The NFEC Team
Our mission to mobilize financial wellness champions and equip them with the training and resources to support others in their communities drives everything we do. That mission is realized by a passionate, multidisciplinary team that turns research into practical, evidence-based education, supported by a cross-sector Advisory Board and a growing network of state board volunteers and patrons.
Together, staff, advisors, and local leaders ensure that our work is rigorous and locally relevant as we scale national standards into measurable community impact. Explore our team and boards to see how we translate mission into practice or join us to help expand access and strengthen outcomes where it’s needed most.
Note from Our Founder & CEO
“I’m deeply grateful to every staff member, advisor, state board volunteer, and patron whose professionalism and passion turn our mission into action. Because of you, we have mobilized and empowered financial educators around the globe to deliver meaningful financial education to their communities. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to advancing economic empowerment through financial education.”
Vince Shorb, CEO
State Advisory Boards
As part of our commitment to local relevance and sustainable growth, we are transitioning to a regional governance model. State board members are critical to this shift: they provide regional insight, build local partnerships, champion policy and advocacy efforts, and ensure that our programs reflect the unique needs of communities in their state. These volunteer leaders help tailor training pathways, recommend priority initiatives, and support local implementation – turning national standards into community impact.
Our Advisory Board brings diverse, cross-sector expertise – education leaders, academic researchers, consumer finance experts, bankers, nonprofit executives, and policy advisors – who advise on standards, evaluation, and strategic partnerships. The Board helps us maintain academic rigor, ethical standards, and alignment with industry best practices while offering practical guidance on scaling programs and demonstrating impact.
Meet our Board Members
Great Lakes Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin
Melvin J. Scales
Executive Vice President of Meridian Resources and Senior Advisor with Armstrong-McGuire
Bill Field
User Experience (UX) Director for the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC)
Ray’Chel Wilson
Teacher & Author of Black Wealth Freedom
J.M. (Jack) Towarnicky
HR/Benefits Plan Sponsor and Plan Fiduciary Leadership Roles at Four different Fortune 500 companies
Krystena Yancey
Founder of Financial Butterfly®
Dorenda Monique Clink
Director of Community Outreach & Education at Vested Interest Financial Group, LLC
Brandon Biddles
Managing Partner & Chief Market Strategist, Biddles Group
Nathan Nguyen
Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®), Business Farmer, Coach, Mentor & Best-Selling Author: Money Smarts
Marina Moths
VP of Financial Wellness, Spectrum Investment Advisors
Mark Dunaway
Financial Educator & Retired Partner, Accenture
Elizabeth Cruz
Owner and Founder of Moxie Financial Wellness
Darrin “Boomer” Williams
CEO of Vertex Credit & Financial
Tim Shimp, EdD
Educational Learning Designer with DLR Group
Mark Dunaway
Financial Educator & Retired Partner, Accenture
Dustin Voss
Financial Education Specialist State: Illinois
Dr. Brenda Oldham
Financial Literacy Expert – Oakland County, MI
Talaya Scott
Co-Fouder & COO of SaveCircle, Accountant, Author, Professor and Speaker
Pamela R. Rosa, Ed.D.
President, Rosa Educational Consulting
Mideast Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Washington, D.C., Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia
Dr. Mario DiFiore
Dr., Professor, and Senior Assistant Dean at Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business
Donna Cirillo
Founder, Smart Money Changes Everything, MBA, APFI℠, CFEI®
Trinity Owen
Founder and CFO of The Pay at Home Parent, APFI℠, CFEI®
David Anderson
President & CEO of W!se
Alison McQueen
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, REALTOR®
Charles Fisher
Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship Mentor
Eric Wang
Senior Financial Planner, The Bonadio Group
Sanjay Pani
Founder and CEO, Rally Bulls
Nakiea Cook
Founder and Principal Consultant of NC Accounting & Consulting Solutions
Andrew Lendnal
Financial Wellness Expert, Banking and Financial Services Executive, Bestselling Author and Speaker
Amy Faber
Vice President and Treasurer Duquesne University
Corey Beckett
Chief Financial Officer, United States Secret Service Deputy
Autumn Green
Founder of My Stewardship Journey
Barry Feigenbaum
Managing Member, Feigenbaum Associates LLC
Bola Sokunbi
Keynote Speaker, Founder of Clever Girl Finance®, and author of Clever Girl Millionaire
Spencer Rogers Jr.
Certified Financial Wellness Consultant & Educator, Thrive Financial
Krystal Nunn, MBA
Financial Wellness Administrator, American Heritage Federal Credit Union
Natalie Bennett
CEO and Lead Coach, Thrive Mindset LLC
Ramona Jones
Financial Planner, Chesterfield County, VA
Makeela Brathwaite
Executive Director of Grow Brooklyn
Matthew Mellett
Personal Finance Educator and Author
Robert Kinzer
Retired Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Community Affairs
New England Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont
Ellis Cropper
Registered Representative, New York Life Insurance, ChFC®, CLTC®, Major, U.S. Army, Retired
Mahendra Pattni
Head of Finance at Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute
Elizabeth Clark
Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Harvard Business School (HBS
Thomas Charla
Marketing Director, MassMutual Financial Group
Kristina Ickes
Founder, Women’s Money Solutions
Benjamin Liff
Founder of Tributaries Educational Consulting
Daniel Bley
Banking Executive – Chief Risk Officer
Sarah Morrissey
Director, Learning & Development, The Navigator Model
Terraine Patman
Accredited Financial Literacy Educator
Plains Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota
Jonathan Walker
Business, Marketing & Corporative Education Teacher
Fátima Pérez-Luthi
Founder and CEO of The Grind Coaching & Consulting
Gwendolyn Taylor
Financial Literacy Educator, Flip That House
Tracee Adams
Founder and CEO of Hawthorn Capital, LLC, Wichita, Kansas
Rocky Mountain Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming
Dr. Tyson Garfield
Personal Finance Expert and founder of TheMedicineCheck.com
Shangra-La Jones
Grants Manager, Denver, Colorado
Aaron Cruz
Financial Consultant & Certified Educator
Lindsey Zerbinos
Founder, Funding America LLC
Southeast Coastal Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina
Elaine King
Founder of Family and Money Matters™
Evelyn Magley
CEO of The Basketball League (TBL)
Philip Herzberg
Lead Financial Advisor at Team Hewins
Richard Cason
CEO and Editor in Chief of NewsMovesMarketsForex®
Amit Bansal
Director of the Center for Financial Health and Wellness, Oklahoma State University
Claudia Martins
National Financial Educators Council, Community Engagement Director
Richard Cautero
Board and Finance Committee Member at Goodwill Industries Manasota
Dr. Renée Baker
Founder and CEO of The RBI Group
Joseph R. Chiarella
Equity Partner, Risk Advisor, and Director of Sihle Insurance University
Ishmael Williams
Founder, Programming Director, and Financial Consultant at Champion Financial Consulting LLC
Ronke Adetoba Adeyemi
Chief Education Officer (CEO)
Dr. Kamilah Williams
Financial Educator, Gwinnett County, GA
Obioha Okereke
Consultant, Slalom
Tina Browning
Vice President, Banking, Effingham County, GA, CFEI®
Reginald Bennett
CEO and President, The Legacy Empowerment Solutions Group
Michelle Dobbins
VP of Marketing, Credit Union of Georgia
Jervis Hough
Chief Compliance Officer / Chief Operating Officer, Blaylock Van
Chicarra Jones
Creator and Lead instructor, BankWork$ South Carolina
Craig Hill
Founder & CEO of SPENDiD
LaQuetta McGill
Certified Personal Financial Wellness Consultant
Michael D. Fluker
Financial Wellbeing Manager, Credit Union 1
Dr. Shameka Jones
Co-founder, VeraRosa Higher Learning Scholarship
Eric Sanon
President & CEO @ BrightBridge Insurance
Jannese Torres
Financial Educator and Author
Renee Price
Certified Financial Education Instructor, Birmingham, AL
Southeast Inland Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia
Shawn Goffer
Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI)
Dr. Wally T. Luckeydoo
Career and Financial Education Specialist, Nashville, TN
Nickole Diaz
Founder and CEO of Transformation Circle
Southwest Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas
Dr. Melissa Weathersby
President and CEO of 5-Star Empowerment
Marlon Green
Founder of the Prosperous Athletes Financial Education
Gerardo King
Investment Banker, Member of the Board of Directors of Peak 10 Energy
Paul Goebel
Founding Director (RET) of the UNT Student Money Management Center
Sharita M. Humphrey
Certified Financial Education Instructor
Kheadrick Hunt
Founder, Community Champion Organization Grace & Glory
Dedrick Adell
Founder, Holistiq Planning LLC
Lottia Fredo
Higher Education Innovator & Financial Wellness Advocate
Western Regional Advisory Board Members
State Chapters Include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington
Larry Dicke
CalChamber of Commerce, Chief Financial Officer, Retired 2022
Veselina Dinova
Haas School of Business UC Berkeley, Executive MBA Professor
Trevor Stoll
National Financial Educators Council, Director of Operations
Sonja Strzoda
Financial Services Executive & Nonprofit Board Professional
Sam X Renick
Internationally Recognized Financial Literacy Pioneer
James Chang
President and CEO of Pasadena Federal Credit Union
Raymond Donegan Jr.
Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®)
Sarah Brady
Finance Writer and Owner of SarahCBrady.com
Zaneqwah Shaw
Founder and CEO, Learn Financial Growth
Ghufran Wasiq
Founder, TotalPlus Solutions LLC
Audree Bobinger
Investment Advisor Representative, Quility Financial Advisors
In Memoriam: Marvin Turner
Mr. Turner was a champion of the people and committed to economic empowerment. As Director of the District of Columbia / National Capital Area Office for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Marvin Turner led the agency in affordable housing development, homeless prevention, foreclosure mitigation, and sustainable development. As an NFEC Board member, he shared his insight generously and was passionate about serving citizens across the country.
Team Members
Meet the people who make our mission possible:
“My mission is to advance economic empowerment through financial education.”
Financial challenges ripple across society, affecting people at scale and straining families and communities. I’m driven by the urgency to put practical money skills into learners’ hands at the moments that matter – mobilizing and training instructors, measuring what works, and advocating policies that scale proven solutions. My mission is to advance economic empowerment through financial education.
Vince Shorb
Founder & CEO
Trevor Stoll
Chief Operations Officer
My role is to design and scale the operational systems that enable high-quality financial education to be delivered reliably across communities. By creating clear workflows, data-driven procedures, and turnkey training supports, my team helps partners reduce implementation friction, preserve instructional fidelity, and measure outcomes. Sharing these processes with frontline educators strengthens the field’s capacity to replicate proven programs and expand sustainable impact.
“Systems and processes make effective financial education scalable.”
“Create seamless learning journeys that remove friction and empower frontline educators.”
Bill Field
User Experience Director
Drawing on two decades in real estate, my focus is on designing user experiences that make financial education accessible, intuitive, and actionable for every audience. By streamlining learner journeys, simplifying materials, and optimizing digital and in-person touchpoints, my team reduces barriers to engagement and helps educators deliver lessons that students actually use.
Claudia Martins
Community Engagement Director
My work centers on building the relationships that turn standards into real community impact. By partnering with individuals and organizations around the globe, my team tailors programs to local needs, recruits and trains champions, and supports culturally relevant delivery and long-term stewardship. Through listening and co-creation, we help communities adopt, sustain, and scale financial education programs that meet learners where they are.
“Connect communities and partners to sustain lasting financial learning.”
Lisa Vera
Content Development Director
My responsibility is to create, review, and curate content that reflects the NFEC mission and voice and maintains alignment with standards for academic rigor, ethics, and industry best practices. By coordinating and integrating contributions and ensuring that content is consistent with its outcome goals, my team strives to provide clarity and accessibility for the intended audiences of all materials produced.
Education Development Contributors
We’re grateful to the many external experts – practitioners, academics, and sector partners – who contribute content, review materials, and advise on best practices. Their input strengthens our work and ensures that our resources reflect the latest evidence and field experience.
Education Subject Matter Experts
Jonna Wopperer
Jonna Wopperer is a skilled educator and curriculum developer with permanent certifications in Literacy and English Language Arts. She earned her M.S.Ed. as a Literacy Specialist from State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo in 2013. Since then, she has made significant contributions to developing and implementing curriculum at the high school through adult levels, designing educational content that aligns with learning standards posed by the Common Core and other top benchmarks. Those efforts have included developing and adapting lessons that reflect culturally relevant pedagogy.
Carolyn Fields
Carolyn Fields is a customer-centric Instructional Designer and published author with 20+ years of relevant experience. She is proficient at generating new content or improving upon existing materials. Her corporate experience focused on safety training, instructional design, and assessment creation. Well-versed in the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) model and Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Evaluation, she holds a Master’s in Management, qualification as Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®) practitioner, and certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Langevin Learning Services.
Sarah Eisenstein
Sarah Eisenstein is a founding teacher in the City University of New York’s nationally recognized CUNY Start program who has worked as a Curriculum and Professional Developer for the past 5 years. She has over 15 years of experience with curriculum writing and teaching, training, and coaching both high- and low-literacy adult learners. She is expert in student-centered learning, with strong technology and design skills; and currently offers instructional design services with specialization in interactive learning experiences through Storyline, Captivate, or Lectora.
Dr. Malia Hoffmann
Dr. Malia Hoffmann is a lifelong educator. With a Bachelor’s in Elementary Middle School education, she began teaching middle school, using integrated technology to motivate students. She earned her Master’s in Educational Technology and became adjunct for Marian University. She took a full-time position with Marian and began pursuing her doctorate in learning technologies at Pepperdine University. Her dissertation applied the technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) framework to study how undergraduate students and faculty use mobile devices for learning.
Dr. Pamela Enders
Dr. Pamela Enders is a psychologist and peak performance coach. A current faculty member at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Enders also serves as a teacher and supervisor at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston. With three decades of experience, she works with high-performing professionals to project confidence and poise in high-visibility, high-pressure situations.
Kerry Toniolo
Kerry Toniolo has a Master’s in Early Childhood Leadership and 13 years in education. She works with students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds, abilities, and disabilities. This experience has taught her a great deal about meeting learners where they are and breaking standards down into scaffolded steps. She believes in designing curriculum that is accessible to all students, challenges them to think deeply about things that matter in their own lives, and allows them freedom to discover and follow their own passions.
Kristina McCormick
Kristina McCormick has extensive experience in developing curricula and educational programs from inception. Ms. McCormick was instrumental in developing the NFEC’s project-based learning program for teens and young adults. She applied classroom teaching methodology and curriculum models to promote active student learning through the integration of technology in order to address the varied learning needs of all students.
Michael Heyman
Michael Heyman, co-founder of the Reimagined Classroom, has a Master’s in K-6 Education and 10 years of teaching experience in elementary schools and Title I environments. He specializes in IB and STEAM curriculum. He believes that learning happens all around us, all the time; and that all students should have equal access to an amazing education and educational opportunities. He sees the educator’s job as helping facilitate a child’s natural inquisitiveness to foster and develop skills and ideas related to their inquiries.
Diane Larsen
Diane Larsen is an award-winning economics teacher and NFEC Instructor. Diane is a 26-year teaching veteran whose awards include being selected as Jump$tart Coalition Outstanding Educator for 2008. She was the only California teacher chosen by CEE and the U.S. State Department to travel to South Africa as part of an international economics teacher exchange program. Her students have won high honors in the California State Stock Market Simulation, placing first in 2008, 2009, and twice in 2012.
Brett Meyers
Brett Meyers, co-founder of the Reimagined Classroom, has his Master’s in K-8 Education and 22 years of experience in nonprofits, international private schools, and public schools. He believes teachers need to focus on the journey of the learning process beyond the end result. He thinks education through inquiry and student ownership is essential to keep kids engaged in the classroom. Thus teachers need to help students not only learn core skills, but also socio-emotional and critical thinking skills to enable their future success.
Gary Jaeckel
Gary Jaeckel is the author of Teaching Personal Financial Education and an NFEC Instructor. His passion for improving people’s financial capabilities took him from the corporate world to the financial literacy industry. He brings real-world experience to the academic side of the financial literacy field with his background in the securities industry and corporate finance. He is a recognized expert in teaching personal finance and an advocate promoting personal financial education as a stand-alone course in schools across the country.
Troy Flowers
Troy Flowers brings nine years of exemplary, student-centered teaching experience gained within public, charter, and independent schools to the NFEC. He possesses solid conceptual and applied knowledge of current research and trends in primary and middle school education, financial literacy curriculum development, service learning, assessment for instruction, and literacy.
Dr. Ann Johnson
Dr. Ann Johnson is an independent consultant who works extensively with international organizations to implement curriculum and assessment reform, develop high-quality leadership teams, and create training and implementation plans. Her practical approach to design and alignment is based on her 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher, associate superintendent, building principal, and adjunct professor to implement long-term curriculum alignment and mapping initiatives.
Arnold Bellow
Arnold Bellow started his career in banking and leveraged that experience to teach courses to adult learners and community college students for more than 22 years using a practical hands-on approach and “real-life” instructional method. He has been an adjunct faculty member and community college instructor for over 20 years. He served on a number of community-based boards helping families in lower-income neighborhoods achieve financial stability and educational enrichment at the Adult Education School level.
Dr. Pamela Rosa
Dr. Pamela Rosa is an Educational Consultant and Senior Consultant for Effective Professional Practices at the Danielson Group. Dr. Rosa has supported schools nationally to design, develop, and implement Charlotte Danielson’s Framework for Teaching evaluation and professional growth process. As an educational consultant for the past 14 years, Dr Rosa specializes in teacher and principal evaluation and professional growth processes as well as teacher mentoring/coaching.
Helen Graves
Helen Graves With a diverse background in education, Adlerian psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and marketing, Helen Graves is fascinated by how people think and learn. She has taught all age levels in formal classrooms as well as in workshops, conferences, and online seminars. She has recently moved into the field of content development and instructional design, and enjoys bringing her passion for clear communication and innovative solutions to the learning environment.
Jana Sosnowski
Jana Sosnowski has a Master’s in educational psychology and instructional technology and 12 years teaching experience. Trained in ADDIE and backward design, she has worked as a curriculum and training writer for a math remediation program, several test preparation programs, and pilot and flight attendant training for a major airline. She is a strong writer and excellent communicator proficient in Canvas, Blackboard, and prosumer sites including Thinkific and Teachable. She has worked on many internally-developed LMS and is skilled at writing assessments and interactive learning components.
Ellen Smith
Ellen Smith has a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education and several years of classroom experience. She works with the NFEC to produce and edit smart, practical educational resources that are easy to use. She is skilled and experienced at implementing and adapting curricula to meet the critical needs of learners from diverse backgrounds and competency levels.
Maria Belem
Maria Belem is an education expert with a degree in accounting who has worked in the financial industry as a Financial Planning Junior Assistant in a major company, as a brokerage agent and insurance agent, in the construction industry as manager of several projects and real estate matters, in the fashion industry as a boutique owner, and in the network marketing industry by joining several companies in her home town.
Glenn Dawson
Glenn Dawson has a Ph.D. in psychology and extensive experience in academic research, writing, and statistical analyses. He has multiple peer-reviewed publications including a first-authored journal article. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in psychology from Case Western Reserve University and his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in psychology from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Dr. Robert Martin
Dr. Robert Martin is a retired university professor and professional communicator with more than 20 years of academic teaching experience in communication. He has extensive experience in social science research, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, academic writing, and publishing. He has published numerous works in top academic journals, books, book chapters, and magazine articles in communication and social psychology. He has been a peer reviewer for various social science journals and manuscript reviewer for Wadsworth Publishing. He fully understands the multidimensional task of writing for different audiences.
Michelle Cason
Michelle Cason, with over ten years of experience as an educator, has designed curriculum for dozens of classes across multiple skill levels, individually adapting to the needs of hundreds of students ranging from elementary-aged to graduate level. She holds a PhD in rhetoric and composition, so is well-versed in research practices, academic writing style, and clear organizational strategies. Her proofreading and editing skills are particularly well-honed, and she is able to copyedit quickly and clearly.
Kambria Damesnel
With a background in instructional design, organizational development, and adult learning, she specializes in giving employees the tools they need to do their jobs well. As Training Content Developer for the State of Washington Department of Labor & Industries, she works directly with subject matter experts to translate their knowledge into effective instructional content. She enjoys learning about the latest instructional design and eLearning trends and staying up-to-date on the latest technology and software.
Delaney King
Delaney King has a Master’s Degree in Adult Education and more than 10 years of experience as an instructor. Her content experience includes business communication, literacy development, sustainability and environmental issues, adult education, women & gender studies, and cultural diversity. Her educational experience includes content development, instructional design, and curriculum development.
Liz da Rosa
This fall began her 23rd year teaching in a college setting, with 17 years in online teaching. She completed her doctorate in adult education with an earned graduate degree in sociology and certificate of graduate study in women’s studies. She has been Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Maryland; Dean of Education and Education Affiliates at the University of Cincinnati; Instructor at DePaul University and Western Michigan University; and Online Faculty/Course Developer at American Sentinel University.
Samantha Faw
Samantha Faw is an experienced legal writer, educator, and consultant specializing in the academic, technical, and legal fields. She holds a Juris Doctorate (JD), Masters of Law (LL.M), and Masters in Energy Regulation and Law, and uses her extensive skills and experience to serve clients with excellence and precision.
Chanelle Paul
Chanelle Paul’s knowledge of instructional design models, such as ADDIE and the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy, guide her design process. She is especially proficient in curriculum development, mapping, and assessment. She believes the dynamics of teaching and learning are ever-changing and learners grow increasingly diverse. As an Instructional Designer dedicated to understanding client and learner needs, she is excited to take on new challenges and create new solutions. She is Adjunct Faculty at Southern New Hampshire University and Lead Instructional Designer at Wisewire.
Personal Finance Subject Matter Experts
Vince Shorb
Vince Shorb is the CEO of the National Financial Educators’ Council and leads the NFEC’s Subject Matter Experts board. Before becoming one of the council’s original founders, Shorb spoke with over 20,000 people about their financial situations and reviewed the personal financial statements of more than 10,000 clients across the country. Shorb has over 28 years of investing and financial industry experience and has spent 15 years directly involved in financial education.
Peter Rasmussen
Peter Rasmussen, former Program Director to the Consumer Credit Counseling Service, is a current bank auditor. He is dedicated to sharing financial literacy with his community and is actively involved in the Money Smart Week promotions held during financial literacy month.
Stan Webb
Stan Webb has been a steady beacon in the financial education world. In addition to his professional securities licenses, Stan is a Certified Fund Specialist and Certified Senior Advisor. He attained these designations to better help his clients achieve their financial goals and leverages his real-world experience to contribute to that goal. With a passion for improving the financial capability of his clients and community, Stan has hosted financial literacy promotions and a variety of financial education services throughout Kansas.
Dianne Jennings
Dianne Jennings is the executive producer of the radio talk show “Mine Your Business” and a co-host on the Tim Ridley Radio Show, which airs on the popular Sirius XM radio network. Dianne serves as an instructor for Brookshire Professional Training Institute, a continuing education resource center for the legal profession. Dianne’s lifelong career has been to assist others with their financial needs, thus allowing them to live lives of financial freedom.
Laura Adams
Laura Adams is the award-winning author of the 2010 best seller Money Girl’s Smart Moves to Grow Rich and produces a weekly podcast that receives more than 500,000 monthly downloads. She won the Excellence in Financial Literacy Education Award and is considered one of the leading financial literacy experts in the country.
Somya Munjal
Somya Munjal has been tackling the issue of financial literacy since she graduated from college. She realized quickly how fortunate she was to earn Bachelor’s and graduate degrees in accountancy completely free of personal debt, due to her work experience and scholarships. She is now a Certified Financial Accountant and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Northern Illinois University.
Steven Alexander
Steven Alexander has more than 27 years of financial experience working in different capacities with major financial institutions, including Bank of America Private Wealth Management, Wachovia Trust Nonprofit and Philanthropic Services, Bank of New York/Mellon, and TIAA/CREF Wealth Management. He embraced the importance of financial literacy education early in his career by obtaining his Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation in 1990.
Ornella Grosz
Ornella Grosz is a personal finance expert and author of a book titled Moneylicious: A Financial Clue for Generation Y. Ms. Grosz has been a featured financial expert for top radio shows on CBS, NBC, and ABC and is a personal finance writer.
Victor Ricciardi
Victor Ricciardi teaches Financial Management at Goucher College and has earned his BBA, MBA, and APC designations. Professor Ricciardi teaches a variety of subjects related to financial literacy for individuals and organizations, with special expertise in behavioral finance.
Lee Aubry
Lee Aubry has been in the financial industry for over 20 years. A top producer in real estate loan origination and private banking/fund investments, Ms. Aubry spent five years as a financial analyst for a global oil company and five years in Washington, D.C. as a legislative analyst and lobbyist. She possesses an MBA from Santa Clara University where she graduated first in class, Beta Gamma Sigma.
Erica Jackson
Erica Jackson served as Director for the Center for Financial and Consumer Outreach (at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College) and holds a certification as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI). Jackson also served as the inaugural Executive Director for Junior Achievement’s Northwest PA Regional Office. Over the years, Erica has partnered with several agencies and organizations to advocate for financial capability, including the National Financial Educators Council, Pennsylvania Treasury, Pennsylvania Department of Banking, and Jump$tart Coalition.
William Martin
William Martin received his MS from the College of Financial Planning and a PsyD from Rutgers University in Clinical Psychology. Mr. Martin is an expert in personal financial psychology and has been featured in numerous publications highlighting his expertise. He currently works as Associate Professor and Director of the MSHR Department of Management at DePaul University.
Steve Repak
Steve Repak is a Certified Financial Planner™ and author of Dollars & Uncommon Sense: Basic Training for Your Money. Steve is an advocate for financial literacy and a 15-year veteran in the financial services industry. Steve has top expertise as an educator demonstrated by how well his presentations are received by the audiences, and from the post-surveys collected which showed that the material made a strong impact.
Natasha Riley-Noah
Natasha Riley-Noah has been active in the financial services industry for more than 20 years. Ms. Riley-Noah brings diverse experience to the advisory board with experience in insurance, securities, debt management, and financial planning.
Yamila Constantino
Yamila Constantino is an award-winning journalist with two decades of experience in the financial realm. She has been included twice on Hispanic Magazine’s “One Hundred Top Latinas in the U.S.” list. She acquired her financial expertise at Bloomberg TV and Radio where she held various positions, including Head of Production.
Danny Kofke
Danny Kofke is a teacher of 20 years and a personal finance expert. Mr. Kofke authored two financial books: How to Survive (and perhaps thrive) on a Teacher’s Salary and A Simple Book of Financial Wisdom: Teach yourself (and your kids) How to Live Wealthy with Little Money.
Richard White
Richard White spent four years as an investor at multi-billion dollar hedge funds before launching his own startup. Prior to investing, he was a management consultant for three years. He earned his Doctor of Law (J.D.) degree from Columbia University in the City of New York and a Master’s in international finance from The Fletcher School at Tufts. He also holds a B.S. in Math from Yale University.
Chad Penry
Chad Penry brings 20 years of experience in the financial services and personal finance industry into converging financial solutions, philanthropy, entertainment, and business development working with celebrities, artists, athletes, leading industry professionals, and nonprofit organizations. Chad co-founded Money XLive, an edutainment program that teaches youth the value of financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility.
Jason Van Steinwyk
Jason Van Steinwyk has been a professional financial industry, insurance, and real estate writer since 2000. He cut his teeth as staff reporter for Mutual Funds Magazine and Time; has MARCOM agency experience as director of business development. His strengths are in investing, insurance, HR, employee benefits, and personal finance content. He has been published by Time, Journal of Financial Planning, NerdWallet, SeekingAlpha.com, Bankrate, WealthManagement.com, ValuePenguin.com, Nasdaq.com, Life & Health Pro, Senior Market Advisor, the Annuity Selling Guide, and MoneyGeek. He also is a 21-year Army veteran.
Rachel Morey
Rachel Morey is a journalist specializing in automotive, insurance, and finance content. She has been writing professionally for nearly a decade and has projects both in print and in broadcasting. A native Iowan, Rachel has a special fondness for the open roads of rural America.
Paul Hilliard
Paul Hilliard is a versatile Certified Management Accountant (CMA) with a wide variety of corporate accounting experience, from basic bookkeeping to complex GL accounting. He has working experience in cash management, GL account analysis, expense analysis, revenue analysis, forecasting and budgeting, journal entries, financial statement review and analysis, and bookkeeping.
