2025 Dollars For Scholars Campaign Focuses on Graduate Success

Building and retaining leadership and a pipeline for the future Ariel Boverman is a human resources (HR) professional who has used her expertise to guide executives though organizational change at top firms including Marsh and McLennan, PwC, EY and Wells Fargo Advisors. She represents the Nominating Committee on the FWA’s board, and previously, she served on the board of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In her free time, Ariel loves engaging with diverse people and cultures and being a tourist in her own city. Sherree DeCovny, co-chair of the FWA’s Marketing & Strategic Communications Committee, spoke with Ariel about her background and her role in helping the FWA ensure sustainability through strong leadership. 

When Ananya Putta switched her major from biology to finance, she wasn’t just changing a field of study, she was stepping into the unknown. Like many first-generation college students navigating their academic and career choices, she was searching for clarity, confidence, and a sense of direction. Through the FWA's Seton Hall Mentoring Program , Ananya was matched with Karen Kerby, a Partner at Prager Metis CPAs and member of the Financial Women’s Association for just over two years. What began as a formal mentorship quickly blossomed into something much deeper: a lasting, empowering relationship built on mutual respect, shared ambition, and authentic support. “Karen is more than a mentor—she’s a guiding light,” said Ananya. “She helped me see a future I wasn’t sure I belonged in, and she gave me the tools to move toward it with confidence.” Karen, reflecting on their journey, noted how personal the experience was for her too. “I was a shy, uncertain young woman when I began my career. I know what it feels like to not have all the answers. I wanted to be the kind of mentor I wish I had—someone who listens, encourages, and reminds you of your worth.” Together, they tackled mock interviews, résumé reviews, networking strategies, and those hard-to-name challenges like imposter syndrome and self-doubt. As Ananya advanced, Karen remained a steady presence, offering not just guidance, but belief.

The FWA is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Wall Street Exchange Program (WSE). This prestigious program has been a cornerstone of professional development and leadership in the finance industry for over 40 years. The Wall Street Exchange Program is designed for rising senior undergraduate students who have secured paid internships for summer 2025 with financial services or a finance role at a non-financial services company. The 2025 WSE will be primarily virtual with highly interactive and engaging workshops and webinars hosted by our partner firms. If circumstances permit, we will host one or more events in person in New York City. Apply Here: https://www.fwa.org/apply-for-wall-street-exchange Eligibility: Applicants must have completed their junior year but should not be graduating before December 2025. Deadline: June 1, 2025 Highlights: Engaging WSE workshops hosted by FWA President Circle leading firms Enhance job search skills through workshops that help you create and leverage your unique professional brand Develop leadership techniques and other soft skills necessary to execute a successful job search and succeed in your career Build a professional network with fellow program participants and interns and employees from sponsor firms Access FWA members who can share professional and personal advice Join the FWA for even more networking, skill building, and professional development after the summer and as you embark on your new career FWA Members: We encourage you to share this incredible opportunity with your mentees and networks. Together, let's empower the next generation of finance professionals! For more information visit https://www.fwa.org/wall-street-exchange . If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Kelsie Piersaint, FWA Next Gen Educational Programs Manager, at [email protected] .