My Story and Services

As your Financial Advisor, I can help you define and strive to meet your goals by delivering a vast array of resources to you in the way that is most appropriate for how you invest and what you want to achieve. Working together, I can help you to preserve and grow your wealth. You will have access to some of the world’s most seasoned and respected investment professionals, a premier trading and execution platform and a full spectrum of investment choices.

Lee is a Managing Director, Wealth Advisor and Senior Portfolio Management Director. Lee’s focus includes customized asset allocations and portfolio management. Lee works closely with clients to assess their unique financial profile and then provides realistic solutions for their financial goals. Lee has worked in the financial services industry since 1985. After five years with Prudential Securities as a Senior Vice President, Lee came to Morgan Stanley in 2000 and is currently a Presidents Club Financial Advisor. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1983 with a B.A. in Economics. Lee was included in the 2019, 2021 and 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list. Lee played collegiate Water Polo at the University of Illinois, currently competes in master’s swim meets with Phil’s Phish, and mentors other swimmers.

2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Services Include
Securities Agent: LA, DC, CA, NY, NJ, MN, IN, GA, NM, AR, WI, TX, SC, NC, MO, MD, CO, AZ, AL, OH, ME, CT, WA, OR, NV, MI, ND, KS, FL, DE, PA, VA, MA, KY, IL; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1295663
CA Insurance License #: 1805278
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2019 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors – Lee Cohn
Each year, Forbes publishes a ranking of Best-in-State Wealth Advisors, recognizing a select group of Financial Advisors who embody professionalism, dedication and exceptional service. It is our pleasure to share that this year our own Lee Cohn was included on this prestigious list, along with more than 700 of our colleagues at Morgan Stanley. We are humbled to be counted among this esteemed group of our peers. But, even more than that, we are deeply honored by your trust and loyalty.

This recognition means so much as it is a reflection of our commitment to you as well as Lee’s contributions to the success of the firm. In light of this achievement, we want to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing confidence in Lee and in Morgan Stanley. It is truly our privilege to work with you in achieving the financial future you envision for you and your family.

2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.

Our Process

We Can’t Predict, But We Can Prepare!
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    Step 1:
    Discover your needs: We conduct a thorough discovery process to understand what is important to you, your risk tolerance, and review your complete financial picture and goals in order to help ensure that we are clear on your exact needs.
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    Step 2:
    Presenting Your Life Plan: Once we have completed the discovery process, We will present “your” plan and help you visualize what your retirement will look like as we work together to bring it to reality.
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    Step 3:
    Implementing Your Investment Strategy: Our newfound knowledge on your financial wealth and health will help us implement a tailored portfolio of best-in-class investments supported by the global investment resources of Morgan Stanley that best matches your unique needs. Asset Allocation, Diversification and Rebalancing will be the foundational concepts of your strategy. We can also coordinate your strategy with the other members of your financial team if needed (i.e Attorneys, Accountants).
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    Step 4:
    Monitoring Your Progress: We will consistently monitor your assets and the plan’s performance to ensure expectations are being met while addressing any changes in personal goals or market conditions over time.

Financial Planning:

Regardless of what stage your life is in - moving ahead in your career, enjoying retirement, or somewhere in between. We can help you to prepare.
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    Manage Debt
    We thoroughly review your mortgage, car loans, credit cards, and any other debts that you may have in order to help determine where you can save on interest and create a timeline for your debt payments by prioritizing which ones should be paid off first.
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    Managing Investments
    We take care of your retirement accounts and other investments based on your comfort level with risk and your current tax circumstances, tailoring your financial strategy to your unique situation, needs, and goals.
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    Estate Planning Strategies
    Regardless of your current financial circumstances, it is crucial to have a backup plan for your money. I regularly review your finances with you and coordinate with your estate attorney to help ensure that your wishes are met in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.
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    Retirement
    Leading up to and through retirement, I can help you identify the most appropriate ways to obtain the income you need and help ensure that you are on track to achieve for financial goals.

