Celebrating Women’s History Month with RTSWS

Mar 7, 2025 | RTSWS Newsletter

Celebrating Women’s History Month with RTSWS

Rock The Street Wall Street collaborated with Citadel and Citadel Securities for an International Women’s Day event in New York, giving high school students and alumnae a front-row seat to careers in finance. RTSWS CEO Ashley Leftwich moderated a panel, Demystifying Careers in Finance, featuring Citadel’s Emily Yan and Bhavya Kethireddipalli, along with Citadel Securities’ Melody Wen, who shared insights on careers in investment management, trading, and quantitative finance. The event also included small-group networking with Citadel professionals from both firms, offering students valuable industry access and background insight.

Activities are continuing throughout the month including the Inaugural RTSWS Woman of the Year Luncheon on March 27, in Nashville – Honoring RTSWS Founder Maura Cunningham for her significant impact with RTSWS reaching more than 7,500 young women with Financial & Investment literacy.

Join us in celebrating Women’s Month as we bring the M in STEM to life for high school girls and university women. 

SPRING MENTORSHIP SESSION

Crafting a Resume for University and Career Success

We kicked off our first Spring Mentorship Virtual Session, a new resource designed to support students as they prepare for in-person mentorships. This session featured Kristal Rundquist from Stifel, who led a discussion on Crafting a Resume for University and Career Success.

With students from 13 RTSWS high schools in attendance, Kristal provided expert insights on building a strong first resume and the key qualities that make candidates stand out to hiring managers. She also answered student questions, offering valuable advice on resume structure, tailoring experiences to career goals, and avoiding common pitfalls.

For those who missed it, you can access the event recording here. Additional resume resources and review opportunities are available on the RTSWS Alumnae & Career Center (ACC).

Stay tuned for our next Virtual Career Session in March—details coming soon!

STUDENT CEO APPLICATIONS OPEN

Are you ready to step up as a student leader? The Student CEO application for the next school year are open! Student CEOs are key leaders in our RTSWS cohorts, providing support to fellow students and helping guide our programming. This is an incredible opportunity to gain leadership experience, grow your network, and engage with peers across the RTSWS community.

This year, 95 students have taken on the Student CEO role—will you be next? Click below to learn more and apply!

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.

Experienced/Lateral - Accounting Analyst

(Full Time Role)

Five Rings LLC

New York, NY

2026 Public Finance Summer Analyst Program

(Undergraduate Students graduating between
December 2026 or Spring 2027)

Morgan Stanley

San Francisco, CA

Wealth Management, Private Wealth Management -
Summer Analyst

(Undergraduate & Graduate Students )

Goldman Sachs

Boston, MA

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

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

The RTSWS 2024 Annual Report

Feb 21, 2025 | RTSWS Newsletter

The RTSWS 2024 Annual Report

We recently released the RTSWS 2024 Annual Report reflecting on the dedication, resilience and ambition of our talented students, engaged alumnae, committed volunteers, and supportive sponsors.

This report shares key highlights and the progress we made in 2024 in expanding the talent pipeline for young women in the capital markets, equipping them with the skills, fundamentals and industry access to thrive. While we have much to celebrate, there is even more to accomplish in the year ahead.

A heartfelt thank you to our team, volunteers, supporters, advisors and board members who bring this mission to life for our students. Together, we’re breaking barriers and creating new opportunities for the next generation of women in finance.

RTSWS Joins UNESCO’s Unpacking
STEM Careers Seminar

Last week, Rock The Street, Wall Street proudly participated in the UNESCO event: Unpacking STEM Careers, marking the 10th Anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

With over 700 participants, the event featured insightful panel discussions on increasing women’s representation in STEM. Speakers explored dismantling stereotypes, expanding education pathways for girls, and fostering workplace environments that empower women. Opening the seminar, UNESCO's Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences,
Lidia Brito, highlighted that true progress in STEM requires full participation from both men and women.

At RTSWS, we see this every day. Our CEO, Ashley Leftwich, reminds students that math is a universal language—one that opens doors and builds brighter futures. Through Financial & Investment mathematics, real-world experiences, mentorship, and industry access, we bring the M in STEM to life for high school girls and university women, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed in finance and STEM careers.

Together, we’re building a future where more women thrive in STEM.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

During Black History Month, we celebrate the impact of access and opportunity in shaping the future of finance. We’re proud to recognize the leadership and commitment of our sponsors including BMO, J.P. Morgan and State Farm, who continue to foster inclusion and expand pathways within finance.

We’re pleased to share a few recent highlights from our sponsors:

STUDENT EVENTS

NY: March 5th 'Demystifying Careers in Finance'

RTSWS, Citadel and Citadel Securities invite RTSWS students and alumnae to an exclusive
in-person event designed to connect you with top industry professionals. Join us on March 5th in 
New York City for an afternoon of career insights and networking.

