FIA President and CEO Walt Lukken hosted US Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.), Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, for a "lunch and learn" conversation with college students participating in Greenwood Project's Summer Internship Program. The US House Agriculture Committee oversees the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and has jurisdiction over the futures markets.
The Greenwood Project Summer Internship Program is an intensive 10-week program that introduces high-achieving minority students to careers in the financial industry by combining four weeks of academic instruction for students followed by six weeks of real-world experience at a leading financial firm.
"The financial services industry has come a long way in recognizing the benefits of a diverse workforce, but more can and must be done to ensure minority students have access to opportunities and experiences that can serve them throughout their careers," said Chairman Scott. "There is still a long way to go, which is why it is so important for Congress, FIA and the Greenwood Project to continue this important work."
During the lunch and learn, Chairman Scott reflected on his life journey, from growing up on a family farm in rural South Carolina during segregation, to working his way through high school, to earning a Bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University and a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School of Finance at the University of Pennsylvania. Scott went on to start his own business before going into politics to serve his community.
"Chairman Scott has accomplished much in his nearly two-decade career in Congress, but his personal background is truly what makes him such an inspiring role model for future generations," said FIA's Walt Lukken. "It was an honor to introduce him to our friends at the Greenwood Project, who we look forward to seeing grow into the future leaders of the financial services industry."
FIA is proud to partner with the Greenwood Project, a non-profit focused on introducing Black and Latinx students to careers within the financial industry via paid summer internships in financial firms, academic instruction and mentorships.
