University Partnerships

The OBA Education Foundation is committed to developing the next generation of banking industry leaders in Oregon. In keeping with its mission, one of the Foundation’s goals is to raise awareness at the college level of the career opportunities within banking. Through continued support from the Foundation, courses in commercial banking can continue to thrive at the University of Oregon and Oregon State University.
In 2013, the OBA Education Foundation entered into a five-year corporate partnership at the Austin Level with the College of Business at Oregon State University. In 2018, the Foundation renewed its partnership for an additional three years. The contribution will have a significant impact within the finance department of the College of Business by advancing education and career options related to banking and finance. Working together, OSU and the OBA Education Foundation will ensure that the College of Business finance department is equipped with the programs necessary for students to enter into and excel within the finance industry.

The OBA Education Foundation’s corporate partnership provides support for the following programs:
  • College of Business’ Austin Hall –  the OBA Education Foundation leverages visibility with students by naming a room in Austin Hall.
  • Support the finance department, as well as help to fund scholarships for students studying finance.
  • Corporate Partnership Program, which supports the Career Success Center in the college where students are advised on preparing for their internship and job search, and employers connect with students.
In 2015, the Foundation renewed its partnership with the University of Oregon and entered into a five-year agreement. This sponsorship in part supports and expands the commercial banking curriculum available to students at the University’s Lundquist College of Business. 

As a direct result of funding provided by the Foundation through its initial partnership with the UO, which started in 2012, students at the University have access to a commercial banking class, the first of its kind. To date, over 168 students have participated in this class, which was moved to permanent status in the curriculum. Also, as a result of Foundation support, a commercial banking track has been added to the UO Finance Degree.
In 2017, the Foundation approved financial support for the University’s innovative financial education programming on campus, including unique events taking place during Financial Literacy Month in April.