Literacy, Wellness, and Everything Else: How Are Financial Wellness Websites in Higher Education Named?

Abstract

In recent years, both technology and financial wellness programming have significantly transformed the landscape of higher education in the United States. As financial wellness becomes an increasingly prominent student service, understanding how institutions name and frame these resources is crucial. Specifically, the distinction between terms like "financial literacy" and "financial wellness" can convey different messages to students about the focus and scope of these services. The choice of terminology can impact student engagement and perceptions of the resources offered, influencing whether they view these services as essential for long-term financial health or as basic, one-time educational interventions.In recent years, both technology and financial wellness programming have significantly transformed the landscape of higher education in the United States. As financial wellness becomes an increasingly prominent student service, understanding how institutions name and frame these resources is crucial. Specifically, the distinction between terms like "financial literacy" and "financial wellness" can convey different messages to students about the focus and scope of these services. The choice of terminology can impact student engagement and perceptions of the resources offered, influencing whether they view these services as essential for long-term financial health or as basic, one-time educational interventions.Higher Education Financial Wellness Alliance (HEFWA