Pat Valvanz
Pat Valvanz is an expert copywriter with a B.A. in English and a Master’s in Educational Psychology. She has written copy for offline and online articles, sales pages, and marketing for over 30 years. She writes excellent copy, edits and proofreads existing copy so clients’ online presence shines with professionalism. When the copy is perfect, audiences can focus on the message instead of being distracted by poor spelling, grammar, and syntax. Pat’s broad interests include finances and investing, insurance, women’s issues, cooking, gardening, psychology, and relationships.
Angela Anderson
Angela Anderson is a tax and finance expert for a fee-based Q&A site. On a daily basis, she answers multiple questions relating to tax, accounting, general finance, and social security-related matters for individuals throughout the U.S. She also has acquired a basic to intermediate skill set and experience level in the fields of event planning, trade shows, audio editing, voiceovers, audio transcription, general writing, and travel consulting.
Katrina Harris
Katrina Harris has a background in the Financial Services industry with a degree in Finance and has previously held the Series 66, 7, 9, and 10 licenses with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). She has worked both in banking and at a brokerage firm.
Jacob Schroeder
Jacob Schroeder specializes in financial writing and personal finance content (blogs, newsletters, websites, etc.) having led content production for two multi-billion-dollar financial planning firms. He serves as contributing writer at Kiplinger’s Magazine, Manager of Investor Education at Advance Capital Management, and Senior Financial Writer at Portfolio Solutions.
Amy Faber joined Duquesne University in 2016 as the University’s first-ever Treasurer. In her current role at Duquesne, Associate Vice President and Treasurer, Ms. Faber is responsible for banking relationships, cash management, investments, debt, treasury and merchant services, including PCI DSS compliance. Prior to joining Duquesne, she worked from 2005-2016 at Carnegie Mellon University in various roles, including Assistant Treasurer.
Amy oversees the Shared Services and Auxiliary Services functions of the University. She also supports the Budget Committee, Retirement Committee, Audit and Finance Committee, and Investment Committee of the Board of Directors.
She is a graduate of Carlow University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in accounting with a minor in business administration. In addition to earning her Certified Treasury Professional designation in 2010, Ms. Faber also completed the Institute for Educational Management course at the Harvard Institutes for Higher Education in 2019 and at the Carnegie Mellon Leadership Academy in 2010.
Corey Beckett, a member of the Federal Government’s Senior Executive Service, has been the United States Secret Service Deputy Chief Financial Officer since April 2017. In this role, he provides executive leadership for the development and execution of a $2 billion enterprise budget and portfolio resourcing the agency’s integrated missions of protection and criminal investigation. He oversees the definition, development, implementation, and stewardship of all Secret Service program budgeting of resources, as well as all agency internal financial management, relocation, travel, and procurement processes.
Before assuming his current position, Mr. Beckett was the Comptroller and Chief Financial Officer for the United States Defense Security Service (DSS). In this capacity, he was the primary advisor to the Director, DSS in the areas of budget formulation, budget execution, financial management and policy, financial systems, and cost reporting. He also provided executive leadership to the agency’s safety, logistics, and facility management programs and contracting offices.
Mr. Beckett began his federal government service as a Budget Analyst within the Office of the Secretary of Navy, Comptroller, with assignments throughout the Department of the Navy to include Headquarters, Systems Command, Fleet Staffs, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. From 1993–2006, Mr. Beckett held a variety of positions with increasing responsibility at both the headquarters and field level of the Department of the Navy, in which he was responsible for planning and programming, budget formulation, justification and execution for a variety of operating and investment programs. Mr. Beckett is also an adjunct professor of Public Administration at several colleges and universities where he teaches a variety of courses.
Mr. Beckett holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Tuskegee University, a Master of Public Administration degree from Central Michigan University, and a Doctor of Public Administration degree from the University of Baltimore.
Dr. Pamela Rosa, as the president of Rosa Educational Consulting, provides a wide range of intellectually engaging AND high-energy teaching, mentoring-coaching, and leadership learning opportunities. Pam has served as an award-winning principal, district curriculum and professional development coordinator, state school improvement consultant, director of early learning center, and a teacher/instructional coach at all grade levels.
In her role as Director for Effective Teaching Practices at a non-profit “think tank”, Pam focused on increasing teaching effectiveness through collaborative partnerships between union and administrative leadership.
As a charter member of the Danielson Group, Pam has provided extensive educational support in designing and implementing The Framework for Teaching evaluation and professional growth processes, integrating enhanced Mentoring and Coaching approaches, facilitating collaborative learning-focused conversations, and guiding the implementation of District/School Improvement structures using SMART tools and processes.
Pam’s current action research efforts focus on validation of The Framework for Teaching in early learning grades (PreK-3rd Grade) and development of PK3TeachLeadGrow.org in partnership with The Center for the Study of Educational Policy at Illinois State University, maximizing teacher evaluation for student learning, and integration of The Framework for Teaching Clusters into the high-leverage teaching, coaching, and leadership modules (both in person and virtually).
Kenneth Abbott recently retired from the position as America’s Chief Risk Officer at Barclays Bank. Prior to that he was Chief Operating Officer (COO) for all Firm Risk at Morgan Stanley, a position he held for over nine years. While at Morgan Stanley, he covered Commodities, Rates, FX, Retail, and Emerging Markets businesses, and was CRO for Morgan Stanley’s buy-side activity.
He also spent 14 years at Bankers Trust in a number of trading, research, and risk management positions. He spent over five years at Bank of America in several senior Market Risk Management roles. Abbott currently sits on the Boards of the New Jersey Scholars Program, the Harvard Club of New Jersey, and CGU’s Financial Engineering Program, where he has recently been appointed as a Senior Fellow.
Ken Abbott has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Harvard University; a Master of Arts in Economics and a Master of Science in Statistics and Operations Research from New York University.
Robert Kinzer retired from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) in 2017 after 31 years of service. He served as a Senior Community Affairs Specialist for the FDIC in his final two years. He traveled throughout the United States teaching and promoting financial education and economic inclusion to state legislators, education administrators, teachers, and consumers. The majority of Mr. Kinzer’s years at the FDIC were served as a Senior Financial Management Analyst, in which role he produced the corporation’s monthly and quarterly financials to be distributed to the FDIC Chairman and Board, Executives and Managers, Congress, and the public.
Mr. Kinzer has received the FDIC Chairman’s Nancy K. Rector Award for public service. He is a Senior Fellow with the Partnership for Public Service and a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Mr. Kinzer is a native of Washington, D.C. and a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. He attended Penn State University and Texas A&I University, and received his undergraduate degree in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of the District of Columbia. After attending college, Mr. Kinzer played professional basketball in England and Scotland for five years.
Jonathan Walker is a Business, Marketing, and Cooperative Education teacher for Kirksville Area Career Center in Kirksville, Missouri. He teaches dual-credit business classes through Moberly Area Community College and the University of Central Missouri.
Jonathan is an advisor to Future Business Leaders of America, E-sports, and the National Technical Honor Society; he holds a Master’s in Business and Administration degree from William Woods University and an Education Specialist degree in Career and Technical Education from the University of Central Missouri. He has experience in human resources, business management, and finance. Mr. Walker (ABD) is a candidate for a doctoral degree in P-20 Education Leadership and Policy from Murray State University, expecting to graduate in Summer of 2021. He was a member of the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE) MSIP 6 Successful Student subcommittee in 2017 and is currently serving on two DESE advisory councils: Career Technical Education (CTE) and Business, Marketing and Information Technology (BMIT). Jonathan was a member of DESE’s Personal Finance Content and Bias Review committee and Cooperative Education Policy Review committee in 2018. He is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success.
As Director of the District of Columbia / National Capital Area Office for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Marvin Turner oversaw four divisions with an annual economic output exceeding $1 billion in grants and over $4 billion in financings. As the Senior HUD Official in the market, Marvin leads the agency in affordable housing development, homeless prevention, foreclosure mitigation, and sustainable development. Initially hired into the Office of the Secretary, Mr. Turner went on to spend over 10 years in HUD Headquarters as a liaison to field offices around the country and served as the Chief of Emergency Preparedness, earning the Associate Business Continuity Professional designation from the Disaster Recovery Institute.
Marvin was a leading strategist in the formation of the HUD program entitled America’s Private Investment Companies (APIC), which was designed to provide for the significant expansion of private equity capital for the creation or relocation of large-scale businesses in distressed central cities and rural areas. He has received recognition from the White House and other government officials and has been recognized for his transformational leadership. Mr. Turner has frequently been called upon to coach Federal leadership in several agencies.
Aryav Bothra is a high school junior from Chicago. He is the founder and CEO of The Teen Trillionaire, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to make youth financial literacy more equitable to teens of all socioeconomic backgrounds. Toward its mission of inspiring a generation of more financially independent and educated teens, The Teen Trillionaire offers free financial consulting services that allow teens to get the answers they need on a wide variety of topics – from auto insurance to saving for the future.
Aryav is also an internationally-recognized debater in Model UN and loves to write. As part of the NFEC’s Advisory Board, he is eager to bring a fresh perspective to projects and discussions.
Matt J. Goren, PhD, is Director of the CFP® Certification Education Program and an Assistant Professor of Financial Planning at The American College of Financial Services. He joined The College in July 2018, having previously served as a professor in the Financial Planning program at the University of Georgia.
Goren is an acclaimed teacher and speaker who focuses on the interplay of personal finance and psychology. His personal finance radio show and podcast, Nothing Funny About Money, was named 2018’s most outstanding consumer financial information resource by the AFCPE. The show puts a lighthearted spin on personal finance and emphasizes solution-focused thinking and action. This mindset extends to Goren’s work as a pro bono financial advisor and instructor, and he has worked with over 4,000 individuals across the United States.
Goren has provided business development and strategy consulting to dozens of organizations, ranging from small fintech startups to large land-grant universities and Fortune 500 corporations. Through this work, he has created and expanded financial literacy programs that now help thousands of students from children to seniors. In 2017, his team at the University of Georgia’s ASPIRE Clinic was named Pro Bono Advisors of the Year by Financial Planning Magazine.
He received his doctorate in psychology from the University of California Berkeley in 2014 and his CFP® in 2018.
Dr. Timothy Shimp is a Educational Learning Designer with DLR Group and the former Superintendent of Schools for Yorkville CUSD 115 in Yorkville, IL. Over his 27 years as an educational leader, Dr. Shimp has been instrumental in curriculum development and instructional best practice implementation; raising student achievement outcomes; bringing greater equity, access, and rigor to student learning experiences; and supporting a district culture of personalized learning.
Dr. Shimp believes that communities must partner together to bring timely and relevant financial education to all generations, help individuals and families change their stories and gain a true understanding of their financial situations, provide education and proven life-changing solutions to ignite optimism and progress, and assist individuals to solidify behaviors and create action plans to eliminate debt and gain wealth.
Thomas Charla is a marketing professional at MassMutual Financial Group focused Financial Planning and Wellness. In this role, Tom developed a comprehensive financial education program and curriculum to help individuals manage their day-to-day finances, understand important financial products, and prepare for the future including retirement, investing and Estate Planning.
Tom provides on-going training to financial professionals throughout MassMutual’s distribution system on how to implement a financial education program. Tom also consults one-on-one with individual planners and teams on best practices and the creation of effective curriculums for specific audiences. To date, Tom’s financial education program has been used successfully with employees in hundreds of companies, both large and small, throughout the country.
Prior to Tom’s current role, he was instrumental in helping MassMutual build their small business owner client audience through the development of tools, resources and content. Tom’s efforts help business owners understand the true value of their company, so they can better prepare for their eventual exit from company they created. Tom is also a subject matter expert on various financial products such as disability income insurance and long-term care insurance. Before joining MassMutual, Tom worked in various marketing and advertising roles in a number of business-to-business focused companies including publishing, mining, and advertising firms.
Tom lives in Connecticut with his wife and youngest son, a recent college graduate. Tom enjoys hiking, working in the yard, and cooking family dinner on Sunday night. Tom’s greatest joy is spending time with his family at their small, lake front cabin in the Catskill Mountains.
EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
- Certified Financial Education Instructor
- Certified Family Business Specialist
- Special Needs Planner designation
- Long Term Care Insurance certification
- B.A., Business administration, Belmont Abbey College, Belmont NC
Old National Bank
My mission is to increase financial knowledge in the communities we serve. Our team works directly with community leaders, schools, non-profits and government agencies to determine the financial empowerment needs. Despite the recession and financial crisis of recent years, many Americans are still in the dark as to how to manage their finances. Some still have trouble understanding interest, loan terms and why it’s so vital to pay credit card balances on time. We believe our expertise in financial education will give our communities the tools to make sound money management decisions in their everyday lives.
As the Director of Financial Empowerment, Ben Joergens is responsible for enhancing financial literacy initiatives at Old National by partnering with schools, colleges, universities, businesses, non-profits and government agencies. His goal is to address community needs and implement financial empowerment programs based on sound money management skills.
Ben joined Old National in 1999 and has served in a variety of roles. He earned the 2011 Old National Wayne Henning Volunteer of the Year Award and was both the 2010 and 2012 Henderson, Kentucky Chamber Ambassador of the Year. In 2015, Ben received the George Bailey Distinguished Service Award, sponsored by the ABA Foundation. This national award is given to a non-CEO bank employee who demonstrates outstanding initiative, commitment to the bank’s customers and the communities they serve, and inspires others. In 2017, Ben was recognized by the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) with its coveted Financial Education Instructor of the Year Award for his commitment and contributions to bringing financial education to the at-risk and underserved.
In addition to his extensive volunteer work, Ben also serves as a certified advanced VITA tax preparer with his local United Way Agency.
Current Community Involvement
- Indiana Assets & Opportunities Network, Steering Committee Member
- United Way Focus Area Cabinet, Member
- Bank On Indiana, Steering Committee Member
- Tri-State MS Association, Secretary
- Kyle L. Parker Memorial Golf Scramble, Treasurer
- United Way of SW Indiana, Advanced Tax Preparer
- Junior Achievement
- Bank On Educator
Accolades
- Certified Financial Education Instructor (NFEC)
- NFEC Financial Education Instructor of the Year, 2017
- George Bailey Distinguished Service Award Recipient, 2015
- Old National Bank Wayne Henning Volunteer of the Year, 2011
- Henderson, Kentucky Chamber Ambassador of the Year, 2010 & 2012
- Old National Emerging Leaders Program Graduate
- Graduate of Leadership Evansville & Henderson Leadership Initiative
Education
Bachelor of Arts, Marketing, University of Southern Indiana
Dr. Pamela Rosa
Dr. Pamela Rosa is an Educational Consultant and Senior Consultant for Effective Professional Practices at the Danielson Group. Dr. Rosa has supported schools nationally to design, develop, and implement Charlotte Danielson’s Framework for Teaching evaluation and professional growth process. As an educational consultant for the past 14 years, Dr Rosa specializes in teacher and principal evaluation and professional growth processes as well as teacher mentoring/coaching.
Jonna Wopperer
Jonna Wopperer is a skilled educator and curriculum developer with permanent certifications in Literacy and English Language Arts. She earned her M.S.Ed. as a Literacy Specialist from State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo in 2013. Since then, she has made significant contributions to developing and implementing curriculum at the high school through adult levels, designing educational content that aligns with learning standards posed by the Common Core and other top benchmarks. Those efforts have included developing and adapting lessons that reflect culturally relevant pedagogy.
Since 2014 she has applied her expertise to teach English Language Arts in grades 7-12 in the Buffalo Public Schools, including differentiated instruction for Special Education and ENL students and preparing advanced students for the AP English Literature exam.
In addition to her substantial teaching and curriculum design experience, Ms. Wopperer is also pursuing research studies. Her current research interests include applying technology to motivate English Language learners and students with special needs; and enacting critical literacy using a scripted program.
Sarah Eisenstein
Sarah Eisenstein is a founding teacher in the City University of New York’s nationally recognized CUNY Start program who has worked as a Curriculum and Professional Developer for the past 5 years. She has over 15 years of experience with curriculum writing and teaching, training, and coaching both high- and low-literacy adult learners. She is expert in student-centered learning, with strong technology and design skills; and currently offers instructional design services with specialization in interactive learning experiences through Storyline, Captivate, or Lectora.
Dr. Pamela Enders
Dr. Pamela Enders is a psychologist and peak performance coach. A current faculty member at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Enders also serves as a teacher and supervisor at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston. With three decades of experience, she works with high-performing professionals to project confidence and poise in high-visibility, high-pressure situations.
Kristina McCormick
Kristina McCormick has extensive experience in developing curricula and educational programs from inception. Ms. McCormick was instrumental in developing the NFEC’s project-based learning program for teens and young adults. She applied classroom teaching methodology and curriculum models to promote active student learning through the integration of technology in order to address the varied learning needs of all students.
Diane Larsen
Diane Larsen is an award-winning economics teacher and NFEC Instructor. Diane is a 26-year teaching veteran whose awards include being selected as Jump$tart Coalition Outstanding Educator for 2008. She was the only California teacher chosen by CEE and the U.S. State Department to travel to South Africa as part of an international economics teacher exchange program. Her students have won high honors in the California State Stock Market Simulation, placing first in 2008, 2009, and twice in 2012.
Gary Jaeckel
Gary Jaeckel is the author of Teaching Personal Financial Education and an NFEC Instructor. His passion for improving people’s financial capabilities took him from the corporate world to the financial literacy industry. He brings real-world experience to the academic side of the financial literacy field with his background in the securities industry and corporate finance. He is a recognized expert in teaching personal finance and an advocate promoting personal financial education as a stand-alone course in schools across the country.
Ann Johnson
Dr. Ann Johnson is an independent consultant who works extensively with international organizations to implement curriculum and assessment reform, develop high-quality leadership teams, and create training and implementation plans. Her practical approach to design and alignment is based on her 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher, associate superintendent, building principal, and adjunct professor to implement long-term curriculum alignment and mapping initiatives.
Helen Graves
Helen Graves With a diverse background in education, Adlerian psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and marketing, Helen Graves is fascinated by how people think and learn. She has taught all age levels in formal classrooms as well as in workshops, conferences, and online seminars. She has recently moved into the field of content development and instructional design, and enjoys bringing her passion for clear communication and innovative solutions to the learning environment.
Ellen Smith
Ellen Smith has a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education and several years of classroom experience. She works with the NFEC to produce and edit smart, practical educational resources that are easy to use. She is skilled and experienced at implementing and adapting curricula to meet the critical needs of learners from diverse backgrounds and competency levels.
Nicole Hendricks
Nicole Hendricks’ background represents a unique combination of legal, educational, and school leadership expertise. After receiving her J.D. cum laude from the University of Minnesota in 1996, Ms. Hendricks practiced in various legal capacities, including as an Attorney at Law in private practice and as Deputy District Attorney in Linn County, Oregon. In 2007 she went on to earn a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Western Oregon University, followed by a Masters in School Leadership from Concordia University, Chicago in 2018.
Currently Ms. Hendricks teaches English and Social Studies at EDGE High School in Salem-Keizer, Oregon; and serves as Project Lead for The Reimagined Classroom, a group of educational innovators who develop process-driven, student-focused curriculum content in all topic areas for K-12 and adult education. In these roles she has accumulated substantial experience in collaboration, content design, management, communications, and adapting coursework for online delivery.
Dr. Malia Hoffmann
Dr. Malia Hoffmann is a lifelong educator. With a Bachelor’s in Elementary Middle School education, she began teaching middle school, using integrated technology to motivate students. She earned her Master’s in Educational Technology and became adjunct for Marian University. She took a full-time position with Marian and began pursuing her doctorate in learning technologies at Pepperdine University. Her dissertation applied the technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) framework to study how undergraduate students and faculty use mobile devices for learning.
Kerry Toniolo
Kerry Toniolo has a Master’s in Early Childhood Leadership and 13 years in education. She works with students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds, abilities, and disabilities. This experience has taught her a great deal about meeting learners where they are and breaking standards down into scaffolded steps. She believes in designing curriculum that is accessible to all students, challenges them to think deeply about things that matter in their own lives, and allows them freedom to discover and follow their own passions.
Michael Heyman
Michael Heyman, co-founder of the Reimagined Classroom, has a Master’s in K-6 Education and 10 years of teaching experience in elementary schools and Title I environments. He specializes in IB and STEAM curriculum. He believes that learning happens all around us, all the time; and that all students should have equal access to an amazing education and educational opportunities. He sees the educator’s job as helping facilitate a child’s natural inquisitiveness to foster and develop skills and ideas related to their inquiries.
Brett Meyers
Brett Meyers, co-founder of the Reimagined Classroom, has his Master’s in K-8 Education and 22 years of experience in nonprofits, international private schools, and public schools. He believes teachers need to focus on the journey of the learning process beyond the end result. He thinks education through inquiry and student ownership is essential to keep kids engaged in the classroom. Thus teachers need to help students not only learn core skills, but also socio-emotional and critical thinking skills to enable their future success.
Troy Flowers
Troy Flowers brings nine years of exemplary, student-centered teaching experience gained within public, charter, and independent schools to the NFEC. He possesses solid conceptual and applied knowledge of current research and trends in primary and middle school education, financial literacy curriculum development, service learning, assessment for instruction, and literacy.
Arnold Bellow
Arnold Bellow started his career in banking and leveraged that experience to teach courses to adult learners and community college students for more than 22 years using a practical hands-on approach and “real-life” instructional method. He has been an adjunct faculty member and community college instructor for over 20 years. He served on a number of community-based boards helping families in lower-income neighborhoods achieve financial stability and educational enrichment at the Adult Education School level.
Mark Munzenberger
Mark Munzenberger has been directly involved in teaching and developing financial wellness programs over the last 20 years. He holds multiple designations as a financial education instructor and financial coach professional, and leverages that knowledge and training to teach personal finance and lead programming across the state of Michigan.
Jana Sosnowski
Jana Sosnowski has a Master’s in educational psychology and instructional technology and 12 years teaching experience. Trained in ADDIE and backward design, she has worked as a curriculum and training writer for a math remediation program, several test preparation programs, and pilot and flight attendant training for a major airline. She is a strong writer and excellent communicator proficient in Canvas, Blackboard, and prosumer sites including Thinkific and Teachable. She has worked on many internally-developed LMS and is skilled at writing assessments and interactive learning components.
Maria Belem
Maria Belem is an education expert with a degree in accounting who has worked in the financial industry as a Financial Planning Junior Assistant in a major company, as a brokerage agent and insurance agent, in the construction industry as manager of several projects and real estate matters, in the fashion industry as a boutique owner, and in the network marketing industry by joining several companies in her home town.
Dr. Robert Martin
Dr. Robert Martin is a retired university professor and professional communicator with more than 20 years of academic teaching experience in communication. He has extensive experience in social science research, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, academic writing, and publishing. He has published numerous works in top academic journals, books, book chapters, and magazine articles in communication and social psychology. He has been a peer reviewer for various social science journals and manuscript reviewer for Wadsworth Publishing. He fully understands the multidimensional task of writing for different audiences.
Kambria Damesnel
With a background in instructional design, organizational development, and adult learning, she specializes in giving employees the tools they need to do their jobs well. As Training Content Developer for the State of Washington Department of Labor & Industries, she works directly with subject matter experts to translate their knowledge into effective instructional content. She enjoys learning about the latest instructional design and eLearning trends and staying up-to-date on the latest technology and software.
Liz da Rosa
This fall began her 23rd year teaching in a college setting, with 17 years in online teaching. She completed her doctorate in adult education with an earned graduate degree in sociology and certificate of graduate study in women’s studies. She has been Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Maryland; Dean of Education and Education Affiliates at the University of Cincinnati; Instructor at DePaul University and Western Michigan University; and Online Faculty/Course Developer at American Sentinel University.
Chanelle Paul
Chanelle Paul’s knowledge of instructional design models, such as ADDIE and the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy, guide her design process. She is especially proficient in curriculum development, mapping, and assessment. She believes the dynamics of teaching and learning are ever-changing and learners grow increasingly diverse. As an Instructional Designer dedicated to understanding client and learner needs, she is excited to take on new challenges and create new solutions. She is Adjunct Faculty at Southern New Hampshire University and Lead Instructional Designer at Wisewire.
Carolyn Fields
Carolyn Fields is a customer-centric Instructional Designer and published author with 20+ years of relevant experience. She is proficient at generating new content or improving upon existing materials. Her corporate experience focused on safety training, instructional design, and assessment creation. Well-versed in the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) model and Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Evaluation, she holds a Master’s in Management, qualification as Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®) practitioner, and certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Langevin Learning Services.
Glenn Dawson
Glenn Dawson has a Ph.D. in psychology and extensive experience in academic research, writing, and statistical analyses. He has multiple peer-reviewed publications including a first-authored journal article. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in psychology from Case Western Reserve University and his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in psychology from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Michelle Cason
Michelle Cason, with over ten years of experience as an educator, has designed curriculum for dozens of classes across multiple skill levels, individually adapting to the needs of hundreds of students ranging from elementary-aged to graduate level. She holds a PhD in rhetoric and composition, so is well-versed in research practices, academic writing style, and clear organizational strategies. Her proofreading and editing skills are particularly well-honed, and she is able to copyedit quickly and clearly.
Delaney King
Delaney King has a Master’s Degree in Adult Education and more than 10 years of experience as an instructor. Her content experience includes business communication, literacy development, sustainability and environmental issues, adult education, women & gender studies, and cultural diversity. Her educational experience includes content development, instructional design, and curriculum development.
Samantha Faw
Samantha Faw is an experienced legal writer, educator, and consultant specializing in the academic, technical, and legal fields. She holds a Juris Doctorate (JD), Masters of Law (LL.M), and Masters in Energy Regulation and Law, and uses her extensive skills and experience to serve clients with excellence and precision.
Vince Shorb
Vince Shorb is the CEO of the National Financial Educators’ Council and leads the NFEC’s Subject Matter Experts board. Before becoming one of the council’s original founders, Shorb spoke with over 20,000 people about their financial situations and reviewed the personal financial statements of more than 10,000 clients across the country. Shorb has over 28 years of investing and financial industry experience and has spent 15 years directly involved in financial education.
Stan Webb
Stan Webb has been a steady beacon in the financial education world. In addition to his professional securities licenses, Stan is a Certified Fund Specialist and Certified Senior Advisor. He attained these designations to better help his clients achieve their financial goals and leverages his real-world experience to contribute to that goal. With a passion for improving the financial capability of his clients and community, Stan has hosted financial literacy promotions and a variety of financial education services throughout Kansas.
Laura Adams
Laura Adams is the award-winning author of the 2010 best seller Money Girl’s Smart Moves to Grow Rich and produces a weekly podcast that receives more than 500,000 monthly downloads. She won the Excellence in Financial Literacy Education Award and is considered one of the leading financial literacy experts in the country.
Steven Alexander
Steven Alexander has more than 27 years of financial experience working in different capacities with major financial institutions, including Bank of America Private Wealth Management, Wachovia Trust Nonprofit and Philanthropic Services, Bank of New York/Mellon, and TIAA/CREF Wealth Management. He embraced the importance of financial literacy education early in his career by obtaining his Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation in 1990.
Victor Ricciardi
Victor Ricciardi teaches Financial Management at Goucher College and has earned his BBA, MBA, and APC designations. Professor Ricciardi teaches a variety of subjects related to financial literacy for individuals and organizations, with special expertise in behavioral finance.
Erica Jackson
Erica Jackson served as Director for the Center for Financial and Consumer Outreach (at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College) and holds a certification as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI). Jackson also served as the inaugural Executive Director for Junior Achievement’s Northwest PA Regional Office. Over the years, Erica has partnered with several agencies and organizations to advocate for financial capability, including the National Financial Educators Council, Pennsylvania Treasury, Pennsylvania Department of Banking, and Jump$tart Coalition.
Steve Repak
Steve Repak is a Certified Financial Planner™ and author of Dollars & Uncommon Sense: Basic Training for Your Money. Steve is an advocate for financial literacy and a 15-year veteran in the financial services industry. Steve has top expertise as an educator demonstrated by how well his presentations are received by the audiences, and from the post-surveys collected which showed that the material made a strong impact.
Yamila Constantino
Yamila Constantino is an award-winning journalist with two decades of experience in the financial realm. She has been included twice on Hispanic Magazine’s “One Hundred Top Latinas in the U.S.” list. She acquired her financial expertise at Bloomberg TV and Radio where she held various positions, including Head of Production.
Peter Rasmussen
Peter Rasmussen, former Program Director to the Consumer Credit Counseling Service, is a current bank auditor. He is dedicated to sharing financial literacy with his community and is actively involved in the Money Smart Week promotions held during financial literacy month.
