JA Summit: Financial Equity & Career Readiness 2026

Inspiring Students to Chart Brighter Futures

Junior Achievement of Central Texas proudly hosted our sixth annual JA Summit: Financial Equity & Career Readiness Powered by Delta Air Lines & Experian at the Charles Schwab Event Center in Austin. At Summit, Students, educators, business leaders, and community partners come together for a powerful and energizing experience focused on financial equity, goal setting, and career readiness.

Thanks to the time, presence, and support of our partners and volunteers, JA Summit is a powerful annual celebration of possibility where education, industry, and community comes together to empower the next generation.

Together, we are helping students envision what’s possible and equipping them with the tools and inspiration to achieve purpose and long‑term economic mobility.

Centering Student Voices and Real‑World Impact

Some of the most powerful moments of the day came from hearing directly from Junior Achievement students and alumni who shared their perspectives, lived experiences, and the transformational impact JA has had on their educational and career journeys. While we know the life‑changing value of JA programs, hearing these stories firsthand reaffirmed our mission and strengthened our resolve to continue expanding opportunities for young people across Central Texas.

We were also honored to hear from Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, CEO of Waterloo Greenway, who reflected on her own Junior Achievement experience and offered inspiring insights on leadership, resilience, and long‑term success. Her story served as a powerful reminder that early exposure to financial literacy and career exploration can shape futures across generations.

Purpose‑Driven Programming for Long‑Term Success

The JA Summit focuses on financial equity, goal setting, and career readiness- highlighting how career pathways influence financial outcomes and long‑term economic success. The Summit connects students with business leaders across diverse industries, equipping them with tools to make informed financial and career decisions and empowering them to chart a path toward long‑term economic mobility.

Throughout the experience, students not only heard from inspiring speakers and panel discussions, but engaged with industry professionals at their table to work on a 5‑year goal‑setting activity, that also serves as the start of the 5-3-1 Goal Setting Scholarship Challenge presented by our generous partners at Experian.

Students also participated in a tour of the Charles Schwab campus and Career Speed Networking rotations with Schwab professionals and event partners, providing meaningful exposure to real‑world careers and pathways.

Thanks to our generous partners, the event was offered at no cost to students or their schools.

Thoughtful Leadership and Engaging Conversations

Laine Quinn, Delta Air Lines

David Hibbs, Experian

We extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional speakers and leaders who helped bring the Summit to life:

• Laine Quinn of Delta Air Lines and David Hibbs of Experian for sharing their career journeys and insights

• Brittney S. Rodriguez, CEO of Grit + Pearl Public Relations and COO of the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GAHCC), for serving as an engaging and dynamic Emcee

• Gilbert Zavala, Vice President of Education and Talent Development at Opportunity Austin, for guiding thoughtful dialogue, including a fireside conversation with Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette and Panel of industry professionals from tech, nursing, and manufacturing.

Gilbert Zavala & Brittney Rodriguez

Grateful for the sage advice and inspiration from Dr. Pierce Burnette and to our incredible panelists- Camilo Nova, Raquel Gonzales, RN, CST, and Jessie Camarillo for offering real‑world perspective, encouragement, and actionable advice that resonated strongly with students.

When We All Come Together

We are sincerely thankful for our Presenting Sponsors, Delta Air Lines and Experian, and our Investment Sponsors, Forbright Bank and H‑E‑B, with valued support from EY and Charles Schwab. Your partnership makes experiences like the JA Summit possible and directly fuels brighter futures for Central Texas students.

Thank you as well to our industry partners who joined us at the Summit, including Waterloo Greenway, AllianceBernstein, SpyCloud, Proceed with Auction, Acutronic Group, Texas Nurses Association, and Millennia Park.

A round of applause goes to our educational partners- Huston‑Tillotson University, Austin Community College, Austin Independent School District, Del Valle ISD Education Foundation, and Pflugerville ISD for standing alongside JA to support students and educators.

The True Stars of the Day

We were honored to welcome students and educators from Akins Early College High School, Austin High School, Northeast Early College High School, Travis Early College High School, and Weiss High School. Their engagement, curiosity, and ambition made them the true stars of the Summit and reminded us why this work matters so deeply.

#KeepClimbing #BrighterFutures #Experian #FinancialLiteracy #DeltaProud

Generational Mobility: How Junior Achievement Supports the Levers of Economic Mobility

A Day That Shapes Futures at JA Finance Park

JA Finance Park® gives students a powerful opportunity to connect classroom learning to real-life financial decision-making. During this immersive experience, students explore budgeting, saving, career choices, and collaboration while gaining a clearer understanding of what adult life looks like and how their decisions matter.

Thanks to the support of Title Sponsor- Taco Bell Foundation, Week Sponsor- SouthState Bank, and Lunch sponsor- Hancock Whitney Bank, students step into realistic life scenarios that challenge them to think critically about money and the future.

Thank you to Austin Community College- Make It Center for making this experience even more impactful with tour & more and to Adventum for connecting us to their client Certain Affinity that donated their unique space for our middle school JA Finance Park.

As students navigate the simulation, many quickly recognize the importance of being intentional with their finances. One student shared, “I learned that saving money is a good thing, and I should take care of my money and how real life works.” Others began to view planning in a new way, noting that “when you make a financial plan, it should be used as a tool to help you create a comfortable life for yourself.” Beyond finances, students also emphasized the value of teamwork, learning “to collaborate with other people, not to just do things on your own.”

The experience is brought to life by dedicated volunteers who serve as mentors throughout the day. Volunteers guide students through financial decisions while sharing real-world perspectives, and one volunteer reflected, “My favorite part of Finance Park was being able to share my professional experience and knowledge with the students.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated professionals from:

• Bank of America

• Brighton Jones

• Broadway Bank

• Capital One

• Cherry Bekaert

• Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union

• Longitude Financial Planning

• Prime Bank

• RBank

• SouthState Bank

• Whitney Hancock Bank

Their time, expertise, and enthusiasm bring authenticity to the experience and help students connect classroom learning to real-life careers and financial responsibilities.

