November 5, 2008
Who's Who at OGSLP?
Lacy Myers
Department: Oklahoma Money Matters
Title: Communications Coordinator
Years with OGSLP: 2
How do your daily duties directly impact OGSLP's customers?
I help our school and lender customers maximize their communication with borrowers and reach students and families to educate them about smart borrowing and money management. It’s my goal to help develop innovative, informative programs, Web content and publications that help students become educated consumers and make work life a little easier for our customers.
What advice would you give to someone in our industry who's new to working with student loans and financial literacy?
- Find a mentor and ask questions. When I first started at OGSLP, it was encouraging to learn that many of my colleagues have been with the agency for 15 - 20 years. That’s a lot of collective knowledge! Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you don’t know the answer; look to your co-workers and industry partners as a resource.
- Keep the ultimate goal in mind. In this business, what we do directly impacts students and makes a difference in their lives. When things get crazy—and they sometimes do—remember you’re making a difference in a student’s education and ultimately, the quality of his or her life. What a privilege and responsibility!
What do you find most challenging about working with student loans and debt management?
Writing about student loans, especially when referencing federal regulations, can be challenging because the topic is typically presented in a very formal way. We work hard to simplify complex information so it’s easier for students and families to understand, especially students who are first in their family to go to college.
What are some of the unique services your department provides our customers?
Our department, in itself, is unique. OGSLP is a financial literacy pioneer with a department dedicated to financial education. We work directly with our school and lender partners to help them develop a customized approach to teaching personal finance and loan management principles. We offer a wide range of free services, including workshops, Web content, podcasts, and print materials, and we meet with our customers one-on-one to develop strategies that reflect the needs and characteristics of their students and local community.
What are your hobbies or interests?
I relax by doing, so my hobbies and interests range from sports to travel to the outdoors. I mostly enjoy spending time with my husband, Daniel, and volunteering at our church.