Canopy’s Student Ambassador Program Equips Students for Success

September 26, 2023

Canopy's student ambassadors experienced the programs three parts — education, community service and reflection.

In an era of growing financial education awareness, Canopy Credit Union launched the Student Ambassador Program to offer local students a hands-on learning opportunity.

Canopy hosted four students this summer from across Spokane, where the credit union is based. These students were chosen because of their passion for community and desire to learn more about finances.

“At Canopy, we are all about being innovative and trying new things to best serve our members and community. The Student Ambassador Program was an idea our team dreamed up out of a desire to offer a higher level of education and experience for youth in our community,” said Megan Shover, Canopy’s vice president of culture and marketing.

The ambassador program consisted of three parts. First, students were invited to Canopy’s headquarters for an all-day boot camp in July. Students toured the credit union, participated in a mini-version of the GoWest Foundation-supported financial education simulation, Bite of Reality, and learned about Canopy’s vision to create a happier and healthier community through financial inclusion. The day ended with the students taking professional headshots, a perk of the program to support the students in their academic and career journeys. 

“Meeting the other ambassadors and spending the day at Canopy was a really cool experience,” said Ajla Munanovic, a student ambassador. 

The second piece of the program was focused on community service, encouraging the students to actively participate in creating an impact in their community. A few of the ambassadors joined Canopy’s staff to volunteer with the Women & Children’s Free Restaurant and Community Kitchen meal and grocery pickup. Another ambassador served at Second Harvest packing food for those in need. 

Lastly, the ambassadors reflected on their experiences through three different projects. The students wrote blog posts on topics including their personal stories, a financial topic they were interested in and responded to the idea of “do well while doing good.” 

“I learned so much about finances, which has helped me prepare for my future,” said student ambassador Gabbie White.

Canopy plans to welcome another student ambassador cohort next year and will continue to find innovative ways to educate and guide everyone toward financial wellness. 

Posted in Regional Member News, Washington.