By Hazel Scott
To help foster early interests in entrepreneurship and lifelong financial education opportunities, Alabama State University has partnered with Synovus Bank to offer a weeklong Youth Entrepreneurship Synovus (Y.E.S.) Seminar to students from 10 tri-county high schools.
The Y.E.S. seminar, which is part of University College’s TRIO Upward Bound’s six-week summer institute, kicked off June 5 and will end on Thursday, June 8, at ASU’s John Garrick Hardy Center.
“This program is important because…it’s helping students target the ability to be able to develop businesses for themselves…and build net worth for their families,” said Dr. Acquanetta M. Pinkard, Director of TRIO Programs.
Synovus Bank will work with 50 high school students on developing business plans and financial management. Each student will receive a monetary stipend for participating. Three to five students with top business plans and elevator pitches will receive additional monetary refunds.
“The program is totally funded by Synovus,” said Pinkard.
Synovus’ program, Pinkard said, was named to reflect the bank’s desire to tell young entrepreneurs “Yes” after likely hearing “No” throughout their pursuits.
Pinkard pointed out Synovus selected Alabama State University for its Youth Entrepreneurship Seminar because of the University’s longstanding service to the community.
“Both organizations are committed to Upward Bound and advancing financial education for youth to prepare them to make informed financial decisions and be successful leaders in their communities,” said Pinkard.
The week will wrap up with a Y.E.S. graduation with special student recognitions.