Growing the representation of women leaders in the financial industry is a stepping stone to creating a financially equitable future. One of those leaders is Natalie Fernandez Lee, President of Meridian Wealth Management - a growing Registered Investment Advisory Firm with $1.88 billion in AUM serving clients in 40 states. Natalie and her team prioritize developing trusted relationships and providing for the financial futures of their clients, which include individuals, families, small businesses and corporations, nonprofits and foundations.
As a mother of five and Tucson native, giving back to the community where she grew up has always been a focus. Growing up in Tucson, Natalie credits her parents as the biggest impact on who she is as a parent, spouse and a professional. Her parents encouraged her commitment to balance work, home, family, and community.
Natalie's active engagement with the community, building relationships with other professionals enhances her clients’ overall financial futures. Natalie is the Co-Chair of the American Heart Association’s 2022 Go Red for Women, serves on the Boards of the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Tucson and Pima Foundation, a member of the Banner UArizona Advisory Council, and works with many other local organizations. She is also a proud recipient of the 40 Under 40 Award, BizTucson’s 22 Rising Stars to Watch, and Tucson’s Next Generation of Leaders. “Lead by example” is a motto that she embraces to make an impact on the lives and community around her.
Applying her 25 years of experience in the financial industry, Natalie is committed to educating youth in finance and personal responsibility. She regularly speaks to school-aged children from 8th grade through high school, as well as at the college and university levels, in a commitment to educating Tucson and Southern Arizona. Natalie also takes a special interest in dedicating time to empower women to take charge of their financial futures. Many Tucson residents may also recognize her voice from the last 12 years as a co-host of a financial news radio program.
While she feels the future is bright for women in leadership roles, Natalie emphasizes there is opportunity to still accomplish much more. Natalie’s advice to young women is to prepare for stumbling blocks and failures along your way, learn to get back up and never give up on pursuing your dreams. In the world of business and leadership men and women both have important roles. Women bring a different perspective and disciplined approach. She values both men and women in leadership. Empowering women means to acknowledge other women and their success and promote them, encourage, and build them up, there is no need to be competitive, rather working together can build a bigger, better, and brighter future for all women and men.
Thank you Natalie for your commitment to #BreakTheBias and empower the financial future of women and youth!
