Empowering Futures: Celebrating the Success of RTSWS Spring Mentorship!

With the conclusion of our RTSWS Spring Mentorship sessions, we are thrilled to celebrate another successful and memorable year!

This spring, over 1,000 high school and secondary school girls participated in our mentorship program. Each student was paired with a local female financial professional, providing them with invaluable guidance and support. Throughout the sessions, mentors shared firsthand insights into the professional world, helping students develop crucial university and career readiness skills. These included savings and investment strategies, interview techniques, resume and CV preparation, professionalism, confidence-building, and exploring career interests.

The overarching goal of our mentorship program is to empower female students, encouraging them to take control of their financial futures while gaining early access to lucrative internships and job opportunities in the financial sector. It has been truly inspiring to watch these meaningful connections grow and flourish throughout the spring.

Congratulations to all RTSWS students and volunteers on a fantastic year! Your dedication and hard work have made this mentorship program a resounding success. We look forward to continuing this journey of empowerment and education in the years to come.

RTSWS IN THE NEWS

RTSWS Volunteer Megan S. Featured in Article on Gender Diversity in Finance

Financial Advisor Magazine recently featured Megan S. of Crewe Advisors, a dedicated RTSWS volunteer, in an article by Karen DeMasters titled: Advocate For Women Advisors Says Gender Diversity Is Improving.

The piece highlights the growing presence of women in the financial industry, with a 13.9% increase in female CFPs over the past three years. Megan shares her experiences and passion for helping women enter the field, emphasizing the importance of human connection in financial advice.

Read the full article here.

FWSF Members Volunteer at Rock the Street, Wall Street’s Financial Literacy Program

Members of the Financial Women of San Francisco (FWSF) recently volunteered with RTSWS to bring Financial & Investment fundamentals to life for diverse high school girls.

At Gateway High School, FWSF volunteers engaged with students, providing guidance and mentorship. Their dedication and expertise are helping these talented young women learn and thrive as they prepare to navigate the complexities of the financial world.

Read the full article here.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

“To never compare myself with others because everyone’s path and journey is different and unique.”

Where are you now? (And what do you like about it?)

“I am in my second year of university studying biochemistry. I like that I am enjoying what I am studying and that I am involved on my campus.”

What is a key milestone or achievement you would like to share?

“An achievement of mine is that I became president for a campus organization named Alumni of Color Student Leadership and the goal is to bridge the gap between students and alumni of color on campus and to create connections.”

What is an aspirational goal that you have for the future?

“To solo travel!”

How has RTSWS impacted your journey?

“RTSWS has impacted my journey by allowing me to manage my finances and also start to invest my money. The knowledge that I gained also allowed me to teach and enlighten my friends on how to manage their finances and how to properly invest their money into stocks, HYSA or a CD.”

If you had one extra hour of free time every day, how would you spend it? 

“If I had an extra hour of free time, I would probably light a Tuberose candle (I'm quite partial to the one by Diptyque), get under the covers and get lost in a good book.”

Where are you now? (And what do you like about it?)

“I am currently at Barnard College, Columbia University's women's college, and I absolutely adore it. Barnard is a small LAC with all of Columbia's resources, and because of this, I am able to major in both Math and English. I really love Barnard's Women and Gender Studies department!”

What is a key milestone or achievement you would like to share?

“After high school, I went to Baruch College for about a year and a half. My greatest achievement thus far was transferring to Barnard, as this has been my dream college since fifth grade.”

What is an aspirational goal that you have for the future?

“An aspirational goal I have for myself is to one day (waaaay down the line), start my own hedge fund.”

How has RTSWS impacted your journey?

“RTSWS has been extremely important in my finance journey. The fall sessions gave me a foundational understanding of what exactly finance is and the spring sessions with the mentors helped me gain interviewing skills and create a strong resume. I have continued to stay in contact with my mentors and everyone I've met at RTSWS and plan to do so for the foreseeable future. ”

RTSWS is looking for Fall '24 - Spring '25 Student CEOs!

Last Day to Apply Today, May 31st

What is a Student CEO?

Each RTSWS cohort has 1-2 Student CEOs who lead their peers as a liaison between their school and RTSWS. This position is an excellent opportunity for students to elevate their leadership experience and network with other student leaders across the RTSWS network. Student CEOs are change-makers and integral to growing more financially independent young women in their communities.

