School of Economics and UMB recently hosted a Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting in celebration of the opening of the School of Economics at UMB. The new downtown location will help School of Economics nearly double its impact and serve an estimated total of 20,000 kids during the 2019-2020 school year. Jim Rine, the president and CEO of UMB Bank, shares his excitement for the full launch of the nonprofit’s second site, located on UMB’s downtown campus.
It’s official! The School of Economics at UMB is now open and ready to provide financial education programs to thousands of students from across the Kansas City area. We recently had the chance to celebrate‡ this milestone with the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Quinton Lucas and dozens of other community and business leaders with a ribbon cutting ceremony. 
At UMB, we have always believed it is critical for children to learn the basics of personal finance and money management. So, when the opportunity arose to help the School of Economics‡ expand and open a second location onsite at UMB, we knew it was a perfect fit. By bringing its programming to downtown, we are able to help School of Economics eventually double its impact and provide financial education to even more Kansas City students.
School of Economics takes an innovative and responsive approach to tackling one of this region’s most important community needs — financial education. The program introduces students to small business management, supply and demand, customer service and important money management skills. It has been our honor to work with School of Economics and to show the community the true impact it has on our youth.
The real-world experience kids have at School of Economics introduces them to career options, develops leadership skills, encourages teamwork and lets them be in charge and learn about personal finances — all while tackling challenges and enjoying the rewards of running a business. I invite you to read more about the School of Economics in the links below, and hear remarks by Mayor Lucas, the KC Chamber and School of Economics leadership from the ribbon cutting ceremony in the video.
Read more about the School of Economics at UMB:
- Exchange City might be gone, but Kansas City kids still take field trips to run their own businesses, KCUR
- School of Economics opens downtown program for city kids, CityScene KC
- Fox 4 interview at the ribbon cutting ceremony
Stay informed on industry trends and noteworthy company news by visiting our UMB in the News section on umb.com. Follow UMB on LinkedIn‡, Facebook‡ and Twitter‡ to see regular updates about our company, people and timely financial perspectives.
