Meg Hegarty Dean, DSHA ’94, describes her high school experience in two words—authentic happiness. Her time at DSHA set her in motion to serve as a leader in a male-dominated industry, live a life of service, and give back to organizations throughout Milwaukee, leaving an imprint on each community in which she serves.
“When I reflect on my time at DSHA, it was one of learning, laughter, and support,” she shared. “My peers, as well as the faculty and staff, created an environment where I could thrive.” She continued, “I had countless opportunities, both inside and outside of the classroom, to develop as a young woman of faith, heart, and intellect.”
During her junior year at DSHA, Dean took an economics class with Social Studies Faculty Chris Kirsch Weiss, DS ’70. “I found the subject matter fascinating. Mrs. Weiss not only taught us the principles of economics, but she challenged us to apply the material to real world issues.”
When choosing between various colleges during her senior year, Dean again drew inspiration from DSHA. “My faith journey came alive at DSHA,” she shared. “I learned how to become a person for others, and I wanted that faith element in the classroom to continue in college.” With faith as a necessary component, Dean headed to Boston College, a Jesuit university, to pursue a degree in economics. She enrolled in microeconomics and applied the foundation she received at DSHA to excel. “I was confident in the material because of my economics class with Mrs. Weiss. I felt prepared.”
Dean accepted an Investment Analyst position at Baird in Milwaukee in 2000. She then worked in Chicago from 2003-2007 as the Vice President and Portfolio Manager with Deerfield Capital Management before returning to Baird in 2007. She now serves as Managing Director, Co-Lead Securitized Sector/Senior Portfolio Manager for the Baird Advisors team.
“In 2000, Mary Ellen Stanek, Gary Elfe, and Charlie Groeschell founded Baird Advisors, which now manages over $150 billion in assets.” Dean co-leads research and strategy developments in the mortgage and asset-backed sectors.
“I’ve been blessed to spend the majority of my career with the Baird Advisors team. We have built a business focused on meeting the needs of our clients. Our interests are aligned with that of our clients—when our clients win, we win,” she shared. In addition to her success at Baird, Dean received the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 2005 and is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society of Milwaukee.
“You’re a product of your environment.” She continued, “I’m proud to be a product of DSHA, Boston College, and Baird. While I learned the building blocks of many disciplines at DSHA, I was encouraged to apply those skills to solving problems in school and beyond. I am confident DSHA will continue to open up a world of possibilities for young women as it did for me.”
Dean was on the DSHA Board of Directors from 2008-2014. She also served on the DSHA Finance Committee. She currently serves on the board for Nativity Jesuit Academy, Children’s Wisconsin Foundation Board of Directors, and the St. Monica’s Parish School Committee. In her spare time, Dean and her husband Matt enjoy cheering on their four children at their various activities as well as spending time with her family and friends.