As a Financial Advisor, Theresa specializes in advising high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families, helping them navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. She brings extensive knowledge in comprehensive financial, estate and tax planning, developing tailored strategies that help clients optimize and preserve their wealth. Theresa believes in a thoughtful, relationship-driven approach and focuses on helping clients grow, protect, and transition their wealth across generations.
Theresa built a strong foundation in financial services before joining Baird, working with First Midwest Bank and Bank Mutual from 1989 to 1997 and Northern Trust and Wintrust from 1997 to 1999. She joined Baird in 1999 and became part of The Forward Legacy Group in 2004. She is acting President of Baird’s Financial Advisor Advisory Council (FAAC) and has taken on many leadership roles during her time at Baird. Theresa has been recognized internally for her client-first approach and dedication to building lasting relationships anis regularly invited to speak on complex financial planning topics at various Baird conferences.
Theresa loves helping others and values building meaningful, long-term relationships and guiding clients through life’s decisions. She appreciates Baird’s people first culture, and truly feels the team is an extension of her family.
Education & Accomplishments
Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Ottawa University
Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), obtained in 2014
Recipient of the G. Frederick Kasten, Jr. Award—Baird’s most prestigious honor recognizing an unwavering commitment to clients and community
Invited attendee, Barron’s Top Women Financial Advisors Summit (2023–2025)
Community Involvement
Theresa is passionate about giving back and has been actively involved in her community over the years.
Highlights include:
Board President, Milwaukee Animal Rescue Center (2010–2012)
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee – former Big Sister and ongoing supporter (since 2011)
Money Coach Volunteer, Secure Futures Milwaukee (2016–2017)
Women & Girls Fund volunteer and sponsor since 2024
More About Theresa
Outside of work Theresa enjoys hiking, kayaking, at her favorite hot yoga class, meditating, or getting lost in a good book. She also loves to travel, especially with her nieces and nephews. She lives in Oconomowoc with her husband, Scott, and their two dogs, Enzo and Mila.
On Theresa’s Bucket List:
Her future travel goals include visiting the remaining U.S. states so she can say she’s been to all 50, as well as exploring the Mediterranean.