Who should apply?

High school and secondary school students who wish to develop leadership skills, strengthen their RTSWS cohort and empower other young women at their school are eligible. This opportunity is open to all students who participated in RTSWS at their school this year. Participants will have the opportunity to attend two CEO Virtual Summits where they’ll meet student peers from across the country and be invited to attend other special events. 

Interested in Becoming a Student CEO? Our 24-25 Student CEOs application is now open!

To learn more reach out to our team at studentceo@rockthestreetwallstreet.com. 

FEATURED OPPORTUNITIES

Explore the sampling of internships and jobs listed below as a glimpse into the exceptional opportunities our sponsors provide.

Forté Future Leaders Scholarship

(Undergraduates)

Forté Foundation

Virtual

2025 Operations Full-Time Analyst (Baltimore)

Morgan Stanley

Baltimore, MD

Associate – Investment Operations

Diamond Hill

Columbus, OH

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY

By contributing to our cause, you not only pave the way for their financial growth but also help connect them with experienced mentors within the industry, fostering a nurturing environment for professional development.

Your tax-deductible donation through PayPal Giving ensures that 100% of your contribution directly impacts the lives of these aspiring young minds, making a tangible difference in shaping their success and financial independence.

Thank you.  

Connect, Collaborate, & Cultivate

Network with Female Finance Professionals.

Join Our LinkedIn Financial Networking Hub

Attend an event

Visit shop

Read alumnae news

www.rockthestreetwallstreet.com

Rock The Street, Wall Street Welcomes New CEO as its Founder Assumes Role of Chair

We have some exciting news to share from RTSWS.

Please join us in congratulating our Founder, Maura Cunningham, and our new CEO, Ashley Leftwich, effective July 1st. Maura has created such a lasting legacy and will continue to play a crucial role as Founder, Chair, and Board Member, focusing on advocacy and outreach across the U.S., U.K., and Canada. Ashley will lead the charge in driving our vision for growth and engagement with RTSWS students, alumnae, and volunteers. For more details, see our announcement below.

Key highlights include:

Anders Hall, CFA, Chair of the RTSWS Board and Vice Chancellor for Investments and CIO of Vanderbilt University commented, “I’m proud to chair our esteemed Board, and we each celebrate Maura’s vision, fortitude and incredible legacy in increasing girls’ interest in financial and investment mathematics. Thanks to Maura, more than 6,000 families have been positively impacted as these young women gain access to the industry and transition into the workforce. They are poised to create a remarkable future and expand the talent pipeline, a testament to the transformative power of Maura's initiative in founding RTSWS.”

“Furthermore, Ashley's expertise in scaling initiatives and deep commitment to fostering financial mathematics and STEM education among young women position her well as CEO for RTSWS. With Ashley at the helm, we anticipate ongoing evolution, enabling us to empower the next generations of young women to flourish in the financial sector in our shared pursuit of a more equitable future."

Maura commented, “I'm proud to hand over the reins to Ashley, whose commitment has been pivotal to our success. Her forward looking approach leads the team with engagement, technology integration and an exciting vision for our volunteers, schools and sponsors. In my role as Founder, Board Member, and Chair, I will continue to advance the cause of investment literacy while expanding career choices in the M of STEM among young women across our growing footprint. Their ongoing curiosity and accomplishments fuel my passion daily.”

Ashley shared, “It’s an honor to follow Maura into the role of CEO and continue working alongside our dedicated RTSWS team. Together, we are committed to empowering the next generation of women in finance, and I am looking forward to creating additional opportunities ahead for our talented students and alumnae as well as new ways to engage our dedicated volunteers and sponsors.”

RTSWS IN THE NEWS

RTSWS at Sacred Heart Academy: Empowering Young Women in Economics

The Fearless Girl

RTSWS' Isabella F., student at Sacred Heart Academy, recently published an insightful article in the New York Post Shatter the Glass Ceiling: School Program Empowers Young Women in Economics. This piece highlights the positive impact of RTSWS' programing for more than 100 girls per year in this vibrant cohort at Sacred Heart Academy. She emphasizes the power of igniting high school girls' interest in math, finance and investing.