Educators see the impact clearly as well. An educator from Travis Early College High School shared, “The kids got to see real life experiences and really see how much things are. And they got to use things that they are used to. The volunteers were awesome and so interactive with the kids.”

Through hands-on learning, authentic collaboration that includes Junior Achievement, schools, and community partners- JA Finance Park helps students build confidence and begin thinking intentionally about their futures, empowering them to take meaningful steps toward financial independence.

Together, we are shaping confident, informed, financially capable, and career-connected young people for what’s next in Central Texas.

Thanks to All for Investing in the Future of Central Texas

If you’re interested in volunteering, sponsoring, or learning more about JA Finance Park, we invite you to join us in helping the next generation answer the question: “Who will I become?”

This experience is growing beyond Austin to support more young people in Central Texas but we need your support.

Email Emily Long at emily@jacentex.org to get involved.

#EducationForWhatsNext #EconomicMobility #OpportunityIsForEveryone

Oracle Job Shadow & Career Day: Connecting Students to Real-World Careers

To further support workforce readiness, students participated in the Oracle Job Shadow and Career Day, an immersive experience designed to bridge the gap between education and the professional world. The event brought together 11 Oracle professionals and 20 students from Weiss High School and Travis Early College High School for a day focused on career exploration, skill-building, and mentorship.

Oracle professionals generously volunteered their time to share their expertise, career stories, and advice, offering students valuable insight into how communication, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability are applied in today’s workplace.

Exploring the Oracle Campus

Students began the day with a tour of the Oracle campus, gaining firsthand exposure to a professional technology environment where innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning are essential. The tour allowed students to envision themselves in a corporate setting and better understand how different teams work together to solve real-world problems.

Hands-On Career Readiness Activities

A core component of the day focused on career and work-readiness activities led by Oracle professionals. Students participated in mock interviews, where they practiced professional communication, received individualized feedback, and built confidence in articulating their strengths and experiences.

In addition, students received resume critiques and support, as well as guidance on creating or auditing “About Me” infographics. Oracle mentors worked closely with students to help them strengthen their resumes, refine how they present their skills and accomplishments, and better prepare for future interviews and career opportunities.

Mentorship and Career Conversations

Throughout the day, Oracle professionals shared their personal career journeys, discussing pathways into their roles, challenges they overcame, and lessons learned along the way. These candid conversations gave students a realistic and inspiring view of multiple career paths and reinforced the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and lifelong learning.

A Collaborative Effort

Schools prepared students in advance for the experience, Junior Achievement provided curriculum and coordination, and Oracle led the collaboration by hosting, mentoring, and guiding students through hands-on career readiness activities.

The impact of the experience was clear. Ms. Matula, a Weiss High School educator, shared:

“My students LOVED the trip to Oracle. The interaction with staff was a hit, and everyone had several positive comments about talking with each of them. Thank you for including my students in these amazing opportunities. Can’t wait for the next one.”

The Oracle Job Shadow and Career Day demonstrated the powerful impact of industry partnerships in preparing students for life beyond high school. By opening their campus and investing in student development, Oracle professionals played a vital role in helping students build confidence, career awareness, and readiness for the future.

Shout out to Vanessa Frates at Oracle for all she does to provide JA students with impactful opportunities like this!

Thank you, Oracle, for supporting Junior Achievement!

And the Winner Is… Central Texas Young Entrepreneurs!

Thank you to everyone who helped make the 2025 JA E2: Entrepreneurship & Empowerment Pitch Event such an incredible success! This year’s gathering celebrated innovation, creativity, and the bold ideas of our next generation of leaders and Central Texas students rose to the occasion.

About JA E2

JA E2 is designed to inspire students to discover their potential, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment. By connecting students with diverse professionals across our business community, we create a uniquely Austin experience rooted in curiosity, courage, and collaboration.

Now in its seventh year, JA E2 welcomed one of our largest groups of student participants yet—a powerful indicator of the growing entrepreneurial spirit across Central Texas.

A Journey That Began in the Classroom

Students began their entrepreneurial journey back in September through JA Be Entrepreneurial®, where they explored design thinking, idea development, and the entrepreneurial mindset.
After presenting their business concepts on campus, top student teams were invited to pitch at the JA E2: Pitch Event, hosted this year at St. Edward’s University.

Pitch Day Highlights

On event day, 24 student business teams worked with 28 volunteer coaches from the business community to refine their pitches and strengthen their public speaking skills. Thanks to the expanded space at St. Edward’s University, students presented on three stages, with teams grouped into the following categories:

• Merchandise/Product

• Service/App

• Innovation/Social Entrepreneurship

This year’s event proudly welcomed 85 students from seven area high schools:

• Akins Early College High School

• Anderson High School

• Austin High School

• Crockett Early College High School

• McCallum High School

• Northeast Early College High School

• Weiss High School

Thank You to Our Judges

We are deeply grateful to our distinguished panel of judges for lending their expertise and support:

• Lisa Kottler, KWP Partners

• Alex Khassa, Blackbox Inc.

• Charlie Chadderdon, PNC Bank

• Eric Hale, Austin Chamber of Commerce

• Julianne Strippoli, Weaver Capital Advisors

• Marc Rankin, Adventum Funds

• Michael Smyth, Dell Technologies

• Militza Rosendo, Latinas in Tech

Thank You to Our Partners

This event would not be possible without our generous JA E2 partners:
EY, FactSet, H-E-B, and Oracle!

Your commitment helps create pathways for students to explore entrepreneurship, build confidence, and envision limitless futures.

