Distinguished Woman Investment Professional & Joanne Hickman Dodd Awards
It’s the time of year to submit nominations for WIP's annual Trailblazer Awards.
Distinguished Woman Investment Professional Award
Recognizes an outstanding woman in the investment industry who, over a distinguished career and through her personal conduct, commitment and activities, has exemplified her support for the advancement of women within the industry and
her community.
Nomination Criteria:
Well established in her career
Exceptional leadership qualities, such as supporting women in the investment business or proven leadership in the community
Exemplifies integrity, collaboration, and concern for others
Strong supporter of Women Investment Professionals
Truly blazing the trail for the next generation of women
She does not need to live in Chicago or be a WIP member
Joanne Hickman Dodd Award
Recognizes a woman in the investment industry who demonstrates outstanding leadership characteristics and exemplifies the next generation of industry leaders.
Nomination Criteria:
5-10 years of investment industry experience making outsized contributions to her team, firm, and community
Exhibit leadership qualities and attributes, including empathy, mentorship and guidance
Demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence, teamwork and inclusivity
She does not need to live in Chicago or be a WIP member
If you know someone you'd like to nominate for either of these awards, please complete the nomination form. If you would like to include additional information, please send an email to info@wipchicago.org with the subject line "WIP Trailblazer Nomination." All submissions must be received by 5 PM CT Friday, July 18, 2025.
Both awards will be presented at the WIP annual Trailblazer Dinner at the Union League Club on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
Past recipients of the Distinguished Woman Investment Professional Award:
2024: Jessica Hart, Chief Investment Officer, Exelon 2023: Nickol R. Hackett, Chief Investment Officer, Treasurer, The Joyce Foundation 2022: Johara Farhadieh, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer, Illinois State Board of
Investment
2021: Leslie K. Lenzo, CFA, Chief Investment Officer, Advocate Aurora Health 2020: Angela Miller-May, Chief Investment Officer, Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund 2019: Kristen Doyle, CFA, Partner and Head of Public Funds, AON
2018: Lori Lucas, CFA, President and CEO, EBRI 2017: Sabrina Bailey, Global Head of Defined Contribution Solutions, Northern Trust Asset Management 2016: Deb Clarke, Global Head of Investment Research, Mercer Investment Consulting
2015: Geri Hansen, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Attucks Asset Management, LLC 2014: Janna Sampson, Co-Chief Investment Officer, Oakbrook Investments 2013: Jane Western, Chief Operating Officer, Front Office Solutions,
Northern Trust Company 2012: Janine Baldridge, Managing Director, Russell Investments 2011: Connie Teska, Principal & CIO, Pluscios Management 2010: Cynthia Steer, EVP Head of Manager Research & Investment Solutions,
BNY Mellon 2009: The Honorable Stephanie D. Neely, Past Treasurer, City of Chicago 2008: Susan E. Manske, CFA, VP and Chief Investment Officer, MacArthur Foundation 2007: Robin Ross, Executive Coach, OptimizeU Leadership Coaching
Past recipients of the Joanne Hickman Dodd Award:
2024: Mackenzie Merrill, Sr. Investment Analyst, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies 2023: Michelle Stephens, Manager, US Account Management, LGIM America 2022: Paulina M. Ksiazek CFP®, Financial Advisor, Savant Wealth Management 2022:
Rebecca Norman, Kabouter Management, LLC