Gabriella L., a sophomore RTSWS student, shared her experience:

“I learned so much about managing my money smartly, which is definitely helpful for when I have to begin managing my finances as an adult. The fact that the program was run by women who were alumnae from Sacred Heart created a positive and comfortable learning environment that encouraged me to consider pursuing my interest in finance and economics.”

Read Isabella's full article here.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Favorite tradition or holiday?

“My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving because there's always something to be thankful for. It's also close to my birthday, or sometimes the day lands on my birthday so I get to celebrate two holidays.”

Where are you now? (And what do you like about it?)

“I am at Loyola University Chicago, where I am exploring my likes and dislikes. I like that I have plenty of free time to try new things, and decide whether I enjoy or want to keep doing the same activities.”

What is a key milestone or achievement you would like to share?

“A key milestone/achievement that I would like to share is being in college as a first-generation student and staying in school to get a business degree regardless of the challenges I've encountered. ”

What is an aspirational goal that you have for the future?

“An aspirational goal that I have for the future is to be able to open up a business such as a cafe, or restaurant, and be able to give back to low-income communities.”

How has RTSWS impacted your journey?

“RTSWS has impacted my journey because I've learned how to be a leader as the RTSWS CEO in my cohort. I have obtained knowledge that has benefited me in my business college classes. RTSWS has also been an inspiration to be a businesswoman.”

If you were to write a book, what would it be about? 

“I took a Memoir class in high school and loved it, so I would love to write a memoir at some point in the future.”

Where are you now? (And what do you like about it?)

“I'm currently a sophomore at UCLA studying Mathematics and Economics, exploring a new city and getting to learn so much at school.”

What is a key milestone or achievement you would like to share?

“I recently signed an investment banking offer in New York for the summer of 2025 and will be back in my hometown.”

What is an aspirational goal that you have for the future?

“I hope to own my own business one day in the future and be able to work for myself.”

How has RTSWS impacted your journey?

“RTSWS helped me first gain interest in finance, and I will actually be interning for the company that sponsored my high school's chapter of RTSWS. I remember touring their office in 7th grade and it was a full-circle moment for me to be interviewing for a role at that company and eventually accepting an internship there.”

RTSWS is looking for Fall '24 - Spring '25 Student CEOs!

Last Day to Apply May 31st

What is a Student CEO?

Each RTSWS cohort has 1-2 Student CEOs who lead their peers as a liaison between their school and RTSWS. This position is an excellent opportunity for students to elevate their leadership experience and network with other student leaders across the RTSWS network. Student CEOs are change-makers and integral to growing more financially independent young women in their communities.

Who should apply?

High school and secondary school students who wish to develop leadership skills, strengthen their RTSWS cohort and empower other young women at their school are eligible. This opportunity is open to all students who participated in RTSWS at their school this year. Participants will have the opportunity to attend two CEO Virtual Summits where they’ll meet student peers from across the country and be invited to attend other special events. 

Interested in Becoming a Student CEO? Our 24-25 Student CEOs application is now open!

To learn more reach out to our team at studentceo@rockthestreetwallstreet.com. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

AI and Nvidia: Learn how professional stock analysts do their research, craft their thesis and pitch a stock, using a real world case study

Date: May 20th, 2024

Time: 5:00pm - 6:30pm ET

Location: Virtual

Audience: Students & Alumnae

Ever wonder how AI has become the most talked about phenomenon in the stock market? Or why Nvidia is now one of the most valuable companies in the world? Please join members of the Morgan Stanley equity research division for an introduction to how professional stock analysts do their job, from crafting an investment thesis, to building models and valuing a stock. We’ll discuss an actual case study with associates on the internet and semiconductor research teams. Whether you are interested in a career in research, are an aspiring investor or just curious about life on Wall Street, we think you will get value out of this interactive session.

FEATURED OPPORTUNITIES

Explore the sampling of internships and jobs listed below as a glimpse into the exceptional opportunities our sponsors provide.

Private Wealth Associate

AllianceBernstein

New York, NY

Junior Operations Analyst

BlackRock

Sausalito, CA

2025 Commercial Banking - Middle Market Banking & Specialized Industries Summer Analyst Program

JP Morgan Chase & Co.