Celebrating Our 2025 Top Performers

Merchandise/Product Business

• Family Finderz – McCallum High School

• Peaceful Package – Northeast Early College High School

• Honorable Mention: ShaveSync – Akins Early College High School

Innovation/Social Ideation

• GenBridge – Akins Early College High School

• Dominguez Notary & Translation – Northeast Early College High School

• Honorable Mention: Dance Fitness – Akins Early College High School

Service/App Business

• Buddy Bus – Austin High School

• Localite – Austin High School

• Honorable Mention: Eagle Grab & Go – Akins Early College High School

A Community Effort Worth Celebrating

We extend heartfelt congratulations to all participating students and deep gratitude to the educators and volunteers who guided and encouraged them along the way. Your commitment helps students unlock their creativity, build real-world skills, and develop the confidence to dream big.

Thank you again for supporting Junior Achievement and the young entrepreneurs who will shape the future of Central Texas.

We can’t wait to see what they build next.

Illuminating Futures: An Evening with Junior Achievement

A Celebration of Purpose, Possibility, and the Power of Community

There are moments when a community shows up so fully, so wholeheartedly, that you can feel the impact long before you see the outcomes. Illuminating Futures, Junior Achievement of Central Texas’ inaugural celebration, was one of those moments.

We were deeply moved seeing our community, from all walks of life, come together to celebrate purpose, possibility, and the young people we serve. Honoring our Visionaries Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, Geronimo Rodriguez, and Jayma Vaughan was a meaningful reminder that leadership rooted in service and courage truly lights the way forward.

In her powerful reflection, Dr. Pierce Burnette shared:

“Thank you, Junior Achievement for pouring into me when I was in junior high school and now full circle blessing me with the Visionary Award—and MOST importantly thank you for the wonderful work you do empowering the next generation to dream big, lead boldly, and build their own futures.”

Thank you, Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, and thank you to every single person who made our first-ever Illuminating Futures Celebration possible.

And together, thanks to your generosity and belief in this mission, we reached our goal of raising $150,000 to support Junior Achievement programs across Central Texas. This milestone is more than a number—it’s an investment in thousands of young people charting their path toward financial confidence, career readiness, and long-term economic mobility.

With Deep Gratitude

🌟 Our incomparable emcees, CBS Austin Morning News anchors Allison Miller & John-Carlos Estrada, for bringing humor, heart, and genuine community pride to the stage.
🌟 JA Events Committee: Lisa Kottler, Melissa Thomas, Ira Mercado-Dixon, Tamra Jones, Aidan Loggenberg, P.E., Alison Wittich, Kassandra Hahn-Tipton, Christina Scott, Andrea Richardson—and our unofficial committee members, EY’s Christopher Burns and MarTecha’s Jasmine Aurelio.
🌟 Our Partners: Delta Air Lines, EY, KPMG US, Latham & Watkins, Charles Schwab, Austin Subaru, Marsh McLennan, H-E-B, Sunflower Bank, N.A., and CNA Insurance.
🌟 Our In-Kind Sponsors: Delta Vacations, MarTecha, Butler Pitch & Putt, FireSong Resort Village, Board Member Yoobin Choi, Tito's Handmade Vodka, LALO Tequila, Visit Austin, The Texas Tribune, and many more.

This collective effort- on stage, behind the scenes, and throughout the community—made this milestone possible.

Why JA? Why Now?

For more than 100 years, Junior Achievement has illuminated the future and a championed economic mobility for young people here in Central Texas and around the world through entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness experiences.

JA empowers young people with:

• Confidence

• Critical skills and knowledge

• Access to mentors and career pathways

• A foundation for long-term economic mobility

In a region growing as rapidly and dynamically as Central Texas, preparing young people to lead, innovate, and thrive is not only important but essential. This celebration helps to support the future of JA and was a testament to what’s possible when a community rallies together to lift up its next generation of leaders.

Thank You

To everyone who attended, volunteered, partnered, sponsored, or championed JA in any capacity- thank you! You made this night and our mission shine brighter.

Together, we are illuminating futures for students, educators, and the future workforce of Central Texas.
And this is only the beginning.

What a year for JA in Central Texas!

From classrooms to corporate offices, we’ve seen incredible momentum and impact thanks to the support of our generous partners and volunteers. Here's a look back at just a few highlights from this unforgettable year: 

💼 JA Job Shadows with Oracle & Delta Air Lines 

 🚀 Hundreds of high school students launched and ran their own businesses 

 🏦 JA Finance Park at ACC Highland’s Make-It Center 

 🤝 JA More than Money financial literacy with YMCA Extend-A-Care 

 🎓 Baylor Innovation Challenge – pitch competition 

 💡 E2: Entrepreneurship & Empowerment Area-Wide Pitch competition 

 🏫 JA Days across multiple elementary schools 

 🎤 Inspiring Career Speakers 

 📊 JA Summit: Financial Equity & Work Readiness 

 🎉 $32,000 awarded in scholarships 

JA in Central Texas is growing — and it’s all possible because of the incredible support of our community. 

A heartfelt thank you to our Partners for powering the mission! Thank you to our dedicated volunteers- your time, energy, and heart continue to guide and inspire the next generation. You are mentors, coaches, and champions — helping young people discover their potential and believe in their futures. 

Together, we are illuminating what's possible for students, schools, and communities across Central Texas and beyond. 

Here’s to even more impact ahead. 🌟 

Frost Bank Brings JA to Oak Springs

Helping young students connect classroom learning to the real world starts early—and it’s exactly what Junior Achievement of Central Texas aims to do through hands-on programs in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship. That mission is elevated each year through our longtime partnership with Frost Bank, whose commitment to education and community impact continues to shine.

This year, Frost Bank once again supported an entire school day of JA programming—bringing our engaging, grade-level lessons to every classroom at Oak Springs Elementary. From kindergartners exploring how families and communities work together, to fifth graders learning about entrepreneurship and business basics, students experienced a full day designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and a sense of possibility.

