There are two big life events that led me to do what I do.

First, I inherited money after my stepfather was killed in a car accident. I was still in elementary school when he died. When I turned 18, I was given control over my inheritance and told to use the same advisers my family had always used. I had no idea what any of my financial statements meant. I only knew people were taking care of the money, and I didn’t have to worry. A few years later, in 2002, the stock market crashed, and I lost everything. What should have been a lifetime of financial stability and security was wiped out almost overnight. My “advisers” had never talked to me about risk, diversification, or choices. They never talked to me about my investments at all.

I didn’t know what I didn’t know, and it was a very expensive lesson; the price of not knowing.

After being a teacher and a social worker in my 20s, I changed careers in my 30s and took a job with a financial services company that served educators. Our mission was to help teachers retire more comfortably. After comparing the data with countless stories from teachers, particularly women in their 50’s and 60s, it became painfully clear that most of them could not retire comfortably. The unfairness of that made a lasting impression on me.

Education and making sure clients understand their own money are the cornerstones of BWA. I know the anxiety of not knowing about finances and how scary it can be to try to navigate finances on your own. I also understand all too well the importance of having a good advocate on your side who teaches you about your money.

Through strategic partnerships, I have access to CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™, CHARTERED FINANCIAL ANALYSTS™, legal analysts, and insurance experts to help create comprehensive financial plans and be able to give expert advice. I strive to simplify complex financial terms and deliver customized investment options so you can navigate your life with greater peace of mind.