I started working in the financial services industry in an official capacity in 2006 but I would attribute the start of my journey to a conversation in my teenage years. Before starting a summer job working for my father, he pressed me to open an IRA with my first paycheck. At 15, I was appalled at the thought of putting my money somewhere other than my bank account to spend on things most important to a teenager!
But my dad didn’t relent and spent time explaining what an IRA is and how it could benefit me as part of a journey to financial security and independence. I’m not sure I was fully on board with my dad’s plan at the time, but he managed to plant a seed. During my collegiate days I realized that while financial prosperity was something we should all be able to obtain, so many struggle to do so.
Most people I knew were not in touch with the longer-term planning tools available to them. I realized I could help others do just what my dad had tried to teach me; I could show them a secure financial future is not impossible. This moment in time gave me new purpose; to work with individuals and families, so they understand what vehicles like IRAs and 401ks are and how best to use them for their future selves.
I attended Slippery Rock University and completed a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree in Finance, coupled with their Personal Financial Planning Certificate. Later, in 2011 I passed the 10 hour Certified Financial Planner exam and earned my CFP® credentials. Through hands-on and face-to-face experiences with large and small firms in the Pittsburgh area, I’ve gained a broad knowledge base of comprehensive financial planning.
Here at 21:5 Wealth Management I have the freedom to continue to build on my experience and do what is best for the clients that I have the privilege to work with. I truly enjoy collaborating with individuals and families, empowering them with knowledge to build a plan for their future and helping them make informed decisions along their path. I work closely with those I like to call friends both inside and outside the office where we all believe good planning and hard work lead to prosperity!
When I am not meeting with clients or working hard on their behalf, I can be found with my husband Jason and our 2 mini-mes. Although I hear they won’t stay mini for much longer! Our son, Liam, was born the same year I was preparing for the CFP® exam and our daughter, Adelai, was born 2.5 years later.
We are a tightknit family so when we are not watching Liam play ice hockey at RMU Sports Complex, I might be coaching Adelai’s soccer team, or we might be camping, biking, or challenging each other at board games. During the school year I can also be found at most Central Valley PTA events as the Treasurer and member of the board. It’s a pleasure being out in the community helping it grow whether that be from a professional or personal contribution.
