8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Pre-Conference Session
Explore and Restore: Nature Walk and Habitat Restoration
Sponsored by U.S. Bank
Join us for a morning of community service and nature exploration in partnership with local nonprofit, Ocean Connectors. Enjoy a guided nature walk to discover the area’s unique ecosystem, lend a hand in restoring the local habitat, and learn how environmental sustainability contributes to climate resilience through hands-on conservation efforts.
Wear casual and comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Sunscreen provided.
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Pre-Conference Session
FinX Workshop: Spend the Day in Your Customer’s Shoes | $150
Sponsored by Wells Fargo
Supporting consumers’ financial health starts with empathy. This unique half-day experience takes you into the local community to navigate the financial challenges that many people face each day. By stepping into your customer’s shoes, you’ll be better equipped to create products and services that align with their financial realities. Come experience FinX, thanks to the generous support of Wells Fargo.
Wear casual and comfortable clothes and shoes, as you will be visiting local establishments with consumers completing their daily activities.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Member-Exclusive Lunch: Your EMERGE Experience Starts Here
Start your EMERGE journey alongside fellow Members. This welcome lunch is designed to orient you to the full Member experience at EMERGE, spark new connections, and set the tone for meaningful engagement throughout the event. Whether you’re reconnecting or meeting for the first time, this is a chance to build relationships, share what you’re most excited about, and pick up tips for making the most of your time here.
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Networking Break
Move, connect, and refuel for what’s next.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Main Stage Sessions
Keynote Address
Jennifer Tescher, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Financial Health Network
Opportunity Knocks: A Family’s Journey to Financial Health
Discover the inspiring story of Charles and Tiffany White, a family who worked to overcome financial challenges with help from the empowerment coaches on “Opportunity Knocks” on PBS. After enduring medical hardships, job losses, and financial setbacks, the Whites forged a path to stability with support from the show as well as The Opportunity Initiative, the largest economic mobility campaign in U.S. history. Join us to explore their journey, the power of financial resilience, and the transformative doors opened with access to the right resources.
Jamie Strayer, Creator and Executive Producer, Opportunity Knocks
Bonnie Wallace, Head of Financial Health Philanthropy, Wells Fargo
Charles White, Senior Pastor, Lake City Church
Tiffany White, Associate Pastor, Lake City Church
Moderator: Michael Cyr, Executive Director, The Opportunity Initiative
From the Bank to the Business: Building Stronger Connections
Delve into the evolving relationship between financial institutions and small businesses in this candid conversation. We’ll share valuable insights into what drives financial health for small businesses, how banks strive to support small businesses’ distinct needs, and how those efforts impact entrepreneurs navigating their financial journeys. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear perspectives from both sides of the banking relationship.
Devon Bray, Small Business Regional Leader, U.S. Bank
Sekou Kaalund, Head of Branch and Small Business Banking, U.S. Bank
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Networking Break
Move, connect, and refuel for what’s next.
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Creating Community: Role-Based Breakout Sessions
Collaborate with leaders in similar roles or functions during these purposeful interactive sessions. Each of the five functional groups will bring together leaders ready to engage in meaningful discussions about common challenges, opportunities, and strategies for advancing financial health. Share insights from your personal experiences, learn how others are making an impact, and leave with new relationships and connections to help you drive your work forward.
Select the functional area that best aligns with your role and interests.
Human Resources: Meet fellow HR leaders to share strategies supporting employee financial well being and create workplace cultures that prioritize financial health.
Benjamin Mahnkey, Benefits Manager, Financial Health, Amazon
FinHealth Strategy: Connect with other finhealth champions to dive into organizational financial health strategies that drive measurable outcomes.
Justin Botimer, Partner Development Manager, GreenPath Financial Wellness
Nikole Rosenberg, Portfolio Health, TD Bank
Marketing: Join innovative marketing and communications professionals to share strategies for building awareness around financial health initiatives.
Jonathan Hanson, SVP Member Engagement and Marketing Strategy, VyStar Credit Union
Product, Digital, and Customer Experience: Come together with product, digital, and CX pathfinders to share innovations in product design, solutions, and experiences that empower financial health.
Adam Davis, Vice President of Financial Health and Liquidity, Capital One
Balaji Ponnuswamy, Senior Vice President, Financial Health, BECU
Community and Government Relations: Link with community development, CRA, policy, and foundation leaders to explore partnerships, policy initiatives, and community engagement strategies promoting financial health at social scale.
