Monique Lee, a dedicated financial professional with New York Life and a NAIFA member since 2023. Based in Anchorage, Alaska, Monique’s journey into the financial services world began when her youngest child was preparing to start grade school. Looking for an opportunity to re-enter the workforce, she was referred to New York Life by a close family friend—and she hasn’t looked back since.

The flexibility, earning potential, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on her community were the driving factors that initially attracted Monique to the financial services industry. For her, the ability to balance work with family life while contributing positively to others’ financial well-being was a perfect fit. She’s passionate about helping people achieve their goals, and she finds great satisfaction in the work she does. But it’s not just about the business—Monique finds deep fulfillment in knowing that her work helps families make better financial decisions and secure their futures.

Monique joined the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) after being referred by her Managing Partner in Atlanta, GA. Her decision to join was driven by her understanding of the organization’s mission to protect both professionals in the industry and the clients they serve. She recognizes the importance of having an advocacy group that supports the industry’s growth and helps ensure its integrity, which ultimately benefits everyone involved.

One of the aspects Monique enjoys most about her career is the flexibility it offers. This flexibility allows her to balance the demands of her career with spending time with her family, a major priority in her life. The financial rewards also play a significant role, as well as the impact she can make on her community. But it’s her team that truly keeps her motivated. “I want to be here to help them achieve their goals and be the best version of themselves that they can be,” she explains. The sense of purpose that comes from working alongside others to build their futures is one of the driving forces behind Monique’s dedication to her career.

In terms of her professional focus, Monique is particularly passionate about retirement planning. She is currently enrolled at the American College, pursuing her Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation. She views retirement planning as one of the most critical areas of financial services today, especially given the increasing number of Americans over 65. There is a growing need in the community for guidance in this area, and Monique is committed to helping families plan for a secure and comfortable retirement.

As a member of NAIFA, Monique understands the importance of the organization’s political advocacy efforts in protecting both the industry and the interests of clients. Issues such as the potential threat to tax-free life insurance policies have the potential to significantly impact her business. This is why she supports NAIFA’s political engagement and advocacy, and she recognizes that being an active participant in these efforts is essential for the continued success of financial professionals.

Though Monique hasn’t yet become heavily involved in political advocacy, she is eager to do so in the future. She knows that advocating for the industry is part of being a responsible financial professional and good NAIFA citizen, and she’s excited to contribute to the collective efforts of the association.

For Monique, NAIFA’s role in the industry is invaluable. The organization’s efforts to protect both advisors and their clients through political action and industry advocacy are essential to her business success. “NAIFA is important to me because it lobbies to protect the interests of our industry and our clients,” she says. “It helps ensure that we can continue doing the work we do with confidence and support.”

When it comes to recommending a career in financial services, Monique wholeheartedly encourages others to consider it. “This industry will change your life and the lives of the people around you,” she shares. With financial literacy being such an essential part of today’s world, Monique believes that financial services professionals have a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on their communities. The ability to help families achieve financial security and pass on that knowledge to future generations is a truly rewarding aspect of the work.

As for NAIFA, Monique believes it’s an organization every professional in the field should support. “It’s our duty to protect our clients' interests and the interests of our colleagues,” she explains. “We must support the organization that supports our livelihood and the livelihood of the community.”

For Monique Lee, working in financial services isn’t just a job—it’s a way to help others build a more secure future. Her journey in the industry has been fulfilling, and with her continued passion for helping others and her commitment to professional growth, she is sure to make an even greater impact in the years to come.