Today we’d like to introduce you to S.k. Patrick
Hi S.K., we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As a child, I loved math, but as I moved through school, I was confused by the lack of financial education. While algebra certainly helped, I rarely found myself using it as an adult or professional. My journey into the world of finance began at 21, when I started as a bank teller at Stock Yards Bank. I worked my way up the corporate ladder while attending college.
From teller to supervisor to personal banker, I gained valuable experience. After graduation, Stock Yards offered me a managerial position. It was in college, however, that I discovered my true passion. I graduated with a degree in communications and marketing, and through my writing, I realized I had a knack for putting words to paper. This led me to pursue a career as a sports journalist.
During the pandemic, I began exploring opportunities outside the traditional workspace. As I looked around, I noticed that many of my friends were starting families. With kids doing homeschool, I once again became aware of the significant gap in financial literacy education. I realized I, too, had missed out on this knowledge growing up, but more importantly, I saw how crucial it was for the next generation. That’s when the idea for my self-published children’s financial literacy book series was born.
Combining my passion for writing with my banking experience, I created Chris’s Candy Store Adventure and Christine’s Bank Adventure. These books teach children about banking, counting money, and money management. I want to ensure the next generation has a stronger foundation in finances than I did, and this is my way of giving back. My hope is to help shape a more financially literate culture, one child at a time.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I thought the road would be rough, but the process turned out to be smoother than I expected. I laid out a plan and followed step by step. My biggest problem was expanding beyond the books to my financial literacy workshops. The workshops include financial presentation, black bankers speaking to kids, teller to customer role play, work time learning how to fill out checks, withdrawal, deposit slips, and read a bank statement.
I went to Las Vegas for a solo trip and focused on drafting my first book. I wanted to avoid distractions from friends and family, so I could fully concentrate on my goal. And I did it—I met my target. The toughest part was finding an illustrator who could bring my vision to life. Several people shared their portfolios, but none of their work quite clicked with me.
Then a friend recommended someone who had done his business logo. I sent her the draft, and I immediately loved the sketches she came up with for the book. She ended up doing the artwork for both of my books. I now have three books for ages 3-12. The first one goes over all the coins as kids begin to learn about counting. The second goes more into banking terms. The third is an activity book that brings both books together.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I graduated from the University of Louisville, but my path to success wasn’t always straightforward. My first stop was at Western Kentucky University, where I struggled academically and found myself on probation. However, that experience was a turning point, teaching me the importance of perseverance and discipline. I didn’t give up, and after refocusing, I went on to graduate from UofL, which remains one of my proudest moments.
After college, I moved to Nashville, TN, where I worked in fundraising at Tennessee State University. This was my first foray into higher education and development, and it sparked a passion for connecting people with causes that matter. I returned to UofL shortly after to manage marketing for a cybersecurity program, which was a great learning experience in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving field.
From there, I moved to Cincinnati to work in marketing and communications at the University of Cincinnati Graduate College. The experience gave me valuable insight into how universities communicate their value to prospective students and alumni. Currently, I’m back at UofL, focusing on fundraising and event planning, traveling between Cincinnati and Louisville to organize impactful events that strengthen the university’s community.
Alongside my career in higher education, I also have a deep passion for sports journalism. I’ve had the privilege of covering major events in the sports world, including March Madness, the NFL Scouting Combine, the NFL Draft, and local teams like UofL, UK, UC, and Cincinnati FC. It’s been an incredible journey, combining my love for storytelling and sports with my professional aspirations.
I’m proud of how far I’ve come—both personally and professionally—and I’m grateful for every challenge and opportunity along the way. Each step has led me to where I am today, and I’m excited for what the future holds.
What matters most to you?
My family means the most to me—they are my foundation and the source of my strength. They’ve always supported me through thick and thin, and their love keeps me grounded no matter what challenges I face. After that, my business holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about success; it’s about building something meaningful that can make a difference. And of course, my passion for helping others is at the core of everything I do. Whether it’s through my work, my business, or personal interactions, I find fulfillment in lifting others up and making a positive impact in their lives. All three of these elements are what drive me every day.
Pricing:
- Chris’s Candy Store Adventure $13
- Christine’s Bank Adventure $13
- Chris’s Candy Store Adventure Activity Book $13
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sk_patrick90/
- Facebook: S.K. Patrick
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-k-patrick-a4525a146/
- Other: 5022168508
