State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald took part in a special ceremony today that put one lucky baby on the right path toward saving for college.  Baby Evan, born at Iowa Lutheran Hospital received a $1,000 College Savings Iowa account, courtesy of the College Savings Iowa BABY 529 Giveaway.  The baby's parents, Melissa and Michael Johnson, received information about the giveaway program before leaving the hospital after their son's birth.

 "Little Evan may not be able to study yet, but he's already got a jump start on his college savings, and it will continue to grow right along-side him," stated Fitzgerald, plan administrator.  "I encourage families with young children like Evan to put time on their side and start saving for college early.  Anything they can put away today will offset what may need to be borrowed in the future."

 State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald thanked Iowa Lutheran Hospital for helping him spread the message about the importance of saving for college.  By participating in the College Savings Iowa BABY 529 Giveaway, the hospital provides new parents with information about saving early and a chance to win a $1,000 College Savings Iowa account for their baby.  "We are pleased to have you as part of our team working to increase public awareness about the benefits of saving for college from day one," stated Fitzgerald.

 Eric Lothe, Vice President of Iowa Lutheran Hospital; Sue Gehlsen, Executive Director of Women's Services and Anne Gibson, Manager of the Iowa Lutheran Maternity Center were on hand to congratulate the family.