This annual tradition has become more than just a day on the calendar. It’s a powerful example of how corporate partnerships can directly shape the future by investing in students today. With Frost volunteers leading sessions and mentoring students, the impact goes beyond curriculum—these students see role models who reinforce the message: "You can dream big, and here’s how to get there."

“Frost Bank’s partnership makes it possible for us to reach every student in the building,” said Suzannah Gravatt, Junior Achievement’s District Director. “Their volunteers bring energy and real-world experience into the classroom, making the lessons come alive in ways that truly resonate with students.”

We are proud to celebrate this ongoing partnership with Frost Bank. Their dedication to community and education is helping to plant seeds of opportunity, one classroom at a time.

Thank you, Frost Bank, for believing in the power of JA and in the potential of every child.

#OpportunityIsForEveryone | #JAAustin | #FinancialLiteracy | #FrostBank | #FutureReady | #EmpoweringYoungDreamers | #OakSpringsElementary

Let me know if you'd like to include photos, student quotes, or a call-to-action for future sponsors!

JA Summit 2025—A Day of Empowerment, Connection & Real-World Skills

Junior Achievement of Central Texas hosted its reimagined JA Summit: Financial Equity & Work Readiness—and what a day it was! Held at the Charles Schwab Event Center in Austin, the Summit welcomed over 50 professionals and 60 high school students from across the Greater Austin area for an immersive, hands-on experience centered around career readiness, financial empowerment, and goal setting for the future. 

This year’s Summit, built on the success of the former F.E.M. Forum (Financial Equity Mission), delivered even more impact, energy, and opportunity for young people on the brink of big decisions about their futures. 

Inspiring highlights of the day came from: 

• Emcee, Destin George Bell – CEO & Co-Founder, Card.io,  

• Speaker, Raudy Perez- Senior Director, External Diversity Partnerships at Experian, 

• Student speakers Lailah and Robert from Northeast Early College High School 

• Panel of Austin leaders, who brought honesty, encouragement, and practical insights from their own career journeys. Each panelist shared personal stories of growth, resilience, and the unexpected paths that led them to where they are today. Students were energized by the panelists’ transparency about challenges they’ve overcome and their encouragement to be bold, curious, and persistent in their pursuits. 

Lisa Kottler – Partner, Strategic Growth & Innovation, KWP Growth Partners 

Joel Coffman – Executive Director, RecognizeGood | VP Marketing, TyRex Group 

Ira Mercado-Dixon – National Sales Account Executive, Delta Air Lines 

Nina Means – Director, ACC Fashion Incubator 

Dr. Laura Kincheloe – Director of Nursing Practice, Texas Nurses Association 

Ayah Alomari, EIT – Design Engineer, KPFF & Engineers without Borders 

During the 5‑3‑1 Scholarship Coaching session, students explored their aspirations through a practical, goal-oriented lens by answering a core prompt: What are your 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year goals? How do you plan to achieve your goals for each time frame to get to your end 5-year goal? Students were encouraged to focus on professional, career, and financial goals. For each time frame, they provided context about why the goal mattered to them and how it supported their vision for future success. Through guided coaching, they developed thoughtful and financially realistic plans to achieve each goal—learning how to break big dreams into actionable steps. 

This structured coaching gave students clarity, confidence, and practical tools to make informed decisions about their futures. It also served as the start to an incredible scholarship opportunity for $15,000 or $5,000 thanks to our partners at Experian. 

Following the program, students jumped into Speed Career Networking, where they had the opportunity to connect with professionals from several industries. Professionals generously gave their time to meet with students in fast-paced, engaging conversations that helped demystify career paths and strengthen essential networking skills. These quick conversations sparked curiosity and provided industry insight 

Thank You to Our Partners 

This powerful day of discovery and connection would not have been possible without our incredible partners from Delta Air Lines, Experian, H-E-B, EY, Forbright Bank, Deloitte, UFCU, Comerica, Austin Independent School District, and Charles Schwab. From sharing stories during networking to funding key special programs like this, your commitment makes all the difference. 

Together, we’re helping students build bold futures—with the tools, encouragement, and opportunities they deserve. If you’re an educator, employer, or community leader who wants to help students connect the dots between the classroom and their future, we’d love to hear from you. 

Taco Bell Foundation helps to Launch a New Initiative in Central Texas

JA of Central Texas & Taco Bell Foundation Partner to Inspire Central Texas Elementary Students with the Tools of Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship

Thanks to the support of the Taco Bell Foundation, Junior Achievement is inspiring young people and preparing them for success. 

The partnership between Junior Achievement of Central Texas(JACTX) and the Taco Bell Foundation has allowed JACTX to pilot the delivery of JA’s More Than Money program to, new to Central Texas, out of the classroom experiences with the after-school students at Boone Elementary and Sunset Valley Elementary in Austin Independent School District, Pioneer Crossing Elementary in Manor Independent School District through YMCA Extend-A-Care and to the students at Willow Springs Elementary in Killeen Independent School District in their Financial Literacy Club. This new approach brought JA programming into out-of-school-time spaces in our area, reaching students who may not otherwise have access to JA’s hands-on financial literacy and entrepreneurship lessons.  

In addition to the curriculum, students heard from JA Career Speakers who shared their work and entrepreneurial journeys, helping bring real-world context to the lessons and inspiring students to think about their own futures. Among the featured speakers was Destin George Bell, a Shark Tank recipient and trailblazing entrepreneur who inspired students to dream big, take risks, and believe in their own ideas.

The program not only inspired but helped students begin building foundational money management skills, explore the world of work, and understand how to earn, save, and spend wisely—all in a fun, engaging out-of-class setting. This pilot not only expanded JA’s footprint in Central Texas to schools and districts we had not been able to serve until this year but also demonstrated the potential of the reach and innovation when JA has partnerships like the Taco Bell Foundation to meet students where they are with real-world learning experiences. 

Thanks to support from the Taco Bell Foundation, students are getting hands-on with their futures.

