Empowering the Next Generation: A Conversation with President Levin and Mellody Hobson on Financial Literacy and Leadership

“Learning to make financial decisions is a path to greater confidence and freedom, and gives young people in particular more autonomy and agency over their life.” -President Jonathan Levin

The 2025 Philanthropy Innovation Summit hosted by the Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society (PACS), brought together more than 200 philanthropic leaders from around the world to explore new strategies and approaches to giving and impact. This year’s Summit featured influential speakers including Jane Fonda, Cari Tuna, Jeff Raikes, Mellody Hobson, and more, all sharing insights on how strategic philanthropy can create lasting impact in the areas of democracy, climate change, digital technology, and societal health. A key highlight of the Summit was a thought-provoking discussion between Stanford University President Jonathan Levin and Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments. Their conversation underscored the urgent need to equip young people with the tools to navigate an increasingly complex economic landscape and highlighted the role of leadership in creating equal opportunities. 

Financial literacy is often overlooked in traditional education, yet it plays a critical role in long-term success. Mellody, a passionate advocate for financial education and author of Priceless Facts about Money, spoke about the importance of demystifying money management from an early age. She emphasized that financial literacy is not just about personal wealth but about creating pathways for upward mobility, reducing inequality, and fostering generational stability.

President Levin echoed this sentiment, highlighting the ways Stanford is taking action to support students in developing financial acumen. This fall, the university introduced the Initiative for Financial Decision-Making, offering students—regardless of background— the opportunity to develop a fundamental understanding of budgeting, investing, and economic decision-making. These initiatives are particularly crucial in a world where financial challenges can often be a barrier to opportunity.

Both speakers also stressed the importance of investing in underrepresented communities. Hobson shared insights from her work in philanthropy and business, illustrating how targeted investments in education and financial training can break cycles of poverty. Her firm, Ariel Investments, has long championed economic inclusion, demonstrating that smart investments in overlooked areas yield powerful results.

As Mellody and President Levin highlighted, education and financial literacy are more than academic subjects—they are powerful tools for social mobility. By fostering these skills in the next generation, we not only prepare individuals for success but also build a more resilient and inclusive society.

Watch the full discussion below.

Photography by Christine Baker & Videography by Stanford Video