Mr. Prager has 20+ years of experience in the financial services space. He has deep experience working with institutions on strategic partnerships and mergers and acquisitions, serving as engagement lead for Woodbury University’s merger with the University of Redlands, and Seattle University’s combination with Cornish College of the Arts (as well as several other non-public transactions). Additionally, Mr. Prager has served on six WSCUC reaffirmation teams. 
Before joining Hilltop Securities, Mr. Prager held leadership roles in investment banking and corporate development, including positions at Bear Stearns and Warner Bros. Entertainment. His background blends Wall Street analytical rigor with a deep understanding of organizational change and stakeholder management. 
Prager is a frequent speaker on higher-education finance, mergers and acquisitions, and innovative partnership models. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Claremont McKenna College and an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management.
Based in California, A.J. Prager works nationally with higher-education clients, helping them chart sustainable paths forward through data-informed analysis, creative structuring, and mission-aligned financial strategies.