Association of African-American Financial Advisors

Earlier today, we had the incredible honor of ringing the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange NYSE, marking a significant milestone for Black financial professionals and an inspiring way to launch Black History Month. As our CEO, Sheena Gray, reflected during the event, this moment was about more than just our organization—it was about legacy, progress, and the future of Black professionals in finance. Standing on that platform, we honored the trailblazing vision of LeCount Davis, the first Black CFP?, whose work laid the foundation for generations to come. We are deeply grateful to our partners who joined us in this celebration: Raymond James, Citi, Merrill Lynch, J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, UBS Global Wealth Management, Edward Jones, Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, Empower, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo. This moment symbolizes the power of diversity in wealth management, the impact of Black financial professionals, and the importance of representation at the highest levels of finance. We are truly on our way. #QuadA #NYSEBell #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackInFinance #FinancialEmpowerment #WealthManagement

As a Certified Financial Planner? (CFP?) with Carrier Wealth Management, Eliana Carrier, CFP? is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals with confidence and clarity. With a background in investment management, banking, and financial planning, she has built a career focused on empowering individuals and families to take control of their financial future. Eliana earned her Bachelor of Science in Finance from Louisiana State University (LSU) and gained hands-on experience as a bank teller for Chase Private Client and an Associate Financial Advisor at Northwestern Mutual. Her deep understanding of financial planning and her passion for client success make her a trusted resource in wealth management. Eliana’s commitment to education, mentorship, and financial literacy showcases the impact Black women continue to have in shaping the future of finance. Join us in celebrating Eliana Carrier and her contributions to the financial industry! #WomensHistoryMonth #BlackWomenInFinance #QuadA #FinancialLeadership

?? Join the Conversation: AAAA Listening Circles! We’re bringing together Black professionals and women in finance for a powerful series of Listening Circles—an open space to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities for growth and change in the industry. ?? Your voice matters. Your insights drive impact. ?? Upcoming Sessions: ? The Executive Perspective: Leading While Black and Female in Finance – Thursday, March 13 | 11:00 AM EST ? Advisor Insights: The Realities of Representation and Retention – Friday, March 14 | 11:00 AM EST ? DEI in Finance: Progress, Pitfalls, and the Path Forward – Thursday, March 13 | 1:00 PM EST ? Closing the Wealth Gap: Strategies for Sustainable Impact – Friday, March 21 | 1:00 PM EST ?? Register now: https://lnkd.in/eAx-p5QE Let’s connect, listen, and lead the change. Sign up today!

With over 23 years at Merrill Lynch, Fredericka Conner has built a career dedicated to exceptional client service and financial expertise. As an Assistant Vice President and Wealth Management Associate, she plays a pivotal role in strengthening client relationships and delivering personalized financial strategies. Fredericka has been an integral part of the Spanarkel Browne & Associates group since 2005, where she leads efforts to support institutional clients. She holds FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses and brings an unwavering commitment to client success and financial literacy. A Francis Marion University graduate, Fredericka is also deeply engaged in community service. As an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she supports philanthropic initiatives locally and internationally, demonstrating her dedication to uplifting others through education and service. Join us in celebrating Fredericka Conner for her leadership and contributions to wealth management! #WomensHistoryMonth #BlackWomenInFinance #QuadA #FinancialLeadership

?? Early Bird Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2025 WIIN Conference! ?? Join us for the Women’s Impact Initiative Network (WIIN) Conference in Chicago, IL, on June 19-20, 2025—an empowering experience dedicated to advancing Black women in wealth management. ?? What to Expect: ? 1.5 days of education, networking, and inspiration ? Industry leaders & expert-led sessions ? Strategies to drive diversity, equity, and inclusion in finance ? A powerful community of women reshaping the future of wealth management Quad-A is committed to creating opportunities for women and breaking barriers in the financial industry. Be part of this movement—let’s elevate, inspire, and lead together! ?? Register now & view the agenda: www.aaafainc.org/2025WIIN ?? Save the Date: June 19-20, 2025 ?? Venue: Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel #WIINConference2025 #WomenInWealth #FinanceLeadership #AAAA #DiversityInFinance

Market uncertainty can shake even the most seasoned investors, but Marcus Ranger, Regional Vice President at Ameriprise Independent Advisors, brought a steady perspective to his recent appearance on NYSE TV Live. Sitting down with Trinity Chavez, he broke down the current economic landscape and how retail investors can navigate market fluctuations with controlled, confident investing. With inflation cooling and corporate profits holding strong, Ranger emphasized that opportunity exists—even in volatile markets. He pointed to key strategies investors should embrace: ?? Stick to High-Quality Investments – Companies with strong fundamentals, solid leadership, and resilient products should be the focus. ?? Rebalance During Volatility – Rather than reacting emotionally, smart investors adjust their portfolios strategically when markets fluctuate. ?? Invest During Market Dips – "Instead of running from the markets, we should be investing more if we have money on the sidelines," Ranger advised, reinforcing the importance of long-term vision over short-term panic. He also weighed in on inflation’s impact on interest rates, noting that while the Fed had previously signaled multiple cuts, recent economic data could delay their decision. Meanwhile, tariff concerns remain the biggest wildcard, adding another layer of uncertainty. Despite these challenges, Ranger remains optimistic. With all 11 sectors of the S&P 500 projected for positive returns, a strong labor market, and potential tax incentives ahead, investors who stay the course can capitalize on long-term growth. As the conversation wrapped, Ranger’s message was clear: Confidence, strategy, and patience are key to navigating today’s evolving financial landscape. ?? Watch the full conversation to gain expert insights on positioning yourself for success in 2025. #QuadA #BlackInFinance #InvestmentStrategy #WealthManagement

