Dee Dee Sklar Women in Fund Finance Award
The inaugural Women in Fund Finance Award was first presented to Ms. Dee Dee Sklar in 2018 to honor her tremendous efforts to create the Women in Fund Finance initiative and increase engagement and participation of women in the Fund Finance community. The purpose of this annual award, now named the “Dee Dee Sklar Women in Fund Finance Award,” is to recognize a member of the Fund Finance community who embodies the mission of the Women in Fund Finance initiative and demonstrates their commitment to helping women succeed through connection, education and professional advocacy.
Nominations are now closed for 2026 Awards
2026 Recipient
Kristin Castellanos
TriState Capital
Kristin Castellanos is a highly respected leader in fund finance whose influence extends far beyond her professional accomplishments. Throughout a career spanning more than two decades, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing women in finance through mentorship, advocacy, education, and inclusive leadership.
A longstanding supporter of Women in Fund Finance (WFF), Kristin has generously shared her expertise as a speaker on WFF Wit & Wisdom and Learning Forum panels, providing practical guidance, industry insight, and encouragement to professionals at every stage of their careers. Her commitment to fostering meaningful connections within the industry is perhaps best exemplified by her founding of the Women in Fund Finance Golf Event. What began as an innovative effort to create a welcoming and inclusive networking opportunity has grown into one of WFF's most popular and impactful events, introducing countless women to a traditionally male-dominated space while strengthening relationships across the fund finance community.
Kristin's most enduring legacy, however, may be the people she has helped develop along the way. She has personally mentored more than 20 women in finance, serving as a trusted advisor, sponsor, and advocate. Her influence extends well beyond formal mentorship, as she is known for creating opportunities, making meaningful introductions, championing talented professionals, and helping others navigate critical moments in their careers. Many of the women she has mentored have gone on to become accomplished leaders within the industry, a testament to her lasting impact and commitment to developing the next generation of fund finance professionals.
Throughout her career, Kristin has consistently championed diversity, inclusion, and talent development. For more than 20 years, she has been instrumental in hiring, promoting, and supporting women and male allies, while building high-performing teams recognized for their expertise, collaboration, and culture. Colleagues, clients, and industry peers alike describe her as a leader who combines exceptional professional excellence with genuine care for others, creating environments where individuals feel empowered to succeed and contribute.
Kristin embodies the spirit of the DeeDee Sklar Women in Fund Finance Award through her sustained leadership, dedication to mentorship, and tireless efforts to elevate those around her. Her contributions have strengthened the fund finance industry, expanded opportunities for women, and left a lasting impact on countless careers. She is an exceptionally deserving recipient of this recognition.