JAMM introduces upper elementary students to core concepts of financial literacy and entrepreneurship, all while meeting social studies learning objectives. With the help of an engaging JA cast of characters and interactive lessons, students explore money-management skills, goods and services, and global markets in a way that’s both fun and practical.

Following their experience, students will be able to:

• Identify the role of money in everyday life.

• Think like entrepreneurs and identify a small business they can start.

• Learn the basic steps of starting a business.

• Consider the advantages and disadvantages of borrowing money.

• Explore the opportunities of global markets.

This pilot program marks the beginning of a deeper commitment to equipping Central Texas youth with the knowledge and confidence to own their financial futures—and it wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our partners, volunteers, and supporters like Taco Bell Foundation.

In 2024, the Taco Bell Foundation awarded $23 million dollars to nearly 450 youth-serving organizations in and around communities where Taco Bell does business.

Together, we’re illuminating young minds and helping students see that their futures are worth investing in.

2025 Baylor Bear Challenge-JA Students Take Center Stage

Junior Achievement of Central Texas is filled with pride after an inspiring weekend at the 2025 Bear Venture Ideation Challenge hosted by Baylor University’s nationally ranked entrepreneurship program in Waco, Texas. This two-day experience, held April 25–26, brought together high school students from across the state to pitch their innovative ideas in a fast-paced entrepreneurial competition—and our JA students showed up ready to shine.

We’re thrilled to share that JA swept the competition- two student teams from Junior Achievement of Southeast Texas come in first and second place, while Akins Early College High School from JA of Central Texas proudly clinched third place, earning a spot on the winner’s podium and representing Austin with courage, creativity, and confidence.

Alongside Akins, Northeast Early College High School, and Anderson High School also participated, showing how incredibly talented and driven they are throughout the challenge. These students worked tirelessly to create innovative, real-world solutions to business problems, while learning directly from Baylor mentors and industry professionals.

More than just a competition, the Bear Challenge was a life-changing experience. For many of our students, it was their first time stepping foot on a college campus. Being surrounded by the energy, opportunity, and inspiration of Baylor University helped expand their horizons—and their dreams. Partnerships like this help take students beyond the boundaries of their neighborhoods and into spaces where they can see themselves thriving.

From hands-on work sessions and mentorship from Baylor student leaders to a full campus tour and keynote sessions, the weekend was packed with opportunities to learn, grow, and lead. Baylor also generously provided hotel accommodations and meals, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

We are deeply grateful to Baylor University, our colleagues at Junior Achievement of Southeast Texas, and the incredible educators and volunteers who guided students every step of the way. The Bear Challenge showcased the power of community, mentorship, and imagination—and just how far our students can go when given the chance.

Congratulations again to all who participated—and to Akins Early College High School for bringing home a win for Central Texas!

Behind the Scenes with Delta Air Lines: A First-Class Job Shadow Experience for Travis ECHS Students

At Junior Achievement of Central Texas, we believe opportunity is for everyone—and that real-world experiences can spark lifelong inspiration. This year, students from Travis Early College High School’s Hospitality and Culinary program got a front-row seat to the world of aviation through an exclusive job shadow day hosted by Delta Air Lines. 

From the moment students stepped into the terminal, they were immersed in the customer experience—from checking in passengers to making real-time gate announcements. They explored how hospitality and professionalism take center stage at every step of the Delta journey. 

Students then toured the Delta Sky Club, where they saw how culinary service, comfort, and customer care create a luxury travel experience. Next, they explored LSG Group Sky Chefs, Inc., Austin meal prep behind the scenes, gaining insight into how Delta maintains quality and safety while feeding thousands of passengers daily. 

One of the highlights? Boarding an actual Delta aircraft and hearing firsthand from a Delta pilot about the responsibilities, training, and passion behind the controls. For many students, this was the first time stepping onto a plane—and it left a lasting impression. 

This hands-on experience gave students a unique perspective on the breadth of careers within the airline industry from culinary arts to customer service, operations, and aviation. 

We’re deeply grateful to Delta Air Lines for opening their doors and inspiring the next generation of hospitality leaders, chefs, and aviation professionals. Opportunities like this bring career pathways to life and empower students to dream big. 

Special thanks to the team at Delta- Katie Brown, Victoria Carr, Christin Jackson, Ira Mercado-Dixon, and all of the wonderful Delta employees that guided the students through the Job Shadow along with Delta’s broader unwavering support to create a high-flying, career-shaping experiences across Central Texas. 

#DeltaCares  #OpportunityIsForEveryone #WorkReady #HospitalityCareers #JAJobShadow 

It Takes a Village: The Power of Collaboration at JA of Central Texas

At Junior Achievement of Central Texas, we know that real impact happens when people come together. Our model thrives not just because of what we do—but because of how we do it, in true collaboration with educators, volunteers, corporate partners, and school districts. Together, we’re building something bigger than ourselves: a generation of young people prepared to own their economic success and shape their futures with confidence.

From Curriculum to Classroom: The JA Model in Action
It starts with JA providing the curriculum, structure, and support—rooted in experiential learning and designed to spark curiosity, build skills, and unlock potential. But it’s the people who bring it to life.

Volunteers step into classrooms as mentors, business coaches, and cheerleaders—guiding students through real-world challenges, helping them dream bigger and think bolder. Our volunteers don’t just teach—they inspire.

Educators are the heroes who say yes to JA. They open their classrooms to a new kind of learning: hands-on, student-centered, and often transformative. They believe in their students and trust in JA’s mission to prepare them for the real world.

Corporate partners help power this work—providing not only financial support but also valuable connections to industry, innovation, and leadership. Their belief in the future fuels our ability to deliver programs that change lives.

And none of this is possible without the vision and commitment of school districts willing to embrace innovative, experiential learning. Their leap of faith makes space for magic to happen.

