MSUFCU and Lansing Empowerment Network Wrap Up Successful Summer Internship Program for Local High School Students

EAST LANSING, Mich. — MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) and the Lansing Empowerment Network (LEN) have officially concluded a successful summer partnership through the Step-Up Program, which provided local high school students with paid, hands-on professional experience to build career readiness, confidence, and workplace skills.

Modeled from an initiative started in Omaha, Nebraska, the Step-Up Program connects students with real-world work opportunities and professional mentors. Over the course of the summer, four Step-Up interns completed meaningful placements across key MSUFCU departments:

• Organizational Development.

• Financial Education.

• Market Strategy.

• Community Events.

During their time at the Credit Union, the students contributed to active organizational projects while expanding their technical and professional skills. Each intern was paired with a dedicated MSUFCU mentor who provided direct guidance, industry insights, and career support throughout the experience.

“Working at MSUFCU this summer gave me real insight into what a professional career looks like,” said Lindsey, a Step-Up Program graduate. “Having a mentor to guide me helped build my confidence and clarify what I want to pursue after high school.”

The program’s completion marks another milestone in the shared commitment between MSUFCU and LEN to invest in local youth and create sustainable pathways for long-term success. By providing direct access to professional networks and hands-on career exploration, the partnership helps lay the groundwork for a stronger regional workforce.

“Investing in our young people is one of the most vital ways we can support the future of our community,” said April Clobes, MSUFCU President and CEO. “Partnering with the Lansing Empowerment Network allows us to live our mission of creating opportunities for individuals to achieve their goals. Programs like Step-Up help prepare the next generation of leaders, and we were proud to support such a talented group of interns this summer.”

Together, MSUFCU and LEN remain dedicated to building a community where young people have access to the resources, mentorship, and experiences needed to achieve their goals.

“Strong community partnerships are essential for effective workforce development,” said Michael Lynn Jr., Lansing Empowerment Network CEO. “Working alongside MSUFCU ensured that local youth not only gained meaningful employment this summer but also built the relationships and skills necessary to thrive in tomorrow’s economy.”

The successful conclusion of this year’s Step-Up Program demonstrates how local partnerships can make a lasting impact on students while strengthening the community as a whole.

ABOUT MSUFCU

MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) was established in 1937 to provide a secure place for members to save and borrow. Guided by its mission to help members achieve financial security, reach their goals, and realize their dreams, MSUFCU supports members through key milestones in life while helping them plan for the future. Recognized as a leader in innovation and as a great place to work, MSUFCU continually seeks new ways to enhance the member experience and strengthen the communities it serves. Today, the Credit Union proudly serves more than 400,000 members through 35 branches, with over $8.49 billion in assets and more than 1,200 employees. MSUFCU is headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan. For additional information, visit msufcu.org.

ABOUT LANSING EMPOWERMENT NETWORK

At Lansing Empowerment Network, we’re all about bringing people together to build a stronger, more connected community. Picture this: schools, businesses, nonprofits, and neighbors all sharing resources, ideas, and solutions with full transparency to create real, lasting change. Right now, we’re focused on tackling violence and creating job opportunities for youth. But that’s just the start. Our vision includes education, housing, health, and everything in between. Learn more at empowerlansing.org.