MODERN WEALTH MANAGEMENT TOOLS AND RESOURCES

Morgan Stanley's comprehensive suite of digital resources has carefully been designed to help enhance each aspect of your financial portfolio. Take some time to learn about some of the many Modern Wealth Management resources that we offer to our clients.
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    Morgan Stanley Online
    Your investments and everyday finances are always just a few clicks away with Morgan Stanley Online (MSO) and the Morgan Stanley mobile app! Access your finances and invest in an instant with the help of this handy resource that is available 24/7.
    Learn More About Morgan Stanley Online
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    Total Wealth View
    Complete your financial profile with Total Wealth View. By linking your external account information, you will benefit from more educated and holistic wealth planning, and convenient connectivity.
    Learn More About Total Wealth View
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    MS Reserved
    Reserved Living & Giving is a tiered complimentary loyalty program that rewards clients with over one million dollars in assets and liabilities invested at the firm. The program is designed to enhance your lifestyle and relationship with the firm beyond traditional wealth management services.
    Learn More About MS Reserved
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    2023 Maximum Benefit & Contribution Limits
    This document highlights the maximum benefit contribution limits from 2017-2023.
    View Maximum Benefit & Contribution Limits

Client Service Team

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    Stacey Swarbrick - Financial Advisor
    Phone:
    (847) 291-5564(847) 291-5564
    Email:Stacey.Ness@morganstanley.com
    Stacey is a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley and firm employee since 2000.
    She began her career in the financial services industry in 1995, in commercial banking. Stacey is a graduate of the University of Illinois with a BA in Psychology. Stacey earned her securities license in 2008.
    For 20 years, Stacey has helped to develop and support all aspects of The Cohn Groups growth. She has proven to be an indispensable resource and has been an integral part in driving our client-centered mission.
    Stacey enjoys spending time with her spouse and two sons in Barrington. Stacey is committed to supporting her family as they aspire to reach their milestones.
    Securities Agent: IL, FL, VA, OH, MN, LA, AZ, MA, GA, AL, VT, SD, NY, NH, MO, ME, DC, PA, OR, NJ, AK, MD, KY, DE, CT, CA, UT, TX, SC, OK, NE, IN, WY, WV, WI, NV, ND, NC, KS, CO, NM, MS, AR, WA, MI, IA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
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    Sharon Wierzba - Vice President, Wealth Management Associate
    Phone:
    (847) 480-5453(847) 480-5453
    Email:sharon.wierzba@morganstanley.com
    Sharon Wierzba is a Vice President, Wealth Management Associate, who began her financial services career at Smith Barney in 2000. She has been in management for the past twenty (20) years and has experience in Operations, Client Service, and Business Administration. She briefly departed Morgan Stanley Smith Barney to elevate her career in the Independent Broker/Dealer and Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) forum as Director of Operations returning to Morgan Stanley in 2018. Sharon has a Bachelors in Finance from Northeastern Illinois and is registered with her Series 3, 7, 9, 10, 24, 63, 65 licenses.
    Sharon currently resides in Riverwoods with her husband and their two cats. She is an avid golfer, enjoys cooking, football, performance driving, and spending time outdoors.
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    Elijah Rothschild - Registered Client Service Associate
    Phone:
    (847) 291-5547(847) 291-5547
    Email:Elijah.Rothschild@morganstanley.com
    Elijah Rothschild is currently a Wealth Management Associate with The Cohn Group at Morgan Stanley. He graduated from Indiana University - Kelley School of Business, with degrees in Accounting and Finance, in 2021. Elijah began his financial services career in 2016 as an intern and then as an associate with The Cohn Group. He re-joined our group in July 2023 after working as a forensic accountant for two years investigating allegations of fraud and advising clients on technical accounting matters. Elijah is involved in The Cohn Group's Investment Research and Financial Planning platforms. He also assists with our data analytics process to support the Portfolio Management program. In his free time, you can find him playing volleyball, golfing, or watching new movies with his wife in Chicago.
    Securities Agent: WY, AR, OK, NH, LA, IN, FL, CO, WA, NJ, NE, ME, MD, WV, UT, NY, VI, SC, PA, ND, HI, DE, AL, TX, RI, MT, MS, MO, MN, MA, KY, WI, VT, VA, OR, OH, NV, NM, GA, AZ, AK, SD, IL, ID, CT, CA, TN, MI, DC, KS, IA, PR, NC; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

Location

111 S Pfingsten Rd
Ste 200
Deerfield, IL 60015
US
Direct:
(847) 291-5560(847) 291-5560
Toll-Free:
(866) 771-3747(866) 771-3747
Fax:
(224) 677-2269(224) 677-2269

The Power of Partnerships

By partnering with experienced individuals across wealth disciplines, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors can align specialized resources with your custom needs and deliver strategic guidance through the familiarity and trust of existing relationships

About Andrew Dittbenner

Andrew Dittbenner is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in Illinois.

