2/7/25
Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC) student-athletes are excelling beyond the classroom
and the playing field thanks to Student-Athlete Financial Literacy Workshops hosted by ValleyStar Credit Union. During the Fall 2024 semester, 87 student-athletes—nearly 70% of all P&HCC student-athletes—participated in the workshops, gaining essential financial skills to prepare for success both on and off the field.
The workshops provided hands-on guidance in critical areas such as budgeting, saving, credit management, and financial planning, offering student-athletes the tools they need to make informed decisions about their financial futures. This initiative aligns with P&HCC’s broader mission of preparing students for lifelong success.
“We are committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes who can succeed in every aspect of life,” said Brian Henderson, assistant vice president for student engagement, adding, “These workshops empower our athletes to take charge of their financial futures and build strong foundations for whatever comes next—whether that’s continuing their education, entering the workforce, or pursuing their athletic dreams.”
The program’s success highlights the value of community partnerships, with ValleyStar Credit Union playing a key role in making the workshops impactful and engaging.
“This initiative reflects the power of what can happen when we invest in our students. By partnering with ValleyStar Credit Union, we are giving our student-athletes the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions that will benefit them throughout their lives. This is just one example of how we prioritize the success of our students in and out of the classroom,” said Tiffani Underwood, executive director of the P&HCC Foundation.
Student-athletes responded positively to the workshops, with many citing increased confidence in managing their personal finances. Laila Rodriguez, a women’s softball player, described the program as “a game-changer,” adding, “It’s helping me better manage my finances now, and I know these skills will carry over into every part of my future.”
ValleyStar Credit Union’s commitment to financial education demonstrates its dedication to the local community and the next generation of leaders.
“At ValleyStar, we’re proud to partner with P&HCC to invest in their student-athletes,” said Mike Warrell, CEO of ValleyStar Credit Union. “Financial literacy is a critical life skill, and we’re thrilled to see so many athletes taking this opportunity to prepare for a successful future. Education and training are the foundation of overall corporate strategy. ValleyStar’s continued investment in furthering education and knowledge in the communities we serve, and each of our wonderful employees aligns perfectly with our future success.”
With plans to expand the program in the coming semesters, P&HCC continues to lead the way in providing holistic student development opportunities.
For more information about P&HCC’s Student-Athlete Financial Literacy Workshops or to learn more about the college’s innovative student engagement initiatives, visit www.patrickhenry.edu.
In the photo: ValleyStar representative Kathleen Penn works with a student-athlete to complete account documentation.