By Erin Butterfield, MSUFCU Marketing Manager
What does it mean to feel empowered? When our leadership and marketing teams took on the challenge of shaping our NIL program for the next level, we remained steadfast in the beliefthat empowerment isn’t just something that happens in boardrooms—it happens on the field, in the gym, and in every arena where women are breaking barriers.
At Michigan State University (MSU), women student-athletes are making history, shattering records, and proving what’s possible. That’s why at MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), we’re committed to supporting them—not just as athletes, but as future leaders.
In 2024, we launched the Women of Sparta initiative to help MSU’s female student-athletes maximize their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Financial literacy and career development are at the core of this effort, ensuring these women are equipped with the tools they need to build a strong financial foundation—both now and long after their athletic careers end. Historically, female athletes have had fewer NIL opportunities than their male counterparts. Through Women of Sparta, we’re working to level the playing field by amplifying their voices and making sure they have the resources to succeed.
One of the most important aspects of this initiative is financial empowerment. Many athletes juggle academics, training, and sponsorships, yet financial education is rarely part of the conversation. Women of Sparta encourages student athletes to participate in financial education and personal branding sessionsoffering guidance on managing sponsorship income, building credit, and planning for life beyond sports. By equipping them with financial knowledge, we help ensure their success extends far beyond their time in competition.
But financial empowerment is just one piece of the puzzle—representation matters, too. When young girls see female athletes not just competing but thriving and leading, it sparks something powerful. That’s why we work to elevate their stories and make sure their achievements don’t go unnoticed.
You can be part of this movement. Attend a women’s athletic event and keep your eye out for MSUFCU tables. You’ll also find Women of Sparta athletes at upcoming community events like Run for the House with Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan on MSUFCU’s campus and Kids’ Day this summer where they will volunteer their time to engage with the community.
Supporting women’s athletics isn’t just about sports—it’s about investing in leaders, change-makers, and trailblazers. When women are given the opportunity to succeed, they don’t just change the game—they change the world.
Erin Butterfield is a Marketing Manager at MSU Federal Credit Union, passionate about financial empowerment, personal branding, and supporting female leaders.
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