✨ Event Highlights:

🔹 Reception – Meet RTSWS peers and connect with the Citadel teams
🔹 Panel Discussion – Gain valuable insights from Citadel professionals about careers in finance
🔹 Networking Sessions – Engage in small group discussions

This is an opportunity to expand your network, gain career guidance and take a next step in finance!

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.

Banker Intern - Raleigh

(Undergraduate students)

First Citizens Bank

Raleigh, NC

Global Investment Banking Summer Analyst Program -2026

(Undergraduate and Graduate students graduating between November 2026 and August 2027)

Bank of America

Chicago, IL

Private Wealth Summer Intern

(Undergraduate students graduating between December 2025 and June 2026)

AllianceBernstein

Los Angeles, CA

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

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

RTSWS Announces 2025 Woman of the Year

Feb 7, 2025 | RTSWS Newsletter

We proudly spotlight our inaugural RTSWS Woman of the Year Luncheon honoring our visionary founder Maura Cunningham. This special event will take place in Nashville on March 27, during Women’s Month.

The event is co-chaired by Ashley Leftwich, RTSWS CEO, and Keri McInnis, SVP at Pinnacle Financial Partners and a member of the Austin Peay State University Board of Trustees. Pinnacle Financial Partners serves as the presenting sponsor, demonstrating its commitment to community engagement and financial education.

This special occasion will bring together industry leaders, sponsors and supporters to celebrate Maura Cunningham’s contributions and the organization’s ongoing impact. Looking ahead, RTSWS plans to rotate the Woman of the Year event across our cities.

Join us in celebrating!
Click to register and / or donate to support RTSWS programs.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

This month we honor the more than 1,000 students and alumnae in our program who identify as Black. We celebrate Black History Month by amplifying the legacy, leadership, and progress championed by our sponsors, volunteers, students and staff. 

We are pleased to share a few social posts from our friends and supporters:

STUDENT EVENTS

Join Us March 5th for 'Demystifying Careers in Finance'

RTSWS and Citadel Securities invite RTSWS students and alumnae to an exclusive in-person event designed to connect you with top industry professionals. Join us on March 5th in New York City for an evening of career insights, networking, and mentorship opportunities.


✨ Event Highlights:

🔹 Reception – Meet fellow RTSWS peers and connect with the Citadel Securities team.
🔹 Panel Discussion – Gain valuable insights from Citadel Securities professionals about careers in finance.
🔹 Networking Sessions – Engage in small group conversations, practice introductions, and receive expert advice.

This is your chance to expand your network, gain career guidance, and take the next step in finance!

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.

2026 Summer Analyst | FICC and Equities, Sales and Trading

(Undergraduate & Graduate students)

Goldman Sachs

San Francisco, CA

2026 Investment Banking Summer Analyst -
Energy, Infrastructure & Transition

(Undergraduate students graduating between
December 2026 and June 2027)

CIBC

Houston, TX

Emerging Leaders Scholarship

(Undergraduate first year/freshmen students)

Forté Foundation

Multiple Locations

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

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

Celebrating Mentorship, Inspiring Students

Jan 24, 2025 | RTSWS Newsletter

Celebrating Mentorship Inspiring Students

As we continue National Mentoring Month, we’re delighted to highlight the powerful impact of our sponsors and volunteers who empower the next generation of women in finance.

In Houston, students from the High School for Law and Justice recently visited Corebridge Financial, where they saw financial fundamentals in the workplace, explored career paths and connected with the Corebridge team.

This spring, Corebridge will additionally host students from Manhattan/Hunter Science High School in their offices.

Volunteers from Anchorage Capital Advisors, brought our curriculum to life at East Side Community High School in New York inspiring students to explore exciting careers in finance.

First Citizens Bank volunteers led dynamic discussions on the power of networks and mentorship with RTSWS students in Pasadena, Charlotte, Jacksonville.

RESOURCES FOR CALIFORNIA

Expanded RTSWS Office Hours for Students & Alumnae

Following the catastrophic fires in Southern California, and while there will be a very long road to recovery, we are offering additional services and virtual options for our students across the region.

We’ve expanded the Alumnae & Career Center office hours to five days a week, providing students and alumnae with more opportunities to connect. We encourage them to book a 1-on-1 session with our ACC team for personalized guidance and support.

FROM OUR ADVISORY COUNCIL

Reflecting on the National Day of Racial Healing

On January 21, communities across the US came together for
the National Day of Racial Healing, a day focused on building common ground, fostering trust, and inspiring collective action
to address the effects of racism.

At Rock The Street, Wall Street, we are proud to spotlight the impactful work of Reginald Sanders, CFA, CAIA, RTSWS Advisor and former Board Member. Reggie’s leadership and commitment to advancing racial equity continue to align with
our mission of empowering diverse voices and creating inclusive opportunities for the next generation.