Dianne Jennings
Dianne Jennings is the executive producer of the radio talk show “Mine Your Business” and a co-host on the Tim Ridley Radio Show, which airs on the popular Sirius XM radio network. Dianne serves as an instructor for Brookshire Professional Training Institute, a continuing education resource center for the legal profession. Dianne’s lifelong career has been to assist others with their financial needs, thus allowing them to live lives of financial freedom.
Somya Munjal
Somya Munjal has been tackling the issue of financial literacy since she graduated from college. She realized quickly how fortunate she was to earn Bachelor’s and graduate degrees in accountancy completely free of personal debt, due to her work experience and scholarships. She is now a Certified Financial Accountant and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Northern Illinois University.
Ornella Grosz
Ornella Grosz is a personal finance expert and author of a book titled Moneylicious: A Financial Clue for Generation Y. Ms. Grosz has been a featured financial expert for top radio shows on CBS, NBC, and ABC and is a personal finance writer.
Lee Aubry
Lee Aubry has been in the financial industry for over 20 years. A top producer in real estate loan origination and private banking/fund investments, Ms. Aubry spent five years as a financial analyst for a global oil company and five years in Washington, D.C. as a legislative analyst and lobbyist. She possesses an MBA from Santa Clara University where she graduated first in class, Beta Gamma Sigma.
William Martin
William Martin received his MS from the College of Financial Planning and a PsyD from Rutgers University in Clinical Psychology. Mr. Martin is an expert in personal financial psychology and has been featured in numerous publications highlighting his expertise. He currently works as Associate Professor and Director of the MSHR Department of Management at DePaul University.
Natasha Riley-Noah
Natasha Riley-Noah has been active in the financial services industry for more than 20 years. Ms. Riley-Noah brings diverse experience to the advisory board with experience in insurance, securities, debt management, and financial planning.
Danny Kofke
Danny Kofke is a teacher of 20 years and a personal finance expert. Mr. Kofke authored two financial books: How to Survive (and perhaps thrive) on a Teacher’s Salary and A Simple Book of Financial Wisdom: Teach yourself (and your kids) How to Live Wealthy with Little Money.
Chad Penry
Chad Penry brings 20 years of experience in the financial services and personal finance industry into converging financial solutions, philanthropy, entertainment, and business development working with celebrities, artists, athletes, leading industry professionals, and nonprofit organizations. Chad co-founded Money XLive, an edutainment program that teaches youth the value of financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility.
Richard White
Richard White spent four years as an investor at multi-billion dollar hedge funds before launching his own startup. Prior to investing, he was a management consultant for three years. He earned his Doctor of Law (J.D.) degree from Columbia University in the City of New York and a Master’s in international finance from The Fletcher School at Tufts. He also holds a B.S. in Math from Yale University.
Jason Van Steinwyk
Jason Van Steinwyk has been a professional financial industry, insurance, and real estate writer since 2000. He cut his teeth as staff reporter for Mutual Funds Magazine and Time; has MARCOM agency experience as director of business development. His strengths are in investing, insurance, HR, employee benefits, and personal finance content. He has been published by Time, Journal of Financial Planning, NerdWallet, SeekingAlpha.com, Bankrate, WealthManagement.com, ValuePenguin.com, Nasdaq.com, Life & Health Pro, Senior Market Advisor, the Annuity Selling Guide, and MoneyGeek. He also is a 21-year Army veteran.
Paul Hilliard
Paul Hilliard is a versatile Certified Management Accountant (CMA) with a wide variety of corporate accounting experience, from basic bookkeeping to complex GL accounting. He has working experience in cash management, GL account analysis, expense analysis, revenue analysis, forecasting and budgeting, journal entries, financial statement review and analysis, and bookkeeping.
Angela Anderson
Angela Anderson is a tax and finance expert for a fee-based Q&A site. On a daily basis, she answers multiple questions relating to tax, accounting, general finance, and social security-related matters for individuals throughout the U.S. She also has acquired a basic to intermediate skill set and experience level in the fields of event planning, trade shows, audio editing, voiceovers, audio transcription, general writing, and travel consulting.
Rachel Morey
Rachel Morey is a journalist specializing in automotive, insurance, and finance content. She has been writing professionally for nearly a decade and has projects both in print and in broadcasting. A native Iowan, Rachel has a special fondness for the open roads of rural America.
Pat Valvanz
Pat Valvanz is an expert copywriter with a B.A. in English and a Master’s in Educational Psychology. She has written copy for offline and online articles, sales pages, and marketing for over 30 years. She writes excellent copy, edits and proofreads existing copy so clients’ online presence shines with professionalism. When the copy is perfect, audiences can focus on the message instead of being distracted by poor spelling, grammar, and syntax. Pat’s broad interests include finances and investing, insurance, women’s issues, cooking, gardening, psychology, and relationships.
Katrina Harris
Katrina Harris has a background in the Financial Services industry with a degree in Finance and has previously held the Series 66, 7, 9, and 10 licenses with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). She has worked both in banking and at a brokerage firm.
Jacob Schroeder
Jacob Schroeder specializes in financial writing and personal finance content (blogs, newsletters, websites, etc.) having led content production for two multi-billion-dollar financial planning firms. He serves as contributing writer at Kiplinger’s Magazine, Manager of Investor Education at Advance Capital Management, and Senior Financial Writer at Portfolio Solutions.
Larry is board certified and has in-depth experience in large public, private and not-for-profit business organizations with various and increasing responsibilities. Including accounting, purchasing, operations, customer service, international, marketing, timely, complete, and accurate reporting of financial results, evaluating capital expenditures, negotiating operating and capital leases, developing compensation and benefit plans, and negotiating working capital and medium-term financing and cyber security. During his career he was the leader or participated in Domestic and International Acquisition Teams.
Larry retired from CalChamber on April 30, 2022. He started there as vice president of finance on June 1, 2002. Larry was appointed executive vice president and chief financial officer in March 2007. In January 2012 Larry was chosen to lead CalChamber’s compliance business. The compliance business includes membership, products, and training. The members have access to best software as service (HRCalifornia) for providing answers to questions on California employment laws and a Helpline for answers to confidential questions. The products sold by this business include employment compliance tools, required state, federal and local employment posters and pamphlets, reference guides, and an online employee handbook creator. Training includes the best online sexual harassment prevention course in the country, compliance seminars and webinars.
Before coming to the CalChamber, he worked for Blue Diamond Growers in Sacramento as vice president of finance and chief financial officer. During his employment with Blue Diamond, he added responsibilities for human resources and information systems and added the responsibilities of corporate secretary.
Dicke was a founding member and past president of the Greater Sacramento Area Chapter of Financial Executives International. He was an adjunct professor for the Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Davis; served as chief financial officer for the California State Protocol Foundation; and was a member of the California Governor and First Lady’s Conference Board of Directors. He is a former president of the Sacramento Area Commerce and Trade Organization (SACTO) and once served on the board of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.
Dicke was born and raised in Chicago, graduating from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois with a B.S. in accounting. He passed the CPA exam in Illinois and earned his MBA from the University of Chicago and has a CERT Certificate in Cybersecurity Oversight. He is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, Financial Executives International and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He was Sacramento area CFO of the Year for Nonprofits in 2014.
Veselina Dinova is faculty at Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley, where she teaches finance, accounting, financial information analysis and stock valuation focused courses with the graduate and executive MBA programs. Her mission is to educate the future corporate leaders on how to build and grow companies that make the world a better place for all their stakeholders. She has won numerous awards for teaching excellence.
Veselina has researched and analyzed the financial performance and corporate governance of publicly traded companies from a wide range of industries. She cares deeply about education and enjoys working with and learning from her students with vastly diverse backgrounds, opinions and aspirations. She is passionate about innovation and has mentored startups at SkyDeck, the premier accelerator at UC Berkeley.
Prior to becoming faculty at Haas, Veselina was in corporate treasury at multinational corporations where she had a wide range of responsibilities: portfolio management of fixed income and equity investments, bank and investment managers’ relationships, corporate cash forecasting, SEC reporting, internal audit compliance.
Veselina is originally from Bulgaria and came to the US to pursue her MBA degree at Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona. She is a CFA charter-holder and a member of the CFA Society of San Francisco. She is NACD Directorship certified.
Trevor Stoll has felt passionate about bringing greater financial wellness to Californians for decades. When he was an undergraduate at the University of California, Riverside, he witnessed many of his classmates struggling to balance their college budgets and wanted to do something to help. When he heard about the NFEC and its financial education advocacy, he reached out to them. In partnership, they started the American Dream Movement chapter at UCR. This movement gave Trevor the opportunity to empower his college peers with the financial knowledge they needed to effectively and confidently tackle the real-world life decisions they would face during their college years and beyond.
Stoll earned an MBA from the University of California, Irvine and a BS in Business Administration from UCR. This educational background gave him the qualifications to take his passion for promoting financial wellness to the next level. Now, as the NFEC’s Chief Operations Officer, Trevor takes a data-driven approach to planning financial wellness strategies and initiatives for maximum long-term social impact. He also is charged with maintaining quality control of the NFEC’s resources and ensuring their compliance with top standards. These are just some of the contributions Stoll is looking forward to making as part of his role on the California Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
Carolyn Campbell is an experienced executive and board director with over 25 years of investing in the financial services and technology sectors. Ms. Campbell is a founder and managing partner of Emerging Capital Partners (ECP), a private equity firm which has raised over $3.4 billion in growth capital for investment in over 70 listed and private high-growth companies, with a focus on innovation in financial services, telecom and energy/logistics. As a member of ECP’s Audit/Valuation, Investment and Executive Committees, her M&A financial and legal background makes her a key decision-maker in relation to financial performance and governance. As chair of the firm’s advisory committees and a director of multiple boards, she is valued for oversight and strategy in relation to finance/audit, corporate governance, management and ESG, improving financial reporting, corporate governance, business plans and IT systems. Ms. Campbell is particularly well-versed in issues facing highly-regulated industries and those looking to expand into new markets.
Prior to founding ECP, Ms. Campbell worked in global private equity at Emerging Markets Partnership (EMP), where she provided overall leadership and strategy for funds in Asia and Eastern Europe. Prior to that, Ms. Campbell worked in M&A and corporate finance globally at White & Case LLP, where she advised on U.S. venture capital deals and guided expanding multinational corporations to find suitable investments, build strong local partnerships and achieve best governance practices. Her work at White & Case spanned a variety of sectors, including financial services, insurance and technology.
Ms. Campbell has received various awards including the Private Equity Africa Women Impact Award and life membership in the Council on Foreign Relations. A sought-after speaker on board governance, investment strategy and executive management, she has appeared on C-SPAN, Bloomberg and Africa Today, spoken at the National Economists Club, the Brookings Institute, and the Harvard and Wharton Business Schools. She has published on cryptocurrency and other topics in the Financial Times, Environmental Finance, Quartz and Private Equity International. Ms. Campbell received a BA in Economics summa cum laude from the University of Connecticut, a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law, and a Ph.D. in Political Economy from Oxford University and is fluent in French.
Other Board Experience
- Chair of Finance/Audit Committee for six years of Washington International School, a private K-12 school with over $45m in revenues
- Investment Committee Member, American Psychological Foundation
- Advisory Council Member, United States Millennium Challenge Corporation
Sonja Strzoda has over twenty-five years of experience in the global asset management and financial services industries working with Boards, senior executives and major investors. She was most recently with Columbia Threadneedle Investments (a subsidiary of Ameriprise Financial) where she served as Director of Consultant Relations and facilitated the re-engineering of the global consultant relations effort. Previously, Sonja was Senior Vice President for Putnam Investments where she worked as part of the global sales team and re-established the firm’s brand in the institutional marketplace. Earlier roles and positions included Vice President at Robeco Investment Management, Principal at Bradford & Marzec, Inc., a privately held institutional fixed income manager, PIMCO, and Dean Witter Reynolds (Morgan Stanley).
Sonja currently sits on the Boards of WISE-Women Investing in Security and Education, NuVision Federal Credit Union where she serves on the Asset and Liability Committee and CEO Compensation Committee, and Working Wardrobes where Sonja is a member of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committees, and Chair of the Audit Committee.
Sonja received her MBA with an emphasis in finance from California State University, Long Beach, where she was the first woman portfolio manager on the University’s Student Managed Investment Fund. She earned her BS with a major in economics from University of California, Irvine. Sonja is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and held FINRA Series 7 and 63 licenses.
Internationally recognized financial literacy pioneer and leader Sam X Renick has joined the California Educators Council Advisory Board as of 2022. Mr. Renick’s expertise lies in innovative children’s financial education, with which he has reached more than a quarter million children across 8 countries and 40 US states over the past two decades.
Mr. Renick founded his social entrepreneurial venture, the “It’s a Habit!” Company, in 2001 and co-created the Sammy Rabbit storybook character to empower individuals from all backgrounds to teach young children excellent money habits in an entertaining, effective format. For his own far-reaching children’s financial literacy instruction efforts, he and his team have earned multiple honors – including the 2016 National Financial Educators Council Instructor of the Year Award, the New Jersey Coalition for Financial Education Lifetime Achievement Award, the California Jump$tart Coalition Leaders in Personal Literacy Award, and induction into the Loyola Marymount University Wall of Honor, among many more.
A prolific author and songwriter, Mr. Renick has developed one of the largest financial literacy resource libraries in the world. Among this extensive bank of resources can be found storybooks and songs such as Sammy’s Big Dream, Get in the Habit, S.A.V.E. Rainy Day, Lemonade Stand, Anyone Can Be Rich, and Show Your Family the Way.
Mr. Renick also has garnered substantial media attention for his exemplary work in the financial education space. His efforts have been featured in television and radio spots on ABC, the Armed Forces Network, Fox, and NPR; and in print media including the Chicago Tribune, New York Times, Kansas City Star, MSN, Kiplinger, MarketWatch, and Yahoo Finance.
Today, Mr. Renick serves a myriad of high-profile clients, both individuals and enterprises. His work has gained worldwide support from groups of all sizes and from all sectors, including the US Department of Defense, Air Force Aid Society, Citi, Girl Scouts of America, Texas Family Community Leaders of America, Toyota, the University of Maryland, and the United Way.
Sam X Renick’s lifelong commitment to spreading knowledge and joy on great money habits has helped form his mantra: “Great habits give all kids a better and brighter future!”
Advisory Board Member Rodney Balbuena was chosen to serve on the California Financial Educators Council (CFEC) due to his passion for helping individuals and organizations secure their financial futures – a calling that deeply aligns with the mission of the National Financial Educators Council, the CFEC’s parent organization. Across his nearly three-decade career in financial services, Balbuena has consistently demonstrated innovation, compassion, and contributions to positive social progress.
Criteria for selection to the Advisory Board include having a proven dedication to financial wellness and service to California communities. Rodney Balbuena’s history of success in guiding his clients toward financial well-being and his commitment to empowering underserved groups with financial education recommend him strongly to fill this position. The California Financial Educators Council anticipates a highly productive and beneficial collaborative relationship with Rodney Balbuena well into the future.
Innovative Solutions for Economic Empowerment: Rodney Balbuena
I attended California State University at Los Angeles, where I pursued a major in Business Marketing. During those formative years, I cultivated a keen interest in the art of public speaking, effective presentations, and the world of financial products. As I ventured into the job market in 1994, a remarkable opportunity emerged for a bilingual educator role within a global financial services corporation, and I was fortunate enough to be selected for this prestigious position.
With a career spanning over 27 years in this dynamic industry, I have diligently acquired and currently hold a series of prestigious securities licenses, including Series 6, 63, and 65. Furthermore, I take great pride in being recognized with a Chartered Certified Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA) and Behavioral Finance Analyst designation, which unequivocally underscores my unwavering dedication to achieving professional excellence.
I am excited and committed to lending my skills, insights, and experience to the ongoing success and growth of the National Financial Educators Council and its state affiliate, the California Financial Educators Council. Together, I believe we can achieve remarkable results and make a positive impact.
I look forward to collaborating with the entire advisory board in the coming months and years, as we work together to shape the future and realize our vision.
President and CEO of Pasadena Federal Credit Union in Pasadena, CA, James Chang brings more than 25 years of financial institution experience to his position on the California Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. His substantial skills and expertise include promoting professional personal finance guidance, strategic use of technology, and personal delivery of outstanding products and services.
Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Chang started his career as a credit union teller – where his daily interactions with members quickly illuminated and solidified his passion for helping others. He cites his dedication to prioritizing members’ interests as the impetus behind his advancement into top leadership positions. In addition to his current title, he has held executive positions at Pasadena Service Federal Credit Union, Verity Credit Union, and Southland Credit Union.
James views his Advisory Board role as a unique opportunity to amplify his community impact by becoming a champion of top-quality financial education resources. He plans to leverage his broad professional network to advance the cause of building greater financial literacy and well-being among Californians in his own community and statewide.
In the financial wellness domain, the role of a Community Engagement Director takes on a significance that goes beyond customer service: that position has the potential to empower people’s lives. Claudia Martins, Community Engagement Director for the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC), offers a shining example of how that role can be leveraged to transform and inspire others with greater financial health.
Serving as the front line of contact for all entities and individuals with interest in the NFEC, Martins’ influence is felt at all levels of interaction – from program enrollees, to advisory board members, to top-level organizational partners. Her dedication to excellent customer service ensures that every interaction with the NFEC is not just informative, but transformative.
Claudia Martins’ Unique Backstory
Born and raised in Brazil, Claudia’s life-changing journey began 23 years ago when she uprooted, left her legal career, and came to the U.S. with only $700 in her pocket. Although she immediately fell in love with the people and surroundings in Florida, where she landed, she initially faced daunting financial challenges. Those trials were to form the impetus behind her passion and life purpose.
Martins started a Facebook group for women to share their financial struggles and triumphs. This virtual community soon grew into a space for empowerment, attracting more and more followers inspired by Claudia’s authentic story. She embraced entrepreneurship, becoming a healthy lifestyle coach consulting with individuals, nonprofits, and community groups. In 2018 she was introduced to the NFEC and earned her Certified Financial Education Instructor® and Certified Personal Financial Wellness Consultant credentials. Claudia took her relationship with the NFEC to the next level in 2020 by assuming her current Community Engagement Director (CED) role.
A Dynamic Force for Empowerment
The CED is tasked not only to connect with all clients and stakeholders, but to support them toward professional working relationships and help ensure that programs can be taken to scale. Martins conducts outreach to build partnerships and seek out opportunities that further the NFEC’s business and social impact mission. Her law background extends her expertise into the legal realm, where she manages license agreements and compliance matters for the organization.
With a strong commitment to detail, Claudia demonstrates talents for event planning, decision-making support, and multimedia communications. Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish and currently studying French, she is skilled at communicating effectively with diverse and multicultural audiences. She also manages inter-organizational communications, activities, and content that align with the NFEC’s vision of creating a healthy, rewarding work environment.
Inspiring Future Generations
Claudia’s commitment to empowerment through financial education extends to children and the broader community. Following the end of her marriage, she took it upon herself to build up her own kids’ financial literacy – a subject rarely taught at school. This experience inspired Claudia to align herself with the NFEC’s mission to implement financial literacy in schools across the U.S. Her belief in raising self-sufficient, financially secure children embodies Claudia’s understanding that financial empowerment is the key to developing resilient, prosperous adults.
Both Claudia Martins’ life journey and her contributions to the NFEC’s mission are testaments to the transformational power of financial education. Claudia represents an inspiration to others who aspire to rise above their challenges and embrace their true potential. Her legacy reminds us that all individuals have the capacity to rewrite their narratives, empower others, and move toward healthy, secure futures.
Advisory Board Member Dr. Renée Baker, DBA, RCC™️ is the Founder and CEO of The RBI Group, a company committed to educating, empowering, and elevating individuals and organizations toward financial success and freedom. Throughout her extensive career in financial services and academia, Dr. Baker has continuously championed actionable financial strategies, guiding numerous individuals and entities toward reaching their financial goals.
In her capacity as an Advisory Board Member, Dr. Baker advocates for financial education. Known as a forerunner in advancing financial literacy, especially in Florida, her influence stretches well beyond the realm of finance. Her commitment spans community development, mentorship, and all-encompassing growth. Recognized for her expertise, Dr. Baker has received significant acknowledgment, marking her as an authority in financial well-being and community leadership both in Florida and beyond.
Dr. Baker’s educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Rutgers University, a Master of Business Administration degree from The Pennsylvania State University, and a doctorate in Business Administration from Wilmington University. Her expansive knowledge is further enhanced by her completion of executive education at the Securities Industry Institute, co-hosted by SIFMA and Wharton.
Professionally, she holds Series 6, 7, 26, and 63 licenses and is a registered corporate coach. With this diverse skill set, she delivers unique financial mentorship and strategies, ensuring actionable outcomes and tailored financial education solutions.
Forming a Language of Empowerment: Dr. Renée Baker
I grew up in humble beginnings, in a family where money was rarely discussed. It wasn’t until I got into college that I started to understand money and my personal finances and became able to share that information with my family and community. Nearly 30 years later, I founded The RBI Group to be a solution provider: bridge the chasm of wealth inequality, uplift living standards, stimulate economic opportunities, and ultimately revolutionize our global landscape. Having a fundamental understanding of money management doesn’t just equip individuals to navigate their finances adeptly; it also gives them a potent arsenal of tools – and the unshakable confidence – to journey toward wealth creation, regardless of scale.
I feel a strong commitment to my community, which has inspired me to become involved in various community boards. For example, I serve on the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation board, chairing the Investment Committee. I am Chair of the Admiral Society for United Way Suncoast; a board member of Girls Inc., Pinellas, where I serve on the Finance Committee; and Treasurer for the IDEA Charter Schools Fiduciary Board for Florida. I also hold the title of Lifetime Member of Leadership Florida.
I feel that empowering people with the vital knowledge of financial literacy and guiding businesses with strategic marketing consulting isn’t just a mission; it’s a calling. As an Advisory Board member of the Florida Financial Educators Council, I bring my passions to the table: forming a language of empowerment, an art of resilience, and a pathway to boundless opportunities for Floridians and individuals all across the country.
Entrepreneur, educator, risk management professional, and devoted community volunteer Joseph R. Chiarella is a native of Vero Beach, Florida who graduated from Vero Beach Senior High School in 1992 and from the University of Florida in 1996. As an agency principal for The Sihle Insurance Group, Joseph earned the designation of Accredited Customer Service Representative (ACSR), distinguishing him for his skill at communicating complex insurance concepts in a clear, accessible way.
Chiarella’s clients encompass a wide range of commercial and non-profit organizations including educational institutions, manufacturers, contractors, and habitational associations. His specialty in the risk management industry is complex commercial insurance risk programs. Joseph’s ACSR credential highlights his expertise at building strong client and colleague relationships.
One component of Chiarella’s professional role was to develop the Sihle Insurance University, a unique and exclusive training program for the next generation of insurance professionals. The program encompasses in-depth study of policy forms, coverage reviews, and presentation proficiency – all skills in which Joseph excels. This curriculum empowers graduates with confidence and professionalism that boost their employability and heighten their career success.
Joseph’s goal for participating on the FFEC is to expand his reach to Florida consumers, insurance professionals, and business owners who need additional guidance, education, or mentorship.
The Florida Financial Educators Council selected Richard Cautero as a member of its Advisory Board due to his distinguished career as a senior executive at a major multinational consumer company and board member at publicly-held and private companies, family-owned businesses, major nonprofits, and the government sector.
He is currently a board and finance committee member at Goodwill Industries Manasota, the Sarasota affiliate of Feeding America (All Faiths Food Bank), and the City of Venice Police Pension Fund. He previously served on the boards of Jones Soda Company (public company), Royal Bakers Distributing (private company), Ann’s Place (nonprofit cancer support organization), as well as numerous other boards and advisory committees.
Longtime Community Service Advocate: Richard Cautero
Rich formerly spent 30 years at Kraft Foods and its former parent company, Altria, in numerous leadership positions including Chief Financial Officer at Maxwell House Coffee and Vice President of Finance and Strategic Planning at Altria.
Rich is a longtime advocate of community and public service. He also previously served as a two-term elected Council Member at the City of Venice, Florida. He completed his second term in 2021. Rich was also elected Vice Mayor three times, in 2017, 2019, and 2021.
Cautero holds a BBA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance and Investments from Hofstra University.
Commenting on his Advisory Board appointment, Rich stated, “I am excited about the opportunity to assist the National Financial Educators Council advocating for initiatives in support of greater financial security and wellness for communities and individuals.”
A philanthropist, visionary, and history-maker, Evelyn Magley is the first woman and first African American woman to own a professional men’s sports league in the United States – not just a team, but a whole league. As owner and CEO of The Basketball League (TBL), Magley leads a professional basketball organization that began operation in the U.S. in 2019 and has a stated mission to deliver a world-class entertainment experience to its communities, fans, and players. TBL provides players who, for one reason or another, do not participate in the NBA or G-League with opportunities to make a living playing the game they love on a professional basis.
Leading up to her current role, Magley has been an educator and dedicated community servant for decades. Qualified as a Music Educator and Music Therapist, she has a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of young people. In an accomplishment that illustrates this commitment, a $3.7 million Fine Arts Building was constructed to house and educate students in a music program that grew to an 89% participation rate under her tutelage in Bradenton, Florida.
Promoting Financial Education as a Key Life Skill: Evelyn Magley
A graduate of the University of Kansas, Evelyn Magley co-founded “Children with Purpose,” an inner-city ministry focused on mentoring children through the gospel, academic services, hot meals, and music. She also is the former Director of Community Engagement at the Brampton A’s of the National Basketball League (NBL) of Canada. As a liaison between the league and the city of Brampton, she scaled the forward-facing programming of the NBL, professional basketball teams, and nonprofit organizations within the community at large. Now she brings this expertise to bear on her TBL leadership efforts.
Under Magley’s leadership, TBL is dedicated to providing its host communities with professional basketball teams that offer an affordable, high-quality family entertainment experience. And the league’s community contributions go far beyond its professional-level basketball games that entertain local families. TBL supports local youth through school and group appearances, youth camps, clinics, and nonprofit organizations. The league also gives its players educational opportunities to learn from nationally acclaimed life skills classes – including training in financial literacy, health and wellness, nutrition, preventive medicine, and sports biomechanics.
Magley’s commitment to community service also has financial wellness as a large component. For example, she was the driving force behind the TBL Financial Literacy Campaign that kicked off in 2020 with the objective to train TBL teams, executives, and staff how to teach personal finance. More than 70 participants registered for the Certified Financial Education Instructor course as part of this initiative.
Magley’s position as owner and CEO of The Basketball League represents the culmination of her lifelong passion for sports and community involvement. Her participation in the Advisory Board is vital to the Florida Financial Educators Council’s efforts to promote financial wellness across Florida.
Philip Herzberg, CFP®, CDFA®, CTFA, AEP® is a lead financial advisor at Team Hewins, a wealth management firm with offices in South Florida and the San Francisco Bay Area. As a Certified Financial Planner® professional, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® practitioner, Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor, and Accredited Estate Planner® designee, Philip uses his expertise to help clients implement tax-efficient investment, retirement, and estate planning strategies.
A regular Journal of Financial Planning columnist, Herzberg has authored or contributed to over 60 peer-reviewed estate, tax, and financial planning articles. Philip has been cited as an authority in regional and national media publications, including the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNBC, AARP, Kiplinger, Financial Planning, Morningstar, MarketWatch, Barron’s, InvestmentNews, Financial Advisor Magazine, TheStreet, Miami Herald, and South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Spreading the Financial Education Message Wide: Philip Herzberg
Herzberg has been a featured speaker for local and national professional organization audiences such as the Estate Planning Council, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA), Financial Planning Association (FPA), United Way, and the Jewish Community Foundation’s Professional Advisory Council (PAC). He currently serves as a CFP® Board Ambassador and is Chair of the Jewish Federation of Broward County’s Advisor Philanthropy Initiative (API). He also currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Estate Planning Council of Boca Raton and Collaborative Family Law Institute.
He served as 2018-19 President of the Estate Planning Council of Greater Miami and is a Past President of the FPA of Florida and the FPA of Miami.
Herzberg’s strong background and expertise make him a highly-esteemed member of the Florida Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
As a Black American civil rights business leader, professional trader, investor, Certified Financial Education Instructor®, and extensively published writer/accredited international journalist, Advisory Board Member Richard F. Cason is uniquely positioned to contribute his wealth of expertise to the Florida Financial Educators Council’s (FFEC) Advisory Board. Cason was selected to serve on the Board due to his strong alignment with the mission and values of the National Financial Educators Council, the FFEC’s parent organization.
