/Accolades

June 2025 Partner Spotlight

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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.

Member Minute, News/Accolades

May 2025 Partner Spotlight

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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.

Job Opportunity, News/Accolades

Iowa Insurance Division High School Internships

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Who:  High School Juniors or Seniors, High School counselors, Parent of a High School Junior or Senior

What:  A paid summer internship with the Iowa Insurance Division (IID) for a qualifying junior or senior high school student

When: A 10-week program beginning approximately June 3, 2024

Where:  IID Office located at 1963 Bell Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 

Are you aware of a junior or senior high school student in Iowa trying to decide what career field they wish to pursue? The Iowa Insurance Division has an opportunity we would like you to share with them where they will gain real world experience in the insurance industry through an internship as an insurance regulator. A student interested in areas of accounting, actuary science, computer science, data analytics, mathematics, economics, marketing, insurance or securities sales, investigations or prosecutions of administrative insurance law violations, criminal fraud investigations, insurance legislation and rulemaking, or communications may find this unique opportunity extremely appealing.   

Iowa is known as a global insurance hub, largely due to being the home of more than 214 domestic insurance companies.  Iowa’s insurance industry offers the most rewarding careers.  The insurance industry protects people’s livelihoods, builds wealth for the future, supports Iowa’s diverse economy and gives back generously to communities.  There are approximately 60,000 jobs in Iowa’s insurance industry with salaries 2.3 times higher than Iowa’s average salary.

Students will gain knowledge and exposure to the Iowa Insurance Division’s responsibilities to protect consumers by effectively and efficiently providing a fair, flexible, and positive regulatory environment.  Students chosen for this role will participate in performing our regulatory duties in addition to receiving insurance education course work.  These individuals will learn about the Iowa Insurance Division’s role in state-based insurance regulation, which includes the supervision of insurance companies, insurance agencies, and insurance agents. In addition to learning about each line of insurance (auto, home, life, health, etc.) the interns will also assist with evaluating insurance company market conduct and consumer complaints for compliance with state insurance regulations.

We offer competitive compensation, flexible work hours, and telework opportunities.  This opportunity is available for students across the state of Iowa.  The office location is in Des Moines however there are opportunities to work remotely up to 2 days per week with the balance of the week in our Des Moines office location.  Any junior or senior high school student who would like to explore an employment opportunity within the insurance industry through a summer internship with the Iowa Insurance Division may send a cover letter and resume to internships@iid.iowa.gov.  

More information may be found on our website. Apply today to insure your future tomorrow! Applications accepted through January 15, 2024.

Contests

Accounting Opportunities Experience and High School Case Competition

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The Iowa Society of CPAs’ Accounting Opportunities Experience

The Iowa Society of CPAs is excited to have partnered with other state CPA societies, AICPA, and Center for Audit Quality’s Accounting+ initiative to raise awareness of the accounting profession among high school (and middle school!) students through Accounting Opportunities Experience. A national campaign to bring CPAs into classrooms took place throughout the month of November. We even received a declaration from the governor of Iowa designating the month of November Accounting Opportunities Month! We held in-person presentations across the state to help high school students better understand opportunities in the business world. During 2023 Accounting Opportunities Experience, we reached 1676 Iowa high school students and presented in 39 different schools utilizing almost 50 CPA volunteer presenters! ISCPA is still accepting classrooms and continuing to give presentations throughout the year, not only in November! If you would like to bring CPAs into your classroom, please complete this 2-minute survey and a member of the Iowa Society of CPAs will contact you. Thank you for all you do to inspire the next generation of accounting professionals! 

The Iowa Society of CPAs’ High School Case Competition

The Iowa Society of CPAs (ISCPA) is excited to announce the Second Annual ISCPA High School Case Competition for the spring semester. This is a fantastic opportunity to expose students to the accounting profession! The case provides students an on-going, real-world learning experience – culminating in a day spent in person at a host company, either CPA firm or company, near you! This begins with an ISCPA member scheduling four visits to your accounting class this spring. Members will help supplement the accounting curriculum by teaching four accounting modules to prepare the students for the case. Topics include Accounts Receivable, Bad Debt Expense and other adjusting journal entries, Financing, and Financial Statement Analysis. After four classroom visits students will be ready for the Case Competition, which will be held towards the end of the spring semester in person at a host office. The case provides students the opportunity to finalize yearend financial statements and complete some basic financial statement analysis. In addition to accounting fundamentals, students will practice working in small teams and demonstrate presentation skills.

On the day of the Case Competition, students will be given the case to complete in small groups of approximately four students. ISCPA members will be on hand to assist the groups. During the office visit, students will also have an opportunity to tour the host company, meet a variety of accounting professionals, and enjoy a catered lunch courtesy of the host company. Teams will record and electronically submit their presentations. Once all teams have submitted their recordings, a panel of ISCPA members will judge the presentations and determine the winners. The winning team will be announced at the ISCPA Annual Meeting, receive an ISCPA High School Case Competition trophy, and each member of the winning team will receive a gift card. All participants will receive an ISCPA High School Case Competition t-shirt. This opportunity is open to all accounting students. No class is too big or too small. ISCPA staff will do all of the coordination! Does this sound of interest to you and your students? If so, please contact Natalie Harwood at nharwood@iacpa.org or 515-985-7104 to get signed up.