Anthony Berardi, CFP®, CIMA®

My grandparents came to this country from Italy carrying an unwavering commitment to provide for their families. They found a way to build stability, protect what mattered, and create opportunities for the next generation. Their resilience shaped how I view money as a tool for achieving your goals. They are part of why I do this work.

After graduating from Loras College in 2020 with degrees in finance and economics, I entered the financial services industry with stops at Core Investments and Ameriprise Financial before joining the team here. During my undergraduate years, I completed coursework that allowed me to obtain my CFP^® certification in 2021, and I later earned my CIMA^® designation in 2022. I also hold my Series 7 and 66 licenses, along with my Illinois Life and Health Insurance license.

As a financial paraplanner, my role centers on the behind-the-scenes work that supports our clients' planning process. That includes gathering and organizing information, running retirement projections and cash-flow analyses, drafting financial plans, and handling meeting preparation and follow-up. The technical side matters, but what keeps me motivated is knowing that this work helps people gain clarity and confidence around one of the most stressful parts of their lives.

I live in the Chicagoland suburbs with my girlfriend, close to my family. Staying active is still a big part of my routine, whether it's working out, walking outside, or exploring the area. The suburbs have a lot of hidden gems, from summertime farmer's markets to new restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries. Spending time with family and friends and trying new places to eat is how I recharge.