MADISON, Wis. (4/1/16)--National Financial Literacy Month begins today, and with it, the public recognition by elected officials of the importance of financial education--a keystone of the credit union movement.

President Barack Obama proclaimed April as National Financial Capability Month. “This month, let us encourage informed financial decisions and promote resources that help the American people make them,” he wrote in Thursday’s proclamation.

Governors nationwide signed proclamations for Financial Literacy Month as well, while some specifically noted Money Smart Week, April 23-30, or Credit Union Youth Month. County commissions and city councils also issued proclamations about the importance of financial education.

Pennsylvania Credit Union Association President/CEO Patrick Conway was on hand for the announcement of Gov. Tom Wolf’s proclamation. "For decades, Pennsylvania’s credit unions have worked tirelessly with members and in the community to promote financial education,” Conway said during the presentation (Life is a Highway March 30). “I want to thank the governor and secretary for allowing us to be a part of today’s program and for their support of financial education for all Pennsylvanians."