WEST COLUMBIA, SC -- Airport High School’s Tammi Campbell has been named the Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union Youth Financial Educator of the Year.
Campbell, who chairs Airport’s Career and Technology Education (CATE) Department and teaches a number of business and finance classes, was presented with the award Monday by representatives from Palmetto Citizens and her school. The award, in its 19th year, includes a $1,000 cash prize.
She was recognized for going above and beyond to bring financial education to her classroom.
“A strong foundation of financial literacy education helps support life goals such as obtaining employment, saving for future education and retirement.” Campbell said. “Financial literacy affects all individuals in their daily lives, so it is not just a passing fad. All consumers need to understand the importance of handling their finances responsibly.”
Emilie Lewis, director of community engagement with Palmetto Citizens, was at Monday’s award presentation. “The work Ms. Campbell is doing with her students is impressive and will help them start their financial life on the right foot.”
The Youth Financial Educator of the Year award is the latest achievement for Campbell. She also is a NGPF Distinguished Educator of Personal Finance;, a South Carolina Financial Literacy Master Teacher; received a Personal Finance Graduate Certificate for Educators from Arizona State University, in conjunction with Next Gen Personal Finance; and received a WISE Personal Finance Certification for Educators.
Palmetto Citizens, a former teachers’ credit union, works with many local educators to provide speakers, materials, and other resources as they teach their students about financial topics.