Set Friday was major last week as Chase presented their “Back To The Yard” event complete with free food from local vendors, financial advice, games, raffles, special guests and student performances. Amazon was also present and donated $50,000 towards student scholarships and initiatives.
Transitioning to a hybrid set Friday experience, this special edition took place at the Will Packer Performing Arts Amphitheater and on the “Set.” Students were encouraged to get active while on campus through initiatives like voter registration, photo booths, vendors and informational sessions.
The #BackToTheYard experience sought to educate Florida A&M University (FAMU) students on financial literacy and resources available to them. This takeover series has traveled to other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) across the country such as Howard University and Delaware State University.
Karribean Johnson, a Chase representative, emphasizes the event’s purpose in cultivating discussion amongst students about building wealth and managing money efficiently.
“The idea is the students are the future and we want to change the narrative about financial literacy, and make that a number one priority that students can get excited about,” Johnson said.
Hosted by Jamila Mustafa, an award-winning journalist and former Miss DSU, Set Friday exuded a tangible positive energy. Everyone gathered to participate in popular line dances, cheer on their favorite organization and watch highlighted students demonstrate their talent. Despite the technical issues and blazing Tallahassee sun, spirits were high for everything Chase had to offer.
The #BackToTheYard money booth was a highlighted game that gave students the opportunity to catch a few bucks and challenged them to make reasonable decisions with their earnings. This activity directly targeting financial decisions helped students understand how to save, reinvest and spend their money.
FAMU’s very own also got the chance to showcase their passions and participate in Amazon’s HBCU Music Challenge. Several students who were singers and rappers were able to perform an original song and promote themselves to their peers.
Elizabeth Young, a FAMU alumna that goes by the stage name, Izzy Joven, was appreciative of the opportunity.
“It was my second time performing, but it taught me so much,” Young said. “I hope to perform more at FAMU, the crowd was amazing.”
As the crowd favorite, Young was awarded a $500 Amazon gift card and a book scholarship.
Major events like “Back To The Yard” show how FAMU continues to be an award-winning HBCU recognized for its talented and inspirational students striving to make a difference.
Students can visit https://www.chase.com/personal/back-to-the-yard for more information and resources.