FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 25, 2025
Contact: Jamie Karl, (531) 893-3615
LINCOLN, Neb. – Gov. Jim Pillen has declared April as Financial Awareness Month.
During a March 25 ceremony at the State Capitol, the governor signed a proclamation to spotlight the importance of financial awareness and how it affects Nebraskans. In attendance were approximately 80 school children who participate in Nebraska’s in-school savings program, which is being implemented by more than 70 schools statewide.
Coordinated by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) and Nebraska Council on Economic Education (NCEE), Financial Awareness Month spotlights activities in schools, workplaces, and communities to enhance the knowledge of money-related topics. Throughout April, NDBF and NCEE will distribute financial awareness information via social media and traditional media outlets.
“Helping Nebraskans build financial awareness — so they can save, invest, and protect their hard-earned dollars — is a worthwhile pursuit of state government,” Gov. Pillen said. “Financial Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that Nebraska’s future prosperity depends on the financial well-being of our residents.”
During the proclamation ceremony at the Capitol, Tanner Ellis of Ravenna Public Schools was recognized as the 2025 economic educator of the year. Gov. Pillen honored Ellis by making him an admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska – the state’s highest civic award.
Later in the day, Nebraska’s bestselling children's author Julia Cook spent time with the students who participated in the proclamation ceremony. Cook’s “I Am Money” is an acclaimed book that teaches younger students the principles of financial literacy. A hardback copy of “I Am Money” has been mailed to each of Nebraska’s 680 elementary school libraries.
NDBF Director Kelly Lammers said: “Financial awareness is about ensuring that we, as individuals, make wise decisions with our money. The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance is proud to support Financial Awareness Month and provide information to help Nebraskans secure their future.”
Dr. Jennifer Davidson, NCEE President, said: “As president of the Nebraska Council on Economic Education, I’ve seen firsthand how economic and financial literacy can change lives. It’s not just about numbers – it’s about empowerment.”
As part of its Financial Awareness Month activities, NDBF will soon unveil its “Make Cents Make Sense” initiative. According to NDBF Director Kelly Lammers, the program will provide trusted, unbiased, and no-cost guidance to Nebraskans to help them plan their financial journey while guarding against fraud and scams.
