Pictured L-R
Jill Mollner, MBA, CFP®
Branch Operations Manager
Wealth Advisor, RJFS
Michelle Stahl
Partner, Chief Operating Officer, CFS
Office Manager, RJFS
Shelli Carlson
Chief Experience Officer, CFS
Branch Associate, RJFS
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, is a global celebration of the achievements of women and a call to action for gender equality. In 2025, the theme “Accelerate Action” urges organizations and individuals to push forward in breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women in all fields.
In the traditionally male-dominated financial services industry, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership roles. As of 2024, women hold only 18.4% of C-suite positions globally, with projections estimating an increase to 21.8% by 2031.*
However, at Cornerstone Financial Solutions, the narrative is refreshingly different. The practice has always prioritized expertise, skills, and leadership ability over anything else, and as a result, its history is filled with women in leadership roles. Today, three out of four members of the organization’s leadership team are women—an achievement that reflects both ongoing dedication to excellence and a remarkable success story in an industry where women remain underrepresented in leadership. Their success is not a product of quotas or trends but of hard-earned expertise, commitment to the practice’s core values, and relentless drive to serve clients at the highest level.
Jill Mollner: Financial Planning with Heart
Jill Mollner, a Certified Financial Planner® professional and MBA graduate, combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the profound impact financial choices have on people’s lives. Raised in Sioux Falls, her parents instilled a strong work ethic and appreciation for financial responsibility in Jill and her sister.
Jill’s approach to financial planning is personal. For her, success is about more than numbers; it’s about helping her clients realize their dreams. Jill is passionate about mentoring and showing her two daughters that women can lead and thrive in any industry.
Michelle Stahl: The Engine Behind Excellence
Celebrating her 25th anniversary with Cornerstone this year, Michelle Stahl is a cornerstone of the practice—both in name and in action. As Chief Operating Officer, she ensures that every aspect of the operations reflects a commitment to putting clients first. A Huron area native, Michelle has spent her entire career at Cornerstone, starting the day she interviewed after graduating from Southeast Technical Institute.
A mother of four daughters, Michelle is deeply invested in fostering a culture where women can thrive in leadership roles, both professionally and personally. Beyond the office, she is active in the community, focusing much of her efforts in Huron and the surrounding communities.
Shelli Carlson: Crafting Exceptional Client Experiences
With more than 25 years in the financial industry, Chief Experience Officer Shelli Carlson is a natural leader with a passion for mentoring the next generation of professionals. She leads marketing, business development, and client engagement at Cornerstone, fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring clients feel the depth of expertise and care Cornerstone offers.
Outside of work, Shelli loves photography and travelling with her husband. As a new grandmother, she is also focused on leaving a legacy that empowers future generations of women to step into leadership roles.
A Model for the Future
The leadership of these three dynamic women at Cornerstone Financial is a powerful reflection of the “Accelerate Action” theme for International Women’s Day 2025. Their success is not just an internal triumph—it serves as an inspiring example of progress in financial services. By fostering a culture of excellence, value, and commitment, Cornerstone Financial is proving that breaking barriers isn’t just possible—it’s necessary.
As the financial industry continues to evolve, companies like Cornerstone Financial demonstrate that when women lead, industries transform. This International Women’s Day, let their journey inspire others to champion female leadership, ensuring that talent and dedication continue to drive the industry forward.
*Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1322160/share-of-women-financial-services-leadership-worldwide/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Inc. is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. CSP #737250 Exp. 2026.03.05.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
