My Story and Services

Sharon Cunningham has been a Financial Advisor with Morgan Stanley and its predecessor firms since 1990. She has dedicated her career to providing highly customized financial planning and investment strategies for individuals, families, organizations, and nonprofits. Her approach is built on a deep commitment to financial education, strategic planning, and delivering outstanding service with integrity and passion.

Since the beginning of her career, Sharon has been a champion for women’s financial empowerment. Recognizing that women were often excluded from financial discussions, she made it her mission to change the industry norm. She has dedicated much of her career to educating and advising women through tailored workshops and initiatives. As the creator of HER Way at Morgan Stanley, she established a cross-platform community designed to provide women with access to lifestyle information, professional resources, and investment strategies to help them achieve financial confidence.

Sharon is also conscious of the potential social and financial benefits of integrating Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) initiatives into her investment decision-making process. She and her team have devoted significant time and resources to understanding how investing with impact can drive social change, promote greater gender equality, and create opportunities to improve financial outcomes for clients. By incorporating SRI principles, her team seeks to align investment strategies with their clients’ values while maintaining a focus on long-term growth and financial success.

Sharon’s dedication to her clients and the organizations she supports has earned her and her team national recognition. She has been named to the Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors & Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list for eight consecutive years (2018-2025), recognizing elite financial advisors across the country who demonstrate excellence in client service, planning, and investment strategy. In addition, her team has been recognized on the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams list since the award’s inception in 2023, highlighting their commitment to delivering outstanding financial guidance, investment solutions, and personalized service.

Beyond these accolades, Sharon has been honored by Working Mother Magazine as one of its Top Wealth Advisor Moms, celebrating women who successfully balance their careers as financial advisors while raising families. In 2018, Morgan Stanley named her to its prestigious MAKERS Class, recognizing trailblazing women within the firm. She was also a recipient of Morgan Stanley’s John J. Mack Leadership Award, an honor given to individuals who embody the firm’s core values and make a meaningful impact on their colleagues and communities.

A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Sharon holds a degree in Business Management and Finance from Adelphi University and earned a certificate in financial planning from New York University. Passionate about giving back, she actively supports women’s organizations, including Women for Women International and the Girl Scout Council of Greater New York, and serves as a Board Member for NEXT for Autism.

Sharon resides in Rye Brook, New York, with her husband, Brian, and their two children, Olivia, and Griffin.

Professional Recognition & Disclosures
Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) investments in a portfolio may experience performance that is lower or higher than a portfolio not employing such practices. Portfolios with ESG restrictions and strategies as well as ESG investments may not be able to take advantage of the same opportunities or market trends as portfolios where ESG criteria is not applied. There are inconsistent ESG definitions and criteria within the industry, as well as multiple ESG ratings providers that provide ESG ratings of the same subject companies and/or securities that vary among the providers. Certain issuers of investments may have differing and inconsistent views concerning ESG criteria where the ESG claims made in offering documents or other literature may overstate ESG impact. ESG designations are as of the date of this material, and no assurance is provided that the underlying assets have maintained or will maintain and such designation or any stated ESG compliance. As a result, it is difficult to compare ESG investment products or to evaluate an ESG investment product in comparison to one that does not focus on ESG. Investors should also independently consider whether the ESG investment product meets their own ESG objectives or criteria.

There is no assurance that an ESG investing strategy or techniques employed will be successful. Past performance is not a guarantee or a dependable measure of future results.

Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors & Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 (Formerly referred to as Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors, Forbes America’s Top Women Wealth Advisors) Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on a 12-month time period concluding in September of the year prior to the issuance of the award.

Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams 2023, 2024, 2025Source: Forbes.com (Jan 2024). 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams ranking awarded in 2025. This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher) for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24. Neither Morgan Stanley
Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC for placement on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each Financial Advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and may not be representative of any one client’s experience; investors must carefully choose the right Financial Advisor or team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. This ranking is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com. © 2024 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

Forbes Top Wealth Advisor Moms 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 Source: Workingmother.com (Awarded 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on a 12-month period concluding in March of the year the award was given.
Morgan Stanley Smith barney LLC. Member SIPC.

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

HER Way Program History

HER Way is an educational initiative launched in the fall of 2017 by Sharon Cunningham, along with 13 other women financial advisors at Morgan Stanley. The initiative is dedicated to fostering a community of women who strive to be confident and informed in their financial decision making.

At its core, HER Way acknowledges that women's financial needs are diverse, extending far beyond traditional investment strategies. It recognizes that women often seek resources and information in areas such as health and wellness, personal and professional development, entrepreneurship, financial planning, and philanthropy. Through events, workshops, and webinars, HER Way provides opportunities for women to gain valuable knowledge and apply it to uplift their families and communities.

HER Way is expanding across the country, building a vibrant community for women to MAKE IT, SAVE IT and ENJOY IT.

Want to learn more? E-mail herwayinbox@morganstanley.com to be added to our HER Way distribution list for upcoming events.

