In this issue:

• President's Message
• A Bittersweet Farewell
• Upcoming Events:
• NexGen Meet-Up (1/15/2025)
• January Webinar - Economic Update (1/16/2025)
• 5th Annual Student Success Summit (2/7/2025)
• Virtual Career Fair (Week of February 24th)
• December Journal of Financial Planning

President's Message:

Reflecting on my time as President of the Financial Planning Association of Michigan (FPAM), I am thankful for our progress together. Serving in this role has been an honor, leading a passionate and dedicated community of financial professionals across our great state.

Throughout my term, I've had the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible impact our members make in the lives of individuals and families throughout Michigan. Our work as financial planners is not just about the numbers but creating opportunities, fostering financial well-being, and helping people lead more secure, fulfilling lives. 

I want to express my deepest gratitude to the incredible board members who have dedicated their time, expertise, and passion to the success of our association. The role of a board member is no small task, and I am inspired by the commitment, collaboration, and thoughtful leadership brought to the table. 

We want to thank Sandy Adams, Del Wensley, and Beth Zilka, whose board terms are ending this year. Your years of leadership have shaped the direction of our association and have had a tangible, positive impact on the financial planning profession throughout Michigan. 

A very special and heartfelt thank you to Mary Medonis for her years of dedication and hard work to the FPA of Michigan. We will miss her dearly, and we are thankful for her time training and coaching Sarah Caruana, our new chapter executive. 

I look forward to seeing all the great things we will accomplish together in the years ahead.

Happiest of holidays and cheers to a new year!

Julie

Julie E. Hall, CFP®, CFT ™, MSF 

FPA of MI President 2024

Dear Friends at the FPA of Michigan,

It is with a mix of emotions that I write this farewell message as I prepare to leave my role with the FPA of Michigan at the end of December. Since starting in 2000, this organization has been such an integral part of my life. Working with the FPA of Michigan was not only a wonderful professional opportunity but also a personal blessing—it allowed me to work from home long before it became the norm 😊 and gave me the flexibility I needed to raise my two young boys.

Over the years, I’ve gained invaluable skills, built cherished relationships, and created countless fond memories. I will always treasure the experiences I’ve shared with this incredible community.

As I step away, I am thrilled to introduce Sarah Caruana as your new Chapter Executive. I have no doubt she will bring her own expertise and energy to this role, and I know she will serve you all wonderfully.

As for me, I’m looking forward to embracing the next chapter, whatever it may hold. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead.

Thank you for making my time with the FPA of Michigan such a rewarding and joyful journey.

Warm regards,

Mary Medonis

mmedonis4@gmail.com

FPA MI | NexGen Meet-up

Wednesday, January 15th | 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm | Virtual

Looking to make new connections and boost your financial planning career? Join us for our upcoming virtual NexGen Meet-Up on January 15th. Use this event as an opportunity to connect with fellow advisors, share insights, and discuss strategies for taking your career to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to accelerate your growth, this event is for you.

Lunch & Learn Webinar

Thursday, January 16th | 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Zoom

Stay at your workstation and tune in for a virtual presentation! Join us on Thursday, January 16th, as we welcome back Martin Lavelle, Senior Business Economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago's Detroit Branch, for an insightful "Update on the U.S. and Michigan Economies."

Calling all students and career changers, join us for the Financial Planning Student Success Summit, a virtual event designed to connect aspiring financial planning students from across the country. This complimentary summit aims to foster networking and expand students' knowledge about pursuing a career in financial planning.

If you are aware of students who could benefit from this event, don't hesitate to spread the word - share this fantastic event!

FPA MI | 2025 Virtual Career Week

Monday, February 24 through Friday, February 25 | Virtual

The FPA of Michigan Career Development Committee is excited to host its 1st Annual Career Hiring Event during Virtual Career Week, running from Monday, February 24 to Friday, February 28, 2025.

What is Virtual Career Week? Our mission is twofold: to connect candidates with employment opportunities that align with their career goals and to help employers discover exceptional talent to enhance their team. As part of this event, we will provide hiring firms with access to resume books featuring candidates seeking full-time roles and internships. Participating firms will have the flexibility to schedule interviews directly with candidates during Career Week.



Whether you're an employer searching for your next standout team member or a student or career changer seeking new opportunities, click here to learn more about participating in this exciting event.

Journal of Financial Planning

The December 2024 issue of the Journal of Financial Planning is now available! Read this month's issue to get caught up on the latest trends and cutting edge research in financial planning. 



Connect With Us



FPA of Michigan

Email: info@fpami.com | Phone: 248-330-7757 | www.fpami.com