Financial Women's Association

In 1956, eight women—Elizabeth Heaton, Audrey Hochberg, Nancy McNamara, Susan Rappaport, Jane Sheppard, Gloria Swope, Joan Williams, and Nancy Zuger—were denied admission to the Young Men’s Investment Association. In response, they founded the Young Women’s Investment Association, which was rebranded as the Financial Women’s Association in 1965. Their first event was a speaker luncheon in 1957. Today, the FWA continues to grow, engaging professionals from entry-level to C-suite. As of 2013, the FWA consisted of over 850 members.

FWA/BMO Capital Markets Scholars Fund at Baruch

The FWA endowed full scholarships for students in the FWA-Baruch College mentoring program. Funded by BMO Capital Markets, 23 young women have received support through this funding since 2005. Through its Equity Through Education "Day of Trading" Program, BMO Capital Markets has contributed over $1.6 million to the FWA of New York Educational Fund over the past eight years. Over 40 Baruch College students and 19 Murry Bergtraum High School students have received FWA/BMO Capital Market Scholarships in 2012-13.

Educational Programs for the General Business Community

Educational programs conducted by the multiple committees are available to all members and guests of the FWA. These include: Professional Development, Not-for-Profit, Entrepreneurs, and Impact Investing.