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From Small-Town Roots to University of Alabama, to Georgia State University MBA to VP at Morgan Stanley: Meet Treasure Edwards
As we honor Black History Month, we proudly highlight leaders who are shaping industries and inspiring communities. Among them is Treasure Edwards, a trailblazer in financial services and Vice President, Head of Regional Strategy for Morgan Stanley’s Southeast Region.
Tell us about your personal and professional journey:
I grew up in a small country town in Alabama, living on six acres of wooded property with both of my parents. While this quintessential country lifestyle suited many of my high school peers—most of whom have never left Atmore, Alabama—I always envisioned something different for myself. My high school graduating class had only 99 students, and just a handful of us left for college.
I attended The University of Alabama, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance with a minor in Professional Selling, though I explored various majors and minors along the way. My initial plan to pursue Business and Finance stemmed from my desire to take over my family’s Custom Print and Framing business. Unfortunately, the company closed shortly after the 2008 Financial Crisis, which marked the beginning of my interest in financial markets.
During my time at Alabama, I also met my husband, and we’ve now been married for nearly ten years. After many “we have decided not to move forward with your application at this time” responses, I finally secured an internship with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management just before graduation. The role was as an Executive Assistant—perfecting coffee orders, running errands like picking up dry cleaning, and occasionally having one-on-one conversations with Financial Advisors about their careers.
In 2013, I transitioned into a two-year Wealth Management Branch Analyst program, relocating to Atlanta, GA. During this time, I earned my first FINRA licenses and began my journey into “Corporate America.” At the end of the program, I took on the role of Complex Administrator, managing four offices and approximately 400 employees. Over four years in that role, I gained invaluable industry knowledge and earned my Series 9 and 10 FINRA licenses, qualifying me to supervise financial professionals.
I then transitioned to a Regional Analyst role for the Southeast Region, where I focused on analyzing numbers and uncovering the stories and opportunities behind the data. Today, I serve as the Head of Regional Strategy for the Southeast Region. I recently completed my MBA at Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business.
What pivotal experiences shaped your current path?
Several experiences have profoundly shaped my journey, but a few stand out:
First, I’ve stuttered for as long as I can remember. While many children grow out of speech difficulties, my stutter has followed me into adulthood. As a natural introvert—likely influenced by my speech—I’ve found meeting new people to be both stressful and necessary. For much of my life, I avoided acknowledging my stutter, hoping others would too. However, when I openly addressed it—such as during my first interview with Morgan Stanley—I felt an immense weight lifted. Embracing this part of myself has allowed me to be more authentic in all spaces.
Second, losing my father in 2024 was a transformative experience. My dad battled Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), a type of liver disease, beginning in late 2021. By May 2024, his condition worsened, and after six months of rapid decline, he passed away. During this time, I traveled weekly from Atlanta to Alabama to support my parents. The experience involved navigating a labyrinth of healthcare systems, including Medicare, Veterans Affairs, and hospice care. Despite its difficulty, this time provided invaluable perspective, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to be present with my dad during his final days.
Lastly, traveling to other countries has broadened my worldview and influenced how I engage with others. Experiencing diverse cultures has taught me that the United States is not the center of everyone’s universe. This perspective shapes my daily interactions, reminding me to seek understanding before making judgments.
What are the most valuable lessons you've learned about yourself through your life and career?
Careers are rarely linear. In an age dominated by social media “highlight reels,” I’ve learned to be patient. Not every opportunity is meant for you, and true success takes time to cultivate.
I’ve also learned the importance of being vocal about my career goals. A former manager once told me, “No one will care as much about your career as you.” You have to advocate for yourself—ask for what you want, express your aspirations, and have open conversations about your goals. Whether you know exactly what you want or are still exploring, taking initiative is essential. You must lead your career advancement rather than leave it in someone else’s hands.
What drives your desire to contribute and make a difference?
My personal mission statement is: “To energize and inspire change through a commitment to excellence.” While this statement evolves over time, it reflects my ongoing goal to add value and produce high-quality outcomes in all endeavors.
In my career, I’ve built a reputation for operating at a high level, and I strive to maintain that standard daily. My ultimate aim is to make a meaningful impact—whether on a work project, a board of directors, or through volunteering with my alma mater or community organizations. Many people have supported me throughout my journey, and I’m passionate about paying that kindness forward.
If you could go back and advise your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self: You don’t need to have everything figured out.
As a natural planner, I often focused on the next step rather than being present in the moment. While planning and goal-setting are important, it’s equally essential to cherish time with loved ones, embrace mistakes, and offer grace to yourself and others. Perfection isn’t achievable, and that’s okay. Do your best, and know that it’s enough.
How can GlobalMindED support your aspirations and help you achieve your goals?
GlobalMindED can best support me by connecting me to its community and network. I’ve built a strong village of support throughout my career—people who have provided invaluable guidance, feedback, and mentorship. I’m eager to expand that village and continue learning from others as I pursue new opportunities.
Let me know if you'd like further refinements!
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC# 4153542 1/2025
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