Multiple Locations

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY

By contributing to our cause, you not only pave the way for their financial growth but also help connect them with experienced mentors within the industry, fostering a nurturing environment for professional development.

Your tax-deductible donation through PayPal Giving ensures that 100% of your contribution directly impacts the lives of these aspiring young minds, making a tangible difference in shaping their success and financial independence.

Thank you.  

Connect, Collaborate, & Cultivate

Network with Female Finance Professionals.

Join Our LinkedIn Financial Networking Hub

Attend an event

Visit shop

Read alumnae news

www.rockthestreetwallstreet.com

FinLit Month: Conversation with Maura Cunningham & Sallie Krawcheck

Ellevest and Rock The Street, Wall Street founders, Sallie Krawcheck and Maura Cunningham, led a candid discussion on the crucial benefits of young women investing. They break down the power of investing, the importance of financial independence, and what it’s like to be a woman in the financial industry. With Ellevest now managing over $2 billion in women’s wealth and RTSWS bringing the M in STEM to diverse high school girls across 25+ cities in 3 countries, this discussion includes colorful stories from the past and bright insights into the future.

RTSWS’ Ashley Leftwich introduces this important conversation, celebrating Financial Literacy Month in April and throughout the year. 

RTSWS IN THE NEWS

Reflecting on Financial Literacy Month

We were honored to receive recognition from The Alzenia Project, a generous sponsor based in Chicago.

Their latest newsletter features a Q&A with RTSWS' Ashley Leftwich, shedding light on her background and important contributions developing financial and investment programming for our Students & Alumnae across 25+ cities in the US, UK and Canada.

It's great to see our impact on these talented young women acknowledged and celebrated!

5,000+ RTSWS LinkedIn Followers

🎊 Thank you RTSWS students, alumnae, volunteers, sponsors and friends for helping us reach more than 5,000 followers on LinkedIn! You've really helped us grow our reach and impact. 🎉

Build Your Skills with Bloomberg Finance Fundamentals!

RTSWS is delighted to provide a new learning opportunity to our students with a CPD accredited certificate from Bloomberg (a RTSWS sponsor): Bloomberg Finance Fundamentals. This innovative, self-paced course is an excellent way to set yourself apart, develop financial and investment skills, and explore multiple careers in the industry.

Get ready for engaging videos and interactive content as you explore key financial and investment principles to earn your certification. Highlight it on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and college applications. 

Ready to dive in? Enroll today and excel in the world of finance. Only female high school and university students invited.

RTSWS is looking for Fall '24 - Spring '25 Student CEOs!

What is a Student CEO?

Each RTSWS cohort has 1-2 Student CEOs who lead their peers as a liaison between their school and RTSWS. This position is an excellent opportunity for students to elevate their leadership experience and network with other student leaders across the RTSWS network. Student CEOs are change-makers and integral to growing more financially independent young women in their communities.

Who should apply?

High school and secondary school students who wish to develop leadership skills, strengthen their RTSWS cohort and empower other young women at their school are eligible. This opportunity is open to all students who participated in RTSWS at their school this year. Participants will have the opportunity to attend two CEO Virtual Summits where they’ll meet student peers from across the country and be invited to attend other special events. 

Interested in Becoming a Student CEO? Our 24-25 Student CEOs application is now open!

To learn more reach out to our team at studentceo@rockthestreetwallstreet.com. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

AI and Nvidia: Learn how professional stock analysts do their research, craft their thesis and pitch a stock, using a real world case study

Date: May 20th, 2024

Time: 5:00pm - 6:30pm ET

Location: Virtual

Audience: Students & Alumnae

Ever wonder how AI has become the most talked about phenomenon in the stock market? Or why Nvidia is now one of the most valuable companies in the world? Please join members of the Morgan Stanley equity research division for an introduction to how professional stock analysts do their job, from crafting an investment thesis, to building models and valuing a stock. We’ll discuss an actual case study with associates on the internet and semiconductor research teams. Whether you are interested in a career in research, are an aspiring investor or just curious about life on Wall Street, we think you will get value out of this interactive session.

FEATURED OPPORTUNITIES

Explore the sampling of internships and jobs listed below as a glimpse into the exceptional opportunities our sponsors provide.

