SMC’s Partnership with University Credit Union

In 2019, Saint Mary’s began a partnership with University Credit Union (UCU), largely because of their dedication to providing our campus community with a suite of financial services and banking know-how. University Credit Union’s commitment to Saint Mary’s should come as no surprise, as they have been serving university communities since the company’s founding in 1951 at UCLA.

Today, their name adorns the wonderful pavilion that houses our men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams and their thousands of fans. But University Credit Union is also the chief sponsor of a variety of activities taking place around our campus. I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank them for their efforts, which enrich the educational experience for our students, faculty, staff, and many others.

In the past few months alone, University Credit Union has generously supported several important campus initiatives at Saint Mary’s, while also staying true to their mission and expertise as a financial institution. 

Perhaps one of the most tangible ways University Credit Union is helping our students and campus community is a series of “financial wellness” workshops that provide helpful tips and strategies. Just in the past few months, they’ve offered a number of free workshops, including the following:

• How to Navigate High Interest Rates (November 10 and 17). Geared towards faculty, staff, and alumni, these two workshops shared tips and tricks on how to still reach one’s financial goals in our current climate. Car loans, mortgages, and consolidating debt were specifically addressed. 
• Live, Love, Save (February 13). This special Valentine’s Day-themed student workshop examined saving strategies, budgeting, and money management tips.
• Learn to Love Your Finances (February 15). This virtual workshop for employees and alumni explored budgeting strategies for long-term expenses.

The financial wellness events will continue throughout the spring with seven additional workshops taking place on March 27, April 18, and May 8 and 10, designed to reach people where they’re at in their financial understanding. These events cover critical financial topics such as budgeting, saving, interest rates, debt consolidation, and money management after graduation. The events are open to any member of the SMC campus community and we’re grateful that they’re here to share these educational workshops with our students, faculty, and staff. More information about these workshops can be found on University Credit Union’s website, including a link to register.

University Credit Union also has donated funds to programs such as the Saint Mary’s Guild and SMC’s GaelPantry. These gifts make a meaningful difference to our students. They also add some fun to the mix wherever possible. For example, a Class of ‘64 Gael alum was the winning recipient of the “Gonzaga Ticket Giveaway” promotion by University Credit Union that featured four courtside tickets to the March 2 home game against the Gael’s men’s basketball main rival. They also sponsored a $5,000 “progressive shot prize” for students.

University Credit Union provides a prime example of how partner institutions can help exemplify our Lasallian Catholic tradition of community engagement. I’m grateful for our College’s partnership with University Credit Union and would encourage our students, faculty, and staff to visit Saint Mary’s UCU’s website for more information. 

Sincerely,

Brother Thomas Jones, FSC

Interim President