Previous HER Way Events

Check out our Previous HER Way Events:

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    Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026: The Cunningham Group

    The Cunningham Group at Morgan Stanley has been ranked for the Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams for four consecutive years. Forbes/SHOOK Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams list features groups of experienced wealth managers with a proven track records of success according to SHOOK Research, which uses quantitative and qualitative data to rank teams.

    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in September of year prior to the issuance of the award.

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    Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors & Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018: Sharon Cunningham

    Forbes' "Top Women Wealth Advisors" is a select group of individuals who have a minimum of seven years of industry experience. The ranking, developed by Forbes' partner SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative and quantitative data, rating thousands of wealth advisors and weighing factors like revenue trends, AUM, compliance records, industry experience and best practices learned through telephone and in-person interviews.

    Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors & Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In- State
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in September of year prior to the issuance of the award.

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    Forbes Top Wealth Advisor Moms 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017: Sharon Cunningham

    This award is given to female financial advisors who not only have they demonstrated their dedication to family and ambition as working mothers, but consistently deliver the best of Morgan Stanley to every client.

    Forbes Top Wealth Advisor Moms
    Source: Workingmother.com (Awarded 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month period concluding in Mar of the year the award was given.

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    Morgan Stanley MAKERS 2018: Sharon Cunningham

    MAKERS is a project dedicated to identifying and celebrating women of accomplishment across multiple fields along with the men who sponsor and champion women's advancement. The 2018 Class featured 17 outstanding professionals from across Morgan Stanley who are making a profound impact on the lives of clients, employees, and their communities through leadership and advocacy.

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    Morgan Stanley President's Club Advisor 2016-2025: Sharon Cunningham

    The firm's prestigious President's Club is an elite group composed of the Firm's top Financial Advisors. The appointment recognizes Sharon's consistent creativity and excellence in providing a wide range of investment products and wealth management services to her clients.

    Morgan Stanley Wealth Management President's Club members must meet a number of criteria including performance, conduct and compliance standards, revenue, length of experience and assets under supervision. President's Club membership is no guarantee of future performance.

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    Morgan Stanley's John J. Mack Leadership Award 2014: Sharon Cunningham

    This honor, named on behalf of Morgan Stanley's former CEO and Chairman of the Board, is bestowed upon individuals who are exemplary leaders making a positive impact on their colleagues and communities.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Advisors (2025)

    The Forbes ranking of America's Top Wealth Advisors and Best-In-State Wealth Advisors, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria learned through telephone, virtual and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data such as revenue trends and assets under management. The algorithm additionally weighs factors such as service models, compliance records and industry experience, and focuses on those that encompass best practices in their approach to working with clients.

    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Apr 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/23 - 6/30/24.

Our Story & Services

The Park Plaza Group at Morgan Stanley offers a comprehensive wealth management advisory practice, serving individuals, families, and organizations who seek thoughtful, personalized, and effective financial guidance—through periods of prosperity and times of uncertainty.

Formerly The Cunningham Group, the evolution to The Park Plaza Group reflects our New York City roots, our expanding team, and the contributions of valued colleagues who help deliver on our shared vision and high-level of dedication. Park Plaza represents a place of connection, collaboration, and community, embodying forward momentum and growing capabilities while honoring the relationships and values that have always defined our work.

We recognize that each client's circumstances and resources are unique. Our clients entrust us to assist in optimizing their financial lives with high regard and respect for how their wealth was earned and the responsibilities it supports. Through progressive financial planning strategies, disciplined investment management, and steady communication, we help clients focus on their priorities with confidence—knowing their financial affairs are supported and guided in partnership.

Our approach is collaborative and intentional, integrating planning and investment strategy to address both immediate needs and long-term objectives. Whether advising individuals and families or stewarding assets on behalf of organizations, our work is guided by long-term thinking, open dialogue, and a commitment to clarity.
Our focus and values remain consistent: thoughtful guidance, personalized service, and a deep belief that financial empowerment opens doors—to clarity, confidence, and meaningful impact.

Location

55 East 52nd Street 10th
Fl
New York, NY 10055
US
Direct:
(212) 230-3573(212) 230-3573
Toll-Free:
(800) 654-1557(800) 654-1557
Fax:
(212) 593-9041(212) 593-9041
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office

Portfolio Insights

Ready to start a conversation? Contact Sharon Cunningham today.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.

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For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.

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3Investing in the market entails the risk of market volatility. The value of all types of investments may increase or decrease over varying time periods. The returns on a portfolio consisting primarily of sustainable or impact investments may be lower or higher than a portfolio that is more diversified or where decisions are based solely on investment considerations. Because sustainability and impact criteria exclude some investments, investors may not be able to take advantage of the same opportunities or market trends as investors that do not use such criteria. Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss in a declining financial market.

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Morgan 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, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.

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5When 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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6When 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 always check with their tax or legal advisor before engaging in any transaction involving 529 Plans, Education Savings Accounts and other tax-advantaged investments.

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7Morgan 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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8Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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9Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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10Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee.
Morgan 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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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:
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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.

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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 Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.

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 | Morgan Stanley
CRC 4665150 (8/2025)