Members 1st Federal Credit Union announced a new partnership with East Stroudsburg University (ESU) through the university’s Employer Provided Innovation Challenges (EPIC) program, a first‑of‑its‑kind experiential learning model in Pennsylvania designed to connect students with real‑world business and community challenges.
The partnership brings together Members 1st, ESU faculty, and ESU students to pilot
an applied workforce development collaboration focused on financial literacy, financial
wellness, and community‑centered innovation. The EPIC program is affiliated with the
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s EPIC initiative and is designed to be
scalable, credentialed and outcomes‑driven.
During the eight‑week program, ESU students will work on two applied projects: a
Pocono Financial Wellness Blueprint focused on localized education, employer
partnerships and outreach for small businesses, commuters and tourism‑driven
workers; and a Financial Literacy Innovation Lab developing standards‑aligned tools
such as interactive budgeting simulations and mobile‑friendly lessons to support
Pennsylvania schools preparing for expanded financial literacy requirements.
“This partnership reflects exactly who we are as a credit union,” said Christine
Pavlakovich, Chief Operating Officer at Members 1st Federal Credit Union. “By
collaborating with East Stroudsburg University through the EPIC program, we are
investing in students, strengthening financial education across our communities and
advancing innovative solutions that align with our long‑term mission. It is about growth
with purpose and preparing the next generation of financial leaders and informed
consumers.”
From ESU’s perspective, the partnership offers students hands‑on professional
experience while reinforcing the university’s commitment to applied learning and
workforce readiness.
“East Stroudsburg University (ESU) is proud to partner with Members 1st Federal Credit
Union on its latest EPIC project—an innovative, nationally recognized initiative led by
the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation that is transforming how students prepare
for the workforce. As the first university in Pennsylvania selected to participate in this
prestigious program, ESU continues to demonstrate its leadership in experiential, realworld learning,” said Sylvester Williams, Dean of ESU’s College of Business and
Management.
