2021 Lloyd Levin Difference Maker Award Winner: Baird

Every year, SecureFutures honors our founder, Lloyd Levin, by recognizing one individual volunteer and one partner organization for their contribution to our mission of teen financial empowerment. This year, we are thrilled to celebrate Baird as our Difference Maker Organization.

Throughout the 15 year history of SecureFutures, Baird has been a constant source of support and partnership, from high level corporate sponsorship to the engagement of Baird associates as volunteers. Since SecureFutures was founded in 2006, over 50 Baird employees have been involved as classroom volunteers, Board and Advisory Council members, and committee members. Baird has also been a sponsor of the annual SecureFutures Investment Conference, the organization’s major annual fundraiser, since 2010.

Mary Ellen Stanek, founder, managing director, and co-chief investment officer for Baird Advisors, is a longtime champion for the work of SecureFutures and currently serves on its Advisory Council.

“We are proud long term investors in SecureFutures,” said Mary Ellen. “The innovative and impactful programs provide financial education to our young people. It’s a game changer for our collective future.”

Baird has a long history of giving back in the community, which is a cornerstone of the firm’s corporate culture. The firm supports associates’ volunteerism by offering programs such as Baird Gives Back Week – a weeklong opportunity for associates to get involved in volunteer efforts in their communities – and the Baird Associate Gift Match program.

Max Mann, portfolio manager at Baird Specialized Asset Management and current SecureFutures Board member, emphasizes the goals that Baird and SecureFutures share.

“Baird and the Baird Foundation support non profit organizations aligned with a focus on human services, education, the arts and diversity. We believe in supporting organizations where our associates are actively engaged,” said Max. “Teen financial literacy hits on many of these focal points and also aligns with our desire to be a valued financial partner to future generations.”

Thank you, Baird, for investing in financially capable teens and healthy communities through your partnership!