Education: B.A. - Marquette University (1978)
M.B.A. - University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (1984)
Professional Designation: Chartered Financial Analyst (1983)
Mary Ellen Stanek, CFA, has 28 years of investment management experience. She currently serves as Managing Director and Director of Asset Management for Baird and Chief Investment Officer for Baird Advisors. Additionally, she serves as President of Baird Funds. Previously, she served as President and CEO of Firstar Investment Research & Management Company.
Stanek is responsible for the development and portfolio management of all proprietary asset management services. She co-manages several fixed income mutual funds as well as a number of taxable and tax-exempt portfolios. Her memberships include The CFA Institute, the CFA Society of Milwaukee, the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Tempo (past President) and Professional Dimensions. Stanek serves on the boards of Baird, Journal Communications and West Bend Mutual Insurance Company. She also serves on the boards of Aurora Health Care, Boys and Girls Clubs (past Board Chair), Children's Hospital Foundation, Marquette University (Board Chair), Marquette University High School, Medical College of Wisconsin, Junior Achievement, Betty Brinn Children’s Museum (past President), United Performing Arts Fund, (co-chair 2002 UPAF Campaign) and The University Club (President).
Stanek has received the Marquette University College of Arts and Sciences Person for Others Award, The St. Francis Children's Service Award, The Tempo Mentor Award, The Business Journal Women of Influence Award, The Point of Light Award, Professional Dimensions Sacagawea Award and Baird’s Brenton H. Rupple Citizenship Award.