Heritage Trust Opens New Student-Run Branch at Philip Simmons High School

(Charleston, SC)—9/26/2019 — The grand opening of Heritage Trust’s new Philip Simmons High School Branch was recently held to mark the launch of the credit union’s third student-run location in the Berkeley County School District (BCSD). Students participating in the program and working at the branch went through an interview process, completed credit union training and learned workplace skills to be successful in their roles. Personal finance is the main focus of the program, teaching students all aspects of money management. At the event, Dr. Eddie Ingram, Superintendent of BCSD and Jason Lee, President/COO of Heritage Trust, addressed the audience of students, parents, PSHS faculty, and Heritage Trust and BCSD representatives.
“I haven’t factored a polynomial since I left high school, but I’ve used financial literacy nearly every day of my life,” stated Dr. Ingram. “That’s what drives my passion for this. I am proud of the partnership that has made this student-run credit union possible, and I hope the students involved in the educational opportunity provided serve as ambassadors for the program. I cannot thank Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union enough.”

“Heritage Trust is passionate about financial literacy. Through this program, students learn the value of money and work ethic while developing valuable lifelong financial habits that will empower them to be successful adults,” commented Jason Lee, Heritage Trust President/COO.

Each student in the program was recognized on stage at the event and received their certificate of completion. The night culminated with the ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of the new branch.

The branch is operated by students pursuing a Business and Finance career track under the supervision of a teacher from the business department. Students receive course credit as part of their participation in the program. In addition to expanding their learning in personal finance, the students open accounts and conduct transactions, use technology, and provide service excellence to peers and faculty at the school.

As Philip Simmons High School grows, Heritage Trust is committed to continuing financial literacy for young adults in the program annually.

About Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union
Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union was founded in 1955 and is now one of the largest credit unions in the greater Charleston Metro area with $650 MM in assets and serving over 50,000 members. With trust as a core value, the credit union offers a full suite of products, from savings, checking and investment options to real estate and commercial lending and business solutions.