Distinguished Achievement Award in Business

Kristi (Konkol) Ross ’90

Kristi (Konkol) Ross has always enjoyed the adrenaline rush that comes from being in the game. She has made a career out of thriving under pressure, whether that was as a member of the St. Norbert College volleyball team, or professionally in the midst of mergers and acquisitions, entrepreneurial pursuits or technology development.

Kristi focused on business, accounting and finance during her early years in public accounting, with the goal of identifying a career that would reward her skills. Kristi’s desire to fashion her own destiny — a mindset sharpened during her competitive career at St. Norbert — provided the motivation needed to flourish at the highest levels of business.

The exposure Kristi received to a variety of industries ultimately introduced her to the world of financial markets and trading. The sheer magnitude of money changing hands on any given day generated a level of energy she hadn’t seen in any other industry. Kristi knew this is where her professional career needed to be.

After being named chief financial officer of a company at the age of 25, Kristi next became CFO of the second-largest stock specialist firm on the Chicago Stock Exchange floor. From there, she became CFO of an online brokerage firm specializing in derivatives.

Her professional journey continued through 40 mergers, acquisitions, capital raises and startups before culminating as co-CEO and co-founder of an online financial media company and brokerage firm. That company sold in 2021 for more than $1 billion.

Empowerment is at the core of everything Kristi touches, from a family that includes a husband and three daughters, to her support of employees and business associates, to helping customers take control of their investments and  inspiring entrepreneurs with dreams of their own.

Kristi’s personal philosophy is built on four convictions: that opportunity is everywhere, but it’s up to you to take action; that the most rewarding career is one that inspired you to make a difference; that relationships and human connections matter; and that attitude is everything.

Kristi Ross is an extraordinary example of how a willingness to take risks and push beyond your comfort zone can create opportunities beyond your wildest imagination. It is in this spirit that we are pleased to honor Kristi with the Distinguished Achievement Award in Business.