Private Bankers partner with Financial Advisors to develop a specialized approach for managing clients’ cash flow, liquidity and financing needs, leveraging our comprehensive suite of cash management and lending solutions.

Andrew began his career in financial services in 2010 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2018. Prior to joining the firm, he was a Senior Premier Banker at BMO Harris Bank, as well as a Financial Center Manager with the Fifth Third Bank.

Andrew received a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing from Northern Illinois University. He and his wife live in Saint Charles, Illinois. When not at the office, Andrew volunteers with the Make a Wish Foundation. He also enjoys attending sporting events, as well as spending time with family and friends.
NMLS#: 718951
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office

Portfolio Insights

Retirement

Working with you to understand your life goals and develop a personalized wealth strategy. Today and for the years to come.
  • 401(k) Rollovers
  • IRA Plans
  • Retirement income strategies
  • Retirement plan participants
  • Annuities
4 Financially Smart Ways to Take Money Out of Retirement Accounts
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4 Financially Smart Ways to Take Money Out of Retirement Accounts

Discover how planning for required minimum distributions from retirement accounts can help you fund future needs and support loved ones.

Investing

Working closely with you to guide your wealth and investments through the most challenging market cycles.
  • Asset Management
  • Wealth Planning
  • Traditional Investments
  • Alternative Investments
  • Impact Investing
2025 Global Economic Outlook: U.S. Policies May Temper Global Growth
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2025 Global Economic Outlook: U.S. Policies May Temper Global Growth

Global growth is likely to be around 3% in 2025 and 2026, as tariff and immigration policies begin to slow the U.S. economy late next year, and China's underperformance restrains emerging markets.

Family

Creating customized financial strategies for the challenges that today’s families face.
  • Estate Planning Strategies
  • 529 Plans / Education Savings Planning
  • Long Term Care Insurance
  • Special Needs Planning
  • Trust Services
529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education
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529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education

Though education costs continue to climb, starting to save early can make a difference.

Business Planning

Helping you on key aspects of your business such as ownership, liquidity and developing opportunities.
  • Succession Planning
  • Business Planning
  • Qualified Retirement Plans
Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business
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Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business

Selling your business can mean big changes for your life, both personally and financially. Know how to make the most of your windfall.

Philanthropy

Making sure your philanthropic dollars are managed with the same high quality service as the rest of your wealth.
  • Endowments
  • Foundations
  • Donor Advised Funds
  • Impact Investing
Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving 
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Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving 

There’s more to charitable giving than you may realize. Here’s one method that may be a tax-efficient way to give and can help maximize your impact.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact Lee B. Cohn today.
Market Information Delayed 20 Minutes
1Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan’s investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan’s flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan’s investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state’s own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine their home state’s tax treatment of 529 plans when considering whether to choose an in-state or out-of-state plan. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risk factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences.

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2Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.

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3Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.

Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY

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4Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.

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5Fixed Income investing entails credit risks and interest rate risks. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.

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6Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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7When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.

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8Participating in a new issue/syndicate is subject to availability. IPOs are highly speculative and may not be appropriate for all investors because they lack a stock-trading history and usually involve smaller and newer companies that tend to have limited operating histories, less-experienced management teams, and fewer products or customers. Also, the offering price of an IPO reflects a negotiated estimate as to the value of the company, which may bear little relationship to the trading price of the securities, and it is not uncommon for the closing price of the shares shortly after the IPO to be well above or below the offering price.

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9Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.

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10Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.

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Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.

The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.

Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.

The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.

The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.

*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney.  The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.

Awards Disclosures
CRC 6491812 (04/2024)