Press Release

SPARK Institute Kicks Off Financial Literacy Month with Administration Officials and Industry Leaders

Issued by SPARK Institute

Apr. 8, 2026

In a powerful demonstration of industry and government collaboration, the SPARK Institute hosted a Financial Literacy Month Kickoff event with an impressive coalition of U.S. Treasury representatives, federal and state officials, and top private sector visionaries to address the evolving financial literacy landscape.

The event signaled a unified commitment to the belief that financial literacy is not a privilege, but a fundamental right.

“This gathering was more than an event; it’s a moment that matters,” said Tim Rouse, Executive Director of the SPARK Institute. “Financial literacy belongs to everyone, and this is the start of progress toward something better and something lasting.”

Keynote Focus: The Future of Personal Savings

Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, delivered inspiring remarks, drawing from his experience at the Milken Institute and his personal journey as a father. Hassett shared how he opened small investment accounts for his sons at a young age to help them build strong financial literacy, confidence, and lifelong money habits. His thoughtful perspective underscored the power of early, hands-on education in shaping the next generation of savers and investors.

A highlight of the afternoon was a keynote address by Luke Pettit, Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions. Appointed by the Treasury to spearhead the implementation of the new Trump Accounts, Pettit provided critical updates on this emerging savings vehicle. His presence affirmed the administration’s focus on providing Americans with tangible tools and a visible “starting line” to shape their financial futures. Pettit took an active role beyond the podium, “walking the floor” to engage directly with attendees and connect industry ideas with the country’s strategic direction.

A Coalition of Leaders

The kickoff event featured insights from a diverse panel of experts who are actively shaping the national discussion on financial literacy and financial health:

• Tim Rouse, Executive Director of the SPARK Institute
• Sebastian Page, Head of Global Multi-Asset and CIO at T. Rowe Price
• Tom McAndrews, Chief Legal, Corporate, and Government Affairs Officer at MissionSquare
• Laurel Taylor, Founder and CEO of Candidly
• Other leaders from TIIA, Fidelity, SS&C, Retirement Clearing House, Addition Wealth, Lincoln Financial, and Voya

These leaders discussed the current challenges facing American savers and how the financial industry is responding with innovative solutions and advocacy.

Financial Literacy Priorities and Research

During the event, SPARK shared the institute’s key priorities on financial literacy, as well as compelling research on the landscape and challenges. Click here for research and content from SPARK and other industry champions for financial literacy.

About SPARK Institute

The SPARK Institute represents the interests of a broad-based group of retirement plan service providers and investment managers, collectively serving over 100 million participants. SPARK is committed to advancing best practices, innovation, and education across the retirement ecosystem.

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