Brittney S. Neal's journey into the financial services industry was shaped by family ties, personal experiences, and a deep desire to help others build secure financial futures. A new member of NAIFA, Brittney currently serves as a Client Concierge and Advisor at Wellington Capital Reserve, LLC, based in Greenville, South Carolina. Through her work, she guides clients on how to use privatized banking strategies to create generational wealth and financial freedom.

Ray Smith has been a loyal member of NAIFA since 1976, calling Stillwater, OK, home. He is the founder of Ray Smith Wealth Management and has built a career in the financial services industry that spans over five decades. Ray's journey into the business started right after college when a fraternity brother suggested he explore the field. After taking the required tests, he joined a company that later transitioned into Ameritas, where he has stayed ever since. Despite the shifting industry landscape, Ray's dedication to his clients and his work has remained constant.

Jesus U. Lopez Soto’s journey into the financial services industry began with a simple goal: to find a work-from-home opportunity for his pregnant wife. Initially, he saw it as a way for her to earn extra income. However, after being introduced to the industry by a coworker and friend, Jesus realized that this was not just a job for his wife—it was an opportunity for him to build a meaningful career as well. He quickly recognized that the financial services industry offered a chance to help others, make a lasting impact, and achieve personal and professional fulfillment.

Mark Willis, CFP®, is a dedicated financial professional and the founder of Lake Growth Financial Services, located in St. Charles, IL. Since entering the financial services industry, Mark has been driven by a deep passion to help individuals and families achieve their financial goals and create lasting security. Mark’s journey into the financial services industry was shaped by his personal experience during the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, when he faced overwhelming six-figure student loan debt. This experience not only ignited his own desire for financial education but also inspired him to help others avoid similar financial pitfalls.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce that inSOURCE Financial Advisors in Lincoln, Nebraska has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, inSOURCE Financial Advisors has enrolled all its advisors as NAIFA members, enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs and encourages them to participate in NAIFA as a group. Group members are proudly displayed to consumers on the consumer-facing financialsecurity.org site and individual members are listed in Life Happens’ “Find a Financial Service Professional” search at https://findapro.lifehappens.org/

Jennifer F. Shepley, CFP®, is a financial professional based in Massachusetts, with licensing across multiple states. She specializes in family and small business insurance, retirement income planning, and long-term care solutions. Her journey into the industry was a blend of serendipity and family tradition, shaped by the legacy of her father, who founded his insurance practice in 1959.

Tom Schmidt, CFBS CLTC LACP’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication. From an unconventional start in the life insurance business to becoming a highly successful financial professional, Tom has navigated a career filled with challenges and triumphs. Over the decades, he has built enduring relationships with clients, many of whom have been with him for over 30 years.

Tom entered the financial services industry in February 1988, stepping into a career he hadn’t anticipated. Leaving behind a job at Amoco, Tom was enticed by the promise of a more rewarding future in financial services. However, he quickly discovered that the role centered on life insurance, something he hadn’t been aware of beforehand. Despite the initial shock and challenges of working on straight commission, Tom leaned into his natural work ethic, his extensive network, and his determination to succeed. He shares, “For a newbie in the business, I had pretty good success right off the bat. But it wasn’t easy—I learned quickly that building trust and relationships was everything in this industry.”

Tom’s perseverance paid off, and over time he cultivated a thriving client base. Many of his first clients remain with him today, a testament to the loyalty and trust he inspires.

After earning a finance degree from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, Tyler Engelhaupt entered the insurance industry, initially seeking a case manager role with a focus on financial advising. Instead, he found himself in a sales position at Ash, where his career quickly flourished. Specializing in annuities and retirement planning, Tyler now works alongside other advisors to help clients achieve their retirement goals through customized financial strategies.

Originally from Chile, new NAIFA member, Sandra Reardon, made the move to the United States in 2003, bringing with her a deep commitment to building a secure future for herself and her family. Over the years, she has established herself as a trusted professional in multiple industries, including real estate, insurance, and child care. A successful real estate agent and owner of a daycare business, Sandra has always been passionate about helping people. But it was a personal tragedy in 2020, the sudden loss of her husband, that highlighted the importance of not only having life insurance, but also understanding it thoroughly. Motivated by this realization, Sandra decided to become a life insurance agent to help others avoid the confusion and difficulties she faced, and to educate families about the importance of financial planning and protection to safeguard their futures and protect what matters most.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is thrilled to announce that Kathleen Owings has been named the 2024 Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year. This award celebrates outstanding leadership, dedication, and impact within the financial advisory industry, recognizing individuals who exemplify the highest standards of excellence.

Kathleen Owings, a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2000, began her career as an active-duty officer in the Army Corps of Engineers, earning the Bronze Star for meritorious service in a combat zone. She served at Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Carson, Colorado; and overseas on multiple tours of duty.

Kathleen began her career in the financial services industry in 2007 and is one of the owners of Westbilt Financial Group in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She truly believes that being a financial advisor is her calling, not just a job. Kathleen is also the author of Put Your Money to Work: A Woman's Guide to Financial Confidence, empowering women to take control of their financial futures.