Reynoldsburg High School Students Launch Student-Run Credit Union

Reynoldsburg High School’s Livingston Campus proudly celebrated the soft opening of its new Student-Run Credit Union in partnership with Education First Credit Union, becoming the only high school in the area to offer a fully student-run credit union branch. 

The idea for the program began with business teacher April Bragg, who approached the credit union with a clear and compelling message: “You have to partner with the high school — it’s in your name, Education First. We are education, and we will be the first.” That vision has now become a reality. 

The soft opening event featured student representatives dressed in uniform credit union T-shirts—made by students at Reynoldsburg High School—proudly welcoming their peers and staff while assisting with account openings. 

Representatives from Education First Credit Union, including Angie Freeman, Director of Marketing & Communications; Rusty Young, Member Development Manager; and Courtney Kunysz, Marketing & Communications Specialist, were on site to support students and provide an overview of available financial services, helping attendees learn about saving, budgeting, and responsible banking. 

During the launch, student representatives also opened accounts, gaining valuable firsthand experience in personal finance and member service. The branch provides a unique, real-world learning opportunity while offering convenient banking services to the Reynoldsburg school community. 

Michael Wettrich, President/CEO of Education First Credit Union, said he was especially impressed with the space and students’ commitment to the program.  “What these students learn by working in the student-run credit union will give them a strong foundation for their future. Financial wellness can easily be overlooked when students are surrounded by advertisements for the latest phone or other instant-gratification purchases. By helping them understand the bigger picture—setting financial goals, saving consistently, and budgeting wisely—we are equipping them for lifelong success.” 

Freeman, Young, and Kunysz, members of the credit union team, also expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that the student-run credit union offers students a unique opportunity to gain real-world financial experience while building confidence in managing their finances. 

By becoming the only high school in the area with a student-run credit union, Reynoldsburg High School is leading the way in preparing students for real-world financial success. 

A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration will be scheduled soon. The Student-Run Credit Union looks forward to continuing to serve and grow with the Reynoldsburg community. 

About Education First Credit Union 

Education First Credit Union is committed to serving educators, students, school employees, and their families. The credit union’s mission is to enhance members’ financial position by providing education, quality service, and value-minded financial products.