From Little Rock to Wall Street, Grace Chionuma has built a career that blends finance with social impact. A Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, she specializes in public finance banking, structuring deals that fund affordable housing, charter schools, and community development projects. In 2017, Grace and her team made history, leading the first-ever Social Bond IPO for LISC, a nonprofit focused on economic development. This groundbreaking deal set the stage for over $750 million in community investments, transforming how nonprofits access capital. A Toigo Foundation fellow and Yale MBA graduate, Grace credits mentorship and opportunity for her success. Now, she’s paying it forward—ensuring financial markets drive real change in underinvested communities. ?? “The best use of my time, tools, and talent is driving more capital into impact—unlocking potential and creating opportunity.” – Grace Chionuma ?? Read more on Morgan Stanley’s website: https://lnkd.in/ej2FZaXG #WomensHistoryMonth #BlackWomenInFinance #QuadA #FinancialLeadership

CNBC TV: The Shortage of Black Financial Planners & How We’re Bridging the Racial Wealth Gap with Association of African-American Financial Advisors Only 2% of Certified #FinancialPlanners (CFPs) in the U.S. are Black. This month, Quad-A is taking action to change that by sponsoring 100 students—including those at #HBCU like?Howard University—with free exam prep classes for the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam, a key first step toward?#CFP? certification. In a recent?CNBC?segment with?Frank Holland,?Sheena Gray?CEO of #AAAA and Dr.?Alex David, AAAA Board Chairman?emphasized why this initiative is so important: ?? #Representation Matters "CFPs are more than just #FinancialAdvisors. They provide estate planning, tax strategies, and guidance on wealth transfer—critical areas for our community as we build generational wealth." — Sheena Gray, Quad-A CEO ?? Financial Education is Key "We are preparing students to understand market cycles, risk-based assets, and portfolio diversification. This knowledge will position them as future #leaders in #wealth management." — Dr. Alex David, #QuadA Board Chair ?? The Impact is Generational With $38 trillion in wealth expected to transfer by 2045, ensuring that Black families are positioned to build and sustain wealth is essential. Howard students in the program recognize the importance: ?? “Bridging the gap, obtaining wealth, keeping it, and passing it down is the biggest goal for me.” Closing the #RacialWealthGap could add $5 trillion to the U.S. #economy over five years. ? Click Here to watch the brief segment on the importance of bridging the #WealthGap and empowering the next generation of #FinancialProfessionals! https://lnkd.in/gqnpTCnp #FinancialLiteracy #BlackHeritage CFP Board #Houston #BlackLivesMatter

Carmilita Aching, CFP?, Senior Investment Associate at RBC Wealth Management, plays a vital role in managing client operations, executing trades, and ensuring a seamless investment experience. With over a decade in financial services, she has built a reputation for her strategic approach and dedication to client success. Carmilita began her career at Citibank as a bank teller before advancing into investment management roles at Benchmark Capital Advisors and J.P. Morgan Securities. In 2020, she joined RBC Wealth Management, where she continues to make a significant impact. A Pace University graduate with a degree in finance, she holds both FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses. Beyond finance, Carmilita is a leader, mentor, and advocate for professional excellence. She exemplifies the power of Black women in finance—breaking barriers and creating opportunities for future generations. Join us in celebrating Carmilita Aching and her contributions to the industry! #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenInFinance #QuadA #FinancialLeadership

Looking to connect, grow, and explore new career opportunities in wealth management? Join Quad-A and J.P. Morgan Wealth Management for an exclusive networking event designed to bring together top Black financial advisors and industry leaders. ?? Secure your spot today: https://lnkd.in/eGnrmSKE ?? What to Expect: ? Meaningful Networking – Connect with fellow professionals and leaders in the financial industry. ? Career Insights – Learn about exciting opportunities at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management. ? Complimentary Professional Headshots – Elevate your professional brand with a high-quality photo! This is more than a networking event—it’s a chance to build relationships, gain insights, and explore a firm committed to diversity, inclusion, and professional growth. We look forward to welcoming you. #QuadA #JPMeetUp #BlackFinancialAdvisors #NetworkingEvent #CareerGrowth #WealthManagement #FinanceProfessionals