Cason’s advanced education in the field of information technology – including an AS in Computer Programming from Florida National College and a BS and Masters in Information Technology from Barry University in Miami – also offer a unique and advantageous perspective to his contributions as a founding member of the FFEC.
Building Strong Communities through Financial Education: Richard F. Cason
My military service – spent overseas working in intelligence as administrative specialist for a battalion commander – taught me invaluable skillsets including leadership, accountability, discipline, adaptability, and honor. My early career as a federal immigration officer with the US Department of Justice gave me a unique perspective on the challenges facing communities and the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments for all individuals.
This rich background formed the backdrop against which I developed my passion: helping the citizens of underprivileged, underserved, and disenfranchised poor urban communities – especially people of color – by equipping them with the knowledge and insight to take control over their personal financial destinies. Many people in these communities struggle with debt, financial insecurity, credit problems, and lack of knowledge about money management. I want to be part of the solution by sharing my experience and expertise.
One of my major contributions to the FFEC’s Advisory Board will be to foster alliances and partnerships with faith-based organizations, non-profits, and government agencies to assist these communities to receive the education and support they need to take control over their own personal finances and set up more secure futures for themselves and their families.
I am committed to making a positive social impact, and I believe that financial literacy education is a crucial part of achieving this goal. By sharing my knowledge and experience as an Advisory Board member, I hope to inspire others to take charge of their financial futures and make informed decisions that will benefit them and their families for years to come.
I am honored to be recognized as a founding member of the Florida Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board. Together, we can create stronger, more financially secure communities where everyone can thrive, all across the state of Florida.
Amit Bansal serves as the Director of the Center for Financial Health and Wellness at the Spears School of Business, Oklahoma State University. The center’s mission revolves around empowering individuals to make well-informed and meaningful decisions concerning their personal finances. It achieves this vision through the provision of workshops and personalized counseling on various financial matters such as budgeting, savings, investing, debt management, and more.
Advisory Board Member Amit Bansal, an alumnus of Oklahoma State University, initially gained experience in corporate banking and capital markets in New York before transitioning to his current role. Since 2018, he has been utilizing his expertise to educate students at the Spears School of Business, sharing his knowledge and passion for finance through teaching finance courses.
Long-time Advocate for Financial Education: Amit Bansal
Amit Bansal has been a great supporter of financial literacy education for decades. Even as an Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Finance, he seized opportunities to conduct financial wellness seminars for Master’s students, PhD students, faculty members in Residential Life, and high school students. His directorship at the Center for Financial Health and Wellness affords him the opportunity to promote financial literacy not just to the university’s students, but also to staff and community members.
Bansal grew up in Agra, India and earned his bachelor’s degree in electronics and communication engineering from Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal, India. He earned both a Master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering and an MBA from OSU. While earning his MBA, Bansal was an intern at the Chicago Board of Options Exchange.
Amit Bansal’s participation on the Florida Financial Educators Council Advisory Board offers him yet another opportunity to contribute to the financial literacy movement in Florida, Oklahoma, and around the U.S.
Visionary Champion of Financial Wellness
Known for his ability to turn ideas into impact, Paul Goebel has long championed financial wellness as a catalyst for student success. As the founding director of the Student Money Management Center at the University of North Texas, his team prioritized reaching the University’s diverse and ever-evolving student body with programming that was not only relevant, but resonant. His approach blended innovation with personalization, forging cross-campus partnerships that empowered students through holistic, real-world learning experiences.
Expanding the Reach of Financial Education Programming
Paul’s influence extends far beyond academia. A sought-after advisor and speaker, he has helped shape sustainable financial education initiatives across Texas and the nation. His adaptable teaching style turns ideas into reality, laying the groundwork for programs that endure and evolve. Paul thrives to amplify the reach of financial literacy and education—building bridges, sparking change, and mentoring the next generation of educators and advocates.
Advisory Board Member Sharita M. Humphrey is a nationally-recognized and award-winning Certified Financial Education Instructor and business mentor. Sharita has received two Texas Proclamations recognizing her ongoing commitment and work to teach financial and business literacy to marginalized communities and small businesses. Sharita was named the National Financial Educator of the Year in 2020 for her education and advocacy work across the country. In 2021, Sharita began to do global financial literacy work via the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Namibia.
Sharita plans to leverage her substantial experience in mentorship, financial literacy, and entrepreneurism as she makes significant contributions to the mission and vision of the Texas Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
Fostering Collaboration and Inspiring Global Financial Freedom: Sharita M. Humphrey
Sharita Humphrey has continued to work with state and local agencies, nonprofits, banks, and educational institutions, presenting and developing curricula, workshops, and training to increase financial and business literacy awareness and education. She is a resident business advisor for a collaborative project including Houston Community College, the City of Houston, and the Spring Branch Independent School District to help aspiring entrepreneurs gain access to educational resources and capital.
She is a regular contributor to major publications and has been featured in top-tier media, including CNBC, MSN, Acorns, Wall Street Journal, Martha Stewart, Credit Karma, iHeartMedia, Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and BBC World News. She is a talented media spokesperson and partners with other brands and organizations to further educate mass communities on financial well-being, entrepreneurship, and funding opportunities.
Sharita and her family set a goal of purchasing hundreds of acres of land over the next few years to build a family-run farm. During their journey, Sharita will be teaching under-resourced farmers how to obtain capital to acquire and retain their farmland for generations to come.
Elaine King, CFP® is the founder of Family and Money Matters™, a company with the mission of empowering the family’s financial and human capital to achieve financial well-being. She has served as the Family’s Financial Planner for over 1,200 families and 100 multigenerational family enterprises, helping those families and enterprises craft actionable family financial plans.
Elaine is a Financial Education advocate, creator of the first family financial program in Latin America, and winner of the Best Latin Book Award. She was recognized in 2020 in the list of Investopedia‘s Top Influential Advisors and in 2017 as one of People Magazine’s Top 25 Influential Hispanic Women. Elaine has been featured in television spots on Telemundo and CNN, and in print in the Wall Street Journal and Forbes; and is a columnist for financial journals in the U.S. and Latin America.
Financial Education with a Family Focus: Elaine King
Elaine King was born in Peru at a time when the country was going through its longest economically and politically volatile period, with record-high inflation rates, terrorism, and national curfews. She has lived, studied, and worked around the world – in Canada, Mexico, Austria, Japan, and the United States – an experience that taught her to love culture and appreciate diversity. She also speaks six languages.
King built her expertise over 18 years by climbing the corporate ladders of the largest and most powerful financial institutions in the world, advising international families with actionable strategies for a healthy financial plan, structure, and governance. Thus she built her foundation and formed a passion for spreading economic empowerment, qualities she brings to her contributions to the Florida Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
Irene Day was selected as a member of the Ohio Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board due to her strong alignment with the mission and goals of the National Financial Educators Council. Advisory Board Member Irene Day has distinguished herself through both her lengthy personal experience in the financial space and the ethical, professional conduct of her business enterprise. Her leadership has brought a wide variety of individuals and organizations together to work toward a common goal: improving people’s lives through financial education.
The criteria for Advisory Board member selection include a commitment to and passion for promoting financial wellness and a history of community service. Irene Day’s credentials underscore her reputation and success in these areas and more. The Ohio Financial Educators Council looks forward to her contributions and inspiration in the months and years to come.
Empowering Financial Literacy: Irene Day
As President and CEO of IreneDay.com, I am dedicated to giving real-life financial literacy solutions to individuals and organizations. Over the past 5 years, I have grown to feel truly passionate about educating people so they don’t fall into the same financial hardships I experienced early in life – all from just not understanding how money worked.
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Baldwin Wallace University, 7 years in the financial industry space, and having started a multimillion-dollar company from scratch, I know first-hand the importance of understanding how money and our economy work.
My interest in learning the ins and outs of the credit system began in 2014. I had paid off $30,000 worth of debt with the money my grandfather left me after he passed; but my credit score only increased 12 points. I was absolutely mortified. This situation motivated me to do extensive research on how my own personal credit was determined, which in turn led to an interest in the credit repair industry itself. In 2017 I officially started my business, Hannah Financial.
When I was told that I was being considered for the Advisory Board for the Ohio Financial Educators Council, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. This was my opportunity finally to be able to make a difference in my community by leveraging my education, experience, and network to continue to build and implement financial literacy programs across my state.
I am incredibly honored to have been appointed to the Ohio Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board. I am excited to continue advocating for the widespread promotion of financial literacy throughout Ohio and beyond.
Melvin J. Scales has been a management consulting professional since early 1997 and currently serves both as the Executive Vice President of Meridian Resources – a leading national talent management consulting firm – and a Senior Advisor with Armstrong-McGuire, which provides leadership-based consulting to nonprofit organizations.
Prior to his appointment to the executive leadership team of Meridian Resources, Advisory Board Member Melvin Scales was the Assistant Director of Career Services for the Wake Forest University Schools of Business. He also served as the Global Senior Vice President for the world’s largest career management and outplacement consulting organization – Right Management – leading the organization’s thought leadership and global delivery for all 19 global operating regions. Melvin has also held several roles in brand management with leading international consumer products organizations such as Hanesbrands, R.J. Reynolds, Anheuser-Busch, and Nabisco.
Bringing Ethical Leadership to Financial Education: Melvin J. Scales
Scales has lectured in marketing and career management at the Graduate School of Business at Wake Forest University and currently serves as a business community coach focused on ethical leadership for the university. He serves as Chairman for the Atrium Health’s CareNet Psychological Services, board and investment committee member for the Twin City Development Fund, board member and Governance committee chair for the Historic Magnolia House and Foundation, board member of the Triad North Carolina Film Commission, board and governance committee member for the Western Conference United Methodist Fund, board member for Leadership Winston-Salem, and board member for Forsyth County Senior Services.
Melvin is a native of Winston-Salem and a graduate of Wake Forest University, Brevard College and received a Doctor of Divinity degree, Honoris Causa, from Provident University. He served honorably in the United States Navy. He is married to Yvette Bishop-Scales and they have one daughter, Kelli, and one grand-dog, Shug Avery.
Amy McMaster is a Licensed Social Worker with a Bachelor’s degree from The Defiance College. She is a financial coach for the Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission (NOCAC) Financial Opportunity Center (FOC). In these roles, Advisory Board Amy McMaster assists low- to moderate-income families to achieve financial wellness. She has coordinated the NOCAC Individual Development Accounts (IDA) Matched Savings Program and also enjoyed her time as a NOCAC Head Start Preschool Family Service Specialist.
Empowering Positive Life Changes: Amy McMaster
Mrs. McMaster has made it her mission to bring fun and entertainment to financial literacy classes. In addition, she views all clients as creative, resourceful, and whole individuals. She enjoys assisting clients with one-on-one budget counseling, access to banking information, credit improvement, and social support. Mrs. McMaster values community partnerships for the wealth of knowledge and support they offer.
Her entire career has been spent providing services to low-income households of Northwestern Ohio. She focuses on empowering individuals and families to make positive life changes. Her goal is to ensure that all members of her community have access to the support and resources they need to live satisfying lives.
When not working, Mrs. McMaster can usually be found spending quality time with her family, playing board games, celebrating her nieces’ and nephews’ life accomplishments, assisting her husband in the garden, and spoiling three kittens.
Nathan Nguyen, Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®), is a business farmer, coach, and mentor; best-selling author; investor; and a passionate financial education ambassador. With 20+ years of entrepreneurial experience and a business portfolio of 25+ businesses in 8 industries, he believes in unleashing and empowering the entrepreneurial spirit in people to move humanity forward with greater innovation and solution creativity.
As a CFEI®, Education Loan Analyst, and Certified College Funding Specialist, Advisory Board Member Nathan Nguyen founded College Career Advisory to help parents and students plan for college, career, and life success. He authored the book Money Smarts and created the Money Simulations Game to prepare students on how to be financially independent and to develop the money skills involved in making, saving, borrowing, and investing money.
Making a Local Impact with Financial Education: Nathan Nguyen
Nguyen is a lucky husband and proud father of three kids. Locally, he serves his community as a board member to nonprofit organizations, high school and college lecturer, and professional development speaker. His welfare to college multi-millionaire success story has been featured in the all-time bestselling Chicken Soup for the Soul series book Chicken Soup for the Extraordinary Teens Soul, as well as The Richest Kids in America. Nathan also has been featured on the cover of Trade Magazine and the Young & Successful series Millionaire Spotlight Live on CNBC.
Bill Field was chosen to represent the Ohio Financial Educators Council (OFEC) on its Advisory Board because of his commitment to promoting financial wellness, close alignment with the National Financial Educators Council’s vision, and childhood ties to Ohio. Advisory Board Member Bill Field stands out in the User Experience (UX) arena for his skill, insight, and user-centric approach – qualities that recommend him both to provide key input to the OFEC and for promoting the financial wellness cause as a whole. His leadership guides system improvements that support a broad range of financial wellness objectives.
The criteria applied to select professional Advisory Board members include dedication to promoting financial wellness and contributions to making a positive social impact. Bill Field has earned a reputation for strength in both these areas, among many others. The Ohio Financial Educators Council looks forward to Field’s contributions to the board across the long-term.
Supporting Global Financial Wellness: Bill Field
Having been born in Ohio and living there as a child, I feel a strong connection to those roots and to my fellow Ohioans. As User Experience Director for the National Financial Educators Council, I’m the organization’s front-line contact for promoting the financial wellness cause. My approach is to give the people I serve top priority when designing real-world financial education solutions. I’ve learned that meaningful connections and clear communication are essential to building bridges between the organization and the individual.
In today’s digital world, creating an excellent financial wellness experience includes staying on top of rapidly changing technology and taking a people-centric approach to designing programs. I strongly believe in gathering as much input as possible from participants in a training to gain a deep understanding of their needs, which in turn guides design of the user experience at every touchpoint.
My BA in Journalism from California State University, Business Management training, and experience as an event photographer have taught me the importance of ensuring a positive user experience at each stage of a financial wellness program – before, during, and after the program concludes.
I am honored and delighted to be selected to serve on the Ohio Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board. As a contributing member, I hope to apply my knowledge and expertise to make a difference among Ohio communities and families. I look forward to this opportunity.
Ray’Chel Wilson is not your regular teacher; she is a self-proclaimed Teacher 2.0, challenging the norms of education and redefining what it means to live financially well. Originally from Ohio and still feeling a strong connection to her Ohio roots, Ray’Chel moved to Black Wall Street, Tulsa, to teach high school biology and personal finance to nearly 1,000 students while blazing her own path to wealth as a first-generation entrepreneur.
Honored as one of the top “20 Under 2” teachers across the state of Oklahoma, Advisory Board Member Ray’Chel Wilson considers educating about holistic financial wellness and closing wealth gaps as a central part of her mission. She is the published author of the internationally sold Black Wealth Freedom, a 3-part workbook series that serves as the foundation for next-generation wealth building.
Having achieved notable financial milestones, such as leveraging cryptocurrency profits to pay off her undergraduate student loans, Ray’Chel founded Raise the Bar Investments & ForOurLastNames.
Raise the Bar Investments aims to provide minorities with digestible financial education and operates with values of excellence, integrity, and relationships at the forefront. Recognizing the disjointed relationship between education and investing, Wilson co-founded the upcoming “ForOurLastNames” app, empowering individuals to build wealth for their last name. Serving both individuals and financial institutions, ForOurLastNames is a financial technology that bridges the education gap for first-generation investors. Through its patent-pending gamified approach, ForOurLastNames will shape the future of less risky, minority-friendly investing.
Community Service through Financial Education: Ray’Chel Wilson
Ray’Chel Wilson holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from The Ohio State University, a Certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University, and has earned credentials as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) through the National Financial Educators Council. Currently, Ray’Chel is a Duke Graduate School student pursuing her Master of Divinity and specializing in Investment Management.
These career achievements in service and entrepreneurship have led to Ray’Chel being inducted into her alma mater’s Hall of Fame with the Professional Achievement Award, making her the youngest person and the fourth African-American honored in the high school’s 120-year history. Due to the holistic “money moves” she teaches and incorporates into her own life, Ray’Chel enjoys taking road trips in her hybrid, sharing conscious meals with friends, and expressing gratitude to God for better days.
J.M. (Jack) Towarnicky has more than 40 years of professional experience – 31 years in HR/Benefits plan sponsor and plan fiduciary leadership roles at four different Fortune 500 companies; plus more than a decade as a compliance and consulting attorney. Jack has higher education teaching experience at Duquesne, Ohio State, and Franklin Universities and has served as an instructor for the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) and Certified Plan Sponsor Professional (CPSP™) designations. He brings this rich experiential background to bear for his contributions to the Ohio Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
Advisory Board Member J.M. (Jack) Towarnicky received individual national recognition in 2021 as 401(k) Champion and his team was presented with the Platinum Award from the National Business Group on Health (NBGH) “Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles®” program in 2010.
Highly-valued Experience and Background: Jack Towarnicky
Towarnicky received his LLM degree with honors in Employee Benefits from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, IL; his JD from the South Texas College of Law in Houston, TX; his MBA and BBA in Economics from Cleveland State University in Cleveland, OH; and holds designation as a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS).
Jack’s experience as director, member, and trustee on professional boards has included the Department of Labor’s EBSA and ERISA Advisory Council; the Presbyterian Church USA Board of Pensions; World at Work; Council on Employee Benefits; American Benefits Council; and the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans, Corporate Board. This substantial list of accomplishments makes him a highly-valued member of the Ohio Advisory Board.
Retired Army Major and MFEC Advisory Board Member Ellis Cropper, who holds Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) and Certification in Long-Term Care (CLTC®) credentials, has worked as a Life Insurance Agent and Registered Representative for New York Life since 2018. He is currently expanding his expertise to make a positive difference on a broader scale – spearheading campaigns to bring financial education to his Worcester community and across the state of Massachusetts. It is Cropper’s rich, varied background and experience, along with his passion to make a positive community impact by helping people move toward financial freedom, that align his vision so strongly with the goals of the MFEC Advisory Board and its parent company, the National Financial Educators Council.
Originally hailing from Louisiana, Ellis Cropper earned his BS in Biology with concentrations in Nuclear Medicine Technology from Worcester State University in 1996. His 34-year career in the U.S. Army included 22 years of active service plus the honor of serving as an Assistant Professor of Military Science at Widener and Villanova Universities. He is currently pursuing his MBA at Nichols College in Dudley, Massachusetts. Cropper feels highly motivated by the opportunity to serve as a founding member of the MFEC’s Advisory Board.
Equity and Progress through Financial Stability and Freedom: Ellis Cropper
As an ‘A’ student third in my high school class, I was accepted into all the colleges I applied to, including Louisiana State University. But I decided to go into the Army because I believed that was the chosen path for me. Even as an 18-year-old enlisted soldier making $8,000 a year, I was always good at accounting for my money. But like John Maxwell said, “A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.” Well, I knew where my money went, but I didn’t tell it where to go. Learning how to tell your money where to go is part of becoming financially free.
My passion for teaching financial literacy is born out of that concept of freedom. In the Army, as a reserve officer, I had a lot of autonomy and flexibility – but I wasn’t free. It wasn’t until I retired from military service that I first felt any kind of freedom. And true freedom comes with financial freedom. Money has an impact on every area of life, and I believe this country won’t see the change it needs to start moving in the right direction until more people have achieved financial stability. Once people become financially stable enough to be active in the world, to change things that affect them – that’s when we’ll see more equity and progress.
My deep-rooted passion for raising financial literacy lies behind my goals as a founding member of the MFEC Advisory Board. Ultimately I want to help my alma mater provide scholarships to college students in financial services. And as I’m working in elementary and middle schools, I’ll be looking for philanthropists to donate to those kids’ college funds, enough to where the kids can see the money grow over time and start to manage it themselves.
I feel privileged to become a founding member of the Massachusetts Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board. I am looking forward to a long-term partnership that brings greater financial stability and financial freedom to Massachusetts and around the country.
Mahendra Pattni is a strategic and results-driven International Senior Finance and Operations Executive with extensive corporate expertise in the Biotech/Pharmaceutical and Consumer industries driving revenue growth, cost savings, process improvements, and knowledgeable in operational excellence at all levels of the organization.
Advisory Board Member Mahendra Pattni trained as a mechanical engineer, earning a bachelor’s degree from the National Institute of Technology in India and an MBA from Western Illinois University, Macomb, Illinois. He is also a Fellow of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, London, England.
Forging Business Partnerships through Financial Education: Mahendra Pattni
Pattni has over 30 years of experience in the Consumer Healthcare/Pharma/Biotech industry supporting as finance business partner to operational and corporate functions. He has extensive experience working closely with different functional areas such as Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Procurement, R&D and Corporate at GlaxoSmithKline and Shire/Takeda. He also worked as Director, Business Planning, Global Business Services (GBS) at Biogen, where he supported senior management to set up a new Global Business Services function and track financial benefits of a change management program to institutionalize and improve business performance.
Mahendra currently serves as Head of Finance at Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute where he reorganized the Finance function and implemented business planning processes including financial systems and Adaptive Insights for reporting financial performance. At present, he is working on developing finance team members into business partners working collaboratively to support operational and strategic needs.
Elizabeth Clark is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Harvard Business School (HBS), where she oversees a group of 285 information technology (IT) professionals committed to helping advance the teaching, learning, research, and administrative mission of HBS. As CIO, she plays a critical role in strategically driving forward HBS’s broad, ambitious technology aspirations. With 25 years of experience in higher education IT, Advisory Board Member Elizabeth Clark has served in a number of leadership roles and spearheaded countless campus-wide initiatives spanning the academic enterprise.
Building Stakeholder Relationships for Financial Wellness: Elizabeth Clark
Involved locally and nationally with nonprofit associations that advance higher education through the use of information technology, Dr. Clark regularly speaks on topics including IT in higher education, strategy and innovation, change management, and diversifying IT organizations; and she has published on women in IT and diversity in higher education. For example, she is author of the 2013 research report Gender Diversity among Higher Education CIOs, published by the Educause Center for Analysis and Research. She holds a PhD from Boston College, an MSW from Boston University, and a BA from the University of Massachusetts.
A dynamic leader with extensive experience building stakeholder relationships and managing organizational change, Dr. Clark is a highly results-oriented professional with demonstrated skills to quickly synthesize complex information to support decision-making and overall objectives of executive leadership. Her competence at building relationships with stakeholders by obtaining and incorporating their feedback is well-recognized. Dr. Clark is known as a change agent who builds programs from scratch to drive institutional transformation. Her innovative leadership has led to high achievements in the critical areas of instructional technology and design; and online/hybrid learning and working.
Hailing from New Zealand, Financial Wellness Expert, Banking and Financial Services Executive Andrew Lendnal has made Washington D.C. his home, where he lives with his wife and three daughters. A distinguished alumnus, Andrew holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Science from Victoria University of Wellington, as well as an MBA from Massey University. Alongside these academic accolades, he also attained the Series 7 and Series 63 financial certifications. With over two decades in the industry, Advisory Board Member Andrew Lendnal has made an indelible mark in the financial wellness arena. More than just a financial expert, he’s fervently passionate about guiding individuals toward financial stability and independence. Holding the Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) designation through the NFEC, Andrew’s dedication has positioned him at the forefront of the workplace financial wellness movement and its related communities.
Bestselling Author and Speaker for Financial Wellness: Andrew Lendnal
Andrew Lendnal is an internationally bestselling author who has written seven books simplifying intricate financial concepts for readers of all backgrounds. Titles such as ‘Gold Start’, ‘Budget Wise Dollar Rich’, and ‘Catalyst’ have received global recognition. Moreover, his children’s series, ‘Money $mart’, paves the way for the financial literacy of future generations. Beyond Australasia, Andrew’s influence in the media landscape has expanded, with regular appearances on ‘Good Morning’ and authorship of authoritative columns cementing his reputation as a trusted financial voice in the U.S.
Recognized worldwide as a compelling speaker, Andrew skillfully blends education with engagement, captivating the attention of audiences globally. While serving pivotal roles in esteemed firms like Morgan Stanley, KeyCorp, and Morningstar Inc., Andrew has meticulously devised and navigated financial wellness strategies that resonate with employees predominantly at Fortune 500 companies. In 2020, his significant contributions were spotlighted when a New York Times journalist named him one of the top five leaders championing financial wellness in the workplace. Andrew remains committed to his mission: guiding the path toward financial enlightenment and empowerment.
Advisory Board Member Mary Ellen Normen of the Massachusetts Financial Educators Council is an experienced and skilled strategic leader in the areas of Municipal/Education Finance, Human Resources, and Operations who is a committed lifelong collaborative learner and coach of human creativity, ingenuity, compliance, and process improvement.
Mary Ellen also is a mentor and coach to emerging and experienced school business administrators as well as other management-level professionals. She provides niche coaching and strategic leadership to small organizations or individuals who are in transition due to organizational leadership changes or employment opportunities and personal growth. She also provides districts with talent management recruiting and onboarding in niche finance positions.
Delivering Powerful Student Learning: Mary Ellen Normen
Mary Ellen believes that all aspects of a free and public education system must function with understanding the primary purpose of delivering student learning in the classroom. Education must be tailored to a student’s learning style without bias, prejudice, or favoritism. Her passion project is to teach and mentor children to have a healthy and abundance mindset around their personal finances. She believes it is our duty as strategic and thoughtful leaders of any organization to strive to deliver what every student needs to learn in order to participate in our democratic society with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to become their best and most productive self and experience unfettered opportunity to thrive. The results of our collective work are best measured by the achievement level experienced by every student under our care and responsibility.
Advisory Board Member Heidi Albert’s role as Director of People & Culture for The Greenwood Project, a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to bridging the gap for students of color to achieve high-trajectory careers in financial services, is just one factor behind her selection to the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. Her more than two decades of experience in finance, business, and HR as a change agent and strong track record of driving talent and learning and development solutions that increase inclusion and engagement also recommended her highly for this position.
Albert holds a JD from New York University School of Law and a BA with Honors from Trinity College. She has completed the CHRO Executive Education programs at Wharton and holds certificates in DEIB/Culture from Cornell University, Harvard Professional Development Program, and the Yale School of Management Executive Education Program.
Director, People & Culture for The Greenwood Project
Albert’s work for The Greenwood Project includes introducing and preparing talented Black and Latino college students to enter the financial services industry through exposure, education, and internship experience. She was selected to lead Greenwood’s HR functions, reporting to the CEO as a key member of the leadership team to foster employee growth, strategic partnerships, and improved overall organizational performance.
This current role brings Heidi’s career full circle, as she created a successful nonprofit years ago that fostered financial literacy and inclusion for young people. In truth, financial inclusion is Heidi Albert’s passion. She is honored to join the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
Advisory Board Member Dustin Voss brings his strong background in state-of-the-art education, relationship-building, and community involvement to the forefront of the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board’s agenda. Raised in the western Chicago Suburbs, Voss began his career in education in 2007 with Chicago Public Schools (CPS). After 13 years of successful teaching at Fenger High School in Chicago, Dustin accepted his current position as Financial Education Specialist for CPS, where he is charged to make sure every student in the district gains a strong foundation in financial literacy.
Dustin’s qualifications include achieving national board certification while teaching Civics & Finance. He also holds a principal license and Masters degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Chicago State University and American College of Education, respectively. Voss currently serves on the oversight board for the district 403b/457 Supplemental Retirement Program, a program that has been awarded an A+ grade by 403bwise.org and for which Dustin is an advocate.
Empowering Illinois Youth to Achieve their Financial Goals: Dustin Voss
As Financial Education Specialist, Dustin Voss trains teachers and fine-tunes curriculum to ensure that every Chicago student is empowered toward achieving future financial security. His teaching experience has included involvement in several leadership roles such as Instructional Coach, Local School Council representative, and Union Delegate. He previously was a member of the Governor’s Task Force for Financial Empowerment (2022).
Voss has substantial skill in curriculum development, including materials being utilized today in the Chicago Public Schools. His goal for participation on the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board is to expand and deepen financial education across the state, while raising awareness about the aspects of identity, relationships, and community that make finances personal to each of us. Over the years he has developed the moral imperative by which he still lives: that students are powerful, they become more powerful, and they will use that power for what they decide is good.
Jacqueline Collins is a National Board Certified Teacher in Career and Technical Education, specializing in Business, Marketing, and Financial Services. She has called Mansfield High School home since 2006, where she is a business teacher and instructional technology specialist. Jacqueline strives to give back through her volunteerism. She serves as the President of the Massachusetts Business Educators Association, spent nine years on the MassCUE Board of Directors (eight in the role of Treasurer), and is a proud founding member of the Wharton Educator Advisory Board. Jacqueline held fellowships with both Discovery Education and NextGen Personal Finance. She is an outspoken financial literacy advocate and co-authored the 2021 National Standards for Personal Financial Education.