STUDENT EVENTS

Reminder: ATLAS Fellows Information Session Jan 27

Attention RTSWS High School Seniors Chicago, NYC, or Teton County, WY

There’s still time to register for our Info Session on January 27th with the team from ATLAS Fellows

2025 Fellows Program Offerings:

🎓 Up to $20,000 in scholarships
💼 Financial sector internships all 4 years of college
🤝 Mentorship from industry professionals

Eligibility:

📚 Unweighted GPA of 3.5+
🌟 Identify as under-resourced or under-represented

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.

Accounting Intern- Invesco Mortgage Capital

(Undergraduate & Graduate students graduating graduating between December 2025 and Summer 2026)

Invesco

Atlanta, GA

Global Investment Banking Summer Analyst Program- 2026

(Undergraduate  students graduating
between November 2026 and August 2027)

Bank of America

Multiple Locations

Client Service Associate

(Full Time Position)

Franklin Templeton

New York, NY

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

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

Celebrating Mentoring Month

Jan 10, 2025 | RTSWS Newsletter

US National Average

RTSWS Mentorship

Rock The Street, Wall Street is proud to celebrate Mentoring Month with a heartfelt shoutout to our dedicated volunteer mentors, hardworking RTSWS students & alumnae, and supportive sponsors.

Over the next few weeks, the RTSWS Spring Mentorship will launch across our 60+ high schools and secondary schools in 30 cities across the US, UK and Canada. During the RTSWS Spring Mentorship, our students are paired with female financial professionals to work together on key career and university readiness skills over 3 sessions.

Mentors offer a firsthand insight into the professional world, guiding their proteges on savings, investments, interview skills, resume/CV preparation, professionalism, confidence-building, career interests and more!

Registration for the RTSWS Spring Mentorship is now open! We invite all female high school students at participating schools to enroll.

Harvard Women in Business BOLD Conference
Features RTSWS & HarbourVest

During National Mentoring Month, we are delighted to share insights from the Harvard Women in Business BOLD 2024 event in Q4, where RTSWS CEO, Ashley Leftwich, and Katherine McCord, VP of Client Reporting and Communications at HarbourVest, were featured in a fireside chat. The discussion was moderated by Phoebe Tian, a dedicated member of the BOLD Committee.

A standout moment from the engaging event was the discussion of a success story from an RTSWS Alumna who credited the program with solidifying her interest in and pursuit of the financial industry, demonstrating the transformative impact of RTSWS’s mentorship and educational programs.

The event also delved into the evolving landscape of women in finance, the critical role of mentorship, and the importance of diversity for better decision-making in the industry. Speakers discussed the challenges they’ve faced as female leaders and how they’ve navigated these challenges to foster inclusive, supportive environments for women.

As we continue to drive change and empower the next generation, events like the Harvard’s BOLD conference serve as crucial platforms for sharing strategies, celebrating successes, growing engagement in our Alumnae & Career Center. Together with volunteers, mentors and team, we are inspiring and inspired by our RTSWS Students & Alumnae – thank you!

see additional details on
the 300 person event

and join other University &
High School young women

Office Field Trip Highlights

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our Sponsor hosts and we're pleased to highlight a few recent office visits.

Morgan Stanley and their volunteers hosted RTSWS students from St. Vincent Ferrer High School.

The day was filled with meaningful opportunities for these young women to witness leadership in action across the financial industry, exploring areas such as fixed income, derivatives, equities, and wealth management. It was an inspiring introduction to the diverse and exciting career paths available in finance.

The trading floor tour and the opportunity to experience Morgan Stanley’s New York offices firsthand made the day unforgettable. Thank you, Morgan Stanley, for your commitment to empowering young women and helping to build a brighter, more inclusive future in the financial industry

Recently Janus Henderson generously hosted Denver Public School RTSWS students in their offices for an insightful event through our collaboration.

The impactful day was focused on responsibility and how they approach it at Janus Henderson. After completing our month-long curriculum in the classroom led by their employee volunteers, students had the opportunity to observe and understand how these concepts are implemented within an organization.

STUDENT EVENTS

ATLAS Fellows Information Session January 27th!

Attention RTSWS high school seniors! Join us January 27th for an Info Session with the team from ATLAS Fellows and learn more about their 2025 application and programs!

