April 16, 2025 marked a truly momentous occasion for the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship. In honor of Financial Literacy Month, NFTE had the distinguished honor of ringing the Closing Bell at the New York Stock Exchange!
This remarkable event was a powerful and public testament to NFTE’s growing visibility and leadership in the field of entrepreneurship education. NFTE president & CEO Dr. J.D. LaRock stood alongside NFTE students, alumni, educators, Board members, volunteers, and partners on the podium — all united in celebration of our mission to equip young people with the skills and mindset they need to succeed in business and in life.

NFTE student Jayden Freeman from Stamford High School was the official bell ringer and represented the bright future of youth entrepreneurship. Joining him on the podium were amazing students and teachers from the Academy of Finance and Enterprise, SEO Scholars, and the High School of Economics & Finance.
They were also joined by NFTE Board Members Judy Stewart, Sandra Rosa, and Tucker York; NFTE alumni Marsha Corelien, Rachel Kim, and Ashley Pineda-Salgado; and NFTE champion Kenrick Fraser from PayPal who all stood in support of the NFTE mission.
As the bell rang, so did our message: the future of business belongs to the bold, the creative, and the entrepreneurial. Thank you to our students, educators, and supporters for making this milestone possible!
Images & video courtesy of NYSE Group. NYSE does not recommend or endorse any investments, investment strategies, companies, products, or services.