Kansas State launches institute for financial literacy education

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas State University has established the Institute for Financial Education and Prosperity to help educators across Kansas teach financial literacy skills to high school students preparing for workforce and adult financial responsibilities.

The institute responds to Kansas's 2021 requirement that all high school students complete a half-credit financial literacy course, phasing in for the class of 2028. The program is part of K-State's Office of External Engagement and builds on the university's land-grant mission to serve communities.

"Many teachers lack confidence and training in financial literacy content, while small rural schools face significant implementation challenges," said Martin Seay, the institute's director. "We aim to equip every educator with the tools and knowledge to teach students practical skills for managing money, understanding credit, planning for major purchases and making informed financial decisions as working adults."

The institute builds upon two nationally recognized K-State programs: Powercat Financial, a student financial support resource, and the personal financial planning degree program, named the highest performing undergraduate financial planning program by WealthManagement.com.

K-State conducted successful pilot programs in spring 2025 with five Kansas schools, demonstrating the effectiveness of its approach to preparing students for adult financial decision-making.

The program will target junior-level high school students beginning in fall 2026, providing educators with vetted curriculum aligned with state requirements, professional development programs, graduate certificate programs and real-world case studies connecting financial concepts to career planning.

Student-focused components emphasize budgeting for first apartments, understanding employment benefits, managing student loans and learning about credit scores and banking relationships.

The institute leverages expertise across multiple K-State divisions and partnerships with agencies including the Kansas Department of Insurance and the Kansas Bankers Association.

"Education is a key part of the mission of the Kansas Department of Insurance," said Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. "That's why we partner with organizations like Kansas State University's Institute for Financial Education and Prosperity to provide financial literacy education across the state."

Doug Wareham, Kansas Bankers Association president and CEO, said financial literacy is "a cornerstone of individual opportunity and statewide prosperity."

"When Kansans have the knowledge and confidence to make sound financial decisions, they strengthen their families, their communities and our state's economy," Wareham said.

Susan Metzger, director of strategic interdisciplinary program development, said the institute represents K-State's commitment to ensuring Kansas students graduate with financial knowledge and confidence needed for workforce success.