Meet the team committed to serving Nebraskans through financial education.
We're working toward a stronger Nebraska tomorrow through financial education today. Here's how we do so, and the passion behind our roles.
James Chen - Chief Advancement Officer
"Growing up, I was lucky to have parents who taught me the basic concepts of budgeting and the importance of living within means. However, beyond those principles, I had to teach myself about credit, investing, large purchase planning, etc. As a result, I am empowered to take control of my financial future. The same cannot be said for the vast number of youth and adults across the nation who were not fortunate to receive any financial education, which is where Financial Beginnings' mission fills that gap. Personal finance and education are areas that I'm passionate about and I have the privilege to be in a workspace that can provide access to quality financial education programs."
James assists with the growth and expansion of the organization by opening new affiliate offices across the country.
James assists with the growth and expansion of the organization by opening new affiliate offices across the country.
Chineva Smith - National Program Manager
"Having lived experiences that are similar to the youth and adults that we serve intensifies my passion for equitable and accessible financial education to all. Financial education is one of the most valuable gems that can be passed from generation to generation."
Chineva assists with national growth and expansion efforts, from aspects of partner engagement to the launch and development of new affiliates.
Chineva assists with national growth and expansion efforts, from aspects of partner engagement to the launch and development of new affiliates.
"Together, we can achieve so much more than I could have ever imagined on my own."
CEO Melody Bell
Financial Beginnings Nebraska Board Members
Kath Derisson - Fyvie Financial LLC
FBNE Board member
"Financial Beginnings lets me see our community and youth get excited about financial literacy! It can reach those who need it the most through our school programming and great community partners."
"Financial Beginnings lets me see our community and youth get excited about financial literacy! It can reach those who need it the most through our school programming and great community partners."
Jessica Esch, CPA - HDR, Inc.
FBNE Board member
"Financial literacy is often learned late in life and at too high an expense. I am thrilled to be a part of a program that seeks to ingrain Nebraska's future leaders with these foundational topics at a developmental age, equipping them with the key to financial comfort through adulthood."
"Financial literacy is often learned late in life and at too high an expense. I am thrilled to be a part of a program that seeks to ingrain Nebraska's future leaders with these foundational topics at a developmental age, equipping them with the key to financial comfort through adulthood."
Elizabeth Luckasen, CPA - KPMG
FBNE Board member
"Providing access to financial literacy education at developmental age provides a foundation for long term success and security. Financial Beginnings provides an opportunity to develop these skills early while integrating community partners invested in developing a financially literate community."
"Providing access to financial literacy education at developmental age provides a foundation for long term success and security. Financial Beginnings provides an opportunity to develop these skills early while integrating community partners invested in developing a financially literate community."
Jen Nash - Priceless Financial Coaching
FBOR Board member
"Everyone deserves access to financial literacy."
"Everyone deserves access to financial literacy."
Feel connected to our mission?
We're continually seeking new volunteers and staff to help us deliver our programming to a growing number of Nebraskans.
Come join the team!
Come join the team!