A Special Shoutout to Northeast Early College High School
This kind of collaboration is beautifully on display at Northeast Early College High School. We’re especially grateful to educator Lori Nickels, who champions the JA experience for her students—and to John Feux and Kendrick Barnet, two dedicated volunteers who showed up with heart, humor, and a passion for mentoring. Their efforts left a lasting impression on the students they served.

An extra fun perk was JA student company, Heaven’s Boutique got to shoot an inspo reel with a real cinematographer for our first major fundraising event, Illumination Futures: An Evening with Junior Achievement.

Thank You for Believing in the Power of JA
Together, we’re not just teaching lessons—we’re building futures. We’re helping students see what’s possible, discover their strengths, and take bold steps toward their dreams.

To every educator who says yes, every volunteer who shows up, every partner who powers the mission, and every district that trusts in our vision—thank you. The impact is real, and it’s just getting started.

More Teens are Participating in Financial Literacy Courses, but Gaps in Learning Evident, According to New Survey

Press Release_______________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 25, 2025

(Austin, TX) – A new study of teens ages 13-18 conducted by Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Retirement's Foundation reveals that more high school students are being offered financial literacy courses, yet significant knowledge gaps in the curriculum must be filled to help the nation’s youth prepare for their futures.

According to a new survey fielded independently by Wakefield Research, 45% of high schoolers took a personal finance or financial literacy class at school, up from 31% in 2024. Of those students who took their school’s curriculum, 64% found it extremely or very helpful, yet diving deeper, data reveals otherwise.

Topline Data

· 68% of teens agree that saving for retirement is something they can think about later in life.

· 43% of teens believe that an interest rate of 18% on debt is manageable and can be paid off over time.

· 80% of teens have never heard of FICO credit scores or do not fully understand their purpose.

· 42% of teens are terrified they won’t have enough money to cover their future needs and goals.

· Teenagers’ three most appealing investing strategies are savings accounts, side hustles, and keeping cash at home.

· When they receive money, only 36% save a part for their future, 23% save for their education, and 13% invest.

“More states are adopting financial literacy requirements, but this research would indicate that not all of the courses offered are having the desired impact on student knowledge,” said (JA Area Representative). “It’s important that financial literacy courses use evidence-based approaches to positively affect knowledge, attitudes, and behavior, and go beyond simple online courses that may or may not promote those learning outcomes.”

Junior Achievement is a leader in financial literacy programs, with rigorous, multi-year curriculum that aligns with state educational standards that is shown by third-party evaluations to have a positive impact on students’ financial readiness.

Students K-12 have access to nearly 100 Junior Achievement organizations across the country that offer a wide range of programs that use proven programs, engaging curricula, and experienced volunteers to guide students through skills ranging from personal finance, investing, and economics to entrepreneurship, career planning, and creative thinking.

Survey Methodology

The Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Foundation Teens & Personal Finance Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 nationally representative US Teens ages 13-18, between February 3rd and 10th, 2025, using an email invitation and an online survey. Data was weighted to ensure a reliable and accurate representation of U.S. teens ages 13-18.

Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. For the interviews conducted in this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Junior Achievement of Central Texas

We provide fun, engaging, and hands-on learning experiences in ENTREPRENEURSHIP, FINANCIAL LITERACY, and CAREER READINESS. We and our volunteers, serving as mentors, prepare young people for the real world by demonstrating how to generate wealth and effectively manage it. We show students how money works, how education leads to career opportunities, and how to apply entrepreneurial thinking from their own business endeavors to in the workplace. JA students put these lessons into action and learn the value of contributing to their communities.

About MissionSquare Foundation

The MissionSquare Foundation, launched in 2022 through an initial $20 million grant from MissionSquare Retirement, seeks to make a meaningful impact in our communities by focusing on the long-term well-being of youth. Our core initiatives focus on civic mindedness, financial capabilities, critical thinking and leadership development skills. We believe that cultivating these lifelong skills in our next generation support strong, sustainable and thriving communities. For more information, visit www.missionsq.org.

Northeast Early College High School Students Share their JA Journey

Jacquie, Robert, and Carlos Reflect on there Junior Achievement Experiences & E2 Competition

Click to watch CBS Austin news broadcast. Austin's young entrepreneurs shine at St. Edward's University in JA E2 competition (CBS Austin)

Interviewer: Thanks for joining us! Let’s start with introductions—tell us a bit about yourselves.

Jacquie: I’m a 12th grader from Northeast.

Robert: I’m also a senior at Northeast, part of student council, and I play baseball.

Carlos: Same here—12th grade at Northeast.

Interviewer: How did you first get involved with Junior Achievement (JA)?

Carlos: Last year, our teacher introduced JA and had us start our own business.

Robert: We saw students couldn’t leave campus for snacks, so we started a snack business to solve that problem.

Interviewer: Did you make any money?

Jacquie: Yeah! We made about $650 in a little over a month.

Interviewer: How did you get startup funds?

Carlos: We reached out to H-E-B, and they gave us a $150 donation—like an angel investment!

Interviewer: That’s incredible. What else has JA provided for you?

Thank you, Jungle Scout for generously donating 20 MacBooks for JA students to apply for.

Robert: We each won MacBooks! Our school laptops were really restricted, so these have given us more opportunities, especially for designing and working on student council projects.

Interviewer: What are you working on this year?

Carlos: We started a new company, Magical Arrangements. We help people create special moments by making gift baskets, bouquets, and posters.

Interviewer: Has it been valuable for you to have mentors? What have they provided that you might not have had without Junior Achievement and the volunteers mentoring you?

Robert: Definitely! Since last year, Ms Emily, really pushed us to our limits, encouraging us to be better and reach our full potential. She helped us see the little details we might miss, and those small edits make a big difference. She pushed us to do better because you call us out on it.

And Mr. John—when we presented our pitch to him, he believed in us and encouraged us to compete in the E2 competition. I remember the pep talk he gave us afterward—it really boosted our confidence in our business

Interviewer: Tell us about E2.