Intern – Equity Research (Summer 2025)

Diamond Hill Capital

Columbus, OH

100 Women in Finance Complimentary Membership (College Students)

100 Women in Finance

Virtual

2024 Macroeconomics Research Intern

Dodge & Cox

San Francisco, CA

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY

By contributing to our cause, you not only pave the way for their financial growth but also help connect them with experienced mentors within the industry, fostering a nurturing environment for professional development.

Your tax-deductible donation through PayPal Giving ensures that 100% of your contribution directly impacts the lives of these aspiring young minds, making a tangible difference in shaping their success and financial independence.

Thank you.  

Connect, Collaborate, & Cultivate

Network with Female Finance Professionals.

Join Our LinkedIn Financial Networking Hub

Attend an event

Visit shop

Read alumnae news

www.rockthestreetwallstreet.com

Congratulations to the RTSWS Class of 2025

We’re excited to share that this was a record-breaking year. More than 1,500 students completed RTSWS programming, marking an incredible milestone for our students, schools, and supporters.

This success reflects the dedication of our students and the support of more than 700 industry volunteers who gave their time and expertise. That kind of support makes a real difference. In fact, 78 percent of students say having a mentor helped them academically.

To our graduating seniors, we celebrate you and all you have accomplished as you take your next steps. Your commitment to financial education and personal growth sets the foundation for everything ahead.

Our Career Center was built to support student's journeys. It is designed for RTSWS alumnae, university women and early-career professionals. Inside, you will find internships, resume support, Coffee Chats, industry insights, and leadership sessions to help you keep moving forward.

If you are interested in making an impact, email questions@rockthestreetwallstreet.com to learn how you can help guide the next generation.

Equipping the Next Generation in Finance

The Rock The Street, Wall Street Career Center is a gateway to opportunity. As we continue to bring Financial and Investment fundamentals to young women, we're proud to spotlight this dedicated platform for our students, alumnae and university women preparing for careers in finance.

Students can connect with top firms, explore internships and early career roles, and gain access to mentoring, virtual office hours, industry events and more. Watch the video and explore everything the Career Center has to offer.

Interested in supporting our students and posting roles?
Contact us at careercenter@rockthestreetwallstreet.com

INDUSTRY EVENTS

CFP Board Hosts Power Women Design Summit
Featuring RTSWS Founder

We were honored to participate in the CFP Board’s Inaugural Power Women Design Summit, a national event focused on advancing women in wealth management and growing the pipeline of female financial planners.

RTSWS Founder Maura Cunningham joined the panel “Women and the Financial Planning Ecosystem: The Path to Success,” moderated by Susan Reilly Salgado, Ph.D.. Panelists included Phuong Luong, CFP and Kamila Elliott, CFP. Each shared when they discovered financial planning and what helped them succeed. Their stories reinforced the importance of early exposure, education, and career support.

Among the leaders in attendance was Cary Carbonaro, CFP, MBA, a longtime RTSWS supporter and author of Women and Wealth: A Playbook to Empower Clients and Unlock Their Fortune. This summer, RTSWS CEO Ashley Leftwich will host Cary for a virtual fireside chat through our Career Center, offering students and alumnae practical insights and career guidance.

We thank the CFP Board for leading efforts that align with our mission and for creating space for meaningful conversations like these.

FEATURED OPPORTUNITIES

RTSWS Alumnae & Career Center

Explore the sampling of internships and jobs listed below as a glimpse into the exceptional opportunities our sponsors provide.

2025 Summer Intern

(Undergraduate students)

Phoenix Merchant Partners Rye, NY

2026 Public Finance Summer Analyst- Phoenix

(Undergraduate students with an expected graduation date of December 2026 - May 2027)

Stifel Phoenix, AZ

Junior Consultant, RESL, AML Analytics and Risk Modeling

(Fall 2025 8 month co-op program for undergraduate students)

CIBC Toronto, ON

Contact careercenter@rockthestreetwallstreet.com to post internships, entry-level jobs and industry opportunities on the RTSWS ACC.

Your donation advances our important mission and works toward our future plans that will assist even more girls and expand the talent pipeline while narrowing the wealth gap

Connect, Collaborate, & Cultivate

Network with Female Finance Professionals.

Join Our LinkedIn Financial Networking Hub

Visit shop

Attend an event