AC’s Badger Smart Series to Focus on Fraud, Scams and Cyber Threats

Amarillo College students and employees can learn practical ways to protect their money and personal information during the next Badger Smart Lunch & Learn on Wednesday, Oct. 7.

The session, “Don’t Take the Bait: Protecting Yourself from Fraud, Scams and Cyber Threats,” will take place from 11:50 a.m. to 12:25 p.m. in Badger Corner, located above the Bookstore & Café. Pizza and water will be provided.

The session will feature three local credit-union leaders: John Hays, CEO of Access Community Credit Union; Michael Knowles, CEO of Texas Plains Federal Credit Union; and Marcus Smith, CEO of Education Credit Union.

Badger Smart is a monthly Lunch & Learn series presented through AC Corporate Cares to help students make smarter financial decisions and build a stronger financial future. Sessions cover practical topics such as managing money, avoiding scams, saving and investing, understanding credit and stretching a dollar.

“We’re grateful to Access Community Credit Union, Texas Plains Federal Credit Union and Education Credit Union for investing in our students and making Badger Smart possible,” said Linda Dominguez, AC manager of corporate relations. “Their partnership gives our students access to practical financial knowledge and local experts who can help them make informed decisions today and build a stronger financial future.”

Students and employees are welcome to attend the sessions, which provide opportunities to learn from local financial experts and apply useful information to everyday financial decisions.

The Badger Smart program also includes monthly giveaways sponsored by Access Community Credit Union, Texas Plains Federal Credit Union and Education Credit Union.

Students who attend at least six of the nine Badger Smart sessions during the academic year will be eligible for a chance to win a $500 scholarship offered through the Amarillo College Foundation. Winners will be announced at the May 2027 Badger Smart event, and students must be currently enrolled to be eligible.