Growing up, the decision that shaped my career happened in my mother’s kitchen. I was in college and asked permission to visit friends in New York. Her answer was firm: as long as she was paying the bills, I would do things her way. In that moment, I made a quiet promise to myself that I would become financially independent and secure. That promise has guided me to ensure that my clients achieve the same financial independence and that I’ve been driven to achieve
My interest in economics actually began even earlier. When Illinois required students to take either Home Economics or Economics to graduate, I chose Economics — and immediately knew I had found something that genuinely fascinated me. I went on to study Economics and Urban Studies at Washington University in St. Louis and later earned my MBA in Finance and Accounting from Kellogg School of Management.
My career in financial planning began shortly after graduate school when a colleague mentioned she was pursuing her CFP®. At the time, I remember responding, “What’s that?” The designation was still relatively new, but once I learned more about it, I recognized almost immediately that it aligned with what I truly wanted to do. What drew me to this profession then is the same thing that keeps me passionate about it today: helping people build financial independence and security for themselves and their families.
One of the things I love most about this work is that no two clients are alike. Every family has different goals, concerns, values, and experiences, which means every relationship requires thoughtful listening, creativity, and personal attention. I’ve always believed financial planning is about much more than numbers — it’s about helping people feel more confident, prepared, and in control of their future.
I grew up in Lincolnwood and have lived in Glenview for more than 40 years. My parents had an enormous influence on how I approach both people and finances. My mother was an immigrant who believed deeply in saving and investing as a way to create stability and opportunity for a family. My father, a member of the clergy, was also an avid student of the stock market and encouraged others to invest for a brighter future. Although both have passed in recent years, their lessons and values continue to shape how I work with clients every day.
Giving back to the community has always been an important part of my life and something I’ve worked to pass along to my children as well. I became a founding trustee of the Jewish Women's Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago in 1998 and remain actively involved in its annual grants process and mentoring new trustees. I also served on the Investment and Finance Committee of the Oakton College Educational Foundation and continue to support its Women in STEM scholarship program, which my daughter helped establish several years ago. In addition, I joined the Small Business Advocacy Council because I believe strongly in helping make Illinois a better environment for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
After more than four decades in this profession, I still find the greatest satisfaction in helping clients make thoughtful decisions that give them greater confidence and peace of mind about the future.