Our Mission

Economic Empowerment

Improving the financial condition of our ethnically and culturally diverse communities through financial literacy/education programs, home ownership, entrepreneurship, advanced wealth building workshops and local economic development initiatives

Educational Advancement

Delivering a wide variety of programs to assist minority youth pursuing careers in financial services, such as (1) educational, technical and advisory assistance where needed (2) scholarship programs for undergraduate/graduate studies and (3) mentorship and internship opportunities for college students and newly hired professionals

Professional Development

Supporting the exchange of experiences, ideas and interests in order to promote career and professional development including a premier job bank of experienced minority professionals and commensurate career opportunities

UFSC Established 1974 - Today

9

Chapters

5,000

Current Contacts

27

Past Presidents

Urban Financial Services Coalition Commemorates 50th Year Anniversary in Kansas City, April 10th -12th, 2024.

The Urban Financial Services Coalition (UFSC) commemorated its 50th year anniversary with a vibrant celebration in Kansas City, Missouri, from April 10 to 12th, 2024. The event, attended by past, current, and new members from across the nation, served as a testament to UFSC’s enduring commitment to fostering diversity and equitable participation within the financial services sector.

Throughout the celebration, participants were treated to a series of engaging sessions and discussions, highlighting UFSC’s rich history and its vision for the future. Among the notable moments was the heartfelt recounting of UFSC’s origins by Charles Stewart, one of its founders, who shared insights into the organization’s inception alongside Nathaniel Harris and Robert Samuels.

Reflecting on the journey of leadership within UFSC, three past National Presidents — Damita Barbee, Anne Bush, and Robert Holmes — offered personal anecdotes and visions for the organization’s continued growth. Their stories underscored UFSC’s role in nurturing leadership within minority communities and advocating for their representation in all levels of the financial industry.

The event also featured esteemed guests, including Jeff Schmid, President of the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, who honored UFSC’s legacy and presented the organization with a Historic Marker, recognizing its longstanding partnership with the Federal Reserve. Additionally, Raphael Bostic, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, shared invaluable insights on creating an inclusive economy during a Fireside Chat moderated by Gigi Wolf, Director of Education at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.

A highlight of the celebration was the panel discussion led by UFSC’s current National President, Theodis Watson, featuring past UFSC National Presidents and the President of the UFSC Foundation. Their dialogue centered on leadership journeys, proud achievements, and aspirations for UFSC’s future, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to empowering its members and advocating for diversity within the financial sector.

The event also addressed contemporary challenges and opportunities facing the industry, with sessions on engaging multigenerational workforces, the impact of diversity and inclusion on financial services, and the role of artificial intelligence in shaping the sector’s future.

The festivities culminated in a memorable 50th Anniversary Soiree at the Historic Negro League Baseball Museum, celebrating UFSC’s legacy and the strides made towards a more inclusive financial landscape. As UFSC looks ahead, strategic planning sessions were held to chart the organization’s course for the future, guided by its enduring mission of fostering economic empowerment and community development.

The success of UFSC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration was made possible by the generous support of sponsors and partners, underscoring the collective commitment to advancing diversity and excellence in the financial services industry.

For the event video highlights visit the UFSC YouTube Page

Value of Membership

Since 1974, Urban Financial Services Coalition (UFSC) has been a resource for young professionals and seasoned professionals in the financial services industry. We hope you agree that there is still a need for organizations such as ours in today’s current environment.

We invite you to get involved – Join a chapter or renew your membership today.

For more information on Membership visit the Membership Page on our website, or contact us at [email protected].

Our UFSC Heroes

Robert J. Samuels was a pioneer in the financial services industry and founding President of the Urban Financial Services Coalition (formerly known as the National Association of Urban Bankers). Mr. Samuels retired in 1992 as Vice President of the Global Financial Institutions Group, a division of Manufacturers Hanover’s Corporate Banking and International Sector (JPMorgan Chase).

Nathaniel Carroll Harris, Jr. grew up in Montclair, NJ, attended Hampton University and graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. His career spanned over 35 years in financial services before his retirement as a Senior Vice President at PNC Bank in 2004.

Navigating the Post-Pandemic Economy: Embracing Change and Building Resilience

The global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped not only how we live but also how we work, do business, and interact with our communities. As we navigate the post-pandemic economy, both individuals and organizations face the dual challenge of recovering lost ground while adapting to a transformed landscape. Today’s environment calls for agility, digital innovation, and a renewed focus on community empowerment.

UFSC Initiative: Leveling Up the Playing Field

“Connecting Minorities and Employers: One Job, One Resume at a Time”

BUILDING A SIZABLE MINORITY JOB BANK

With your assistance, the UFSC Job Bank will list open financial services industry positions at various corporations, organizations and institutions across the country. Companies and institutions will be able to reach highly qualified minority professionals for their open financial services positions and get top candidates in the door.

Leveling Up the Playing Field Initiative intentions are three-fold:

Increase UFSC members’ and minority professionals’ awareness of job opportunities in the financial services industry;
Encourage UFSC members and minority professionals in the financial services industry to engage two of their colleagues in Leveling Up the Playing Field Initiative and posting their resume; and
Increase the awareness of hiring managers and recruiters of minority financial professionals in the financial services industry.