2025 ATLAS Fellows Program 

The ATLAS Fellows Program is a four-year college and career development opportunity that connects talented young people with financial institutions. Here’s what it offers:

🎓 Up to $20,000 in scholarship funds for college
💼 Internships in the financial sector throughout all four years of college
🤝 Mentorship from industry professionals to guide your journey

Eligibility Requirements:
Students who:
📍 Are high school seniors living in Chicago, IL, New York City, NY, or Teton County, WY
📚 Have a cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.5 or above
🌟 Identify as under-resourced (first-generation, free/reduced lunch, Pell-eligible) or under-represented (including students who identify as women, Black, Latinx, AAPI, LGBTQ+)

"Being an ATLAS Fellow... I no longer have to worry about the financial burden of private tuition, I am part of a community of incredible student leaders in finance, I have a hedge fund internship on my resume as a pre-freshman which is typically unheard of, and I have advanced access to resources that give me a competitive edge in all of my applications. Take the time to apply; it’s worth every minute!"

- Mosammad K. RTSWS 2024 Alumna and
  current ATLAS Fellow

🗓️ Upcoming Info Session:
RTSWS is hosting an information session to share details about the program, the application process, and the ATLAS Fellows community. This is a fantastic opportunity for eligible students to hear directly from the ATLAS Fellows team and RTSWS Alums currently participating as ATLAS Fellows!

ATLAS Fellows & RTSWS Info Session
Monday, January 27th
7:00 pm ET / 6:00 pm CT

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.

Virtual Insight Series (Virtual Undergraduate Program)

(Undergraduate students between June 2025 - May 2028)

Goldman Sachs

Virtual

Summer 2025 Finance Internship

(Undergraduate & Graduate students graduating
between December 2025 and June 2026 )

Tradeweb

New York, NY

Portfolio Implementation Associate

(Full Time Position)

Alliance Bernstein

Nashville, TN

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

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

Celebrating a Year of Success and Growth at RTSWS

Dec 20, 2024 | RTSWS Newsletter

Celebrating a Year of Success and Growth at RTSWS

Dear RTSWS Community,

As the year comes to a close, we want to express our deepest gratitude to each of you - teachers, volunteers, supporters and sponsors. Together, you have helped empower young women across the US, UK, and Canada developing financial and investment acumen, confidence and leadership skills shaping futures. 

During this season inspired by our students' dedication and hard work, we reflect on this year’s achievements.  We are proud to share the 2024 RTSWS Honor Roll.

Warm wishes for a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year,

Ashley Leftwich, RTSWS CEO

2024 RTSWS Honor Roll

Let’s celebrate the success of these exceptional cohorts and recognize the dedication of our School Champions, Student CEOs, Volunteers, Sponsors and the Students who make it all possible.

Best Overall Cohort

West Side High School | Newark, NJ - Franklin Templeton

Most Improved Cohort

Burke High School | Omaha, NE - Carson Group

Best 1st Year Cohort

Notre Dame High School | Toronto, ON Canada - CIBC/AIMCo

Most Consistent Attendance

St. Vincent Ferrer High School | New York, NY - Morgan Stanley

Highest Financial Literacy Growth

Urban Assembly School of Business for Young Women | New York, NY - Scotiabank

Bull & Butterfly Recipient

Hiawatha Collegiate High School | Minneapolis, MN - AB CarVal

Resilient and unyielding like the Bull, this cohort embodied strength in overcoming obstacles. Transformative like the Butterfly, they navigated a year of profound growth and change, conquering incredible challenges to achieve a successful program outcome.

Bringing Finance to Life: Year-End Office Field Trips

As the year wraps up, RTSWS students participated in inspiring office visits with corporate sponsors, supporters and hosts such as AIMCO, Goldman Sachs Ayco, Ninety One, Broadridge, Janus Henderson, Financial Women of San Francisco and Women’s Bond Club. These experiences across the US, UK, and Canada helped connect classroom learning to real-world careers.

From panel discussions and financial workshops to case studies, students gained invaluable insights into navigating the finance industry. With their support, RTSWS students are pursuing degrees in finance, economics, and STEM at five times the national average for women—a testament to the impact of these opportunities.

A heartfelt thank you to our volunteers and corporate partners for making these transformative experiences possible. Together, we’re shaping the future of women in finance!

STUDENT EVENTS

Save the Date: RTSWS ATLAS Fellows Info Session January 27

Are you a RTSWS Senior from the New York and Chicago metro areas? 

Join us for an Info Session with the team from ATLAS Fellows and learn more about their 2025 application and programs!

ATLAS Fellows is a four-year college and career development program that brings together brilliant young people and financial institutions ripe for new talent. They provide financial and professional support to unleash the full potential of talented, under-resourced students by focusing on four key areas: scholarship, internship, mentorship and membership. 

Event registration open now!

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.

LaunchMe 2025 Mentorship Program

(Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students, Young Professionals with less than 3 years experience)

100 Women in Finance

Virtual

Compliance Summer Intern

(Undergraduate students with expected graduation date of 2026)

AllianceBernstein

Nashville,TN

Private Wealth Family Office - 2025 Summer Intern

(Undergraduate students with expected graduation date of December 2025 through June 2026)

CIBC

New York, NY

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

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