James F. Marshall
A Leader. A Visionary. A Builder of Community.
The Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation (MTCF) is proud to announce that James (Jim) F. Marshall, Chairman-Founder of Spectrum Investment Advisors, has been selected as the 2026 Pillar of the Community Award recipient. Jim exemplifies what it means to be a true community pillar—someone whose leadership, generosity, integrity, and vision have strengthened Mequon and Thiensville for more than three decades. His entrepreneurial drive, commitment to service, and dedication to improving the lives of others have left an extraordinary and lasting mark in our communities, and indeed, throughout Ozaukee County.
According to MTCF president Lori Lorenz, “Jim is the real deal! His dedication to Mequon and Thiensville is extraordinary and his lasting impact will no doubt ripple for generations to come. On behalf of MTCF, it is my distinct honor to recognize Jim as our 2026 Pillar of the Community.”
Jim has been deeply involved in growing the community through his significant contributions and leadership for the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce, Ozaukee Economic Development, Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club, and as founder of his business, Spectrum Investment Advisors.
Jim served as President of the Chamber from to 2016-2017 and continues to be an engaged leader, currently chairing the Past Presidents Council. Similarly, since 2013, Jim has been involved with Ozaukee Economic Development (OED). In his second year as President, Jim has played a pivotal role in shaping the county’s economic vitality. His leadership has been instrumental in connecting entrepreneurs, supporting local business expansion, and fostering a collaborative environment where companies and residents flourish and grow.
As founder of Spectrum Investment Advisors, Jim built his business from a 14×14 room into a 14,000-square-foot headquarters in Mequon with $4.6 billion assets and 27 employees that reflect his passion for education and empowerment. Under his leadership, Spectrum has become synonymous with community partnership—supporting local schools, sponsoring major events, assisting local charities, and offering free gathering space to nonprofits. Indeed, Spectrum Investment Advisors was awarded the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce Medium Business of the Year in 2015 and OED Medium Business of the Year in 2019.
As noted by Kathleen Cady Schilling, Executive Director of Ozaukee Economic Development, “Jim leads by example–with humility, integrity, and a genuine commitment to giving back. In every sense, Jim Marshall embodies the spirit of a Pillar of the Community–a leader whose impact is enduring, whose influence uplifts others, and whose vision continues to make Mequon and Thiensville outstanding places to call home.”
Jim is also a champion of patriotism and American history. The second floor of the Spectrum building features a stunning tribute to U.S. veterans and presidents, underscoring his deep respect for those who shaped our nation. He is co-author of The American Tailwind, written with his son Jonathan Marshall and Katy Pavon, which celebrates Warren Buffett’s philosophy alongside the stories of 60 veterans connected to Spectrum families and friends.
Jim lives in Germantown with his wife, Peggy, and is the proud father of two adult children and grandfather to four. His family, much like his business—reflects the values he lives every day: service, hard work, gratitude, and joy.
Jim will be honored at MTCF’s annual signature fundraiser, the Pillars of the Community Luncheon, on June 2nd, 2026, at the River Club of Mequon. To purchase tickets, donate, or become a sponsor, visit the Pillars of the Community event page.