UM-Flint's School of Management names Sherri Stephens as 2025 Outstanding Alumni Award recipient

Sherri Stephens' journey began in Flint, as the eldest of six children raised by two devoted educators. Her parents were her first mentors, instilling in her the values of education, integrity and service to others. Those values would guide her through a lifetime of impact.

As a full-time student at the University of Michigan-Flint, Stephens also worked full-time assisting Flint financial advisor John Winton of Raymond James. Little did she know that this college job would change her life.

"Growing up, I always planned to follow in my parents' footsteps by majoring in education," Stephens said. "But a job after high school for John Winton set me on the path I am on today."

Encouraged by Winton, Stephens pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at UM-Flint, graduating in 1980. Thanks to her studies and mentor support, Stephens fell in love with the world of finance, especially the way it empowered families and transformed lives.

"John taught me how rewarding it is to mentor others, to use my financial aptitude to benefit the community, and that I can make a difference in people's lives," said Stephens.

She took over leadership of the firm in 1994 following Winton's passing. Today, she serves as president, CEO and lead wealth advisor of Stephens Wealth Management Group, a nationally recognized, woman-led registered investment advisory firm. Under her leadership, SWMG has quadrupled in size, built a culture rooted in integrity and helped countless clients - from multigenerational families to business owners - navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

That work has garnered Stephens national recognition. Since 2018, she has consistently been named one of Forbes' Best-in-State Wealth Advisors and one of the Top Women Financial Advisors in Michigan by Barron's and Forbes. She has also been listed among Barron's Top 100 Women Financial Advisors in America.

Her impact extends far beyond the office. A longtime trustee and past chair of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Stephens helped guide the organization through the 2008 financial crisis. She also served for 15 years on the board of McLaren Hospital and remains an active member of the UM-Flint School of Management Advisory Board. A fierce advocate for women in finance, she co-founded the Women's Leadership Alliance and launched the Advancement in Wealth Management Scholarship at UM-Flint to support future generations in the field.

Stephens believes success without values is hollow and she leads with integrity in every aspect of her life. She lives in Michigan with her husband and is the proud mother of four sons and grandmother of 11. "Whether mentoring young professionals, advising clients or championing education, Sherri's legacy is clear," said Yener Kandogan, interim SOM dean. "When you lead with purpose and give generously, you leave every place better than you found it."