🎬 The End of an Era
Lori J. Schock, the powerhouse behind the SEC's Office of Investor Education and Assistance (OIEA), is set to retire at the end of December. Since 2009, Schock has been the go-to guru for everyday investors, breaking down complex financial jargon into digestible nuggets of wisdom. SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins praised her ability to connect deeply with the average investor, noting her unwavering commitment to financial education.
"She has a unique ability to make a deep connection with everyday investors explaining the most complex investing terms in a way they can understand," said Atkins.
Under her leadership, OIEA has become a cornerstone of the SEC's mission to educate and protect investors.
🌟 Achievements Galore
Schock's tenure wasn't just about holding the fort; she took investor education to new heights. Here's a quick rundown of her notable achievements:
- Investor.gov: Launched and grew the site to more than 8 million annual users.
- Investor Alerts and Bulletins: Provided timely updates to help investors dodge scams and stay informed on investment trends.
- Director’s Take Articles: Offered tips on building wealth and safeguarding retirement funds.
- Investor Assistance Program: Managed hundreds of thousands of investor inquiries and complaints.
- Creative Outreach: Led initiatives like the HoweyCoins fake ICO website to educate the public on investment fraud.
Her work has left an indelible mark on the financial literacy landscape.
🏆 A Legacy of Excellence
Before joining the SEC, Schock was already making waves in the financial education world. She held key roles at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s Investor Education Foundation and the Center for Audit Quality. Joining the SEC in 2001 as a Staff Attorney, she quickly rose through the ranks, proving her mettle at every step.
"I am so proud of the positive, impactful work of the entire OIEA team," said Schock. "They truly make a difference in investors’ lives."
With a J.D. and Master of Taxation from the University of Akron and a B.A. from Furman University, Schock's academic credentials are as impressive as her professional achievements.
