Highlights from first annual Fiscal Fright Haunted House

Manhattan & Queens - St. John’s University redefined “trick or treat” this past Halloween season with a haunted house designed to educate audiences about fiscal threats including scams, fraud, risky financial choices, unexpected disasters, and economic inequity. The inaugural “Fiscal Fright Haunted House” featured students’ research on a selection of topics while creating seriously scary business-themed costumes.

The in-person event occurred on Tuesday, October 29 at St. John University’s Greenberg School of Risk Management in Manhattan and on Thursday, October 31 at St. John’s University’s Tobin College of Business in Queens. The format mirrored a research fair with each student presenting two research posters. The first “Face Our Fears” poster depicted current statistics including the broader impact of the chosen topic. The second “Seek Out Solutions” poster offered strategies and resources for overcoming such challenges. 

Guest judges from the Department of Treasury and the Maspeth Federal Savings, joined students in voting for the most creatively scary villain. Characters included The Catfish (a fish-headed text-trickster), The Glass Ceiling (an invisible force contributing to pay and leadership inequity), and the Streaming Screaming Werewolf (howling when trial subscriptions became billable at midnight).  The university’s Office of Financial Aid also participated, preparing students for their most mentioned fear of paying off their student loans. 

Throughout October, St. John’s students decided their topic, designed their character, and brought their creature to life - not unlike the infamous Dr. Frankenstein. While intended for St. John’s students and their professors, these events served as a soft launch for future high school and public programs - intended to further St. John University’s commitment to serving surrounding communities. 

Press inquiries may be directed to [email protected]. Students interested in participating in 2025 and any inquiries about future educational partnerships may be directed to Dan Napolitano, Tobin College’s Director of Student Services at [email protected].