Carlos: It was nerve-wracking but an amazing experience. Ali, one of the E2 mentors, completely helped us revamped our presentation and helped us refine our skills. It was nice to meet her. She showed us, how do I say- our skills in different ways and put us in the position that we were best at, honestly, like with who read which slide, who started the introduction, who ended it, stuff like that, and even, like, rehearsing it with her. Yeah, it was a really nice experience.

Interviewer: How did it feel to present on stage?

Jacquie: Really intimidating! Competing against students from all over Austin was eye-opening. It was definitely something different. I never really had an experience like that where I was like on the spotlight before speaking in front of a lot of important people competing against each other.

Robert: Seeing the other kids our age to do the same thing was amazing, showing us, like, we're not the only ones in this, you know.

Interviewer: How did you do?

Robert: We won first place in our room and overall! We had to wait until the very end to hear our names—it was nerve-wracking but exciting.

Interviewer: What’s the biggest takeaway from your JA experience?

Carlos: Confidence. I’d never spoken in front of people like that before.

Robert: Critical thinking—learning to solve problems and think like an entrepreneur.

Jacquie: Understanding how business works in real life. Even if you don’t have resources, there are people willing to help.

Interviewer: What would you say to someone considering supporting JA?

Carlos: Do it! You never know where new opportunities will take you.

Robert: I'm honestly grateful for this opportunity. I really want to get into business, or, like, real estate when I'm older. And, I was really needing this. It really gave me a wonderful experience. And I hope you continue to give other people the same experience I got this year.

Jacquie: I think because JA really helped us learn early in our life, how things work in the future, to get a better future for ourselves.

Interviewer: What's the biggest thing you took away from this whole JA experience?

Robert: I feel like I got confidence because I've never talked in front of people like that, and this was just brand new to me. I feel like it helped me a lot with the confidence me personally, I feel like I've honed my critical thinking more and more this year with business and entrepreneurship and other things too, but, yeah, but I would say that's my biggest take away.

Jacquie: It's helped me understand how things are actually going to go in the future and that there's people, even if, we don't have other tools there's people who are willing to help us with what we were trying to do.

Interviewer: That’s beautiful. We’re so proud of you! Thanks for sharing your journey.

Thank you to our legion of volunteers and partners that are the wind behind the sails of JA and the future of Central Texas!

JA Worldwide Nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize

We’re proud to announce that JA Worldwide has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.

Nobel Peace Prize nominations may be received from heads of state, certain elected officials and cabinet members, university professors in select fields, past Nobel laureates, and other notable individuals, as laid out by the Nobel Nominating Committee. A number of eligible advocates approached us about nominating JA Worldwide and, although the identity of each nominee officially remains anonymous for 50 years, we are thrilled to have been given evidence that we were nominated again this year. The organization was first nominated in 2022—in recognition for JA’s contribution to economic empowerment, prosperity, and peace—and has been nominated every year since.

JA Worldwide is one of the largest youth-serving organizations in the world, combining deep local roots with a global network that spans 100+ countries. We delivered more than 19 million student learning experiences last year, creating a pipeline of skilled, entrepreneurial, and ethically minded young leaders, ready to fuel industries, drive innovation, create social stability, and strengthen economies.

Through our century of impact, JA has operated in big cities, rural communities, and everywhere in between, including in areas of political instability, violence, and war. Even in refugee camps, students not only build resilience in the face of trauma and chaos, but also develop hope for their futures as job creators, leaders, and innovators who actively contribute to the peace of their communities.

As economic instability grows around the world, Asheesh Advani, CEO of JA Worldwide, recognizes the challenges: “The next decade will demand a workforce that is not just skilled, but adaptable and entrepreneurial. With AI transforming the world, millions of young people face the risk of being left behind—unemployable, unproductive, and disheartened—leaving economies to stagnate and societies to falter. JA prepares young people for the road ahead, providing skills-based education and empowering a shift in mindset from ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can.’”

Karen Reddington, Chair of JA Worldwide, added: “Education and economic empowerment lead to prosperity. Without prosperity for all communities, peace is not sustainable.”

Between 1901 and 2024, the Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to 142 laureates, including 111 individuals and 31 organizations. Among those 31 organizations is another nonprofit from the annual list of the top ten social-good organizations, Médecins sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), which was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1999. UNICEF, another youth-serving organization, was awarded the prize in 1965, after being nominated for a number of years. Last year, Japanese atomic-bomb survivor’s group Nihon Hidankyo was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for raising awareness of the devastating effects of nuclear weapons.

JA Alumni Ipsos Report 2025- Millennials and Gen Z

January is National Mentoring Month

Meet John Fuex!

 What is your JA history?  
I was first introduced to JA during my employer’s annual day of volunteering, when I worked on assembling classroom kits and teacher appreciation bags.  I got excited about the mission of JA after learning about it and reached out independently from my company to volunteer. Since then, I have been volunteering on and off teaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship in the classroom at the high school and grade school levels. I also got more involved at my company as an advocate for continuing our relationship with JA and was the company’s site lead for our volunteering day with JA in 2024. 

Why do you think JA is important? 

An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. What I love about JA is that it enables us to improve outcomes for the people it serves proactively. While I appreciate other nonprofits that help people recover from difficult situations, it feels much more impactful to provide the students with the knowledge and encouragement to navigate all the choices they will soon be making as they cross the threshold into adulthood. These choices can have a lifelong impact for the financial well-being of the students and their families. 

The most important thing I think we do is to demystify financial/business topics and debunk the idea that starting or investing in a business is only something available to the rich or super smart. There is no arcane knowledge only taught at ivy league schools.  There is no secret handshake required to play, just a little basic knowledge, enthusiasm, and courage to try. 

Why do you volunteer and why should others? 

