Honoring Excellence in Financial Education
Christopher Sneed, a respected assistant professor and consumer economics expert at the University of Tennessee Extension, has been honored as the Educator of the Year for 2023 by the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE). This accolade is part of the 2023 AFCPE Awards that celebrate individuals, teams, and initiatives enhancing the accessibility of financial education tools and resources nationwide. Sneed’s recognition came through the prestigious Mary Ellen Edmondson Educator of the Year Award, underscoring his significant contributions to consumer finance education and public awareness.
Impactful Career in Financial Literacy
For almost two decades, Christopher Sneed has dedicated himself to enhancing financial and consumer education through the UT Extension, evolving from an Extension agent to a tenured faculty member specializing in Extension. His extensive service includes impactful research, innovative program development, dynamic training sessions, and successful grant pursuits. Janet Fox, UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Director, highlighted in her nomination letter how Dr. Sneed’s achievements align perfectly with the criteria of the award, noting his dedication to fostering significant advancements in financial literacy through his creative and resourceful educational efforts.
A Legacy of Service and Education
Dr. Sneed’s educational programs address critical needs across various domains. He has developed initiatives like “The Time to Talk,” which empowers consumers to engage in cost-effective discussions with healthcare providers, and “Shop Smart Tennessee,” aimed at improving food accessibility for low-income families. His “Money Week” program, endorsed by the Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission, along with his widely viewed financial management videos on social media and YouTube, have made substantial impacts. A prolific contributor to his field, Dr. Sneed has secured over $42 million in grants and authored numerous publications, embodying a commitment to extending financial literacy to broader audiences.
Dr. Sneed expressed his firm belief in the transformative power of financial education, stating, “Education can significantly equalize societal disparities by equipping individuals with the knowledge to improve their circumstances.” He remains committed to broadening the reach of economic education, ensuring that it benefits diverse communities across various walks of life. With ongoing efforts to enhance financial literacy, Dr. Sneed continues to advocate for the essential role of education in achieving societal equity and personal advancement.