Brandon Kelly, Community Reinvestment Officer, Square Financial Services
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Networking Reception and Dinner (offsite)
Beach House, Belmont Park
Join us for a relaxed evening of connection and conversation at this oceanfront oasis. With soft sands beneath your feet and the soothing sounds of the waves surrounding you, it’s the perfect setting to mingle and network with fellow attendees. Take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as the sun sets on an unforgettable night.
9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
After-Hours Networking
Brewery X, Sheraton San Diego Resort
6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
Scenic Kayak and Paddle Baord Excursion on the San Diego Bay
Sponsored by U.S. Bank
Discover the beauty of the San Diego Bay on a fun and easy water adventure – no experience needed! Choose between a kayak or stand-up paddle board as you glide past iconic sights like the Coronado Bridge, downtown skyline, and Point Loma while enjoying one of the West Coast’s most stunning natural harbors. Keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, dolphins, and coastal birds as you paddle through calm waters. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or the perfect photo op, kayaking in the San Diego Bay is an unforgettable experience!
Sunscreen provided.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Innovation Breakfast Briefings
Get a helping of finhealth insights with your breakfast as we share fresh perspectives on today’s most pressing topics.
*Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beyond the Business: Measuring the Financial Health of Entrepreneurs
Presented by Citi
For decades, efforts to advance financial inclusion have focused on expanding access—especially for small businesses and underserved communities. But access alone doesn’t guarantee financial mobility. As funders, lenders and fintechs champion entrepreneurship as a wealth-building strategy, traditional metrics like loan repayment and business growth often overlook the personal financial health of the entrepreneur. In this session, hear from leaders using new tools to assess impact more holistically and learn how they’re helping ensure that businesses – and the people behind them – thrive.
Sheri Flanigan-Vazquez, Chief Operating Officer, Justine PETERSEN
Prolonged Parenting in an Era of Extended Longevity
Presented by AARP
Longevity is changing how we anticipate and prepare for major life transitions – including how parents support their adult children. This session explores the dynamics of “prolonged parenting,” drawing on new data and insights to examine how this shift is affecting household finances, intergenerational relationships, retirement planning, and long-term financial security. We’ll also highlight opportunities for financial services, fintech, and policymakers to better support the evolving realities of multigenerational families.
9:30 AM – 10:40 AM
Main Stage Sessions
Financial Resilience in the Face of Natural Disasters
A collection of moving firsthand accounts from community leaders, disaster recovery experts, and financial service providers helping individuals and neighborhoods navigate the long road to financial recovery after climate crises. Hear from those overcoming insurance roadblocks, securing emergency aid, and rethinking homeownership in disaster-prone areas. We’ll explore what it takes to build a financial system that supports climate resilience – before, during, and after a crisis.
Jake Bittle, Journalist, Grist
Adrienne Goolsby, Senior Vice President U.S. & Canada Operations, Habitat for Humanity International
Moderator: Rachel Schneider, Chief Executive Officer, Canary Benefits
Charting the Future of Financial Health
Join us to explore the evolving landscape of financial health. This engaging discussion considers how financial institutions can drive meaningful change, promote economic well-being, and foster financial resilience for individuals and communities. This conversation provides valuable perspectives on shaping a more impactful financial future.
Peter Jacobs, Chief Executive Officer, ING Netherlands
Jennifer Tescher, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Financial Health Network
10:40 AM -11:15 AM
Networking Break
Move, connect, and refuel for what’s next.
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Breakout Sessions
Our morning and afternoon breakout sessions cover similar topics but are designed to stand alone. Feel free to attend either session (or both!) based on your interests—no need to attend one to benefit from the other. Each session offers unique insights and opportunities for engagement.
People-Centered Solutions: Innovating for Climate Resilience
Climate change poses unprecedented financial challenges for Americans, from managing unexpected expenses during weather events to preparing financially for future disasters. Which solutions can help them build resilience? In this interactive session, attendees break into small groups to spark innovation around two distinct consumer needs: immediate disaster response and future financial planning. You’ll explore the pressing challenges consumers face, discover innovative approaches companies are taking, and leave with actionable ideas to address this urgent issue.
Frontiers in Measurement: Utilizing Survey and Transaction Data
What does effective financial health measurement look like in 2025? While organizations have relied on the Financial Health Network’s survey-based FinHealth Score® for years to track customer and employee financial health, companies are increasingly also using transaction-based data to glean new insights. As access to financial data expands, how and when should organizations use each approach to build a more complete picture of financial health? In this session, explore how practitioners are combining survey and transactional data to generate meaningful, actionable insights that drive impact.
