Kellie H., a senior at Overlea High School, won first place and a $1,000 scholarship. Matthew C., a senior at Lansdowne High School, took second place and a $750 scholarship. Breanne P., a senior at Lansdowne High School, came in third and received a $500 scholarship.

The competition was held on January 22 at Sun Trust Bank in downtown Baltimore. The contest required that participants be college bound students with an interest in the financial services industry. Topics for the oratorical competition included the impact of the financial services industry in the United States, financial services as a career choice, and the future of the financial services industry.

“These students have made Baltimore County proud. Their talent, knowledge, and interest in the financial services industry will offer them abundant opportunities to succeed in college and in the world of work,” said Erik Grooms, director of the Academy of Finance programs at Overlea and Lansdowne High Schools.

Established in 1982, the Academy of Finance introduces students to the broad career opportunities in the financial services industry and, in the process, equips them to make sound choices for the future. A member program of the National Academy Foundation, the Academy of Finance operates as a "school within a school" and is located in more than 275 high schools nationwide. BCPS has two Academies of Finance in the system—at Overlea High and Lansdowne High schools.

Through the changing economy of the last 20 years, the Academy of Finance has prepared high school students for successful careers in financial services and in other fields. Through their Academy experience, students gain an understanding of the connections that exist between education and the workplace. Through teachers and industry mentors, the Academy provides students with the curriculum and guidance necessary for rewarding careers.

Story by Marjorie A Hampson Communications Specialist