Celebrating Margaret Dechant: A Leader of Distinction

If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Margaret Dechant, allow us to introduce you. She’s a woman of many titles. In the office, she’s affectionately known as ‘MD.’ You might also recognize her as Chief Executive Officer, Founding Partner, Wealth Advisor, Certified Financial Planner®, #1 Chiefs Fan, Pickleball Enthusiast, and Community Champion.

The list goes on and on. Her latest accolade to add to the list is being named a Wichita Business Journal 2025 Leader in a Major Company!

While Margaret has been recognized with a long list of awards over her career thanks to her generous philanthropic endeavors, endless community volunteerism, and respected business acumen, the 6 Meridian team has really rallied behind this recognition.

Here are some reflections from the 6 Meridian team on Margaret’s distinct leadership qualities.

Margaret has guided 6 Meridian to what it is today by putting talented people in the right places and focusing on helping them prioritize personal development. Her thoughtfulness and intention around building a culture of trust and a true “team” environment, along with her ability to clearly articulate a vision of growth, improvement, and distinction for our practice and the clients we serve is incomparable.  
– David Pike

Margaret wears dozens of hats. The things that require her attention, input, and time are numerous and would be overwhelming to most, but not to Margaret (or at least she doesn’t let on!). She works tirelessly for 6 Meridian and everyone within it. She is a genuine person who deeply cares for those around her, both inside and outside the business. She is a leader, a mentor, a partner, and a friend. I count it as a great blessing that our lives crossed. I’ve learned so much from her and look forward to continuing to work alongside her and learn from her.
– Jordan Swisher

Margaret does not seek the spotlight, yet her presence naturally earns respect. Her influence is subtle, but profound. She is a woman of integrity and inspires everyone around her to rise. What I admire most about her is that she doesn’t micromanage; she trusts. Margaret does so much for her family, employees, clients, and community – all with grace, grit and a wonderful sense of humor.
– Lynne Davidson

Margaret shows that compassionate leadership works. She manages a group of opinionated, smart, and strong individuals, making each one feel heard. I haven’t worked somewhere before where I not only 100% trust the guidance of the leadership but also feel comfortable going to them for anything big or small (or just to even say hi!).
– Jenni Heartfield

What makes Margaret a strong leader is her ability to recognize the individual talents of team members and help them develop those skills. She leads teams through change with transparency and a clear action plan. She also embodies empathy and understanding, which makes her a relatable and trustworthy leader. 
– Amanda Maier

Margaret is one of 6 Meridian’s seven founders. Each has played a significant role in building 6 Meridian into the practice it is today, with a flourishing culture, dedicated team, and robust client relationships. Based on the comments above, it’s clear that Margaret has contributed meaningful encouragement and mentorship through her leadership, which continues to make a lasting impression on her colleagues and drives the business forward.

Congratulations on this very well-deserved recognition, Margaret! It’s truly an honor to work alongside you.

Hightower Advisors, LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. This recognition by the Wichita Business Journal was awarded in June 2025.  Recognition is based on nominations from individuals or companies to the Wichita Business Journal and recipients are selected at the discretion of the Wichita Business Journal. This is not an advisor rating agency. No compensation has been provided to obtain this recognition.  More information may be found at bizjournals.com/Wichita.