The SHJ Wealth Advisors wealth management team is comprised of multigenerational Certified Financial Planner™ professionals and financial specialists. Together, they bring the utmost expertise to help your financial plan thrive at all stages of life.
Managing Partners
Lawrence E. Howes, MBA, CFP®
Lawrence E. Howes, MBA, CFP® has dedicated his career to focusing onbecoming an expert of the U.S. and global economies. Larry invests an enormous amount of energy to transform his knowledge into actionable information for investment portfolios.
Karlton D. Childress, CFP®
Karlton D. Childress, CFP® places a significant amount of emphasis on looking at the big picture when it comes to financial planning and investing. When clients have a good understanding at a high level, they are able to make confident decisions, worry less about finances and start enjoying life more.
Financial Advisors
Our team of Certified Financial Planner™ professionals strives to be asset management and financial planning experts. They work together to build financial plans and investment strategies for our clients.
Melissa McGowan, CFP®
Shareholder
Melissa McGowan, CFP® believes financial planning and investing should be understandable. She works diligently to guide clients to sound financial decisions over the course of their life so they can feel confident and secure in their finances. Melissa thrives when working on clients’ financial plans and enjoys helping clients to celebrate every time one of their goals is achieved. She empowers divorced individuals to rebuild their lives by creating tailored plans for a brighter future.
Brad Conover, CFP®
Shareholder
Brad Conover, CFP® is passionate about helping people see a clear picture of their financial future and doing everything possible to help them achieve their goals. Regardless of a client's age or stage of life, Brad uses his wealth management experience to guide clients to grow their wealth through sound financial planning and investment management.
Cory Hassenstab, CFP®
Cory Hassenstab, CFP® enjoys helping people work toward a good life now and for the rest of their lives. His comprehensive, goals-centered approach to financial planning focuses on each client’s unique needs and circumstances. Cory guides clients through critical financial decisions with confidence backed by a detailed financial plan.
Bryon Geman, CFP®
Bryon Geman, CFP® is dedicated to transforming his clients' future visions into reality with expertly crafted financial planning. He specializes in simplifying complex financial concepts for SHJ’s clients, ensuring they feel confident and informed.
Sara Kohr, CFP®
Sara Kohr, CFP®, is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals and encouraging them to enjoy the journey along the way. With a detailed and comprehensive approach to financial planning and investment management, she excels in making clients feel educated and confident about their finances.
Nicole Baranda, CFP®
Nicole Baranda, CFP® brings clarity and confidence to her clients’ financial lives through personalized, goal-oriented planning. At SHJ Wealth Advisors, she takes pride in building lasting relationships with individuals and families, guiding them through the complexities of wealth management with empathy, precision, and a client-first mindset.
SHJ Specialists
Our group of financial specialists are tactical experts within the organization, serving unique roles that help streamline the entire wealth management process for all of our clients.
Kerry Poorman
Director of Operations
Kerry Poorman thrives on the complexity of trading and technology. She is constantly on the lookout for ways to improve processes while also ensuring databases and programs are accurate and operating well.
Jessica Sare
Director of Client Relations
Jessica Sare is a continual problem-solver who thrives on implementing process improvements. Jess loves working alongside clients and helping to create solutions to the challenges they face.
Stephanie Shellenberger
Client Service Specialist
Stephanie Shellenberger understands the ins and outs of essential financial forms and documents and is diligent about simplifying processes for clients.
Amanda Harris
Client Service Specialist
Amanda Harris is dedicated to providing outstanding client service while getting to know clients. She is resolute about finding answers to questions and responding to requests efficiently and accurately.
Eileen M. Sharkey, CFP®
Eileen M. Sharkey, CFP®, a Co-founder of SHJ Wealth Advisors, retired on December 31, 2020. Eileen was a pioneer in the industry and remained a dear friend of the firm until her passing on April 19, 2021. Eileen will be truly missed but never forgotten as her wisdom, kindness, inspiration, and impact will live on as we look forward to carrying on her legacy.
Joel B. Javer, CLU, CFP®
Joel B. Javer, CLU, CFP®, a Co-Founder of SHJ Wealth Advisors, retired in October of 2025. Joel has been a guiding contributor — not only in building the firm but in shaping the values and client-focused approach that defines who we are today. His impact will be felt for a long time to come, and we are incredibly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.