Jacqueline holds a BS BA in Accounting and Computer Information Systems from Stonehill College, an MBA in Marketing from Marist College, an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instructional Technology from Framingham State University, and a Certificate in Online Learning and Teaching from Endicott College.
Awards include:
- 2021 National Business Teacher of the Year
- 2015 Massachusetts Business Teacher of the Year
- 2015 Leavey Award for Excellence in Private Enterprise Education
- 2023 Career Compass Award in Marketing
- 2016 & 2017 Finalist, Massachusetts STEM Teacher of the Year
- 2017 Semifinalist, Massachusetts Teacher of the Year
Dr. Melissa Weathersby’s selection as a member of the Texas Financial Educators Council (TFEC) can be attributed to her distinguished leadership background, wealth of expertise, and strong support of the mission and vision of the National Financial Educators Council – the TFEC’s parent organization. Advisory Board Member Melissa Weathersby is a licensed mortgage broker, professor, published author, highly sought-after speaker, and founder/CEO of 5-Star Empowerment, a personal and professional development coaching and consulting firm.
Melissa Weathersby more than meets the stringent criteria for selection to the Advisory Board through her commitment to educating individuals and organizations in personal and business finance, supporting whole communities in the process. The Texas Financial Educators Council eagerly anticipates a dynamic and productive collaboration with Dr. Weathersby in the coming years.
Building Personal Finance Acumen on a Global Scale: Melissa Weathersby
As President and CEO of 5-Star Empowerment, I am committed to making personal finance education available to individuals, communities, and organizations globally. After spending several years in the financial services sector, I realized how many are lacking basic financial acumen.
I worked my way from part-time teller to assistant branch manager at a large credit union before being promoted to banking center manager at a major retail bank. It was then that I became aware of the stark differences between the business models of credit unions and banks. I even worked briefly for a finance company that made short-term loans with exorbitant interest rates and fees. I had the “privilege” of making collection calls and repossessing collateral for defaulted accounts. It was there that I learned of poverty and predatory lending. I vowed never to work in such a place again.
After leaving the banking industry, I became a licensed Realtor® and decided to open a mortgage brokerage company. I learned very quickly that many people who applied for a mortgage did not have their financial affairs in order and had very little idea what it took to purchase a home, let alone maintain home ownership. This was during the time that the subprime market was booming, and many fell into the lure of adjustable-rate mortgages. When the market crashed in 2008, I went to work at a community college.
Once I entered higher education, I became a vocal advocate for financial literacy. In 2018, I completed and published a 400+-page doctoral dissertation highlighting the need for financial literacy in higher education. The dissertation has been downloaded more than 150 times in 24 different countries. I teach real estate, business, and personal finance classes and continue to emphasize that financial literacy is a life skill that affects all areas of our lives and our families. I continue to speak at conferences, churches, and radio shows whenever the opportunity affords me to discuss this important topic. I have also written books to help those who need clarity about the mortgage approval process and for those who need an action plan for overcoming a financial crisis.
It is an honor to be chosen to serve on the Texas Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. This is my opportunity to go beyond working with individuals and to begin making high-quality financial education resources widely available at the community and organizational levels. My goal continues to be financial wellness advocacy and consulting, and this opportunity to network with likeminded individuals will further advance my doctoral social justice contribution and promote positive social change by helping to create fiscally competent adults who are likely to produce fiscally sound communities and economies.
Advisory Board Member Marlon Green, MBA, CFEI®, is the founder of the Prosperous Athletes financial education and career awareness program for high school and collegiate athletes. Marlon has more than 20 years of accounting and finance experience during which he has worked in various industries such as Chemical, Oil and Gas, and Consulting. Marlon holds an Undergraduate degree in Accounting and Business Administration from Houston Baptist University. Marlon also obtained his MBA in Finance and Investment Management from the University of Houston Downtown. He earned his Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) credentials via the National Financial Educators Council, an organization that specializes in providing financial wellness education and training and is the parent organization to the Texas Financial Educators Council.
Marlon attributes his professional successes to his background as a student athlete where he learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, communication, collaboration, time management, leadership, and perseverance at an early age.
Marlon has over 15 years of leadership experience where he has led teams in Accounting and Human Resources (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion). Marlon has worked on global projects with various cross-functional organizations such as Supply Chain, Procurement, Treasury, Manufacturing Operations, Recruiting, and Human Resources – with efforts spanning across various regions including Europe, Asia, India, and Latin America.
Marlon is a husband, father, leader, and mentor. In his spare time, Marlon enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, reading, and exercising.
Adding Value by Bridging the Financial Literacy Gap: Marlon Green
As an Accounting and Finance professional, I have over 20 years of experience working in various industries such as Oil and Gas, Chemical, Consulting, and Insurance. Obtaining an Undergraduate degree in Accounting and an MBA in Finance and Investment Management has equipped me with the necessary knowledge and tools required to educate my clients and assist them to navigate the arena of personal finance. My experience and passion for paying it forward has created a pathway for me to add value to the Texas Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
As a former athlete and now a financial educator, my mission is to provide a comprehensive financial literacy program that will empower current and former athletes to take control of their financial destinies. I founded Prosperous Athletes with the goal of raising awareness about personal finance in my community and becoming an advocate for financial wellness. Throughout my personal and professional journey, I have overcome my own financial pitfalls through continuous learning and awareness. My purpose is to add value to the lives of others by helping bridge the financial literacy gap in our communities. I believe that financial wellness is a cornerstone of personal and societal well-being.
It is an honor and privilege to be on the Texas Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board. I look forward to sharing information that will empower and equip those in my community and beyond. Financial Education is not just a topic that we discuss, it is a life skill that empowers individuals to design the lives they deserve.
Advisory Board Member Gerardo King was selected by the Texas Financial Educators Council not only due to his rich background in the investment banking and financial services industries, but also because of his multicultural connections and commitment to making a positive social impact.
In addition to his contributing role on the TFEC Advisory Board, Gerardo also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Peak 10 Energy – a leading energy company – where he provides strategic insight and guidance on the company’s growth and sustainability initiatives. He plans to leverage his wealth of expertise to create value and positive impact for the TFEC’s financial wellness community campaigns across the state of Texas and beyond.
Forging Global Financial Wellness Partnerships: Gerardo King
Gerardo King is a well-seasoned investment banker with more than 20 years of experience across various divisions of world-class financial institutions. He began his career at Citigroup in the top-tier corporate, mining, and resource industries group as a Management Associate, participating in the most relevant deals in the Andean Region while leading a transaction execution team by the time of his departure. In 2004 he joined Standard Bank as a Vice President for Resource Banking, closing the first staple oil and gas syndication in the LatAm region for the bank. Later he evolved to become the lead deal originator for the Americas.
In 2008 he joined Morgan Stanley to head and develop its Investment Banking franchise across the southern cone of the Americas, including the Andean region. During his tenure as an Executive Director, Gerardo poised Morgan Stanley as a leader in the primary league tables for the first time in the American emerging markets history. As a result, in 2011 the bank opened its representative office in Peru to provide pivotal support to the region. He was the protagonist for the origination and execution of first-time issuers in the mining, energy, and oil and gas industries, establishing a robust presence for Morgan Stanley. This accomplishment led him to become an integral member of the bank’s operating committee for the Americas, nominated to Managing Director in 2015.
In 2016 he founded Tamesis, a multidisciplinary boutique investment bank with partnerships across the globe. With a strong focus in private markets, asset curation, and its take-out to public markets, he has gained a wealth of experience with asset managers worldwide. He is also the principal as an investor in the Peru Forest Impact Fund, a USD200MM reforestation effort primarily funded by institutional liquidity and operated by a world-class asset manager.
Gerardo’s skill sets range across business development, corporate finance, M&A advisory, debt and equity capital market, and commodities. He has over USD25BN of origination and structuring experience across debt and capital markets placements and has wide access to executive management in top-tier corporations and institutions. King holds an outstanding reputation across the institutional investor community including pension funds, insurance companies, investment fund managers, family offices, broker-dealers, and banks.
Elizabeth Cruz was chosen as a member of the Illinois Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board due to her substantial financial coaching experience and positioning in alignment with the National Financial Educators Council’s values and mission. As a Certified Personal Financial Wellness Consultant, Advisory Board Member Elizabeth Cruz stands out in the financial counseling arena for her skill, empathy, and professionalism. Her unique mixture of academic and practical experience strongly qualifies her to offer insight and strategic guidance to help bring greater financial wellness to Illinois communities.
Qualifications for selection to the Advisory Board include dedication to the financial wellness cause, a passion for helping others, and a background in community service. Elizabeth Cruz meets and exceeds all these criteria. The Illinois Financial Educators Council anticipates a long-term relationship with Elizabeth that supports and sustains its vision for the future.
Inspiring Stability and Prosperity through Financial Education: Elizabeth Cruz
I am Elizabeth Cruz, owner and founder of Moxie Financial Wellness and it is with great enthusiasm that I join the Illinois Financial Educators Council (IFEC) Advisory Board. My dedication to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their financial goals lies at the heart of my professional journey. With extensive experience in financial coaching, I am committed to guiding others toward identifying and reaching their financial aspirations.
My path as a financial coach is fueled by the steadfast belief that effective financial management is key to prosperity and stability, for both individuals and businesses. My specialized expertise focuses on assisting clients to set clear financial goals and providing the support and guidance they need to navigate their journey toward those objectives.
My qualifications include a Master’s Degree from Arizona State University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Loyola University of Chicago, complementing my certification as a financial coach. This blend of academic achievement and practical experience forms the foundation of my approach to financial education and advising.
As a member of the IFEC Advisory Board, I am eager to offer insights that combine practical financial management with strategic decision-making.
This role represents not just a professional commitment but a personal one as well – to advance the cause of financial literacy and empowerment. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members and making a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals and communities we serve.
Craig Hill was selected to serve on the Alabama Financial Educators Council (AFEC) Advisory Board due to his leadership in the personal finance management sector and his commitment to improving financial wellness for Alabamians and beyond. His business and personal experience, academic achievements, and credentials place Advisory Board Member Craig Hill in powerful alignment with the objectives and vision of the AFEC’s parent organization, the National Financial Educators Council.
Advisory Board members are chosen according to stringent criteria for professionalism, integrity, and innovative approaches to financial wellness promotion. Hill’s entrepreneurial nature and professional background position him to make unique contributions to the organization’s mission. The Alabama Financial Educators Council anticipates a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with Craig Hill in the months and years to come.
Democratizing Financial Well-being: Craig Hill
With almost two decades of experience as a Chief Financial Officer in the steel industry and the entrepreneurial spirit to found SPENDiD, my journey has been one of continuous learning and leadership in financial management. This path has been further enriched by my academic background, holding a BS in Accounting and Business Administration from The University of Alabama, and solidified by professional certifications as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). These experiences and credentials have not only sharpened my financial acumen, but also instilled in me a profound passion for financial wellness and literacy.
My goal in joining the financial wellness cause is rooted in a desire to democratize financial literacy, making it accessible and understandable to individuals from all walks of life. This passion is driven by my firsthand observation of the transformative impact that informed financial decision-making can have on individuals and families. When we lift the fog, the way forward gets much clearer. My motivation stems from a belief that financial wellness should be a universally attainable goal, not just a privilege for the few.
Through SPENDiD and MyBudgetReport, I have pioneered tools that simplify the complex world of finance into actionable insights for everyday people. This unique position enables me to contribute a practical perspective to the financial wellness movement, merging technological innovation with financial education. My expertise in predictive cash flow analysis and budgeting-as-a-service tools exemplifies my commitment to creating solutions that foster financial independence and confidence.
It is with great honor that I embrace the opportunity to serve on the Alabama Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board. I am eager to contribute to this vital cause, leveraging my expertise to enhance the financial literacy landscape. My commitment is to work tirelessly to empower as many people as possible with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve financial wellness, making a lasting impact on the financial health of individuals and families across the country.
With a Master’s Degree in Human Resources from The University of Arizona and a double bachelor’s degree in Communications & Business Management from Loyola University of Chicago, Advisory Board Member Darrin “Boomer” Williams brings his strong dedication to personal growth to his participation on the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. As a Certified Personal Finance Expert, he also serves as CEO of Vertex Credit & Financial, providing invaluable financial coaching and credit education tailored to aspiring and established professional athletes within their industry.
Through Vertex, Darrin partners with schools, colleges, universities, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies, aiming to serve at-risk and underserved markets. Leveraging his experience as a retired professional basketball champion, he assists participants in achieving a successful financial transition, from building credit to developing solid money management skills. All participants can expect to receive tangible results and personalized recommendations to help them progress toward their financial objectives.
With his blend of athletic prowess, entrepreneurial acumen, and philanthropic spirit, Darrin “Boomer” Williams continues to inspire and uplift those around him, both on and off the court.
Passion for Empowering Future Leaders: Darrin “Boomer” Williams
Meet Darrin “Boomer” Williams, a towering figure in the world of professional sports. Originally hailing from Detroit, Michigan, his passion for the game has propelled him to the highest levels of competition worldwide. With a remarkable 10-year career adorned with championships and All-Star accolades, he has indisputably made his mark on the sport of basketball.
Darrin’s journey has been one of boundless exploration, spanning three continents and traversing 30 countries during his illustrious career. His experiences, both on and off the court, have fueled the creation of “Basketball Secrets: 10 Secrets to Become a Professional Basketball Player.” This comprehensive guide, born from his wealth of knowledge and expertise, has achieved bestseller status on Amazon and was recently recognized as one of the top 100 Basketball Books of All Time by Book Authority.
Beyond his athletic feats, Darrin’s philanthropic endeavors shine brightly. Through his influence in sports and entertainment, he has spearheaded efforts that have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charitable causes. His commitment to community upliftment extends far and wide, with high-impact initiatives touching lives both locally and internationally. In his role as Advisory Board Member to the Illinois Financial Educators Council, Darrin is actively engaged in fostering positive change and empowering future leaders across Illinois and beyond.
Krystle Gladden, CFEI®, CFLPSM, Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and community leader, is founder of Financial Fluency, a company with a mission to equip high school students, college students, and young professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to confidently navigate their financial lives. Gladden’s commitment to the financial wellness movement stems from her unwavering belief that financial literacy is the key to unlocking a brighter future for all and inspires her motto, “If you knew better, you’d do better.”
Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Krystle possesses an MBA in Accounting and more than a decade of experience in the financial industry as an accountant and tax professional. She climbed the corporate ladder in both the private and non-profit sectors, thereby gaining deep insight into the ways in which finances affect both individuals and organizations. Her dedication to improving financial well-being motivated her to earn her Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) and Certified Financial Literacy Professional (CFLPSM) credentials through the National Financial Educators Council.
As a member of the New York Financial Educators Council Advisory Board, Gladden strives to bring greater economic empowerment to her New York neighbors and across the tri-state area. She firmly believes that financial education is a crucial life skill for everyone, regardless of demographics. Krystle Gladden has distinguished herself as a true leader in the financial wellness space.
In her spare time, Krystle values family and spending time with loved ones. She feels passionate about fitness and traveling, and tries to strike a life balance that allows her to enjoy those pursuits.
John Levar is a versatile professional with a rich background. He served in the United States Marines from 2000 to 2008, transitioning to a successful career as a commercial real estate broker from 2008 to 2013. In 2013, John founded Max Clean USA, where he served as CEO until 2017. Following this, he ventured into a partnership at Sign Me Up Signs and Advertising, which was later acquired by a Fortune 500 company from 2017 to 2020. John then pivoted into the financial sector, working as a Licensed Financial Advisor from 2020 to the present.
Advisory Board Member Mario J. DiFiore, PhD – professor, dean, journalist, and consultant – is Senior Assistant Dean and Director at Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business in New York. A member of the Finance and Business Economics faculty since 2001, Dr. DiFiore serves as Chairman of the Investment Committee of the ESG Student Management Investment Fund, an experiential learning opportunity for students in the graduate division to manage approximately 1,000,000 of the University’s Endowment.
A five-time award winner for teaching excellence and innovation, Dr. DiFiore leads the Gabelli School’s financial wellness initiatives. He also serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Financial Compliance, an internationally peer-reviewed journal devoted to best practices in the field of compliance. DiFiore’s rich career and experiential background underlies his contributions to the New York Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
Global Proficiency in Financial Research, Monetary Policy, and Macroeconomics: Mario J. DiFiore
Dr. DiFiore has had an extensive career on Wall Street and in the banking industry. Prior to joining Fordham, Dr. DiFiore was Global Head of Compliance Training at Deutsche Bank AG for nearly 10 years; Deputy Director of the Ten Squared LLP hedge fund in Greenwich, CT; Global Head of Continuing Education at Prudential Securities; and Assistant Director of New York University’s (NYU) Finance Division in the School of Professional and Continuing Studies.
Dr. DiFiore began his career at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York where he worked for about a dozen years in the research and statistics, international affairs, and public information areas. In fact, as the Fed’s Senior Representative for International Relations, Dr. DiFiore regularly met with and discussed issues relating to monetary policy, macroeconomics, and Fed policy with central bankers from across the globe. Dr. DiFiore ended his Federal Reserve career as Assistant Director of Public Information, where he led the group responsible for all financial and economic data releases for the weekly Fed press conferences.
Dr. DiFiore also serves as an international consultant, providing extensive training and consulting in financial compliance, economics, financial markets, and other areas in the finance and economics sphere. He has taught in Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North and South America. He holds a BA, summa cum laude, in Economics from Fordham University; an MBA also from Fordham; and a PhD in Financial Economics from the NEOMA Business School in Paris, France.
With a strong financial services management foundation, Advisory Board Member Donna Cirillo has transitioned from her former professional and educational background to delivering top-quality, customized, engaging, and high-impact financial education programming and content. As a Financial Services Professional turned Financial Educator, Donna is committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to take control of their financial futures.
As founder of her financial education website and blog, Smart Money Changes Everything, Donna is dedicated to inspiring, motivating, and transforming financial lives. She has earned credentials from the National Financial Educators Council as an Accredited Personal Finance Instructor (APFI℠), Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®), and Certified Financial Literacy Professional (CFLP℠). These qualifications, along with her previous top-level experience in bank management and training, uniquely position Donna as a key contributing member of the New York Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
Teaching, Inspiring, and Motivating Learners toward Financial Wellness
After earning her B.S. in Finance from St. John’s University, New York, Donna entered a Management Training Program at the prestigious wealth management bank, U.S. Trust. She later assumed Bank Officer management and training roles at U.S. Trust and J.P. Morgan Chase while pursuing her MBA. During this time, she recognized a pressing need for financial literacy, particularly evident among bank customers and employees. Driven by a passion for bridging this knowledge gap, Donna spearheaded comprehensive financial product and concept training initiatives, significantly enhancing the capabilities of the call center department to successfully handle over one million inbound calls annually. The training not only elevated the department’s level of service, but also made profound transformations in the employees’ professional and personal lives. Motivated by the training’s success, Donna pursued accreditation as a financial educator from the National Financial Educators Council, earning her Accredited Personal Finance Instructor (APFI℠), Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®), and Certified Financial Literacy Professional (CFLP℠) credentials.
Donna has designed and delivered customized financial education for diverse audiences, including corporate employees, recent graduates, young women transitioning out of foster care, college-bound high school girls, and those navigating significant life changes like divorce or widowhood. Demonstrating her commitment to promoting financial literacy from an early age, Donna has delivered financial education to public and parochial elementary and middle school students in the New York City area, both independently and in collaboration with Junior Achievement. Additionally, Donna currently serves her community as a member of the Board of Trustees of a parochial academy in Queens, New York.
Donna believes financial education is so much more than solely providing financial knowledge. With the right instruction, inspiration, and motivation, learners can make positive behavior changes and improve their financial mindset to gain the confidence, personal growth, direction, and resiliency they need for financial transformation.
Trinity Owen knew after three years in a soul-sucking cubicle that the corporate world was not for her. So she left the corporate life to establish her own business – The Pay at Home Parent – to pursue her true passion as a stay-at-home mom while making a living in the process.
Early in their marriage, Trinity and her husband Jared had made a pact that they would not live a paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle. They paid off more than $30,000 in debt in a single year using a strict budget, frugal living, and a solid debt payoff plan. Accomplishing that goal gave Trinity the freedom to embark on her entrepreneurial journey, offering virtual services and holding the titles of SEO, Freelance Writer, Proofreader, and Virtual Assistant. Over the next 10 years, Trinity acquired more titles including Mom, Author, Personal Finance Expert, Certified Financial Education Instructor®, Accredited Personal Finance Instructor℠, Chief Financial Officer, Six-figure Blogger, and Real Estate Investor.
Trinity’s mission today is to empower parents to achieve financial and career freedom by affording them the opportunity to pursue their passions from home. In her role as founder and CFO of The Pay at Home Parent, she continues to research and test new ways to make money from home so she can share them with clients. She lends this entrepreneurial expertise, along with her background earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Bob Jones University, to her participation on the New York Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
Cara Macksoud, FBS®️, is the CEO of Money Habitudes. After a 15-year career as a Wall Street trader and stint as CFO for a NYC nonprofit, Cara transitioned into the behavioral finance space. She completed the Financial Therapy Graduate Certificate at Kansas State University and holds a BS in Finance from NYU Stern School of Business. She is a Certified Financial Behavior Specialist®️ and a member of the Financial Therapy Association, where she serves on the board as the Chair of Student Engagement.
Prior to founding Money Habitudes, Cara was the CFO/COO for The Animation Project, an incentivized workforce development program for at-risk youth. Before her work in the nonprofit sector, Cara was an ETF trader for 12 years and, at the time, the youngest female to earn a trading seat on the floor of the NYSE.
Also the founder of Bank Roll’d, Cara spearheads a nonprofit dedicated to financial literacy, extending education and mentorship to unbanked individuals, who often are marginalized by the traditional banking system.
Raised in a modest Brooklyn environment, Cara faced the challenge of reconciling her humble upbringing with the extravagant lifestyle prevalent on Wall Street. This stark difference in money attitudes led her to initiate Relationship with Money workshops. These workshops facilitated participants to explore their financial behaviors and attitudes toward risk. This venture laid the foundation for Cara’s growing career, now centered on the psychology of money to empower individuals toward managing their own financial well-being.
David Anderson, President & CEO, leads the effort to achieve W!se’s mission to improve economic mobility of young Americans and at-risk adults through programs that develop financial literacy and readiness for college and careers. W!se’s success is built on five pillars: relevancy, digital leadership, real-world experiences, volunteerism, and evaluation. Anderson became President & CEO of W!se when its founder, Phyllis Perillo, retired in 2022 and before that was W!se’s Executive Vice President responsible for the Financial Literacy and MoneyW!SE programs as well as partnerships, development, and marketing.
David Anderson joined W!se in 2007 after a career at Citigroup, where he was an executive in a unit that supports the process of financial sector/capital markets reform in developing countries. Before that, he held management positions at Citigroup in business development, marketing, mergers and acquisitions, and strategy. He holds a BA from University College, London and an MBA from Columbia University. He is on the adjunct faculty in the Economics Department at Drew University and served on the Advisory Board of Teachers College, Columbia University on Fiscal Sustainability; the Domestic Violence Committee of the NY Women’s Association; and The Teacher Workshop Scholarship Committee of ICE/NYSE.
David Anderson’s vision is to create a nation of financially literate, college- and career-ready young people who can succeed personally and professionally and meet the challenges of a global economy.
Alison McQueen is a nationally recognized leading real estate agent who owns and operates The Corcoran Group in Brooklyn, New York. With an MA in Psychology, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling from The New School for Social Research, Alison calls upon her experience as a psychologist to help clients successfully navigate the real estate market with minimal stress.
A Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker and REALTOR®, McQueen also holds credentials as an Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor, a Certificate in Editing, and an AAS in Music Performance and has taught woodwinds to individuals of all skill levels. She recently completed a rigorous course at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania focused on corporate governance and healthy board functioning; and expects to earn her International Board Director Competency Designation (IBDC.D) in 2024. Alison consistently receives awards from national trade organizations and her brokerage firm based on her annual sales volume and total closed dollar amounts.
From teaching woodwinds as a classically trained musician, to supporting clients through symptom management as a mental health clinician, to building and developing three successful businesses from scratch – Alison McQueen maintains her deep commitment to transparency, honesty, advocacy, and research. As a member of the New York Financial Educators Council Advisory Board, she will translate those values into fostering greater financial wellness throughout New York communities.
Music industry veteran Charles Fisher – mentor, entrepreneur, author, and activist – was born in Brooklyn, New York and subsequently moved to Queens where he attended Martin Van Buren and Andrew Jackson High Schools and also CUNY’s York College. His commitment to community empowerment has spanned over four and a half decades, with early efforts that included founding a nonprofit in 1978 to target juvenile delinquency prevention; serving as Executive Director of LL Cool J’s Camp Cool J Foundation in the 1990s; and entertainment consultant to the White House, helping launch President Bill Clinton’s AmeriCorps program.
Fisher is well-known as the former manager of a two-time Grammy Award-winning recording artist and co-star of the CBS hit TV show NCIS LL Cool J, as well as the sensational gold-selling Hip-Hop recording group The Lost Boyz. Charles was also a consultant working with songwriter, composer, musician, TV, film, and music producer legend Quincy Jones on the NBC and UPN 9 hit TV Show, “In the House,” starring LL Cool J. Quincy has been a member of the Hip-Hop Summit Youth Council’s (HHSYC) Advisory Board for 22 years.
Charles maintains strong connections with the Hip-Hop industry as well as its artists and executives. He founded the nonprofit HHSYC in 2001 and leads this organization toward accomplishing its mission of using the positive influence of Hip-Hop music to promote the economic, social, and political empowerment of youth and young adults, especially those in poor and disadvantaged communities.
In 2008 they co-published 50 hot Hip-Hop books featuring some of the biggest stars in Hip-Hop, including Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Will Smith, Nas, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, Snoop Dogg, and a host of others. The books were created to improve reading and literacy grades and to promote the importance of learning financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
In 2012 they partnered with iHeart Radio and Power 105.1 to launch several initiatives to improve public safety by addressing gun and gang violence prevention. Since 2012, the Hip-Hop Against Gun & Gang Violence Project has been recognized by three U.S. Presidents for its national work to improve public safety and end gun and gang violence.
More recently, Charles is Mentor and Consultant to “The People’s Shark” Daymond John, who is the founder and CEO of globally recognized FUBU Apparel; co-host of the four-time ABC Emmy Award-winning hit TV show, Shark Tank; and author of five New York Times bestselling books. Their collaboration has yielded several community-related projects and youth opportunities. In 2019 the HHSYC, with Daymond’s support, released the “Call 2 Action” App designed to call together a cadre of activists across the U.S. to address social issues such as gun violence, the opioid crisis, and sexual abuse against women and girls. They also collaborated on developing a financial literacy curriculum based on Daymond’s New York Times best-selling children’s book, Little Daymond Learns to Earn, which Charles’s team has delivered to NYC schools. They also launched the Little Daymond Money Club that teaches financial literacy and entrepreneurship to young students during the school day and after school. Parents are also engaged with this project, as financial literacy is important when it comes to balancing the family budget and the children’s educational future.
Charles Fisher brings his strong background in advocacy, activism, and the music industry to his contributions on the New York Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. His plan of action for the financial literacy movement includes forging relationships between the NYFEC, celebrities, media, elected officials, and influencers to inspire educational, legislative, and social change. Using their collective resources, he hopes to make a positive impact on young people’s lives in both schools and communities in the U.S. and abroad.
As a Senior in leading Top 50 CPA firm The Bonadio Group, Eric Wang, CPA, feels passionate about helping people get their personal finances on track and thereby having a positive impact on their futures and the well-being of their communities. Wang formed this passion very early in life, avidly studying AP accounting courses in high school and researching financial concepts on YouTube in his spare time. His financial industry education continued with earning a BS in Accounting from the State University of New York at Geneseo.
Eric began his professional journey at The Bonadio Group in 2019, where he gained three years of audit experience and earned his CPA license prior to transitioning into the private wealth management sphere. Outside his professional role, he enjoys being the “go-to” person among his family, friends, and acquaintances when they have personal finance questions. Witnessing how he has contributed positively to others’ lives through knowledge has catalyzed his commitment to advocate for widespread financial literacy education within the country’s school systems.
Eric Wang considers it an honor to serve on the New York Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board, and looks forward to playing a pivotal role in promoting financial wellness across New York communities and beyond.
