Pensions & Investments asked members of this year's inaugural class of Rising Stars to share their observations on the importance of female mentors, what sparked their interest in pursuing a career in the industry and their goals. What follows is a selection of their responses.
Taylor Abbey, vice president, institutional marketing, Ariel Investments
I was first introduced to financial services through a Smith College alumna and mentor. I was attracted to the dynamic nature of the industry and opportunity to make a difference in society. When I look back on my career in 30 years, I hope to say I challenged the status quo and opened doors for those coming behind me.
Sukari Brown Gaylor, investment director – private investments, Cambridge Associates
Relationships with senior women are invaluable; they’ve provided guidance and inspiration for my own career. From them, I’ve learned how to improve my strategic thinking, how to make informed decisions under pressure and the importance of advocating for oneself and others.
Devin Holland, senior analyst, partner, Ranger Investment Management
Growing up in a lower-income Black community while attending school in an affluent neighborhood made me hyper-aware of wealth inequality. My goal is to help low income, minority communities gain access to resources that assist them in sustainably building wealth.
Rachel Groves, investment analyst, Pennsylvania Public School Employees' Retirement System
Female investors achieving organizational and industry success are often intellectually curious, not afraid to challenge the status quo, and embrace diverse thoughts and perspectives to holistically inform their decision-making. I aim for these attributes to be both a better team player and investor.
Adekemi Sodamade, manager, investment strategies, NISA Investment Advisors
Relationships with more senior women carry hidden gems. Gems I’ll always carry: Always have a basis for your decision(s). Pave your own path. Be your best friend. Boundaries are powerful
Ananya Handa, senior investment associate, The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation
I’ve benefited from women senior to me being generous with their time and advice, guiding me through professional (and personal) implications of career transitions. They provided constructive feedback on brand building and amplifying my voice. Others, like my former and current CEO, have shown me how to lead by example through both kindness and strength.
Natalya Sanghvi, senior associate, Stardust Equity
I took a course with Professor Robert Shiller. I didn’t expect it would set my career trajectory. My assumption of finance was a system designed to oppress. The course showed me that actually the tools of finance could be applied to achieve the opposite — equity and prosperity. I knew I wanted to be part of that.
Andrea Tecson, vice president, Avila Real Estate Capital
Real estate has always been my passion. I was captivated by real estate's unique blend of tangible assets and strategic complexity. I aim to expand my network, make a significant impact on the relationships I build, and inspire women of color in private equity.
Jin Dingmore, director of investments, Baylor University
While all relationships are valuable, having a female who has walked the path before you provides a connection that other relationships cannot. There are challenges specific to being a female in the finance industry, and it is empowering to see and connect with senior women who can provide counsel/serve as an example on the professional and personal front.
Tracey Nilsen-Ames, associate portfolio manager, Man Numeric
Senior women have been very helpful in exploring options for delivering your ideas as a woman in a male-dominated environment. At the core of this advice is to advocate for yourself regardless of the audience, jump at all opportunities, and hone the skill of knowing what’s worth fighting for.
Sabrina Ciampa, private markets analyst, Meketa Investment Group
My mother inspired me to enter the investment industry. She worked in the industry for 30-plus years and I have seen firsthand the amount of drive and dedication it takes to be a successful woman in this industry. Female relationships in the workplace have been critical to helping me. These relationships provide a true sense of community as we continue to face bias in the workplace. The best lesson I have learned is to always speak up for yourself and your female colleagues.