West Virginia University’s Center for Financial Literacy and Education, housed in the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, has partnered with PRA Group, Inc., a global leader in acquiring and collecting nonperforming loans, to advance financial literacy efforts as part of WVU’s land-grant mission.

PRA Group’s generous $210,000 contribution will fund two seminars on financial literacy in civics, business, and math led by the Chambers College and WVU Extension Service to maximize impact across the state. The first seminars in October 2020 include community leaders representing all 55 West Virginia counties. The second seminar will begin in February 2021 and will focus on primary and secondary educators. Both seminars are expected to positively impact more than 3,500 West Virginia students. PRA Group, Inc. will also support financial lunch and learns across the state for high school seniors preparing to go to college, college students, and adult learners.

Studies have shown that exposing students as young as elementary school age to financial education can improve their future financial wellbeing. It has become a critical tool for individuals navigating the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When students are empowered to make sound financial decisions, they are better prepared to succeed in college and in their careers,” said Naomi Boyd, Executive Director for The Center for Financial Literacy and Education. “PRA Group’s substantial donation will allow us to broaden our programming during this critical time for our community, arm our citizens with the tools and resources to plan for their financial futures that may now have been affected by COVID-19, and reach more people who do not have equitable access to financial education.”

PRA Group offered generous support around these efforts as a result of Boyd’s leadership and impact across the state in financial literacy efforts, which directly aligns with the company’s values and responsibility to grow financial literacy efforts and awareness.

“We were compelled to support WVU’s efforts once we learned there was a clear need to expand access to financial education programming in West Virginia,” said Kevin Stevenson, president and chief executive officer of PRA Group. “This partnership aligns with PRA Group’s values and belief that we have a responsibility to enhance the broader conversation around financial literacy as we support consumers with making strong decisions on their path to financial healing. This is an investment in the communities of West Virginia.”

About PRA Group

As a global leader in acquiring and collecting nonperforming loans, PRA Group returns capital to banks and other creditors to help expand financial services for consumers in the Americas and Europe. With thousands of employees worldwide, PRA Group companies collaborate with customers to help them resolve their debt. For more information, please visit www.pragroup.com.

--WVU-

CONTACT: Heather Richardson
Assistant Dean of Communications, Engagement and Impact
John Chambers College of Business and Economics
hrichard@mail.wvu.edu; 304.293.9625