Over his 27 years as an educational leader, Dr. Timothy Shimp has been instrumental in curriculum development and instructional best practice implementation; raising student achievement outcomes; bringing greater equity, access, and rigor to student learning experiences; and supporting a district culture of personalized learning.
With an MA in Educational Administration from Northern Illinois University and an EdD in Educational Leadership and Administration from Aurora University, Dr. Shimp demonstrates a strong history of working in the pre-K – 12 education industry. He brings skills in Educational Instructional Practice, Strategic Planning, Organizational Branding, Leadership, Systems Thinking and Change, and Personalized Learning to his participation on the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
Dr. Shimp believes that communities must partner together to bring timely and relevant financial education to all generations, help individuals and families change their stories and gain a true understanding of their financial situations, provide education and proven life-changing solutions to ignite optimism and progress, and assist individuals to solidify behaviors and create action plans to eliminate debt and gain wealth.
Dr. Matt J. Goren, PhD, CFP® is responsible for the strategic direction and overall profitability of a financial planning product line for CeriFi that includes Dalton Education and Dalton Review. In this role he works with the content, instructional design, innovation, and faculty teams to create an industry-leading financial education student experience. An acclaimed teacher and speaker, Dr. Goren focuses on the interplay between personal finance and psychology. His radio show and podcast, Nothing Funny About Money, was named 2018’s most outstanding consumer financial information resource by the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE).
A former Assistant Professor at the American College of Financial Services, Dr. Goren has created and expanded financial literacy programs that now help thousands of students ranging in age from children to seniors. In 2017, his team at the University of Georgia’s ASPIRE Clinic was named Pro Bono Advisors of the Year by Financial Planning Magazine.
Dr. Goren received his PhD in Social Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley in 2014 and his CFP® designation in 2018. His courses and programs have won national awards from ThinkAdvisor, Investopedia, Yahoo! Finance, and the AFCPE. In 2022, Investment News honored Goren’s work by naming him one of the “40 under 40.” He brings this unique combination of education and expertise to bear as he contributes to the Illinois Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board.
A passionate financial education advocate, Joshua Bunkley joins the Georgia Financial Educators Council Advisory Board with an Associate’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Pike’s Peak State College in Colorado Springs and a Financial Coach Master Training Certificate. Today he calls Athens, Georgia home. He founded his current coaching business, Bunkley Financial, in 2018 with a vision of helping others gain the knowledge and skills they need to avoid common money management mistakes and make informed decisions toward securing their futures.
Recognized for his motivation, strong work ethic, and collaborative spirit, Joshua cites his own personal struggles with debt and loss as his reason behind becoming an advocate for the financial wellness cause. Now he strives to equip individuals – particularly young leaders and couples – with education and tools that empower them to take charge of their finances and develop a path toward successful, thriving futures. As an Advisory Board member, Bunkley plans to pursue his broader objective of advocating for greater financial wellness in communities across Georgia.
Ronke Adetoba Adeyemi demonstrates her leadership in the financial education field through her more than 18 years of experience in education and her championship of the financial wellness cause. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Lean Engineering, Adeyemi brings a singular combination of technical expertise and educational efficiency to her initiatives. She has earned credentials as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) through the NFEC and as a Certified Cash Flow Consultant (CCFC). As such, spreading financial literacy among individuals, families, and communities has become her cherished mission.
Ronke also is published author of an acclaimed children’s financial literacy book, “Money Will Grow on Trees: Nurturing Your Financial Future.” This work offers evidence of Adeyemi’s dedication to making financial education accessible and engaging, particularly for young people. Her multiple roles have made her a symbol of empowerment and breaking stereotypes. A trailblazer in both education and finance, she champions the importance of financial education as a catalyst for social change and economic empowerment. As a member of the GFEC Advisory Board, she plans to engage communities across Georgia through collaboration with stakeholders, educators, and policymakers, thereby inspiring a movement to create sustainable change.
Dr. Brenda Oldham was selected as a distinguished member of the Michigan Financial Educators Council Advisory Board due to her highly-respected status as a financial literacy expert, author, and educator with more than 35 years of experience in the insurance and financial planning industries. As the CEO of RAM Insurance & Financial Services and the founder of RAM Educational Business Solutions, Advisory Board Member Dr. Brenda Oldham has dedicated her career to improving financial education and wealth-building opportunities for individuals and organizations alike. Her acclaimed book, “Grandma (Nana) Piggy Bank Money Saving Tips,” highlights her commitment to closing the wealth gap and helping families build sustainable financial habits.
Dr. Oldham’s deep commitment to financial literacy education, combined with years of experience and a culturally competent approach, underscore her strong alignment with the NFEC’s mission and her trusted leadership in the movement for financial empowerment. The Michigan Financial Educators Council anticipates an advantageous collaboration with Dr. Oldham in the coming years.
Empowering Underserved Communities with Transformational Financial Literacy Initiatives: Dr. Brenda Oldham
Dr. Brenda Oldham, renowned financial literacy expert and author of “Grandma Piggy Bank Money Saving Tips: A Financial Literacy Wellness Guide,” is making strides to bridge the financial literacy gap within underserved and underrepresented groups through her transformative workshops titled “Get Your Financial House in Order.” This initiative brings accessible, engaging, and actionable financial education directly into workplaces and community centers, empowering participants to achieve lasting financial wellness.
“Our mission is to empower individuals with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to transform their financial lives,” comments Dr. Oldham. “We are dedicated to addressing the unique financial challenges faced by underrepresented groups and creating pathways to long-term financial health and success.” The “Get Your Financial House in Order” workshops are specifically designed to provide a comprehensive approach to financial literacy, including topics such as budgeting, debt reduction, credit improvement, savings and investment strategies, and building generational wealth. The workshops cater to diverse communities, with a special focus on the experiences of African Americans before and after a series of tailored financial programs. Participants gain practical strategies that lead to real-world results and measurable improvements in their financial lives.
Advisory Board Member Penny Rolle is Office Manager at MONTAG Wealth Management, serving individuals and families in the Atlanta metropolitan region. She has built her expertise across a 20-year career, gaining capabilities in organizational and administrative direction, strategic planning, and process improvement. Having earned a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Mercer University in Macon, GA and now working toward an MBA, Rolle not only drives operational excellence within her firm but also brings financial wellness initiatives and mentorship to the greater Atlanta community.
Penny Rolle demonstrates her strong commitment to community service through her partnership with the NFEC, participation on the Georgia Financial Educators Council Advisory Board, and membership in multiple professional organizations. She is Program Manager for the Accelerate Program at the Kristine Pettoni Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping mothers get back to paid work through education, mentorship, and support. Penny also belongs to Next OnBoard, a networking platform for high-achieving career women to pursue pathways toward board service.
Combining professional expertise with a passion for financial wellness promotion, Penny Rolle strives to make a lasting impact at both the corporate and community levels. Her passion and work ethic make her a natural partner to help advance the GFEC’s economic empowerment agenda.
Kamilah Williams, Ph.D., CFEI®, earned her doctorate in Financial Economics from the University of Delaware and currently is Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of North Georgia Mike Cottrell College of Business. Her passion for teaching and research on topics related to financial literacy, financial inclusion, and macroeconomics inspired her to become credentialed as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) through the National Financial Educators Council. She recently launched her personal finance business, Changes Financial Coaching, as an avenue to pursue her goal of uplifting Georgia communities through increased financial wellness capabilities.
Kamilah Williams’s economics research aims to contribute to understanding and improving financial education and access among marginalized and vulnerable populations, particularly in developing countries. Her doctoral dissertation – which focused on the impact of the resolution of information asymmetries in emerging economies – earned her the George Herbert Ryden Dissertation Prize in Social Sciences.
Dr. Williams has learned that even small changes in behavior can lead to big improvements in people’s financial lives. As a member of the GFEC Advisory Board, she plans to share her evidence-based knowledge outside the walls of higher education into the larger community setting. Her objective is to bring financial literacy resources and skills to those who may lack access to a college education, helping empower Georgia communities and the entire society by building economic empowerment at the individual level.
With an Associate of Arts Degree in Film Production and certification in Small Business Management from Southern Crescent Technical College in Griffin, GA, K. Alexandra Escobar offers a varied and singular combination of education and experience to the Georgia Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. Self-employed as an independent freelance consultant and personal assistant since the age of 20, Escobar’s substantial financial literacy skill set is largely self-taught. As she gradually became more financially literate, she began to realize her passion for entrepreneurship and educating others. Today she is founder of The Dark Horse Rising, an organization that advocates for and mentors young people aged 12-17 to gain financial literacy skills that ensure their futures.
K. Alexandra Escobar cites her own and her family’s financial struggles as the impetus behind her desire to help others gain greater financial wellness. Her interesting background, which branches from managing tax and financial statements for a trucking company to representing her state in the Miss Georgia USA pageant as Miss Clayton County 2024, has blossomed into her entrepreneurial endeavor, The Dark Horse Rising. This organization has made significant progress toward encouraging financial wellness education across the Peach State, including a pilot initiative introduced at Kendrick Middle School which accomplished an impressive 100% completion rate. K. Alexandra Escobar looks forward to leveraging her role on the Georgia Financial Educators Council’s Advisory Board to bring more financial literacy programs to Georgia youth – the leaders of tomorrow.
Obioha Okereke earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Finance and Management) from the University of Washington – Bothell. After spending six years as a consultant helping businesses improve efficiency and user experience through functional testing, Okereke transitioned into his current role as a financial wellness educator and content creator. In 2020 he founded College Money Habits (https://collegemoneyhabits.com/). This platform is designed as an interactive, multimodal learning space where high school and college students can learn the key aspects of financial literacy, get investment tips, and gain the confidence to make informed personal finance decisions.
Obioha Okereke – familiarly known as “Obi” – was recently featured in Business Insider discussing the savings strategy that enabled him to build a $100,000 net worth by the age of 24. This clever savings hack simply involved splitting his paycheck into two checking accounts and carefully curbing his spending. Okereke also was featured in the blog of the money app Acorns. He was able to grow his social media following from 4,000 to 40,000 in just a few months by posting about his investment journey and how he overcame money mistakes.
Okereke created a financial literacy program in 2023 that was provided to hundreds of individuals and families in the Seattle, WA area. This program achieved excellent results, which are reported in the Impact section of the College Money Habits website. His goal for participating on the GFEC Advisory Board is to expand the reach of this successful initiative to bring financial education across the state of Georgia and in other communities around the country.
Tina Browning is the owner of T.E.A. Financial, Regional Bank Officer, NFEC Certified Financial Education Instructor & Speaker. I have over 25 years of dedicated community leadership in the financial industry. Currently, I serve as Vice President, Banking Center Manager in the East Coast Region for a large financial institution.
Tina Browning came to Savannah, GA from the blue-grass state of Kentucky in 1992 with a business franchise relocation. As CEO of her company, her position as a successful businesswoman allowed her to partner with local businesses, individuals and community nonprofits as an advocate in helping them start and successfully run a small business. Tina ran her sales and service corporation serving Coastal Georgia and the Low Country for over 13 years. Tina has earned many Top Sales and Service Awards and has been recognized for her involvement in public speaking, mentorship of local business owners, and her service in many areas of philanthropic community involvement, including serving on the board of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce and as Lt. Governor of Georgia District Optimist International at the state-level. Currently, Tina serves on numerous prestigious Board of Directors. For example, the Effingham Health Systems Board of Directors, American Hospital Association Board of Governance, Board Treasurer of the S.I.D.C. Inc. Savannah Interagency Diversity Committee and GROW Initiative GA. Inc. In 2005, Tina chose to use her financial expertise in small business and love for community to venture a new career path after having been recruited into the “Mega-Bank World”. There, Tina excelled quickly and mastered every area of banking leadership such as consumer and commercial lending, and small business banking. In 2012, Tina was promoted into branch management at a local community bank where she ultimately served as Assistant Vice President. Later, she spear-headed the merger and acquisition process of what would result in her banking home of Queensborough National Bank & Trust where she advanced her career as the Retail Operations Branch Manager. Her dedication gained her yet another promotion as the Q-Works Program Coordinator in 2016. This position allowed Tina to ddo what she loves the most, serving her business community in teaching financial literacy in all areas and levels of consumer and business banking finance. In July of 2017, Tina and her family moved to Effingham County where they currently reside. Tina’s roots come from a solid foundation of faith, family and a love for her family’s farm, where she grew up. She just celebrated 41 years of marriage to her “Superman”, Alvis, who is employed at Georgia Pacific. They have one son that earned his B.F.A. Degree in Sound Engineering from Savannah College of Art & Design. Tina enjoys serving her community as a Balloon Artist where she focuses on teaching kindness and the “Beatitudes” through the art of Ballooning as Ms. T & Stinger the Bee, “Bumble Bee Ballooning”. This calling encourages our youth and senior assisted living. Additionally, Tina enjoys global mission work, loves folklore storytelling.
Currently Founder, Programming Director, and Financial Consultant at Champion Financial Consulting LLC in Jacksonville, Florida, Ishmael F. Williams holds a BS Degree in Financial Planning from Colorado Technical University (CTU); the 0215 Florida Resident Insurance License in Life, Health and Annuities; and credentials as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®). He also is a retired veteran of the U.S. Navy. Williams established Champion Financial Consulting to help fill the gaps in financial wellness education by making resources available to underserved populations.
As a result of his personal struggles with poverty as a child and consumer debt as a young adult, Ishmael felt a calling – first to increase his personal finance knowledge and then to pursue a professional career in financial wellness education. His efforts earned him the United Way Volunteer Financial Educator of the Year award in 2014. Williams’s personal experiences and service as a volunteer instructor showed him the overwhelming need to strengthen and promote the financial wellness movement.
Ishmael F. Williams joins the FFEC Advisory Board with the objective to advance and advocate for the financial wellness agenda in his local Jacksonville community, across the state of Florida, and around the nation.
Reginald V. Bennett brings a wealth of education, experience, and history of community service to his participation on the Georgia Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. He earned a BA in Economics from Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania; a Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics from Georgia Tech University; and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Bennett has assumed leadership positions in several high-profile organizations including the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Morgan Stanley, Ernst & Young, Delta Air Lines, and Genesys. His current role as President and CEO of The Legacy Empowerment Solutions Group in Atlanta affords him the opportunity to create a legacy of resilience and community impact through financial wellness education. His efforts help bridge gaps between high-level financial acumen and community-based education, to meet people where they are and create cross-generational opportunities for financial wellness.
Reginald V. Bennett, also known as Reggie, combines his economic expertise with a lifelong commitment to empowering communities – especially the underserved – with high-quality financial literacy education. He seeks to uplift those communities that have been traditionally overlooked by traditional financial systems. Bennett has joined the GFEC Advisory Board with the objective to provide young people and minority families with access to financial wellness resources that enable them to pursue pathways toward financial stability and resilience. His vision is to equip Georgians with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their dreams, free of fear and uncertainty, toward the overarching goal of building generational wealth.
Jervis Hough holds a Master of Science in Applied Economics (Finance and Real Estate concentration) and a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Clemson University; is a Certified Securities Compliance Professional® (CSCP®); and maintains FINRA Series 7, 24, 53, 63, 79, and 99 registrations. He has served on several executive boards and committees, including the Industry Diversity Advisory Committee (IDAC) and RXMD; and currently sits on the Board of Directors of NextPlat (NASDAQ: NXPL) and the National African Americans in Insurance Association (NAAIA) Foundation.
As a GFEC Advisory Board member, Jervis has a stated goal of ensuring that high-quality financial literacy resources become accessible to every student in the state of Georgia, regardless of background or location. He feels committed to empowering Georgia youth with the fundamental financial knowledge that supports economic well-being across all the life stages. His belief that students must learn beyond classroom theory to grasp money management concepts they can apply to real-world decisions lies behind his efforts to make practical financial wellness resources available to all Georgians.
By employing collaborative frameworks and data‑driven best practices, Jervis Hough aims to design and deploy scalable, flexible financial wellness programs capable of being customized to diverse learning environments across Georgia and around the country.
With a background in wealth strategy, retirement and insurance planning, and financial education, Kheadrick Hunt brings a rich mix of experience and learning to his role on the Texas Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. Originally educated in computer systems technology, networking, and telecommunications, Hunt earned an Associate’s Degree from ITT Technical Institute in 2015 and served as a Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2012-2020. Subsequently, he launched a career in a variety of financial services specialties including life insurance, wealth-building and legacy strategies, retirement planning, and financial consulting.
Kheadrick launched his own brand, Grace & Glory, in 2025 with a mission to build an active community movement around financial wellness through content development, digital outreach, public speaking, and workshop presentations. He brings a personal approach to his financial wellness pursuits, translating his own lived experience and education into giving people the knowledge and tools they need to move toward financial independence. Through a unique blend of teaching, storytelling, and hands-on guidance, Hunt helps everyday individuals and families grasp the strategies commonly used by the wealthy and apply them in their own lives, regardless of their situation or background.
His commitment to developing real personal finance strategies for real people and changing the narrative among the underserved made Kheadrick Hunt a natural fit for the TFEC Advisory Board. The organization anticipates a productive and fruitful collaboration with Kheadrick as we work together to make financial wellness a reality across Texas and beyond.
Dr. Tyson Garfield brings a unique mix of expertise to the Colorado Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. He earned a Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center and holds multiple certifications in internal and geriatric medicine. As an Assistant Professor of Geriatric Medicine, he not only has gained primary care experience in a clinical setting, but also expanded his role to include delivering point of care education to medical students, residents, and fellows. As Dr. Garfield came to realize the lack of and need for financial literacy among his students, he developed his current passion for integrating financial education into medical training curricula.
Merging Financial Wellness with Medical Education: Dr. Tyson Garfield
Dr. Garfield’s growing interest in medical education and complex systems management has led him to pursue a Master’s in Business Administration degree from the University of Texas at Dallas, which he expects to complete in August 2025. His overarching goal is to enhance the health and well-being of older adults and the communities where they reside through research, education, and innovation. This objective aligns strongly with the mission of the Colorado Financial Educators Council to bring greater financial literacy to communities across the Centennial State.
As an Advisory Board member, Dr. Tyson Garfield plans to merge his two passions: medicine and financial wellness. His partnership empowers the CFEC to make a strong, lasting positive impact on people’s lives, helping ensure that top-quality financial education resources are available to all Coloradans.
Michelle Dobbins has a strong educational and experiential background in finance, public relations, multi-media marketing and communications, and giving back to her community. She earned a BA in Public Relations and Communications from Western Michigan University in 2006 and a Master’s in Public Relations from Kent State University in 2014. Dobbins’s career in the credit union industry has included more than 10 years in progressively more responsible roles at Georgia United Credit Union and, most recently, being chosen as VP of Marketing for Credit Union of Georgia.
In her current position at CU of Georgia, Michelle also sits on the Board of Directors of the credit union’s Community Foundation. This recently-established foundation has a stated mission of supporting individuals, schools, nonprofits, and community organizations through charitable giving, volunteerism, and strategic partnerships. As an Advisory Board member of the Georgia Financial Educators Council, Dobbins leverages this connection to promote greater financial wellness among people of all ages – but particularly youth and young adults – in her hometown Atlanta and across the state of Georgia.
Recently Michelle Dobbins has been instrumental in the launch of a CU of Georgia Community Foundation initiative that takes financial literacy “into the field” – creating engaging, entertaining programs that combine financial education with sports. The program supports Georgia youth to develop stronger discipline, resilience, and strategic decision-making skills that lead to better financial wellness outcomes and leadership preparation.
Michelle currently resides in Cherokee County, Georgia with her husband; her two children – Paxton, 8 and Kennedy, 6; and two English Crème Golden Retriever puppies, Lokie and Delta.
Shangra-La Jones has distinguished herself both in the financial industry and as a strong advocate for financial literacy education. She holds one Masters in Public Financial Management and a second in Public Administration. Her financial services career has included top-level roles at a brokerage firm, as Assistant Vice President of Compliance banking, and as a Grants Manager.
Jones began to realize her passion for promoting financial wellness as a teenager, when a guidance counselor perceived her knack for numbers and encouraged her to take advanced accounting and enroll in summer financial wellness camps. She and a group of her peers started an investment club, saving and opening an account through a youth investment program. Watching their money grow reinforced Shangra-La’s emerging belief in the power of saving and investing; and helped fuel her drive to help others set smart money goals early in life and avoid negative financial habits as they mature. Since 2008, she has been actively promoting and participating in financial education initiatives across Colorado as founder of the Colorado Financial Literacy Project.
Part of this statewide project includes writing and publishing a series of financial education books for youth, “The Ultimate Financial Literacy Program.” The three books in this series to date use interactive activities, games, and puzzles to teach essential financial concepts to all ages – from 6-year-olds through adults.
Jones joined the National Financial Educators Council’s Financial Advocacy Committee in 2018. This committee undertakes to advocate for school financial literacy mandates, engage parents in their children’s financial education, and offer maximum-impact financial wellness education in communities across the U.S. Shangra-La Jones’s background, experience, and history of community service recommended her highly to serve on the Colorado Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
Familiarly known as Professor Doe, Dorenda Monique Clink – current Director of Community Outreach & Education at Vested Interest Financial Group, LLC – has a long history of giving back to her hometown Chicago and communities around Illinois. As a former Cook County Deputy Sheriff, Clink worked directly with such departments as child support, warrants, juvenile detention, and criminal court, where she learned firsthand how lack of financial literacy and community support could hold people back from achieving lasting stability. This experience fueled her passion for helping Illinoisans change their mindsets about money so they can move from surviving to thriving.
Today, Dorenda holds an MAFM in Finance and Accounting and an MBA in Project Management from Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University. She also earned a BS in Computer Information Systems at DeVry. In addition to founding Vested Interest Financial Group, Clink is an Insurance Sales Professional at Bankers Life. She is certified as an Insurance Producer and earned her Certified Financial Education Instructor® (CFEI®) credentials from the National Financial Educators Council in 2025. An author, skilled public speaker, and workshop facilitator, Dorenda exhibits her straightforward style on her Get Your Money Right! YouTube channel, discussing “money, mindset, and the mayhem that blocks you from reaching your full potential.”
Dorenda Clink also volunteers with the nonprofit CARE Chicago, through which she gives free financial literacy presentations to schools and community groups across the city. She joined the NFEC United for Financial Literacy Advocacy Committee in 2024. As founder of Vested Interest Financial Group, Clink focuses on financial education, coaching, and empowerment – offering practical guidance that helps individuals shift their perspectives to break free from the cycle of poverty and build healthier financial habits.
As a member of the Illinois Financial Educators Council Advisory Board, Dorenda Monique Clink has a goal to make lasting impact on Black and Brown communities in and around the Chicago Metropolitan area – providing more equitable access to financial wellness education so families and communities can thrive.
Sanjay Pani, Founder and CEO of Rally Bulls, is a technology innovation thought leader and entrepreneur working at the intersection of AI, FinTech, and EdTech. With an EMBA from Baruch College in New York City, Pani has more than two decades of experience in financial services leadership roles, including 12 years with J.P. Morgan. He was inspired to create his personal finance education platform by observing a widespread lack of financial knowledge and confidence, even among successful professionals – a gap between access and understanding that Sanjay felt could be bridged by combining traditional education with fintech innovation.
The platform resulting from this brainstorm is Rally Bulls, a hands-on learning ecosystem that guides users to explore personal finance and investing through gamification, interactive lessons, and real-world trading simulations. The system is supported by a proprietary AI-powered virtual tutor that provides coaching, feedback, and plain-language explanations of key concepts. Since its New York launch in 2023, Rally Bulls has expanded across the U.S., Canada, and multiple international markets.
Pani also has authored two books designed to complement his learning platform: The Subscription Playbook: Recurring Revenue in the App Economy published in 2024; and Reimagining Financial Education with Gamification & AI: The Future of Learning to Trade and Invest released in 2025. Both books are available on Kindle through Amazon.
Sanjay Pani’s work with Rally Bulls highlights his commitment to the financial wellness movement and his desire to create financial education tools that are standards-based, accessible, and scalable. His partnership with the NFEC and participation on the New York Council’s Advisory Board form one piece of his plan to achieve those goals. The New York Financial Educators Council is looking forward to its ongoing relationship with Sanjay as we work together on financial wellness initiatives across the Empire State.
A retired U.S. military service member, licensed Life Insurance Broker, and NFEC-Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®), Raymond Donegan Jr. dedicates his energies to empowering individuals, families, organizations, and whole communities with financial literacy education. He credits his own past experiences growing up on the South Side of Chicago – in an underserved community where personal finance was neither taught nor discussed – as the impetus behind his passion for financial wellness advocacy today.
Donegan served in multiple leadership roles during his military career, including Command Financial Specialist, Command Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Representative, Military Police Officer, Command Drug and Alcohol Program Advisor, Command Sexual Assault Victim Intervention Program Coordinator, and Supply Department Leading Petty Officer. His service taught him the importance of discipline, structure, and strategic planning, key tactics he now applies to teaching money management as a life skill. His stated mission is to equip young people and their families with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make informed financial decisions – freeing them to break cycles of financial uncertainty and build generational wealth.
Currently based in San Diego, Raymond Donegan Jr. leads practical, interactive financial wellness workshops for a broad range of audiences – from high school seniors to community groups. His programming focuses on essential topics that include budgeting, debt management, wealth-building, protection from risk, and long-term strategic planning. Raymond brings his dedication to service to bear toward helping others build the strong financial foundations that foster lasting change and prosperity.
With a Master’s in International Relations from San Francisco State University and a Bachelor’s in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from Cal State Fresno, Sarah Brady joins the CFEC Advisory Board with a rich, distinguished background in financial education and content development. She began her career leading after-school programs. After earning credentials as a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor through the NFCC and as a HUD Certified Housing Counselor, Brady soon transitioned into roles as a financial educator and consultant. She founded her current business, SarahCBrady.com, in 2017 – creating expert content as a freelance contributor to such publications and outlets as Yahoo! Finance, Experian, Forbes Advisor, Time, Kiplinger, and many others. Sarah also has appeared as a Finance Expert on PBS NewsHour and conducted a financial wellness webinar series for Prosper Marketplace.
A talented public speaker, Sarah Brady is well-versed in all personal finance subjects as well as some business finance areas. She has written and presented workshops on – among many other topics – consumer credit, mortgages, insurance, car-buying, cybersecurity, and cryptocurrency. During her career, Brady has counseled thousands of families and taught personal finance workshops across the San Francisco Bay Area. She has served as a contracted financial educator for the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing, the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, and the San Francisco LGBT Center.
Sarah joins the California Financial Educators Council Advisory Board with a goal to bring trustworthy, nonjudgmental financial education to a wider audience across the Golden State and around the nation. In strong alignment with the mission and vision of the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) – the CFEC’s parent organization – Sarah Brady is well-positioned to make a significant positive impact on the financial well-being of Californians, their families, and their business ventures.
Nakiea Cook, MBA, CFEI®, is a Fractional CFO, Financial Wellness Advocate and Instructor with more than a decade of experience in federal government auditing, including work supporting the Department of Defense. She earned her Master’s in Entrepreneurship from DeVry University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at Northcentral University. Her background includes evaluating financial systems, internal controls, compliance, and stewardship of public funds in highly regulated environments.
Cook founded her current business, NC Accounting & Consulting Solutions, in 2016. She now focuses on financial education and systems-based financial leadership for nonprofits, small businesses, and community organizations. Her approach emphasizes building strong financial foundations through cash flow clarity, governance, accountability, and education – rather than reactive or transactional solutions.
Nakiea is a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) who specializes in translating complex financial concepts into practical, accessible guidance. She no longer provides tax preparation services; her work centers on education, financial systems, and long-term financial wellness. Her perspective blends CFO-level expertise with a strong commitment to advocacy, prevention, and sustainable financial decision-making.
Cook has earned multiple honors including being named 2024 SBA Financial Champion of the Year and a Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Alumna. She has been featured on Nasdaq, Business Insider, the NY Stock Exchange, and in WomLEAD Magazine and the Buffalo Business Journal.
Nakiea Cook is especially committed to supporting historically under-resourced organizations that are expected to operate with complex financial requirements but limited infrastructure. She views her role to be bringing structure, strategy, and education into environments where financial ambiguity creates risk.
Dedrick Adell’s combination of experience, professionalism, and access to a wide variety of products, services, and knowledge recommended him highly as a member of the TFEC Advisory Board. Adell possesses a wealth of experience in helping people reach their financial goals – whether those goals include preparing for milestones like college or retirement, protecting a family’s future, or simply looking for the right insurance protection. He brings a new level of attention, insight, and capability to both his professional endeavors and his advocacy for greater financial wellness among Texans.
