Cathy Vuong, Popular Bank Senior Vice President of Retail Banking Operations and U.S. Bank Transformation has been named to the Junior Achievement of New York (JA New York) Board of Directors. She received her appointment during the Board’s meeting on February 5, 2021.

JA New York aims to empower youth and create stronger communities.

JA New York is a non-profit organization that reaches nearly 100,000 youth in lower New York each year. Focusing in areas including work readiness and financial literacy, the organization aims to provide K-12 students with the skills to succeed in a global economy.

“Junior Achievement of New York is truly a tremendous organization,” said Vuong. “Now more than ever, students throughout our communities are in need of the support and resources that will help them achieve a brighter future. I’m very proud to join the Board of Directors. I look forward to working alongside JA New York’s leadership team to both further the organization’s vision and support the outstanding work they do to inspire and empower young people.”

Working together to make a difference.

Vuong will replace Popular Bank Chief Operating Officer Manuel Chinea, who previously served on the Board for four years. Her appointment signals a new milestone in Popular’s long-standing relationship with Junior Achievement.

“We are very proud of Popular Bank’s enduring commitment to the customers and communities we serve,” said Chinea. “Throughout our partnership with JA, we have been able to successfully further this vision, working closely to support meaningful initiatives. I’d like to congratulate Cathy on her recent appointment, and I look forward to the unique vision and expertise she will bring to this role.”

Since 2016, Popular Bank’s annual Stars for Students initiative fundraised more than $300,000 toward JA’s youth financial literacy programs. Additionally, Popular Bank employees continue to work closely with JA programs, including Finance Park, JA in a Day and virtual career days to engage and support students at every level as they work to successfully prepare for the future.