Women Leading the Way at Baird- Associate Resource Groups
Christina Simon, Business Process Delivery Team Manager
Incoming vice chair of Ascend, helps position Baird as an employer of choice for women by elevating their voices, expanding leadership opportunities, and fostering meaningful connections. She leads with confidence and a strong commitment to Ascend’s mission: supporting Baird as an employer of choice for women by expanding leadership opportunities, amplifying women’s voices, and fostering meaningful connections across the firm. “I didn’t come in wanting to change everything, we’re already doing great work. I want to help women’s careers grow and blossom.”
Katie Kay, Institutional Sales Analyst
Also incoming vice chair of Ascend, transitioned from teaching into the financial world and is using her platform to improve the return-to-work experience for new moms. “I wanted to make the process stronger and more supportive,” she shared. Her focus on wellness, recruiting, and connection is helping shape a more inclusive and thoughtful workplace for working parents.
Cassaundra Soto-Gillon, Sr Information Security Risk Analyst
Incoming vice chair of PRISM, works to engage associates of underrepresented ethnicities and foster awareness of multicultural issues through education and open dialogue. A senior security analyst, she described Baird’s culture as “the Kool-Aid everyone wants to drink.” She added, “Everyone’s willing to chat and help you learn more. It’s a healthy environment where you don’t have to watch your back.” Her passion for collaboration and cross-ARG connections is helping build bridges across the firm.
Emily Decker-Bess, PWM Learning Solutions & Operations Manager
Incoming vice chair of NEXT, supports Baird as a top workplace for next-gen associates by amplifying their voices and bridging generational perspectives. She began her Baird journey in instructional design and now works in the Private Wealth Management Learning Department. “At Baird, you have a voice and people want to hear it,” she said. Her focus is on expanding mentorship and making events more accessible and engaging for associates at every level.
Gaby Schwartz, Sr Financial Analyst
Incoming vice chair of Spectrum, supports the needs of Baird’s LGBTQ+ associates and promotes inclusion through community engagement and recruiting efforts. Just under three years into her career, she’s already making a meaningful impact. “I want to make sure we’re showing up for LGBTQ+ associates everywhere not just in Milwaukee.
Stacy Alessi, Manager Salesforce Platform
Also incoming vice chair of Spectrum, is a 20-year Baird veteran who has seen the firm evolve and helped shape that evolution. Now working with the Salesforce platform, she’s focused on expanding Spectrum’s reach and equipping managers to better support their teams. “You can create your own path here. If there’s a gap, Baird asks, ‘How can we do better?’”
Colleen King, IT Lead Business Analyst
Incoming vice chair of Baird Gives Back, encourages associate involvement in local volunteer efforts while strengthening Baird’s presence in communities around the world. She’s passionate about service, recognition, and alignment. “I want to make sure we’re celebrating our volunteers and aligning with other ARGs to amplify our impact.” She added, “Leadership here wants you to do what makes you happy and shine.”
Hanna Brumley, Wealth & Family Officer I - Trust
Incoming vice chair of Patriot, fosters a strong network of veterans and allies, grounded in teamwork, integrity, and service. She brings a personal connection to her work supporting veterans. “I didn’t think I was qualified, but I had ideas and goals. At Baird, people believe in you and want to help you grow.” Her focus is on making sure internal veterans feel seen, valued, and appreciated.