The Kelley Group (TKG), a leading force in the financial services sector, is excited to announce the launch of the Stand Up 4 (SU4) Initiatives, a bold and innovative effort to advance diversity in the financial services industry, as well as promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship in our nation’s classrooms. These initiatives underscore TKG's commitment to leveraging its leadership position in the financial services industry to positively impact our nation’s youth and enhance inclusiveness within the Wall Street community.
Sarano Kelley, Executive Director of SU4 Initiatives, is calling on leaders from advisory and asset management firms, as well as media outlets nationwide, to join in this crucial movement. On June 28, 2024, leadership of the nation’s top advisory firms from across the industry came together for the first time to prepare for a two-day historic event to be hosted in early 2025 in New York City, the epicenter of the nation’s financial institutions. The first day will be devoted to raising awareness about the vital importance of diversity in the workplace and the financial services industry and will address key challenges faced by Black African Americans, Hispanics, Asian Americans, women, and other minority groups. Day two will be open to a wide range of financial services professionals with an interest in and commitment to increasing national financial literacy. Participants will be challenged to take a “Stand Up” pledge, committing to bring financial literacy and entrepreneurship into the nation’s classrooms. A powerful coalition of financial professionals, CEOs, celebrities, and athletes will unite to inspire and educate young people, providing them with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in our increasingly complex economy.
According to Tamara Lynch, Deputy Executive Director of Stand Up 4 Initiatives, “While the financial services industry has long been recognized as a leader of economic growth and supporter of the most cutting-edge technologies, it has faced significant challenges in reflecting diversity within its workforce, particularly in leadership roles. Studies have consistently shown that diverse teams are better at decision-making, innovation, and overall financial performance. As such, embracing diversity is not just a moral imperative but a business necessity.”
SU4 Initiatives Co-Founder, Brooke Kelley, adds, “We believe that a truly inclusive system can be the springboard we’ve all been hoping for to make financial and entrepreneurial education a part of every child’s education. I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible leaders and major institutions that have already expressed an interest in partnering with our Stand Up 4 Initiatives.”
Stand Up 4 Diversity Initiatives are currently hosting virtual group meetings for advisory leaders and asset management professionals. Members of minority groups are invited to participate. To learn more, contact Viktor: [email protected].
If you are a financial advisor committed to bringing financial literacy into the nation’s schools in partnership with celebrities, athletes, and CEOs, contact Tamara Lynch: [email protected].
About Sarano and Brooke Kelley
The Kelley’s are influential leaders in the financial services industry, known for consistently receiving #1 ranking for speaking and coaching. They’ve published several books including the only book ever written on how leaders can recruit financial advisors, “The Recruiting Conundrum.” Sarano and Brooke Kelley had the honor of being the first ever to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange to promote Financial Literacy Month.