Dedrick holds a Masters of Jurisprudence degree in Wealth Management from Texas A&M University and a Bachelors in Divinity, Pastoral Studies/Counseling (Summa Cum Laude) from Andersonville Theological Seminary. He is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities; and Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company. In 2022 he was honored by Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) with a Court of the Table Qualification – a distinction recognized internationally as the standard of excellence in the life insurance and financial services sector.
Adell founded his business, Holistiq Planning LLC, in 2014 as an enterprise that goes beyond just managing investments, curating insurance plans and assets – to considering clients’ values, goals, and experiences beyond money and wealth. His stated commitment is to provide individuals and business owners with the resources they need to make financial decisions, thereby making their financial futures as successful as their needs require.
Chicarra Jones is a highly accomplished financial educator, advisor, and author with a mission to empower individuals and communities through financial literacy and wealth-building strategies. With over 15 years of experience in the banking industry, Jones has worked with some of the nation’s largest financial institutions – including Chase Bank and Wells Fargo, where she developed deep expertise in personal finance, credit management, and wealth planning.
A proud graduate of Central State University, where she pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and received a BBA, Chicarra later earned her MBA from Strayer University. She is also the author of Black Wealth Rising, a groundbreaking resource dedicated to promoting financial empowerment and closing the wealth gap in the Black community.
Jones’ passion for education began in the classroom, serving as a college professor for more than five years teaching business and finance courses. This experience strengthened her commitment to making financial education accessible and actionable for everyone, regardless of background or income level.
Chicarra is also the creator and lead instructor of the BankWork$ program, a transformative initiative that has successfully trained over 200 individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to secure careers in banking and finance. Through this program she has helped countless people gain financial stability and professional growth.
Combining academic expertise, real-world banking experience, and a passion for financial freedom, Chicarra Jones delivers workshops, advisory services, and educational resources that help individuals take control of their financial futures. Her work is rooted in the belief that financial literacy is not just knowledge – it’s power, and it’s the key to building generational wealth.
Marina Moths and her family immigrated to the U.S. from El Salvador when she was 15 years old. As the family’s resources were insufficient to pay for college after she graduated from high school, Marina had to work her way through university – starting as a bank teller and moving into financial education over time. That’s how Moths received her Wisconsin Life and Health Insurance and FINRA Series 63 and 6 Licenses before she earned her BS in Business Management from Cardinal Stritch University. Her finance career has spanned various roles including Personal and Business Banker at JP Morgan Chase, Retirement Education Consultant at BMO, and Director of Retirement Education at OneAmerica. Currently Marina is Vice President of Financial Wellness at Spectrum Investment Advisors, Inc. In that role, she manages a team of educators who provide comprehensive financial and retirement planning services for individuals and businesses.
Throughout her career, Marina Moths has developed and pursued her passion for helping people. She supports individuals, companies, and whole communities with financial education resources, particularly low-income individuals and families with limited resources and financial capability. In addition to her professional work, she has been a community volunteer for HPGM and currently serves as a Student Mentor for SecureFutures, helping high school students understand budgeting and financial concepts before they enter the workforce.
Marina Moths undertakes financial education from an action perspective – helping people overcome personal finance challenges and obstacles with actionable tools that support achieving their goals. She brings this dynamic point of view to her participation on the WIFEC Advisory Board, helping make financial wellness education both scalable and sustainable across Wisconsin.
Talaya Scott brings a wealth of education and experience in accounting, higher education, fintech, and community leadership to her position on the WIFEC Advisory Board. She is Co-Founder and COO of SaveCircle, an employer-sponsored group savings benefit and personal finance platform. Scott leads the company’s operational strategy and product execution functions. She is an Accounting Professor at Milwaukee Area Technical College and Concordia University-Wisconsin. She holds an MSA in Accounting and Finance from the Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University; and is currently a doctoral candidate in Business Administration at Concordia.
A talented and sought-after public speaker, Talaya Scott recently has been featured on the Money Sense, MoneyGeek, and Eloma podcasts and made presentations at accounting conferences. Talaya is author of the 2019 book So I Graduated, Now What Do I Do?, an entertaining take on the real-life financial concepts not being taught in urban community schools. She previously served for eight years in Military Finance in the U.S. Air Force and worked at Ernst & Young LLP. Scott also is a Financial Education Advocate for the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC), the WIFEC’s parent organization. Outside her professional work, she supports community groups to build sustainable financial wellness programs, advocates for family-centered financial education, and promotes public policy that advances financial education mandates in public schools.
Talaya actively volunteers in her community, donating her time and expertise to nonprofit organizations seeking to implement financial wellness initiatives. Her doctoral degree focus is on improving the detrimental status of personal finances among communities of color. Her goal for serving on the WIFEC Board is to expand equitable access to high-quality financial education, ensuring that Wisconsin individuals and families have the tools they need to build sustainable financial futures. She feels deeply passionate about financial education and is dedicated to shifting people’s mindsets to help them move toward greater financial wellness.
Krystena Yancey, Personal Finance Advocate and “Financial Butterfly®,” earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Wayne State University in 2014 and a BS in Finance from Oakland University in 2021. At Oakland University, she was active as an SBA Scholar and President of the National Association of Black Accountants. Yancey’s career experience has included roles in accounting and banking, most recently with Comerica Bank. Currently she is studying to broaden her perspective in the finance space, pursuing certifications as an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). Her experience has included hosting dynamic, holistic financial education for young adults and families with children; and her future goals are to become an advocate for wealth-building and executive presence.
Krystena also has extensive volunteer experience in the financial wellness arena, having donated time to nonprofit organizations to teach financial literacy/financial education. After receiving training as a member of the Financial Education Brigade at Comerica Bank, she spent 126 hours of volunteer effort teaching individual workshops, display presentations, and public speaking skills to both children and adults. Currently she presents financial wellness workshops in collaboration with Detroit’s Life Directions organization, a group with a vision of guiding young adults to mature into responsible, productive adults.
Yancey launched her Financial Butterfly® blog to serve as a platform for introverts to share how they can be themselves while they build wealth, get ahead, and stand out on their own choice. Her objective for serving on the MIFEC Advisory Board is to empower people of all ages/backgrounds and communities of color with financial education.
Brandon Biddles, BA, MBA, and PMP®, is Founder, Managing Partner, and Chief Investment Strategist at Biddles Group – a financial consulting and investment research company that also offers real-world financial education. Biddles earned his MBA with a Finance concentration from Oakland University in 2007 and his Project Management Professional certification from the Project Management Institute in 2015. He has been honored with the annual Financial Educators Day Award from the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) three times (2020, 2021, and 2023) and joined the NFEC’s United for Financial Literacy Advocacy Committee in 2025.
Biddles’ abundance of experience in financial services and financial wellness advocacy has spanned the banking, tax, healthcare, higher education, nonprofit, and investment sectors. He currently serves as Board Treasurer for Detroit Phoenix Center and Still Standing Michigan; and is published author of the book CLASS: Character, Leadership, Attitude, Service, and Success. Brandon and his firm Biddles Group have been featured on Fox News, Yahoo! Life, and the New Leaders Council. He also became a Roots of Ministry Leadership Program Graduate through Ascension Health in 2025.
Brandon Biddles has a stated mission “To bridge transformation, financial literacy, and community impact – empowering individuals and organizations to make informed, financially sound decisions that drive sustainable growth.” His professional efforts give him the opportunity to realize his passion for blending strategic wealth consultation with financial literacy education – emphasizing clarity, sustainability, and long-term impact among his clients, who represent all societal segments from individuals to corporations.
Biddles’ primary objective for joining the MFEC’s Advisory Board is to make top-quality financial literacy education available and easily accessible to all residents of the Wolverine State. He intends to achieve that goal by bridging education with innovation – providing resources, insights, and tools that empower people to take control of their financial futures.
Dr. Wally T. Luckeydoo, EdD, MBA, is a passionate educator, thought leader, and advocate for financial literacy and career readiness. He has dedicated his career to empowering students with the tools they need to succeed in life, both inside and beyond the classroom. He brings more than a decade of multifaceted experience across business, education, athletics, and leadership, with a firm commitment to equity, innovation, and service.
Dr. Luckeydoo earned his Doctorate in Education from Trevecca Nazarene University in 2022 and his Master’s in Business Administration from Western Governors University in 2025. He currently serves as a Career and Technical Education Teacher and Work-based Learning Coordinator at Smyrna High School in Nashville, where he teaches Personal Finance and Dual Enrollment Personal Finance through Bethel University. He also is an Adjunct Professor of Sports Management at Abilene Christian University and Cumberland University.
Wally’s professional journey also includes a strong foundation in athletics and sports management, having interned with the Princeton Rays (Minor League Baseball) and worked in Division I athletics at Marshall University’s ticket office, supporting football and basketball programs while mastering ticketing software.
Luckeydoo has been recognized with many honors, including the 2026 Jump$tart Corey Carlisle Public Policy Award; 2025 TETA Outstanding Teacher of the Year; 2024 TN Jump$tart Educator of the Year; and NGPF Distinguished Educator & Extra Mile Award Winner. He has published articles in multiple journals, including the International Journal on Cybernetics & Informatics and the International Journal of Integrating Technology. In addition to his professional efforts, Dr. Wally Luckeydoo also volunteers with Future Business Leaders of America and Junior Achievement USA.
Dr. Wally Luckeydoo is deeply committed to shaping future professionals in the fields of financial wellness, athletics and sports management, and educational leadership through practical, relevant, and inspiring instruction. He believes education should be practical, purposeful, and personal – leading by example to share his academic knowledge, financial journey, and conviction that with the right tools, every student can succeed.
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, more than two decades of experience in accounting, and designation as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) through the NFEC, Shawn J. Goffer is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the TNFEC Advisory Board. Her experience includes 10 years in Forensic Accounting and development of specialized training and apprenticeship programs for Accounting Technicians, Accounting Specialists, and Enrolled Agent Tax Consultants. These programs not only build technical expertise, but also incorporate financial literacy education as a fundamental skill set.
In 2024 Goffer launched Gabriel’s Shift Global Impact Center, a Memphis-based corporation with a mission to help people from all walks of life achieve financial sustainability through comprehensive education, high-impact workforce development, dynamic apprenticeship programs, and meaningful employment opportunities. Through Gabriel’s Shift, Shawn and her team provide both in-person and online financial literacy courses that are fun, interactive, and comprehensive – serving individuals from all age groups from Pre-K to post-retirement.
Shawn J. Goffer takes a mission-driven, community-based approach to financial wellness – forging strategic partnerships, supporting small businesses, and empowering individuals to seize control of their financial futures. She excels at translating complex financial content into practical, accessible information to which people from all backgrounds can relate. Shawn’s comprehensive, community-focused perspective helps ensure that all Tennesseeans are well-equipped to make informed financial decisions at every life stage.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Financial Economics (Magna Cum Laude) from Troy University, Lindsey Zerbinos currently teaches middle school and senior financial literacy at a Title-1 school in Denver, Colorado. Her professional educational experience includes teaching standards-aligned curriculum from NGPF, Intuit, McGraw-Hill, and Scholastic, which she enhances with original real-world modules of her own creation. For her educational purpose, Zerbinos built what is believed to be the first year-long required middle school financial literacy program in the U.S.
Lindsey’s focus is on democratizing knowledge and reducing systemic barriers to financial wellness through education. She founded her business enterprise, Funding America, LLC, as a mission-driven initiative dedicated to equipping students and communities with the knowledge they need to navigate money, markets, and modern economic systems with confidence and integrity.
Zerbinos grounds her financial wellness coursework in the belief that understanding money is the key to personal freedom – particularly in a world increasingly shaped by automation, artificial intelligence, and financial systems constantly growing in complexity. Her curriculum emphasizes real-world money skills, ethical decision-making, and long-term financial resilience.
Lindsey Zerbinos’ goal for joining the CFEC Advisory Board is to expand access to high-quality financial education across Colorado, supporting educators and community organizations, and contributing to initiatives that strengthen long-term economic opportunity.
Shangra-La Jones has distinguished herself both in the financial industry and as a strong advocate for financial literacy education. She holds one Masters in Public Financial Management and a second in Public Administration. Her financial services career has included top-level roles at a brokerage firm, as Assistant Vice President of Compliance banking, and as a Grants Manager.
Jones began to realize her passion for promoting financial wellness as a teenager, when a guidance counselor perceived her knack for numbers and encouraged her to take advanced accounting and enroll in summer financial wellness camps. She and a group of her peers started an investment club, saving and opening an account through a youth investment program. Watching their money grow reinforced Shangra-La’s emerging belief in the power of saving and investing; and helped fuel her drive to help others set smart money goals early in life and avoid negative financial habits as they mature. Since 2008, she has been actively promoting and participating in financial education initiatives across Colorado as founder of the Colorado Financial Literacy Project.
Part of this statewide project includes writing and publishing a series of financial education books for youth, “The Ultimate Financial Literacy Program.” The three books in this series to date use interactive activities, games, and puzzles to teach essential financial concepts to all ages – from 6-year-olds through adults.
Jones joined the National Financial Educators Council’s Financial Advocacy Committee in 2018. This committee undertakes to advocate for school financial literacy mandates, engage parents in their children’s financial education, and offer maximum-impact financial wellness education in communities across the U.S. Shangra-La Jones’s background, experience, and history of community service recommended her highly to serve on the Colorado Financial Educators Council Advisory Board.
Aaron Cruz, BA, CFEI®, and owner of Unbroken Finance in Sheridan, Wyoming, has earned a reputation for translating complex financial topics into educational tools people can actually use in their real lives. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. His career trajectory has included 14 years as a partner in Tactical Financial Solutions, earning the Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) designation through the NFEC, and donating his time to provide financial education with Volunteers of America Northern Rockies.
Cruz cites his own personal money challenges as a young adult as the motivation behind his current mission to help others gain financial capability and stability. He established Unbroken to bring financial wellness education and resources into treatment centers and to help people navigating the recovery process and/or rebuilding their lives after incarceration. To accomplish these objectives, Aaron builds curriculum, teaches classes, and coaches individuals and business owners one-on-one to build and maintain strong financial foundations that support their life and professional goals. By bridging gaps between theory and practical, real-world skills, he facilitates people to transform not only their financial plans, but their mindsets and confidence.
Aaron Cruz’s goal for participating on the Wyoming Financial Educators Council Advisory Board is to expand the organization’s reach to bring top-quality financial wellness resources to individuals and families from all socioeconomic backgrounds, particularly communities in transition and recovery. Both his financial literacy program experience and his professional expertise position him uniquely to make meaningful contributions to the WYFEC’s mission. Aaron hopes to support that vision by raising standards of financial wellness in communities all across the Equality State.
Outside his professional pursuits, Aaron Cruz is also a proud father and outdoor enthusiast who balances his spare time on trails, coaching and playing sports, and getting involved in his hometown Sheridan community.
Tracee Adams is a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®), Founder and CEO of Hawthorn Capital, LLC in Wichita, Kansas. A seasoned investment professional with a proven track record of delivering exceptional financial guidance, Adams is known for her honesty, transparency, and unwavering dedication to the financial wellness cause.
Tracee earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Maryland; holds Agent Licenses in Accident Insurance, Health Insurance, and Life Insurance from the State of Kansas; and FINRA Securities Licenses 65, 63, 7, and 6. Some of her many specialties lie in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing, Impact Investing, and Private Wealth Management, with proficiency in Mutual Fund Investing, 401(k) Planning, Workplace Benefits Planning, and Long-Term Care (LTC) Planning.
Adams established Hawthorn Capital, LLC as a wealth management and investment firm that adheres to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. She joins the KSFEC with a goal to provide Kansans with access to a broad range of complimentary financial wellness resources.
Adams is also a strong believer in volunteerism and actively supports her community in a variety of ways. She works with Junior Achievement, volunteering in middle school classrooms to teach students the basics of financial literacy. Her civic involvement runs deep and she holds several leadership roles, including serving on the Wichita State University Board of Trustees, acting as a public fiduciary on the Wichita Police & Fire Pension Fund Board, and sitting on the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees, as well as the Kansas Health Foundation Audit Committee. In addition, Tracee serves as President of the Wichita Downtown Rotary Charitable Fund Board of Directors, is a member of the Junior League of Wichita Governance Board, and represents AARP Kansas as the organization’s Volunteer State President.
Outside of her professional and civic responsibilities, Tracee enjoys global travel, playing chess, reading, swimming, and spending time with her two sons, grandsons, and friends.
Gwendolyn Brown Taylor, affectionately known as Gwen, is a trailblazer, entrepreneur, inventor, ordained minister and motivational speaker – and this is just the short list of her many attributes and talents. Taylor is a native of Saint Louis, Missouri and currently resides in the area. She holds a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Management, and an Associate Degree in Medical Records Management; and is completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Education. Her career has included being Manager of Provider Network for Home State Health and Manager of Business Operations and Configuration for Centene. This educational and experiential background reflects her lifelong commitment to both leadership and community service.
Since her childhood growing up in a family-owned business, Gwen has always had an entrepreneurial spirit and drive. She began working at the family business at the age of seven and never looked back. Over the last four decades, Taylor has pioneered multiple business ventures including authoring her first book, Thy Maker Is Thy Husband, and serving as Executive Producer of the hit gospel stage play “A House Divided.” Currently she owns and operates J & J Fashions and Accessories, Co-Owner with her husband Chef Bruce Taylor of Brucey B’s Catering Company.
Recently Gwendolyn invented “Flip That House,” a competitive, fun, and exciting family board game that also educates and provide insight into the world of real estate investing. Flip That House is being used as an educational resource at the elementary and high school levels. The board game is also being used in entrepreneurship and after-school enrichment programs. Flip That House is an excellent resource for entrepreneurial programs and personal finance-related courses.
Taking the board game to the next level, Gwendolyn Taylor is now Founder and CEO of Flip That House The Board Game University, one of the nation’s most interactive experiential learning platforms for teaching financial wellness. This program combines practical money management, entrepreneurship, real estate principles, and strategic decision-making in a way that is both relatable and transformative for learners of all ages.
Gwendolyn Taylor promises to be a powerful asset to the MFEC Advisory Board. She advocates tirelessly for transformational financial education that helps individuals build the mindset, skills, and confidence they need to achieve long-term financial success.
Fátima Pérez-Luthi is a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) and Founder and CEO of The Grind Coaching & Consulting based in Topeka, KS. With nearly 10 years of experience in banking, finance, and life coaching, she has a deep understanding of a wide range of personal finance topics. Pérez-Luthi earned an AS in Business from Allen Community College and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (Communication minor) from the University of Phoenix. She spent over eight years working with Envista Credit Union in progressively more responsible roles culminating in Branch Manager. She founded The Grind in 2020 with the mission to empower individuals and organizations to achieve financial success, placing particular focus on underserved and marginalized communities.
Currently, Fátima Pérez-Luthi’s role as Coach and Counselor with The Grind has evolved from working with individuals to serving small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Across every sector – from employers and financial institutions to the education system and government – the company’s goal remains consistent: to make a positive impact through financial literacy and education. The Grind also contracts to deliver free financial wellness workshops through such organizations as Kansas University Medical Center and Omni Circle Group.
In 2026 the company expects to release a first-of-its-kind mobile app, Voyage CFO 4U, designed to give everyone access to a powerful coaching platform, resources, and community. This tool will help The Grind fulfill its vision of helping people strike a balance between the “daily grind” and living a financially confident life.
Along her journey, Fátima Pérez-Luthi has helped individuals pay off bad debts, repair credit scores, create effective budgets, and create actionable savings plans. She has empowered them to gain insight into their own financial behaviors and make informed decisions that improve their lives. Now she is bringing her energy and drive to her participation on the KSFEC Advisory Board, a mutually beneficial partnership with great potential for positive outcomes.
Autumn Green, founder of financial leadership organization My Stewardship Journey, holds two Masters degrees: a Masters of Teaching and Secondary Education from Relay Graduate School of Education (2017) and a Masters of Education from Wilmington University (2015). Green also is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs Black in Business Program, a Jobs for the Future Innovative Finance Semi-Finalist, and a member of the Pete DuPont Freedom Foundation E3 Program. Her past experience includes teaching Mathematics in charter schools, Assistant Professor and Director of Residency for Relay Graduate School of Education, and leadership coaching for college students with Braven.
Autumn Green founded My Stewardship Journey, a financial leadership development company for early- to mid-career professionals, in 2022. Having grown up watching her family lose an inheritance and live paycheck to paycheck, Autumn began her own financial journey with a negative net worth. In less than seven years, she grew her net worth by over half a million dollars – not just by earning more, but by developing the financial leadership skills she now teaches others. Drawing on a decade-long career in education leadership and adult learning, Autumn is inspired by the legacy of her grandmother – whose efforts to build generational wealth were never realized. Today she empowers clients to cultivate healthier relationships with money, combining financial knowledge with engaging, educational methods to help them achieve their economic goals and increase their net worths.
Autumn Green subscribes to the belief that people don’t need more workshops or financial literacy – they need better systems. In other words, she says, learning about money is not the same as learning how you work with money. Her mission is to help early to mid-career professionals lead and build personal finance systems for their lives, so life doesn’t steal their future.
An energetic, results-oriented community leader, LaQuetta McGill possesses more than two decades of experience spanning the banking, insurance, financial services, and sales sectors. She earned her BS in Business Administration from Columbia Southern University in 2009; and possesses credentials as a Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor, Certified Personal Financial Wellness Consultant (CPFWC), and Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®). She currently serves dual roles as Lender Optimization Consultant with TruStage and Founder/CEO of MyPLAN Consulting Group and its nonprofit financial education arm, MyPLAN Forward.
McGill’s previous career experience includes Vice President at VyStar Credit Union, district and regional leadership positions, and championing leadership development initiatives. Her community service commitment has led to her participation on several boards and committees including the City of Daytona Beach Affordable Housing Advisory Board, Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce Board & Strategic Planning Committee, United Way of Volusia-Flagler, and the Midtown Community Development Corporation Board. LaQuetta also is a member of The Links, Incorporated.
LaQuetta McGill founded MyPLAN Consulting Group, LLC with a mission to equip youth, families, and communities – particularly those often excluded from traditional financial learning opportunities – with high-impact financial education that helps them develop a foundation of money management, confidence, and self-sufficiency. The South Carolina Financial Educators Council recognizes LaQuetta’s dynamism, collaboration, and capability to inspire change and looks forward to working with her toward accomplishing our shared vision.
Barry Feigenbaum brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and transformational success to his position on the New Jersey Financial Educators Council Advisory Board. Possessing an MBA in Finance “With Distinction” from the UPenn Wharton School and both a BA and MA from George Washington University, Feigenbaum has nearly four decades of experience in the banking industry. Upon retirement from banking, he launched his own enterprise – Feigenbaum Associates – as a vehicle for delivering financial education. He earned credentials as a Retirement Income Certified Professional® from the American College of Financial Services (where he also teaches as an adjunct professor), and Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) from the NFEC.
Through his business endeavor, Barry provides financial education to various audiences, primarily for corporate clients seeking to educate employee groups with retirement planning or lifetime savings programs. In addition, he donates a significant proportion of his time to volunteer efforts. These in-kind donations include a financial wellness program for stressed women through the Women’s Rights Information Center in Englewood, NJ; and financial education for foster youth through Cents Ability in Hackensack. Feigenbaum also has served on the finance committee and board of Jewish Family and Children’s Services of Northern New Jersey; secretary and member of Cedar Lane Management Group in Teaneck, NJ; and is current Endowment Committee chair for Congregation Beth Shalom, also in Teaneck.
Barry Feigenbaum views financial education as playing a crucial role in empowering individuals by giving them the knowledge and incentive to evaluate their current situations, set goals, and make vital personal finance decisions. He has demonstrated his commitment to spreading this education as widely as possible, without ever selling or recommending products. The New Jersey Financial Educators Council anticipates a lengthy and productive relationship with Barry as we move forward toward achieving our shared vision.
A financial educator, keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and bestselling author, Bola Sokunbi brings a wealth of experience and insight to the NJFEC Advisory Board. Sokunbi holds college degrees in accounting and finance and earned her Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) credentials through the National Financial Educators Council, the NJFEC’s parent organization. In 2015 she founded Clever Girl Finance®, one of the largest online personal finance media and education platforms tailored to women in the United States. Bola is author of the Clever Girl Finance book series, which spans more than six books including Clever Girl Millionaire and The Side Hustle Guide.
Bola’s work and community service has been honored with multiple awards, including being named one of Money’s Most Influential Women by GoBankingRates and being 2021 recipient of the NFEC’s Financial Education Instructor of the Year (FEIY) Award. The NFEC also has designated Clever Girl Finance as a Distinguished Personal Finance Content developer, indicating that the platform passed a rigorous review process that showcases its commitment to the highest quality of evidence-based financial education.
Sokunbi founded Clever Girl Finance as a mission-driven enterprise that provides women with financial guidance and support to build confidence and make smart money decisions that transform their lives. Since 2020 the company has offered resources that include personal finance courses, mentorship, daily articles, podcasts, and video content – all in a non-shaming environment and completely free.
In addition, Bola conducts community outreach and advocacy, partnering with organizations and influencers to spearhead economic empowerment through financial education on a global scale. The NJFEC is looking forward to gaining Bola Sokunbi’s insights and contributions as we pursue our shared vision in the coming years.
Spencer Rogers, Jr., CFEI®, CPFWCSM, brings a diverse background in the small business, nonprofit, and government contracting sectors to his position on the NJFEC Advisory Board. Rogers currently is Founder and CEO of Thrive Financial and Thrive Credit Repair and Founding Senior Pastor of the Kingdom Life Fellowship in Berlin, NJ.
Spencer’s past professional experience includes positions as administrator in a small business, government-military program manager and project manager contractor, disaster relief case manager, and lead supervisor of housing case managers with nonprofit organizations. He is a spiritual leader who has been pastor in local churches for the past 41 years. Rogers also is Founding CEO of Crown Group of NJ, Inc. (a for-profit company) and Life Community Services, Inc. (a nonprofit Community Development Corporation).
Spencer Rogers, Jr. has accumulated decades of experience in public speaking, teaching, facilitating workshops, and coaching individuals – both members of church congregations and entrepreneurs in the start-up to early phase of launching a business.
Through Thrive Financial, Spencer works with individuals, local churches, organizations, and small businesses/business owners, supporting them to resolve financial challenges and achieve greater financial strength. The focus is on empowering people with knowledge, offering guidance, addressing behaviors, and providing accountability to maximize progress toward financial stability.
Rogers earned his coaching and financial education credentials through the National Financial Educators Council. In 2023 he earned designations as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) and a Certified Personal Financial Wellness Consultant (CPFWCSM). These credentials provide public assurance that Spencer acts in the interests of his clients and complies with the Financial Coaching Standards & Code of Conduct and the FTC Safeguard Rules to protect client confidentiality and privacy.
Spencer has been married for 44 years; he has three adult children and four grandchildren.
Nickole Diaz began her stellar career in accounting and financial services nearly 20 years ago as an accountant at Arvest Bank, a community-based financial institution serving four southeastern states. Diaz earned her BA in Accounting and Finance from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2014, after which she has assumed progressively more responsible roles in finance with such organizations as the Arkansas Community Foundation; ATG; Pinnacle IT; and Legacy Capital Wealth Partners, where she served as Director of Accounting.
Upon receiving credentials as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) through the NFEC, Nickole founded Transformation Circle, a company dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through transformative financial education. Through this enterprise, she strives to transform the way people approach financial decisions – helping them overcome barriers to financial equity and move toward generational wealth-building. She thrives on providing individuals and communities with resources and tools to give them the sense of stability and freedom that comes from gaining a solid financial base.
In her role as an Advisory Board Member, Nickole Diaz plans to leverage her extensive professional expertise and network to advocate for the financial literacy movement, contribute to the development of top-quality educational resources, and raise awareness about available pathways toward economic empowerment – for communities across Arkansas and around the country. The Arkansas Financial Educators Council is anticipating a fruitful and long-term relationship with Nickole moving forward.
Michael D. Fluker, BA, CFEI®, is a mission-driven financial wellness leader with more than two decades of experience advancing economic opportunity through education, empowerment, and strategic community partnerships. He earned his Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Saint Leo University, a Certificate in Financial Planning from Florida State University, and credentials as a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) from the National Financial Educators Council.
Fluker currently serves as Manager of the Financial Wellbeing Program at Credit Union 1 in Bradenton, FL. In that role he leads strategic efforts to enhance the financial literacy and health of credit union members and partner organizations. He focuses on designing and deploying innovative financial education initiatives tailored to Select Employee Groups (SEGs) and building high-impact partnerships with higher education institutions and conferences among the credit union network.
