About Pelican Invests
Pelicans flourish in tight-knit communities, supporting each other like family. In the same spirit, Pelican Invests was founded to provide families with essential tools for financial well-being. We believe in the power of community to uplift and strengthen one another, building stronger foundations from within.
Penny the Pelican™ is a children's educational brand operated by Pelican Invests.
About the Author Alexandra Bono
Alexandra Bono is the founder of Pelican Invests, a bestselling author, speaker on economic empowerment, and impact venture builder dedicated to helping families build strong financial foundations together. Alexandra created Penny the Pelican to make financial literacy fun, approachable, and meaningful for young readers.
A recognized leader in financial inclusion and economic mobility, Alexandra has held leadership roles at J.P. Morgan Chase, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and Columbia Business School. She is a Registered Investment Advisor, board president and advisor to mission-driven organizations, and earned her MBA with distinction from Columbia Business School.
Her work has reached thousands of students through partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and educational organizations, delivering accessible and engaging financial literacy tools for both classrooms and homes.
Beyond finance, Alexandra is an exhibited artist and arts leader with a lifelong passion for creativity and education. She has illustrated multiple children's books, played a key role in launching the iconic Whitney Museum of American Art, and continues to champion programs that expand access to the arts and financial education for families and communities.
Speaking Engagements & Book Signings
Alexandra is available for speaking engagements, school visits, library events, and book signings. Whether you're hosting a financial literacy workshop, a community event, or a classroom read-aloud, she'd love to connect with your audience.
School Visits
Classroom read-alouds and interactive financial literacy sessions for students.
Speaking Events
Keynotes and panel discussions on financial literacy, education, and entrepreneurship.
Book Signings
In-person signings at bookstores, libraries, fairs, and community events.
Financial Literacy Day
Capitol Hill
Alumna Fireside Chat
Columbia Business School
Selected Press
Coverage of Pelican Invests and Penny the Pelican from outlets spotlighting financial literacy and education.