Eloise Duncan, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Financial Resilience Institute
Moderator: Taylor Nelms, Vice President of Research and Insights, Financial Health Network
Beyond Good Intentions: Industry Progress and Accountability on Financial Health
With banking regulations in flux and consumer financial health at stake, how are financial institutions stepping up – or falling short? This session offers an exclusive first look at the Financial Health Network’s industry assessment results against our new financial health standards for financial services providers, providing a telling view of where the industry stands meeting the financial needs of U.S. households. We’ll discuss the role of corporate accountability in advancing financial health, explore what’s working and where gaps remain, and consider how institutions can move beyond good intentions to measurable impact. Join us to explore ways to embed financial health into business models, make the case for investment, and navigate a shifting regulatory environment.
Ian Moloney, Senior Vice President, Head of Policy and Regulatory Affairs, American Fintech Council
Innovator Showcase: Fintech Solutions for the Moments That Matter
Meet the fintech founders and CEOs shaping the future of financial health. In a series of rapid-fire presentations, they’ll showcase innovative solutions designed to support people through the financial moments that matter—whether through small business lending, family banking, personalized financial guidance, or other emerging approaches. A brief Q&A between the presenters and industry experts will follow. Then, cast your vote to help select the most impactful solution.
Amon Anderson, Managing Partner, Acumen America
Kai Stinchcombe, Chief Executive Officer, True Link
Essential Benefits: Balancing Creative Tensions in the Modern Workplace
Where do you stand on the best ways to improve worker financial health? Does your organization agree on this approach, or are there differing perspectives and nuances to consider? In this dynamic interactive session, participants in groups share where they stand on a topic based on where they stand in the room. Through facilitated prompts, you’ll “pick a side” and have a chance to reflect, explore context, and celebrate moments of dialogue and broadened perspectives.
It Takes a Village: Global Perspectives on Financial Health
Financial health challenges vary across markets, but solutions being tested globally offer valuable and inspiring innovations for the future of financial health in the U.S. and beyond. Dive into how different countries are tackling financial inclusion, resilience, and security in this unique session – with a focus on international policies, partnerships, and products making an impact. Industry leaders discuss what’s working, what’s not, and which lessons can be applied to improve the financial health of people in America.
12:15 PM – 1:30 PM
Innovation Lunch Briefings
Get a helping of finhealth insights with your lunch as we share fresh perspectives on today’s most pressing topics.
*Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Networking Break
Move, connect, and refuel for what’s next.
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Breakout Sessions
Our morning and afternoon breakout sessions cover similar topics but are designed to stand alone. Feel free to attend either session (or both!) based on your interests—no need to attend one to benefit from the other. Each session offers unique insights and opportunities for engagement.
People-Centered Solutions: Strengthening Financial Health Across Generations
From taking on student loans to preparing for retirement, our financial priorities evolve as we age. This session explores the finhealth needs of consumers throughout their financial journeys, encouraging participants to focus on tailored solutions for different age groups. Through real-life stories, data insights, and small-group brainstorming, you’ll gain fresh ideas for solutions that meet generational needs while still supporting each customer’s unique goals.
Doug Haehl, Senior Project Marketing Manager, EVERFI
Moderator: Julie Miller, PhD, MSW, Director of Thought Leadership, Financial Resilience, AARP
Open Banking: How Can Data Access Improve Financial Health?
While access to financial data can help improve consumer financial health, an effective data ecosystem also requires appropriate definitions, standards, and norms for how data will be shared and used. Learn about the latest developments in open banking in this interactive session, and engage in a discussion on how data access can improve financial health and what challenges remain in creating an effective data sharing system.
Jane Barratt, Chief Advocacy Officer and Head of Global Public Policy at MX
Corey Stone, Senior Advisor, Financial Health Network
Supporting How Customers Manage Spending
Have you ever wished you had more prescriptive practices about how you can help improve customers’ financial health? Earlier this year, the Financial Health Network released standards for financial institutions to support how consumers manage spending. These practices are first in our series of industry standards designed for financial services companies. Join us for this interactive discussion to learn about the new standards and evaluate how your own primary financial institution stacks up against the list.
Amit Aggarwal, Managing Director, Digital Solutions, J.D. Power
Innovator Showcase: The Power of Partnerships
Emerging technologies like AI are revolutionizing financial services, but their greatest impact may emerge when fintechs collaborate with financial institutions, government agencies, and other mission aligned partners. In this session, hear from fintech founders and CEOs advancing new and innovative approaches to enhance customer engagement and improve financial health outcomes. The rapid-fire presentations will be followed by an interactive Q&A with industry experts, then cast your vote for the most promising partnership-driven innovation.
