Patty Schuler is a cornerstone of the STAC community—resilient, insightful and deeply committed to lifting others as she ascends. With a career grounded in the values of active listening and clear communication, Patty joined STAC to expand her industry knowledge and network, and she has since become a vital force within the organization.

Patty is not only a past STA Governor, but as one of the first female presidents of STAC, she broke the mold and set the stage. Dedicated to mentoring the next generation of professionals, she was instrumental in launching the STA Woman in Finance (WIF) initiative and served on the original WIF committee as the affiliate representative for Chicago. Her contributions over the years have helped WIF dramatically grow and resulted in her receiving the 2024 STA Woman Mentor of the Year Award.

What truly sets Patty apart is her perseverance—her superpower. With a personal understanding of how financial hurdles can impact young people in their educational journey, she now gives back through her support of scholarships through the STAC Fund, helping others realize their dreams. Patty’s list of career accomplishments is long– but it’s her talent, passion and character that have had the greatest impact and made her a role model for all. Read on to learn more.

Why did you join STAC?
I joined STAC for several reasons. Networking and being on top of industry initiatives are the first that come to mind. I found that having these connections exposed me to a broader financial community and allowed me to expand my knowledge and experiences in the business and my career.


What professional skillset has helped you succeed in your career?
I believe that having the ability to listen to others and effectively communicate with your peers has helped me in so many ways. This has allowed me to learn from and teach with the many individuals and groups I have worked with over the years. 

What would you tell your younger self just starting your career?
I would tell my younger self not to be afraid to make hard decisions and face any issues head on.


Can you share an example of a STAC member who has served as a mentor to you and played a
significant role in your professional development?
Kathy Cheevers, a long time industry veteran, encouraged me to join STAC specifically to be on the Board. She encouraged me to get involved and to be a mentor to the younger generation.

How has STAC increased the value you bring to your organization?
STAC allows me to be present at various industry networking events which expose my company, BOX Options, to many different facets of our business. STAC brings awareness to what my organization offers in terms of the financial industry. It affords us the opportunity to make those connections and work towards expanding our business. 


Why are the educational and networking opportunities STAC offers so critical to someone
starting out in/looking to advance their career?
It’s all about making those connections and seeing how you can build upon your network and use those contacts to create opportunities for yourself and the advancement of your career. Sometimes it’s about being in the right place at the right time. If you don’t make the effort to put yourself ‘out there’ you won’t go far in life or your career. 


What is your favorite STAC event and why?
My favorite STAC event is Mid-Winter Meeting. I get to see so many of my peers who come in from out of town. I get to sit in on the panels and learn about new initiatives or keep up with current industry happenings. 


Who is someone at STAC that you’d recommend new members network with and why?
I would recommend that new members network with some of the industry veterans who are on the STAC Board. It’s hard to put one name out there as everyone offers something unique in terms of their industry knowledge. They know a lot and are willing to help and offer valuable insight into the business.

Why is the STAC Fund so important to you?
The STAC Fund is extremely important to me. I know firsthand the struggles of trying to pay for college. At the time I went to college my parents could only afford so much. I actually ended up having to leave school after two years and started working. I was fortunate to work for a company that offered tuition reimbursement and was able to finish my degree while working full time to pay for school. Being able to give back to someone who needs that educational financial support is tremendously rewarding for me.


How do you give back to the Chicago community?
I look for opportunities to support scholarships for college bound young adults. 


What is your superpower?
Not giving up. Continuing to power through and stay positive. Sometimes it may not be the outcome I envisioned, but knowing I tried and didn’t give up is my superpower. 


What’s something other members don’t know about you?
I am all Irish. 


Name one industry trend that you’re keeping an eye on today.
I am keeping an eye on 24 hour trading in the equity derivatives space.