News | CFTEA | Center for Financial Training & Education Alliance

The Power of Storytelling in Leadership: A Transformative Experience at Training 2025

February 17, 2025

At Training Magazine’s Training 2025 Conference & Expo, today’s keynote session was more than just a presentation—it was an immersive experience in curiosity, compassion, and change. Led by Narrative 4’s Kandice Cole and Lee Keylock, this interactive session challenged participants to step into the power of storytelling as a leadership tool. There was excitement and apprehension. Through a unique “Story Exchange” methodology, participants paired up to share personal stories—deeply listening and reflecting on life-changing moments. Then, they took on an

Unlock Your Potential with Affordable CFTEA College Credits

February 14, 2025

Are you looking to advance your career or expand your knowledge? ✨ CFTEA and St. Joseph’s College offer a fantastic opportunity to earn college credits that can help you achieve your goals! CFTEA courses cost $116 per credit hour and lead directly to a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Banking Major. Find out more at https://cftea.org/academics/degrees/ Benefits of CFTEA Credits: Affordable Education: CFTEA courses are cost-effective, with credits transferring seamlessly to St. Joseph’s College at far below

Spotlight on Success: Nathanael Blake

February 11, 2025

Spotlight on Success: Nathanael Blake Meet Nathanael Blake, one of the newest members of Claremont Savings Bank (CSB). Nathanael joined CSB in September 2024, demonstrating remarkable initiative and an unwavering commitment to advancing his knowledge in the lending industry. His dedication paid off swiftly, as he was promoted to Mortgage Loan Originator in January 2025. Nathanael’s enthusiasm and drive are truly inspiring. His recent achievement of completing the ABA Residential Mortgage Lender Certificate through CFTEA is a testament to his

Quality Education Shouldn’t Break the Bank

February 10, 2025

Quality education shouldn’t break the bank.CFTEA offers a comprehensive library of professional development training at substantially reduced prices, making it easier than ever to invest in your team’s growth. “By choosing CFTEA, we not only save on training but also positively impact the community,” says a local L&D professional. Explore our programs today! https://cftea.org/Additionally, CFTEA reinvested over $30,000 in our communities during the 2023-2024 fiscal year! This includes 145 free courses, workbooks, board training, and even exam retakes.

CFTEA Welcomes Jennifer Smith to the CFTEA Council!

February 5, 2025

CFTEA Council Spotlight: Jennifer Smith AVP, Retail Experience Officer Union Bank Meet Jennifer Smith, AVP and Retail Experience Officer at Union Bank, who enthusiastically gained more information on CFTEA from CFTEA Board Member, Melissa Greene, and has joined as a new CFTEA council member. Driven by her own experience, Jennifer is passionate about promoting financial literacy and education, which she believes is a fundamental right for all. Why CFTEA? Jennifer’s journey to CFTEA council is rooted in her commitment to

Meghan Crider Joins CFTEA Council, Bringing Passion for Education and Community Development

November 15, 2024

Council Spotlight: Meghan Crider Virginia National Bank Meghan Crider, President of Educational Programs at Virginia National Bank, is a dedicated advocate for education and community development. Her commitment to professional growth is evident in her recent decision to join the council of the Center for Financial Training and Education Alliance (CFTEA). Why CFTEA? Reflecting on her interactions with CFTEA, Meghan shared, “I believe in CFTEA’s mission – to empower students to achieve their goals, support organizations to realize success, and

Announcing New Council Member, Andy McClement

November 8, 2024

CFTEA Council Spotlight: Andy McClement Human Resource Administrator Franklin Savings Bank CFTEA is thrilled to welcome Andy McClement of Franklin Savings Bank to the CFTEA Regional Advisory Council! Andy has been a long-time key supporter of CFTEA. “I have attended the CFTEA Leaders Conference for years and have always enjoyed the people and the events. I also strongly believe in CFTEA’s mission in providing high quality education for an affordable price point to further enhance the quality of bankers within

Announcing New Council Member, Christine Goth

November 1, 2024

Christine Goth Learning & Development Specialist, Kennebec Savings Bank Christine Goth, the Learning & Development Specialist at Kennebec Savings Bank, is a dedicated professional who has quickly made a significant impact in her role. With just over a year of experience, Christine has demonstrated a strong commitment to understanding and leveraging educational opportunities to benefit her colleagues. Her passion for professional growth is evident in her recent decision to join the council of CFTEA (Center for Financial Training and

TowneBank Employees Earn Sapphire Award and Making a Difference Award!

October 30, 2024

TowneBank employees and CFTEA Board Members, Julie Stevens and Robyn Walters, were recognized at the 2024 CFTEA Leaders Conference for their large contributions to CFTEA as a non-profit organization. Julie Stevens accepted the Sapphire Award in recognition of TowneBank being a key contributor, actively promoting learning and development for their employees, and going the extra mile to support Executive Director, Andrew Lederer, when conducting on-site training at Towne University. The dedication to continued education for the TowneBank family is unique

Welcoming New Council Member, Makayla Griggs

October 25, 2024

Makayla Griggs Training Coordinator, Union Bank Makayla Griggs, the Training Coordinator at Union Bank, has a remarkable journey that showcases her dedication to professional growth and her passion for learning. Starting her career with no prior banking experience, Makayla’s story is proof to the power of education and the impact of supportive training programs. Makayla began her career at Union Bank as a Float Teller. Eager to learn more about the banking industry, she enrolled in the “Principles of