MORAGA, Calif. — University Credit Union and Saint Mary’s College have announced a new partnership that includes one unique element: students will be given the opportunity to manage a portion of the CU’s investment portfolio.
The partnership involves all aspects of the college, including its athletic program.
In a statement, the credit union said the objective is to provide students, alumni, faculty and staff with comprehensive financial services, a dean’s choice grant program, sponsored student research opportunities and case study partnerships.
“As part of class curriculum, the student body also will have the opportunity to manage a small allocation of University Credit Union’s investment portfolio,” University Credit Union said.
The deal will also include University Credit Union ATMs on campus, a future branch on campus and additional funding to the existing food pantry as well. An affinity alumni debit/credit card program will be introduced that will offer benefits and incentives.
The financials related to the partnership were not released. Saint Mary's College is located 23 miles east of San Francisco.
‘Aligned Values’
“University Credit Union and Saint Mary’s College have aligned values when it comes to making a difference in the lives of students and inspiring innovation,” Saint Mary’s College President James A. Donahue said.
During a press conference on campus, Donahue and Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Mike Matoso introduced University Credit Union as the “first comprehensive partner for Saint Mary’s College that will be integrated within both athletics and the campus.”
The agreement includes naming and sponsorship opportunities with Saint Mary’s Athletic Department, including the rebranded University Credit Union Pavilion, home to Saint Mary’s men’s basketball, women’s basketball and women’s volleyball. University Credit Union signage will be visible throughout Saint Mary’s Athletics’ venues and on the floor inside University Credit Union Pavilion.
“University Credit Union is honored to partner with Saint Mary’s College. This partnership will provide financial services and education to give the Saint Mary’s College community a financial edge on campus and beyond,” said University Credit Union President David Tuyo. “University Credit Union looks forward to serving and being an integral part of the Saint Mary’s community.”
CU Already Sponsors Athletic Conference
The two organizations said the partnership comes at a time when both are experiencing high-profile success across the board. Saint Mary’s Athletics continues to be ranked among the nation’s best in men’s basketball and men’s soccer, each in the Top-30 nationally, while Saint Mary’s College was recently ranked as one of the Top 5 Regional Universities in the West by U.S. News and World Report.
University Credit Union recently became the Official Financial Services Partner of the West Coast Conference and the sponsor of the WCC Basketball Championships.
Los Angeles-based University Credit Union has approximately $728-million in assets and 41,000 members.