Oliver Wyman Hosts Wall Street Exchange Interns at Their HQ

For decades, the Financial Women’s Association has grown by asking what members need and then making it happen. That same energy was front and center when the FWA Board gathered for a full-day Leadership Retreat focused on connection, clear priorities, and moving forward. Setting the tone, FWA President Albana Theka kicked off the day with clear direction: How do we honor our history while seizing new opportunities? Facilitator Thea Watkins then guided the Board through lively discussions and practical exercises that turned ideas into action. The focus for the year ahead: Membership Growth — reaching more professionals and delivering greater value. Partnership Expansion — strengthening ties with corporate and mission-aligned allies. Brand Visibility — telling the FWA story with confidence and clarity. Teams broke out to brainstorm, test ideas, and present their best plans. The Board voted on top initiatives, setting the course for the year ahead. Thanks to: Kelsey Halloran and FTI Consulting for hosting us in their fantastic space. Thea Watkins for steering the day with insight and care. Executive Director Alissa Desmarais for grounding us in FWA’s mission, vision, and goals. The takeaway: A Board that’s aligned, energized, and ready to deliver. You’ll see the impact in upcoming programs, partnerships, and outreach. Thanks to everyone who helped lay the groundwork for a strong year — together, we’re moving forward.

The roar of the crowd, a Liberty comeback win, and the connections sparked in the owner’s suite made July 13 a day that perfectly captured the spirit of the Financial Women’s Association. FWA members and friends gathered at Barclays Center not only to watch an exciting WNBA game but to celebrate community, inspiration, and collaboration. From courtside cheers to suite-side introductions, the atmosphere was electric as conversations sparked across every corner of the room. It was a chance to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones while enjoying world-class basketball. Moments That Mattered What made the day truly memorable was more than the final score. It was the opportunity to connect with leaders, colleagues, and friends in a unique setting. As Laura Smith Dunaief, FWA Wall Street Exchange Co-Chair, shared, “So much fun! Great networking and an exciting game!” Nina Batson, FWA Past President, summed it up perfectly, “Another great FWA event!” One first-time FWA attendee said, “It was my first FWA event and I left inspired and energized by the incredible women I met.” The event would not have been possible without the leadership of Keia Clarke, CEO of the New York Liberty, the support of Robert Windrem of NetsDaily, Programming Committee Chair Patti Domm, FWA Executive Director and COO Alissa Desmarais, and the talented photographer Leya Yusupov who captured the day’s energy.

During week 4 of the Wall Street Exchange Program , participants were engaged in a highly interactive session about career opportunities in Strategic Communications (StratComms), a field with which only 50 percent of the interns were familiar. Heather Wallach and Jordan Resnick from Joele Frank shared that, for those with a passion for storytelling and writing and with exceptional attention to detail, StratComms offers an opportunity to flex those skill muscles by helping firms manage crises, communicate clearly, and develop company narratives. While many firm relationships might begin with transactional engagements, they often evolve into long-term partnerships.  StratComms requires coordination and cross-communication with other partners that form a firm’s advisory circle, such as Investor Relations and Public Relations firms. This makes relationship-building and other interpersonal skills valuable attributes. While a degree or background in finance is not required, Jordan Resnick shared advice for those interested in entry level opportunities. She recommended following business news platforms to learn and stay current and writing a cover letter that expresses curiosity and interest in the field. The WSE Committee extends its gratitude to Joele Frank and its speakers for an insightful session and for their support of FWA and the Wall Street Exchange Program.