I just love mentoring and career coaching.  This was my favorite part of my day job. JA is a great opportunity to apply these skills I developed over the last three decades. Also, it is a great way to “pay it forward”. God knows my own career success was in no small part possible because of all the people who mentored/encouraged me throughout my career, including the JA volunteers who came into my classroom when I was in high school way back in (year redacted).  

What is a piece of financial advice you rely on or wish you had learned earlier? 

Always pay yourself first. Get in the habit of saving at least SOMETHING on a regular basis as early as possible in life. Don’t procrastinate or fall into the trap of “I will start saving later when I earn more” You will NEVER feel like you have ‘extra money’ for savings no matter how much you earn. Compounding is a magical thing that makes your money grow, but it requires time to work. Having SOME money invested is often more important than how much you invest. 

What about the entrepreneurship experience with the JA Company Program do you value when teaching students? 

The start of each semester with a new high school class can be very challenging to get the students to engage or even participate in the program. However, there is usually a point later in the course where the material will “click” with at least a few of the students who realize that this isn’t just some esoteric concept beyond their reach, AND that it could be relevant in their real lives.  

There is a huge sense of accomplishment when the students start asking substantive questions out of genuine interest. The Icing on the cake is when they voluntarily stay a few minutes after class to probe deeper vs instead of bolting the second the bell rings. 

Pro-tip: If you want that gratification from day one, volunteer for the grade school levels instead of high school. You will be a celebrity from the moment you walk in the room, and they will hang on every word. 😊 

What is some advice you would give your high school self? 

Take on more risks and spend more time outside your comfort zone. Failure is a good thing as you are learning from it. Don’t be afraid to take chances for fear of failure. Success is inexorably linked to risk. 

A Note to John from the staff at JA of Central Texas

John, we are beyond grateful for your unwavering service and dedication. You have gone above and beyond to create meaningful change for hundreds of students, inspiring them to dream bigger and work harder toward their goals. Your kindness, expertise, and passion for mentorship resonate deeply with your students, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Moreover, your efforts extend beyond the classroom, as you empower educators with valuable tools and resources to better support their students. By fostering confidence and equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed, you are directly advancing our mission to transform lives and build stronger communities.

Thank you for your incredible commitment and for being a true champion of education and opportunity. We are so fortunate to have you as part of this journey!

~JA Staff

Empowering Students at JA Finance Park: A December to Remember

We, along with our thoughtful volunteers, brought learning to life at our first of two JA Finance Parks this year. Students stepped into adult roles, managing budgets, and making financial decisions while tackling real-world challenges like income disparities and prioritizing expenses. Guided by dedicated volunteers like Rick from Bank OZK, who called it “a great way for kids to interact without filters,” students gained firsthand experience in navigating financial responsibilities. Shlonda from R Bank and Monica also found the event rewarding, with Shlonda sharing, “The kids were awesome. I had a great time learning with them,” and Monica noting, “Hearing what they wanted to spend on sparked great discussions.” Educator, Amy Warshauer, from Lively Middle School added, “I loved the hands-on activities, ratio of mentor to students, organization and flow of the lessons. Great communication and thank you for treating the teachers to an amazing experience along with their students.”

The impact of JA Finance Park extended beyond the classroom as students left inspired and motivated to take charge of their futures. A Burnet Middle School student shared, “I am inspired to take a new action with my money and future. It helps me to be more organized in my expenses.” Another Burnet Middle School student reflected, “It inspired me to actually want to be someone or do something in life. It inspired me to want to study cosmetology.” This mix of financial literacy and personal growth highlighted the transformative power of the program, helping students connect their ambitions to actionable steps.

To cap off their experience, students toured the ACC Make-It Center, a hands-on facility that broadened their horizons and introduced them to potential career paths and technical skills. This seamless blend of practical learning and career exploration underscores JA’s commitment to equipping students with the tools to make informed decisions and achieve their dreams. Thanks to the enthusiasm of students and the dedication of volunteers, JA Finance Park continues to be a gateway to brighter futures.

Click this LINK to learn more about the JA Finance Park experience.

Thank you to all those that made JA Finance Park possible!

JA E2: Entrepreneurship & Empowerment Summit Area-Wide Pitch Competition

Nearly 150 students from eight area high schools attended Junior Achievement’s E2: Entrepreneurship & Empowerment Pitch Competitions at St. Edward’s University to participate in an areawide pitch competition. 

JA E2 offers students a unique Austin entrepreneurial experience, connecting them with diverse professionals and building their self-confidence. The experience begins in the classroom where students work with mentors to learn entrepreneurial skills like design thinking, business planning, budgeting through several sessions that lead up to a classroom pitch competition. The top teams from each school are then invited to E2.

On the E2 field trip day, students work with coaches to polish their presentations and practice public speaking. The day culminates in a pitch competition judged by a panel.

The day’s big winners were Northeast Early College High School, whose team, Magical Arrangements, clinched first place with their heartwarming business concept: personalized greetings for high schoolers, designed for special moments like proposals. These future business leaders walked away with a trophy, cash prize, and, of course, bragging rights.

All of the students brought their best to E2 with innovative ideas and thoughtful business plans. We are so proud of every team for their courage to pitch and the hard work it took to get to E2.

E2 is designed to inspire students to discover their potential, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment

This year’s judges included: 

• JC Estrada, Anchor on CBS Morning News and Independent Filmmaker with Arco Iris Productions

• Mike Rypka, Torchy’s Tacos Founder 

• Joel Coffman, Executive Director at RecognizeGood, and VP of Marketing at TyRex

• Kelly Hediger, Managing Partner at Sales & Marketing Solutions South, Inc.

• Lisa Kottler, Partner at KWP Consulting LLC

• Ira Mercado-Dixon,  Sales Account Executive at Delta Air Lines

High Schools in Attendance:

• Akins Early College High School

• Northeast  Early College High School

• Travis  Early College High School

• McCallum High School

• Anderson High School

• Austin High School

• Weiss High School, PFISD

Thank you to our Partners that made E2 possible!