FINSERV FOUNDATION

Seeing the need for energetic, creative work in this area, we came together to provide sensible solutions for students looking to join financial services. Our industry is not representative of the United States today and that needs to change. We want to mentor, coach, and help build community for those eager to make an impact on this profession.

Our amazing team of part-time volunteers, professors, board members, coaching professionals, and corporate partners are committed to increasing access to the financial services profession across all demographics. We take convictions and turn them into action by working directly with students, professionals and financial planning programs at universities and colleges.

Enter FinServ Foundation's Fellowship Program, a forward-thinking initiative designed to address these pressing issues head-on. The program draws inspiration from the diversity seen in university programs and incorporates evidence-based strategies proven effective in other industries. The Fellowship Program revolves around three core pillars: coaching, mentorship, and access to industry leaders.
Coaching: Bridging the Gap from Education to Career
The Fellowship Program offers two years of group coaching with top industry coaches. These monthly sessions cover crucial topics such as goal setting, mindset, negotiating pay, and other essential career development skills. This approach serves as a bridge program, supporting fellows from their final year in school through their first year in the workforce. By providing this structured support, FinServ aims to ensure that new advisors are better prepared for the demands of their profession and are more likely to succeed in the long term.
Mentorship: Structured Support from Industry Veterans
Mentorship is another cornerstone of the Fellowship Program. FinServ sets up a six-month guided and structured mentorship program that pairs fellows with seasoned industry veterans. Monthly check-in calls, materials, and support are provided to both mentors and mentees, ensuring a productive and beneficial relationship. This mentorship not only helps new advisors gain valuable insights and guidance but also fosters a sense of belonging and support within the industry.
Access: Immersive Industry Exposure
Access to industry leaders and events is perhaps the most unique aspect of the Fellowship Program. FinServ brings fellows as a cohort to major industry events, allowing them to network with professionals, observe industry dynamics, and gain firsthand experience of the wealth management landscape. These events include special FinServ sessions and opportunities for interviews and coaching. By covering the costs of flights, registration, and hotels through FinServ scholarships, the program removes financial barriers and ensures that all fellows can participate fully.
Ultimately, the FinServ Fellowship Program aims to improve the success rate of new advisors, provide more comprehensive support than currently available, and increase the diversity and youth of the profession. By addressing the root causes of the talent crisis and implementing a research-backed approach, FinServ is positioning itself as a leader in shaping the future of wealth management. Through coaching, mentorship, and access, the program not only tackles the immediate challenges but also paves the way for a more inclusive and robust industry.