Colin Horsford, Chief Executive Officer, Muse
Building Financial Security at Work: Balancing Employee Needs and Business Realities
Workplace financial solutions have the power to transform employees’ financial lives – but delivering them effectively requires balancing employee needs, business priorities, and broader economic realities. This session will explore real-world strategies for creating emergency savings and wealth-building initiatives that work for both employees and employers. Hear from workplace experts who are leading the way, learn from employee experiences, and walk away with insights to build sustainable solutions in your own organization.
Timothy Flacke, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth
Rethinking Financial Services for People With Disabilities
More than 40 million Americans today are living with a disability, yet this group is often overlooked in financial services. Financial Health Network research shows individuals with disabilities are more often underbanked than those without, even when accounting for differences in income. Hear from experts who are designing products and services to improve the financial lives of people with disabilities by centering their voices in the process. Together, we’ll discuss innovations from tailored tools to new financial institutions, explore pitfalls to avoid, and reaffirm our collective commitment to prioritize the needs of people with disabilities in your organization.
Aarti Sahgal, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Synergies Seed Fund
3:00 PM – 3:40 PM
Networking Break
Move, connect, and refuel for what’s next.
3:40 PM – 5:00 PM
Main Stage Sessions
Community Perspectives: Aging as a Force for Community Transformation
Aging is universal, yet deeply influenced by race, history, and community. In this session, a social enterprise innovator, former Louisiana state legislator, and proud elder advocate explores the realities of aging while Black, drawing insights from decades of public service. With a unique vantage point, this discussion highlights the resurgence of elders in Black life and the critical role of elder representation in shaping a more inclusive future. Through real-life experiences and powerful insights, this conversation reimagines aging as a force for leadership, wisdom, and community transformation.
Raymond A. Jetson, Vision and Advancement Catalyst, Aging While Black
The Power of the Worker Voice
Employee voice is a powerful force for shaping company culture and fostering financial success for businesses and workers. In this intimate fireside chat, diverse voices explore how open dialogue, trust, and transparency can transform the workplace. How does a worker’s voice influence leadership decisions? What role does it play in fostering innovation, engagement, and retention? This session offers a rare opportunity to hear both perspectives on how empowering employee voices leads to a stronger, more resilient organization.
Service-Driven Change: Lessons for Financial Health
This session highlights the remarkable impact veterans have when they channel resilience, leadership, and purpose toward driving systemic change. Drawing on powerful examples from veteran-led initiatives, we’ll explore how those who have served continue to lead by supporting communities in crisis. Discover how veterans contribute to financial health, stability, and equity—not only for themselves, but for the broader communities they serve—through their dedication to service, problem-solving, and leadership.
Jake Wood, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Team Rubicon, and author of Once a Warrior and Take Command
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Networking Reception
Sponsored by U.S. Bank
Join fellow EMERGE attendees for an evening of meaningful conversation, connection, and community. Take time to unwind, reflect on the day’s insights, and deepen the connections that drive lasting impact.
9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
After-Hours Networking
Brewery X, Sheraton San Diego Resort
6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
Wellness Walk
Start your travel day with fresh air, gentle movement, and great company on a walk along a relaxed path on Harbor Island. Whether you’re walking and talking or simply soaking it in, it’s the perfect way to ease into the day and connect with fellow attendees. Comfortable shoes are encouraged.
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Networking Breakfast
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Main Stage Sessions
Leading with Purpose: The Future of Business and Financial Health
In an era where trust, purpose, and impact are integral to success, how can businesses do their part to improve financial health for individuals and communities? Get insights in this compelling session on the evolving role of business in fostering financial health. The discussion includes strategies for creating systemic change, the responsibility of corporations to drive financial health for all, and the power of ethical leadership to achieve these goals.
Banking Through the Eyes of Community Members
Behind every banking customer is a story – shaped by their unique goals, needs, and experiences with money. How can institutions meet customers where they are as they work to expand access and opportunity across their communities? In this intimate fireside session, a financial services leader sits down with a customer for an honest, insightful conversation about financial health and the modern banking experience.
Andre Brown, Visitor Management, Baylor Scott & White
Madhu Muthukumar, Chief Product Officer, Chime
Shaping the Future of Financial Health
Explore what lies ahead on the journey to improve financial health for all. Industry leaders and innovators reflect on key insights from EMERGE, discuss promising trends and technologies, and share bold visions for a financial ecosystem that works for everyone. Don’t miss this pivotal closing discussion on how cross-sector collaboration, consumer-centric design, and innovative business models can pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient financial future.
Brandee McHale, Head of Community Investing and Development at Citi and President of the Citi Foundation, Citi
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Member-Exclusive Session
Ready to head home and put your insights to work? Before you go, take time to reflect and connect with fellow Members who share your commitment to financial health. Engage in meaningful conversations with leaders who can support your journey in the months ahead. Lunch included.