SALEM, Va. – Junior swimmer Cade Needham recently became only the second Roanoke College student to accomplish an impressive feat in the school's history.

Needham took the Financial Mathematics actuarial science exam on his own in August before taking ACSI 301 (Theory of Interest) and passed. He is only the second student in the history of the College to pass this exam on the first try.

"With a typical passing rate of 45-55%, the Financial Mathematics (FM) Exam for becoming an Actuary is not for the faint of heart," said Maggie Hildenmoeller, an RC Associate Professor of Mathematics and Associate Director of the Honors Program. "Typically, test-takers have taken a Theory of Interest course and studied for 250-300 hours total to have a decent chance of passing the test. However, Cade decided to spend Summer 2026 studying for the FM Exam, even though he hadn't taken a Theory of Interest course. He took the FM Exam in August 2026 and passed!! Congrats to Cade!"

The Financial Mathematics (FM) Exam assesses candidates' understanding of fundamental financial mathematics concepts. Candidates apply those concepts to calculate values for various cash flow streams to use with valuing loans and bonds, asset/liability management, and investment income.

Needham, from Southport, S.C., swims in both freestyle and butterfly events.

"Cade is an incredible kid and even better teammate," said head coach Brett Fonder. "He never once complains and always does what is best for the team. I'm not shocked at all by this accomplishment as he is always doing the right thing. He is extremely quiet and humble."