I've been in the finance industry for 42 years. At the beginning of my career there were basically no women, other then secretaries and administrators, in this field.

I began my early career right out of college, working as an analyst for an undergraduate professor of mine who created a research and marketing firm. In my fifth year with that firm, I decided it was time to make a change, as I realized there was little to no potential for further advancement or growth. I had been an investor since I was a young girl, and I decided to make the move to Wall Street. I accepted a position with EF Hutton, where I spent 10 years. It was a wonderful experience.

As I grew in my career, I made the decision to venture out on my own, and 32 years ago I started my own firm and built a great team. One year ago, my top my competitor and I bonded and decided to get into partnership, thus the formation of HighTower.

I received my BA in Business and Psychology from Washburn University and went on to earn my Executive MBA from Washington University in Marketing and Business Management. I recently became a Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA) through the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

I view every challenge as an opportunity. My biggest challenge is reminding myself that I have a personal life and finding balance for it. I am still working full-time and need to assure the continuity of our new firm and ensure that financial planning remains #1 and assets, #2.

My greatest strength is that I am a people person. I am a listener and have a high emotional quotient and build relationships with my clients and their families.

My greatest accomplishment is an on-going one and that is building a legacy and providing quality service to my customers.

My goal is my commitment as a viable partner for a handful of years, where my focus will be mainly on financial side of things, and then I would eventually like to join my partner in hosting workshops and educational events. We are already doing Shakespeare in the Park events and Cyber Security events.

The people I work with and the clients we serve inspire me everyday; Every client has a different story and a different need.

I want to be remembered for my wonderful team; I've lost a few and won a few. I want to be remembered for helping my clients, their children, and their grandchildren by giving the best advice possible. I also hope to be remembered for being passionate about helping to educate the inner-city youth.

Then I want them to have a great party and enjoy the memory!

• Bd. Benedictine College
• Bd. Executive MBA- Washington University
• Washburn Women's Venture Forum
• Bd. Maur Hill - Mount Academy
• Investment Management Consultants Association

• Barron's Top 1000 Advisors by State
• Top 100 Women Financial Advisors
• Top 100 Independent Advisors in America
• Registered Rep Broker of the Year

• Marian Middle School - Donations

I enjoy reading and traveling and I love photography.