A Year in Review

By Joni Alt, CFP^®, NAPFA Chair

As an association, we grew in membership to just shy of 4,600 members. There were nine Playbook webinars, more than 20 member-run conversation circles, 12 podcasts, and over 72 articles published in the NAPFA Advisor magazine. Our open forum generated over 850 discussions and more than 100 individuals participated in the DEI Training & Certificate Program. 

I hope you were able to attend either or both of the conferences this year. The spring conference was in Fort Worth and the fall conference was in Nashville. Both provided lots of high-level educational content and the opportunity to engage with old colleagues and meet new ones.

NAPFA continues to advocate for policies that are important to our members, such as the support of the U.S. Department of Labor Proposed Retirement Security Rule. 

The NAPFA Foundation celebrated 20 years in 2024. Danielle Seurkamp spoke at the fall conference about the foundation’s impact on disabled veterans, connecting consumers with pro bono NAPFA advisors, and the College Affordability Project. Consider donating to the foundation with your time or monetary contribution.  

NAPFA recognizes a distinguished group of professionals and firms that exemplify the standards of excellence and commitment that promote Fee-Only financial planning. Please join me in congratulating the following 2024 award winners:

• Robert J. Underwood Distinguished Service Award: Janet Briaud, CFP^®
• Inspiring Leader Award: Sunit Bhalla, CFP^®
• New Professional Award: Franklin Gay, CFP^®, EA
• Special Achievement Award: Nikki Palluzzi, CAE
• Excellence in DEI Award—Solo Firm: Xena Financial Planning
• Excellence in DEI Award—Mid-sized Firm: Ballast Point Financial Planning
• Excellence in DEI Award—Large Firm: Tobias Financial Advisors
• NAPFA Foundation Pro Bono Service Award: Lisa Neira, CFP^®

As Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Please consider volunteering with NAPFA. If you are interested in finding out about volunteer opportunities, please reach out to Spencer Bone at NAPFA headquarters.

This month’s issue features a variety of articles, including one letting you in on some marketing trends for 2025. Other articles focus on thinking outside of the box with client gifting and event planning to deepen your relationships, integrating key life areas into financial planning that go beyond the traditional milestones, and trusting your gut. All this—plus more interesting articles all advisors can benefit from.