LIFESTYLE

Woman to watch: Sandra Wehner

Arlene Hisiger

Sandra J. Wehner graduated from high school and jumped into a finance job because she was interested in that area.

She began "learning the ropes" in a variety of positions but she was worried about advancement in a male-dominated field, especially because she lacked a four-year degree.

"I was very fortunate to have worked with people who gave me the opportunity to prove myself," Wehner says. "You can give someone books, but through years and years of dealing with people, you learn a lot."

Now with more than 30 years experience — and taking professional courses to earn her certified financial planner status — she was recently promoted to corporate vice president of the Sage Rutty & Company financial services company.

And, she says, there still "is always something to learn."

Wehner attributes her success to her strong belief in providing exemplary customer service and her ability to go beyond the dollar and cents to forge a meaningful relationship with her clients.

Her credo? "Live today, invest for tomorrow." In other words, she helps clients maintain the fine balance of enjoying their lives while building and protecting their nest egg.

Wehner delights in counting generations of the same family as clients. She was particularly proud when one of her clients told her that her success as a female financial adviser was an inspiration to his two daughters who have both just begun their careers in finance.

She describes herself as "upfront and straightforward," traits she attributes to her mom. Both parents taught her to do her best and that hard work and determination would get her to where she wants to be.

She enjoyed a close relationship with her parents, and when her mom passed away suddenly she assumed the role of driver for her handicapped dad. After some time, the family decided that it was time to get their father driving again.

They turned to Rochester Rehabilitation's DriveOn program, supported by Al Sigl Community of Agencies, for help. Her dad was re-certified as a driver and relished his newfound freedom. "Sandy," he said at the time, "I've got a whole new lease on life!"

Since then, Wehner has been an ardent supporter of the Al Sigl Community of Agencies. This year and next, she and the Sage Rutty & Company have partnered to support Al Sigl's Fine Tastings event — one of two major annual fundraising events. The event is from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 17 at Locust Hill Country Club.

Personal: 54, married, lives in Henrietta.

Community activities: Annual support for the Al Sigl Fine Tastings Event, volunteer for Restore (Rape Crisis). Formerly volunteered for Camp Good Days and the Rochester Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

My favorite thing to do in Rochester: Spend time with family and friends.

Biggest challenge I've overcome and how I did it: Helping my father, who was handicapped, regain and maintain his independence after the sudden death of my mother. How I did it? Perseverance and a very supportive family!

One thing I've always wanted to do but never have: Dive the Great Barrier Reef.

If I could change one thing about myself it would be: The ability to find more "me" time.

The talent I would most like to have: Play piano.

The one thing I can't live without: Nothing is more important than the people in my life so there is no "thing" that I cannot live without.

My favorite movie:It's a Wonderful Life.

One of my favorite sayings is: Live for today.

A person who has inspired me: My mom. She was funny, honest and direct. She taught me so much about life, family, values and hard work. I know if she were alive today, I would still be learning from her.