The Financial Wellbeing program promotes four foundational pillars: reducing debt, increasing savings, building stability, and planning for the future. By integrating these pillars into workplaces and campuses, Michael ensures that employees and students have access to practical tools and strategies that empower them to achieve their unique financial goals.
In his community engagement efforts, Michael D. Fluker has facilitated workshops, coaching, and community programs that blend financial literacy with motivational support. In 2022 he was recognized as a Top 3 Finalist in the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s Minority Business of the Year Awards. He is author of The Growing of You and The Stewardship Model, guides to the stewardship of time, talent, and money to help others discover their purpose and live with intention. He previously founded the Laurel Civic Association Hand Up Initiative, which equips disadvantaged individuals to access the economic mainstream – and remains ongoing although Michael himself is no longer involved.
Michael D. Fluker continues to be a strong advocate for financial wellness, spiritual growth, and generational progress.
Krystal D. Nunn, MBA, is an accomplished financial services professional with more than a decade of experience in treasury management, payments advising, and financial wellness leadership. She currently serves as Financial Wellness Administrator at American Heritage Federal Credit Union, where she oversees the design and implementation of the organization’s Financial Wellness Program. In that role she provides financial literacy education to members, workplace partners, and community organizations across New Jersey.
Nunn earned an MBA from Rutgers University – Camden, graduating cum laude; and her BS in Finance from The Pennsylvania State University, where she also completed minors in International Business, International Studies, and Spanish.
Krystal’s earlier career spanned progressively more responsible roles at PNC Financial Services Group and KeyBank, managing portfolios of commercial clients across the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions with revenues up to $1 billion. Her expertise includes cash management strategy, payment solutions, financial analysis, and relationship management with C-suite executives.
A passionate advocate for empowering communities with financial wellness education, Krystal has led multiple financial literacy initiatives reaching schools, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. Most recently, she collaborated with a local nonprofit to develop a comprehensive financial education program aimed at equipping underserved communities with the tools and knowledge needed to build long-term financial stability.
Recognized for her strategic mindset, cross-sector collaboration, and dedication to financial inclusion, Krystal Nunn takes a results-driven, community-centered approach to every leadership role she holds and every financial literacy initiative she champions.
With a BS in Computing from the University of Technology in Jamaica and a Masters in Information Technology from Carnegie Mellon University, Natalie Bennett brings a strong background in strategy, technology, and innovative solutions to her position on the NYFEC Advisory Board. She describes her beginnings as humble – traversing from the inner city of Kingston, Jamaica to boardrooms and lecterns on the global stage. Her past professional experience spans more than 20 years and includes positions as Senior Client Care Officer, Operations Officer at Sterling Asset Management, Product Manager with Credit Suisse, and Senior Product Manager at Google.
In 2024 Bennett launched Thrive Mindset LLC, where she serves as CEO and Lead Coach for a financial coaching enterprise with the slogan, “Live, Love, & Lead From the Inside Out!” Through this endeavor she realizes her passion for helping individuals unlock their full potential. Nicknamed “The Thrive Mindset Coach,” Natalie works to empower ambitious professionals to gain clarity, build confidence, and cultivate resilience in their financial, personal, and career lives.
Bennett holds credentials as a Certified Personal Finance (CPF) Instructor and a Certified Professional Life Coach. In addition to her financial coaching efforts with Thrive Mindset LLC, she also works as a Career Coach for Management Leadership for Tomorrow – guiding high school juniors and seniors to align their career trajectories with their personal values and long-term goals.
Natalie Bennett joins the NYFEC Advisory Board with a goal to change lives and create generational stability through financial wellness promotion. She plans to conduct education, advocacy, and community engagement to strengthen the financial health of New Yorkers and their communities. The NYFEC is looking forward to a productive long-term partnership with Natalie going forward.
Familiarly known as “Zee,” Zaneqwah Shaw draws her motivation for promoting financial wellness from her personal experiences and decision to make a deep investment in her own financial knowledge. Along that journey, she studied under prominent financial experts including Dr. Lynn Richardson, Dave Ramsey, and Robert Kiyosaki. She earned credentials as a Certified Financial Coach through the Dave Ramsey Financial Coach Master Training program and as a Board Certified Credit Consultant registered with the Credit Consultants Association (CCA). She joins the Oregon Financial Educators Council Advisory Board with a goal to advocate for equitable financial education and wealth-building opportunities, extending her influence beyond individual coaching to touch community empowerment, mindset shifting, and helping people transform their financial lives.
In 2021 Zee founded her current business enterprise, Learn Financial Growth, with a mission to help others take control of their financial paths, rewrite their money stories, and build a financially independent future. Her work has spanned personal finance coaching, business development support, and providing underserved, low-income, and BIPOC communities with behavioral health and housing services. As a financial coach, Shaw equips clients with actionable tools, tailored plans, and confidence to shift their financial realities and achieve their long-term goals.
In her Advisory Board role, Zee’s goal is to reach even more individuals, families, and business owners with high-impact financial education and customized, outcome-driven solutions. The OFEC anticipates a long-term and productive partnership with Zaneqwah Shaw as a founding member of its board.
Dr. Shameka Jones is a passionate advocate for educational equity and financial empowerment. As co-founder of VeraRosa Higher Learning Scholarship, Dr. Jones leads initiatives that expand access to STEM education and literacy for students across Georgia. Her work focuses on creating pathways for young people – especially those from underrepresented communities – to explore science, technology, engineering, and math while also gaining the financial knowledge to build sustainable futures. Through her role with the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) Georgia Chapter Advisory Board, Dr. Jones brings her medical, educational, and community leadership experience to promote accessible financial education and empower families to make confident, informed choices about their futures.
Together with her husband and co-founder, Dr. Vincent Jones, Dr. Shameka Jones also established STEM NG2, an organization dedicated to closing academic gaps in math and reading through personalized tutoring and mentorship. Their program supports students in grades 3 through 8, emphasizing affordability, accessibility, and individualized growth. Through STEM NG2, Dr. Jones helps young learners develop the analytical and problem-solving skills that form the foundation not only for success in STEM fields but also for sound financial decision-making.
Her journey from medicine to educational and financial advocacy stems from a belief that true wellness extends beyond physical health. It includes financial confidence, self-efficacy, and educational opportunity. Dr. Jones views financial literacy as a vital life skill that empowers families to break cycles of debt and dependence.
As a board member of the Georgia Financial Educators Council, Dr. Jones brings her dual expertise in education and community engagement to advance the NFEC’s mission of improving financial capability nationwide. She is committed to building bridges between academic preparation, economic understanding, and generational wealth creation.
Dr. Jones continues to inspire students and families to dream beyond limitations, helping them achieve not just academic success but a lifetime of financial freedom and purpose-driven living.
Kristina Ickes, MBA, BA, and CFEI®, is a proven innovative and entrepreneurial leader in Financial Planning, Financial Education, Human Services, and Information Technology. An experienced executive with capacity and skills across multiple disciplines, Ickes offers experience driving evolution in systems and processes, influencing public policy, and shaping the future for both individuals and companies. Kristina currently is a government and finance executive with more than two decades of experience spanning public policy, capital markets, and community financial education.
Kristina Ickes earned her MBA from the University of Phoenix in 2004 and her dual BA in Psychology and Philosophy from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 1999. Her career has encompassed high-level roles in both the corporate and government sectors, including Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch, Executive Director at Weatherhelm Capital Management, and Long-Term Care Programs Administrator for the New Hampshire State Department of Health and Human Services.
Ickes also has an active volunteer presence, having served on several Boards of Directors; as Treasurer of the University of Massachusetts, Lowell Alumni Association; Vice President and Treasurer of the Hillsborough County Guild; and Trustee of the New Hampshire Children’s Trust. She previously served as an elected School Board member and Chair/Vice Chair of NH SAU 15, representing the communities of Candia, Hooksett, and Auburn. Kristina currently sits on the Steering Committee of the New Hampshire Job Creators Network, a position she has held since 2012. As a sought-after keynote speaker and panelist on financial education and planning, she contributes her expertise at both community and professional levels.
Kristina’s mission for joining the New Hampshire Financial Educators Council Advisory Board is to expand access to high-quality, practical financial literacy resources and education across the Granite State. She believes financial knowledge is most effective when grounded in clarity, real-world application, and accessibility – helping people understand not only what to do, but how action relates to their long-term well-being. Her approach emphasizes informed choice, strategic thinking, and the ability to confidently navigate financial challenges.
Ghufran Wasiq is a financial educator and community advocate dedicated to helping individuals – especially immigrants and underserved populations – confidently navigate U.S. financial systems. Originally from Afghanistan, his international background includes service as a Certified Security Professional with the United Nations, where he developed a global perspective and a strong commitment to public service.
After immigrating to the United States and experiencing firsthand the challenges of understanding banking, credit, and financial products, Wasiq turned that learning curve into a mission. While teaching adult students in the Sacramento area – many of whom were new to the country – he saw how limited financial knowledge could affect everyday stability and long-term opportunity. This experience inspired him to focus his career on practical financial education and community support.
Today, Ghufran serves clients through his business, TotalPlus Solutions LLC, where he and his team provide a broad range of services including DMV assistance, tax preparation and planning, and business support services. Alongside these offerings, he prioritizes financial wellness education – helping clients build essential financial skills such as budgeting, emergency savings, retirement planning options, and life insurance needs.
Wasiq’s goal is to act as a bridge between complex financial systems and the communities he serves, ensuring that individuals not only can access services but also gain the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions. Through his work, he continues to empower clients with the tools, confidence, and understanding necessary to achieve long-term financial stability.
Ramona Jones is a U.S. Navy Veteran who retired after 21 years of dedicated service. She earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Healthcare Management from American InterContinental University; a Certificate in Financial Planning from Liberty University; and Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute. Jones is a “How Money Works” Educator through “Wealthwave”; a licensed insurance agent for the states of VA, FL, SC, and GA; and a Notary Official for the state of Virginia.
Ramona’s over two-decade career gave her a deep understanding of financial systems through business relationships with the three credit bureaus, management of million-dollar budgets, facilitating various financial consortiums, and developing financial management processes for several agencies. In 2023 she founded Jeunibe Financial Advisory, an enterprise specializing in holistic planning strategies and tailored financial solutions that guide individuals and their families toward financial independence.
Participating on the VFEC Advisory Board helps Ramona Jones advance her passion for helping others – particularly as they strive to build financial confidence, establish financial security, and achieve their financial goals. She has worked with individuals and families from all backgrounds and appreciates the unique challenges faced by underserved communities who lack appropriate financial education resources. Jones places high value on the power of financial literacy and the impact it can have to improve people’s lives.
Erick Sanon is a financial services professional, educator, and community advocate dedicated to expanding access to practical financial knowledge for families and underserved communities. With a background in business administration and more than two decades of experience working closely with individuals through professional and community leadership roles, he has built his career around helping people develop stronger financial habits and long-term stability.
Sanon entered the insurance industry in 2016 and transitioned to full-time practice in 2020, where he expanded his work in life insurance, retirement planning, and annuity strategies. He is the founder of BrightBridge Insurance and also serves as a co-partner in UV Financial Solutions, specializing in Medicare planning. Through these roles, he provides guidance to clients across multiple life stages, helping them protect income, prepare for retirement, and navigate complex coverage decisions.
Alongside his advisory work, Erick has made financial education a central part of his professional mission. Motivated by years of observing common financial challenges in his community, church leadership, and youth mentorship roles, he began teaching informal financial literacy sessions covering budgeting, debt management, saving, and retirement readiness. His educational approach has been shaped in part by the broader financial literacy movement influenced by leaders such as the NFEC and Transamerica.
To expand his impact, Sanon is in process of founding ProsperTrack, a nonprofit initiative designed to deliver structured financial education to both youth and parents. The organization focuses on after-school programs, seasonal workshops, and family-centered learning designed to strengthen financial decision-making across generations.
Through his combined work in financial services, education, and nonprofit leadership, Erick Sanon brings to the Florida Advisory Board a practitioner’s perspective grounded in real-world client needs, community engagement, and a strong commitment to advancing lifelong financial wellness.
Maine Financial Educators Council Advisory Board Member Benjamin Liff began his career as an educator in 2007 in Wuhan, China teaching English to students of all ages. He earned a Bachelor’s in history from the University of North Florida in 2011 and an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from George Mason in 2015. While completing his Master’s, Liff also taught literature and composition at George Mason. Subsequently his experience spanned such positions as English Studies director at Gould Academy; program developer for the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE); and instructional designer for the Roux Institute at Northeastern University. All his professional roles have included an element of educational program-building and transformation.
As a long-time educator and global traveler, Benjamin Liff brings a unique international perspective to his participation on the MEFEC board – viewing financial wellness through an educational lens. He has a demonstrated commitment to providing families with clear guidance for selecting educational options that align with their financial goals and long-term security. In 2025 he established his current business, Tributaries Educational Consulting, as a vehicle to help parents feel knowledgeable and prepared when making decisions that affect their children’s futures. Liff also is an associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) and a certified counselor through the National College Attainment Network.
Benjamin Liff has a stated mission to promote financial capability, especially in the areas of school choice, financial aid, and long-term financial planning. This mission stems from a belief that strong educational decisions require equally strong financial health. He is looking forward to helping support families and strengthen communities through his partnership with the MEFEC Advisory Board.
In his spare time, Benjamin enjoys cooking, reading, gardening, and attending concerts.
With a Masters of Science degree in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University, Jannese Torres did not originally set out to be a personal finance educator. But in 2014, after being fired from a job for the first time ever, she found herself reevaluating her priorities and direction – and decided to build a life that revolved around freedom. And thus her journey into online entrepreneurship was launched.
Today, Torres hosts the five-time award-winning podcast Yo Quiero Dinero and is Founder/CEO of an online financial education platform of the same name. She published her book, “Financially Lit! The Modern Latina’s Guide to Level Up Your Dinero and Become Financially Poderosa,” to provide culturally resonant personal finance education for Latinas. Jannese has become an expert – largely self-taught – in digital entrepreneurship; content development; creating multiple income streams and passive income; and achieving financial independence. She earned the Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) designation from the National Financial Educators Council to solidify her role as an educator and advocate for financial wellness. Her work has been featured in multiple high-profile media outlets including Forbes, CNBC, HuffPost, Business Insider, Yahoo! Finance, Telemundo, Univision, and more. In 2025 she was chosen as one of the GoBankingRates Top 100 Money Experts.
Jannese Torres’s objectives for joining the FFEC Advisory Board are to make high-quality, relevant financial wellness resources more accessible to all Floridians, especially those from underserved communities. She draws upon her own background as a Latina and first-generation wealth-builder for her deep motivation to work toward breaking cycles of misinformation and empowering others to build lasting wealth. The Florida Financial Educators Council anticipates a powerful and productive relationship with Jannese in the coming years.
Lottia Fredo is an industry leader in higher education and financial literacy. Having served as a Regional Director of Financial Aid and as Director of the Financial Literacy Program at Southern Methodist University (SMU), she now is Financial Wellness Chair for the Coalition of Higher Education Assistance Organizations (COHEAO). She founded her nonprofit organization – Relay: Heroes Today, Leaders Tomorrow – in 2017 as a vehicle to create opportunities for students and families to achieve educational success and financial responsibility. Since then her expertise in college readiness, scholarships, and financial education have transformed the lives of numerous students and families. Relay has awarded more than 12 educational scholarships to students in need, served over 600 students, and provided community programming in college preparation and financial literacy.
Fredo has worked for public, private, and proprietary colleges including SMU, University of Maryland, and Parker University. In addition to her higher education leadership, Lottia also is an ordained pastor serving both children and youth. She is a talented curriculum writer and captivating public speaker, presenting to colleges, parents, students, entrepreneurs, creatives, community leaders, and executives. Her commitment to empowering youth has earned her the nickname “Next Generation Guru.”
Lottia Fredo’s goal for joining the TFEC Advisory Board is to expand the reach of the efforts she’s begun at Relay, creating pathways to opportunity and long-term stability for Texas youth and families. Through advocacy, community programs, and family-centered initiatives, she plans to leverage this partnership to empower Texans to make informed financial decisions that strengthen their futures and communities for generations to come.
Renee Price, CFEI®, CPM, and President of Work Smart Solutions in Birmingham, AL, is a Financial Strategist and entrepreneur with a focus on helping small businesses and founders become financially, operationally, and compliance-ready for sustainable growth. A lifetime educator, she earned an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Lawson State Community College; and credentials as a Certified Project Manager (CPM) from Star Global College and Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®) from the National Financial Educators Council. Price also is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and the Momentum Women’s Leadership program.
As founder of Work Smart and several other successful ventures, Renee has spent more than 10 years working with entrepreneurs to strengthen their financial foundations – from bookkeeping and tax strategy to operational systems that support long-term scalability and sustainability. In 2023 she was named one of the Top 40 Under 40 by the Birmingham Business Journal – Birmingham’s most prestigious honor for young achievers in business, civic and social accomplishments.
Renee’s small business support initiatives are grounded in the belief that access to capital alone is not enough. Many businesses fail to grow or sustain investment because they lack financial clarity, structure, and alignment. Her approach helps close that gap by preparing entrepreneurs to meet the expectations of lenders, investors, partners, and public-sector stakeholders.
Through her financial education pursuits, Renee supports economic empowerment by equipping individuals, families, and entrepreneurs with the tools, processes, and financial discipline they need to build strong, resilient financial foundations and contribute meaningfully to their communities. She is particularly passionate about supporting underserved business founders and emerging ecosystems where sustainable growth requires both opportunity and preparation.
Renee Price joins the AFEC Advisory Board with an objective to ensure that more Alabamans – especially women and small business owners – gain the financial confidence they need to thrive.
Daniel Bley holds an MBA in Finance from London Business School and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Liberal Arts & Humanities from the University of Michigan. He has enjoyed an illustrious career in the banking industry, beginning in 1990 with ABN AMRO Bank N.V. and advancing through positions as Managing Director for Royal Bank of Scotland and Chief Risk Officer for Webster Bank. At Webster he managed a team of 200+ and helped the bank scale from $18 billion to $80 billion in assets. He led the transformation of the risk organization as the institution expanded, architecting scalable, cross-functional risk frameworks that supported credit, operational, information, and emerging risks across the enterprise – including consumer banking, commercial banking, wealth management, and financial technology businesses.
In 2025 Daniel made the decision to retire from full-time banking. Since then he has assumed a role as Senior Advisor to the Mid-Size Bank Coalition of America (MBCA), an organization that advocates for, champions, and provides resources to mid-sized financial institutions to help their clients, colleagues, and communities thrive. In his advisement role Bley helps build peer networks and shares information related to risk management.
Bley has also joined advisory and investment firm Klaros Group as a Senior Advisor. Here he focuses on mid-sized banks navigating growth, innovation, and increased complexity, especially those entering or expanding fintech-adjacent lines of business. He brings a practical, scalable, and enterprise-level perspective on how risk management can enable – rather than hinder – strategic growth.
With a lifelong commitment to community service, Daniel Bley volunteers on the Advisory Board to the University of Connecticut Masters in Risk Management Program; and sits on the Board of Directors of Junior Achievement of New York. Having been a member of Junior Achievement in high school, Daniel views his volunteer board participation as a rewarding way to give back to the organization, his community, and young people across Connecticut.
Sarah Morrissey is a financial educator and systems strategist whose work focuses on decision-making and ethical leadership within complex environments. She is a full-time lead educator at Everett Public Schools MA, where she provides curriculum leadership in mathematics and financial education; conducts program development and evaluation; and leads innovation and technology integration. She also is Curriculum Architect for the AI-enabled learning platform Stickball, where she was instrumental in the development of the Navigator Model, an evidence-based decision-making and leadership framework. With more than 25 years of experience in leadership, education, and organizational systems, Sarah formed her professional philosophy early in her career while learning and teaching in dynamic, real-world maritime environments. That philosophy focuses on how education – particularly financial education – can drive social change when it’s designed with empathy and inclusion in mind.
Morrissey earned an MS in Criminal Justice/Police Science from Boston University in 1997 and a Masters of Education, Secondary Education and Teaching from Salem State University in 2012. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership. Her work combines navigation, safety-critical decision systems, and empirical research to promote financial literacy as a skill set essential for judgment, resilience, and ethical decision-making.
Having observed firsthand how financial literacy intersects with family stability, workforce development, and overall economic well-being, Sarah leads initiatives that promote financial literacy, family wellness, equitable access to resources, and long-term empowerment. Her particular focus is on young adults, women, and families navigating economic challenges. She strives to align strategy, ethics, and practice as she delivers programming that fuses real-world financial and life skills education with innovative digital engagement.
Sarah Morrissey’s passion is to help Massachusettsans develop financial wellness and life skills knowledge that restores their confidence and agency to overcome generational financial barriers. She is looking forward to working with the MFEC Advisory Board toward their shared vision of a financially capable world.
With a BA in English and Visual Arts from Hunter College in New York City and almost 20 years spent in nonprofit and community service work, Makeela Brathwaite brings a rich combination of results-oriented skills and creative solutions to her participation on the NYFEC Advisory Board. Her professional endeavors have included community youth groups, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations. Her expertise ranges from the administrative (budgeting, contract management, data analysis, human resources) to the educational (curriculum development, youth development, proposal writing, workforce readiness programming) to the creative (spoken word performance, artistic design, poetry, musical composition).
Brathwaite began her career as a tutor and college preparation instructor for children and youth aged 6-18. She worked with the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club to support young people toward attending college and funding their higher education pathways. She was Coordinator of Continuing Education in Healthcare at Kingsborough Community College, Instructor at the Brooklyn College Community Partnership, and Visual Artist/Author/Publications Developer for Kibo Books, LLC. Throughout all her endeavors, Makeela was reminded of the ever-growing need for financial wellness education across New York.
Currently Makeela is Executive Director of Grow Brooklyn, a nonprofit that provides free tax prep, housing counseling, direct legal services, and financial coaching to low-income New York families. Grow Brooklyn was established in 2002 and incorporated in 2008. The organization serves not only Brooklyn but also Bronx, the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and other counties across New York State. This enterprise offers Makeela Brathwaite multiple opportunities to fulfill her passion – providing New Yorkers with measurable, results-driven financial empowerment education.
Terraine Patman, Founder and Executive Director of Cash Money Matters Academy, leads a mission‑driven initiative dedicated to delivering culturally relevant, trauma‑aware financial literacy education. Her work is grounded in the belief that financial education must reflect the lived experiences, cultural context, and systemic barriers faced by underserved communities. She designs and implements evidence‑based programs that help under‑resourced individuals build financial confidence, strengthen decision‑making skills, and develop a saver’s identity that supports long‑term economic upward mobility. Terraine’s expertise includes homeownership readiness and foundational money management skills that contribute to generational wealth building. She is known for her down‑to‑earth teaching style — meeting people where they are, removing shame from financial conversations, and creating safe learning environments where participants feel seen, respected, and capable.
Terraine’s leadership spans operations, program design, organizational efficiency, and community‑centered educational initiatives. She brings a robust Business Administration background with a proven record of developing and implementing strategies that strengthen organizational performance. Her experience includes designing employee development programs that reduced turnover by 20%, developing federally endorsed student recruitment systems, and supporting Connecticut’s statewide efforts to reduce racial isolation under the Sheff v. O’Neill ruling. She has secured multiple state grants, developed diversity assessment tools, improved contract compliance by 85%, and led cost‑saving initiatives that reduced expenses by up to 30%. Her approach blends professional training with deep cultural awareness, ensuring that financial education is accessible, relatable, and responsive to community needs.
An Accredited Personal Finance Instructor, Certified Financial Education Instructor, and Certified Literacy Professional, Terraine has spent more than 15 years advancing financial capability within under‑resourced communities. She brings a practical, community‑centered perspective to financial education and economic empowerment. Cash Money Matters Academy is devoted to results‑driven, evidence‑based financial education.
As an Advisory Board Member for the National Financial Educators Council, Terraine contributes on‑the‑ground insight, community expertise, and a commitment to equity in financial education — championing financial literacy as a pathway to economic upward mobility, and community resilience.
Mark Dunaway put himself through Illinois State University as a first-generation college student – earning a Bachelor’s in Applied Computer Science in 1984. His professional career was primarily spent with Accenture, a leading global business consulting firm, where he served as engagement partner for several large clients including Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and CareFirst. Dunaway retired from Accenture in 2004.
Since retirement he has been donating his time as a guest lecturer in personal finance classes, both at local Ohio high schools and at multiple universities including Florida State University, Illinois State University, and Auburn University. Mark feels college juniors and seniors are the audience where he can have the most impact. With them he focuses on three key financial decisions – housing, transportation, and retirement enrollment – that are certain to shape long-term life outcomes. Currently at FSU and ISU, he is working with educators to expand their financial education programs to reach even more students.
Dunaway and his wife, Julie, also are active in Ohio communities. They co-sponsor several high school and university scholarships and started the first Dean’s Scholarship in the ISU College of Business. Mark serves on the Boys and Girls Club of West Chester/Liberty Board of Directors. They work with CityLink, a community group that provides job and life skills training to low-income Ohio residents. The couple also volunteers for Golden Endings, a Golden Retriever rescue organization through which they have adopted four rescue dogs into their family across the years.
Mark Dunaway’s approach to teaching financial wellness education is to empower students with financial competence, not just financial literacy. His programs are practical and actionable – encouraging students to build real-world budgets, practice housing choices and vehicle purchases, and plan their retirement enrollment starting with their very first jobs. Working exclusively as a volunteer, Mark has a vision to help young adults avoid the stress and anguish of the common pitfalls into which people fall when they are unprepared to meet today’s financial realities.
Matthew Mellett is a Personal Finance Educator and Author with extensive knowledge and experience in financial education, curriculum development, and one-on-one coaching. He holds a BS in Engineering from Lehigh University; an MS in Personal Financial Planning from The College for Financial Planning; and a graduate Certificate in Principles of Finance from Harvard University. He is credentialed as a Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and Chartered Life Underwriter through The American College of Financial Services. On the volunteer side, Mellett has been involved as a Subject Matter Expert for the National Financial Educators Council’s United for Financial Literacy Advocacy Committee since 2026. He also has donated time to the First Command Educational Foundation and the University of Chicago Financial Education Initiative.
Matthew is author of several personal finance books, including Go Simple: The Playbook to Financial Security, Dog Ear Publishing, 2013; Capture Your Wealth, Dog Ear Publishing, 2015; and Grow Your Money Protect Your Wealth, Luminare Press, 2024. He was presented with the Admiral William F. Halsey Award for Leadership by the U.S. Navy. Both The Authors Show and local cable TV have featured Mellett talking about his books and the growing need for personal finance education across the nation.
In 2013 Matthew Mellett founded his current enterprise, The Saucon Creek Institute for Financial Literacy. This organization has a stated mission to increase people’s knowledge of personal finance concepts and improve personal finance decision-making. They work toward that goal through research, collaboration, curriculum development, and tailored one-on-one coaching. Matthew’s primary focus at the institute is engaging with young workers who are beginning their financial journeys, providing them with tools and knowledge to build strong foundations that support their futures.
As a member of the DFEC Advisory Board, Matthew Mellett plans to apply his passion and extensive knowledge of personal finance to improve financial curricula serving students in Delaware and across the U.S.
Audree Bobinger is a Financial Educator, U.S. Navy veteran, and Investment Advisor Representative with a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a minor in Entrepreneurship from Boise State University. She is currently working toward a Master’s degree in Financial Planning and the Certified Financial Professional (CFP®) credential. Bobinger’s professional experience has crossed several financial services sectors including insurance, wealth management, retirement planning, and business strategy. Today she is a Licensed Series 65 Fiduciary and runs her own business, Quility Financial Advisors. Audree has dedicated her career to advancing the financial wellness agenda across the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest.
Bobinger credits her own personal background for her independent spirit and dedication to helping others. Six years spent in the Navy enabled her to bring a sense of discipline and service to her fiduciary practice, where she takes a community-based approach to helping individuals, families, and businesses gain financial clarity and achieve long-term success. She has a particular passion for helping women, veterans, and small business owners, but exhibits dedication to guiding people from all societal segments to make informed financial decisions.
Today Audree specializes in helping people understand the complex financial landscape so they can apply risk-conscious investment and holistic planning strategies to their money management choices. Her objectives for serving on the Washington Financial Educators Council Advisory Board are to contribute her professional expertise and community service commitment to support the organization’s vision of improving financial wellness across Washington and around the U.S.