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Meet the CEFCU Investment Services Team
With a personal approach you can count on, together we can build a better financial future.
Check the background of investment professionals associated with this site on FINRA’s BrokerCheck.
Investment Professionals
Joshua Atkins
LPL Financial Advisor
Chillicothe, Grand Prairie, Northpoint, Virtual Meetings
“I strive to provide all of the tools necessary to enable a sound financial future.”
I love the feeling of being not only a family’s offensive line of support, but also a defensive line of support. Providing access to help you to – and through – retirement is a passion of mine.
I hold State of Illinois Health & Life Insurance Licenses. I am FINRA Series 7, 63, and 65 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities, and I am a Registered Representative with LPL Financial.
Professional Services: Portfolio Management; Legacy Planning; Comprehensive Financial Planning; Education Planning; Small Business Investment Management.
About Me
I am a family-oriented Christian man. My hobbies are reading books, both fiction and non-fiction. My passion is solving – and more importantly – identifying problems, to make continued success without question.
Do you have a favorite food? Nothing beats a steak medium.
Favorite movie? Les Misérables.
Favorite Holiday? Easter.
Favorite quote? “It is important to have people believe in you. With this support, what you can achieve is limitless.” – Ronnie Coleman.
Do you have a particular place you would like to visit? North Macedonia.
Favorite book? “Discourses and Selected Writings” by Epictetus.
What is your biggest accomplishment? Being born, there is no greater challenge we have in life than that of seizing life daily -- as we seized it when we entered this world.
Leah Woods FSCP®
LPL Financial Advisor
Decatur, Springfield, Metro East, Virtual Meetings
“I am passionate about helping others, especially when it comes to taking control of your finances.”
Financial responsibility can be overwhelming. I am here to help alleviate that stress, by providing members with guidance on how to prepare, navigate, and finance each major life event. Working together, we will develop a customized plan that can provide you with financial confidence.
I am FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities. I have State of Illinois Life & Health Insurance Licenses; and I am a Registered Representative of LPL Financial.
Professional Services: Financial Planning; Investment Management; Retirement Planning; 401(k) Transitions; Education Funding.
About Me
I enjoy traveling and exploring new places with my husband, Paul. We have a fur baby (cat), Felix.
Do you have a favorite food? I enjoy cooking in general and baking new recipes for friends.
What do you do in your free time? I enjoy listening to live music and spending quality time with family and friends. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, crafting, woodworking and home projects.
What do you like about helping members pursue their financial well-being? Financial literacy and knowledge are either taught, learned from experience, or sought out. I enjoy helping members to ensure that they have those educational opportunities to better themselves and feel confident in their financial plan for the future.
Andrew T Felix
LPL Financial Advisor
East Peoria, Lincoln, Morton, Virtual Meetings
“Helping you reach your financial goals is my number one priority.”
Working together, I will help you develop a plan that aligns with your specific needs, comfort level, and timeline.
In addition to being FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities, I hold a State of Illinois license for Life & Health Insurance with Long-Term Care Insurance certification. As a former administrator at Washington Christian Village, a skilled nursing home and retirement village, for nearly 20 years, I have an understanding of the emotional and financial consequences that take place when long-term care is needed.
Professional Services: Education Funding; General Investment Management; Retirement Planning; Long-Term Care Insurance; Financial and Insurance Planning; Life Insurance Planning.
About Me
I have a wonderful wife of 43 years, two children and eight grandchildren who bring incredible joy to my life. In my spare time, I enjoy woodworking, camping, and raising finches. I help lead worship at our church and have served as an elder for many years.
What is your favorite food? Ice cream.
Favorite quote? “You are never taller than when you are on your knees.” – Tom Ewald, a college professor at Lincoln Christian University.
Favorite movie? Sports movies depending on the season. Hoosiers for basketball, Remember the Titans for football, and Field of Dreams for baseball.
Favorite book? “Fearless: The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown” by Eric Blehm.
Favorite Holiday? Christmas.
Place you would like to visit? Grand Canyon.
What motivates you? I really enjoy helping people understand how their money can work for them over the long-term and then seeing the results of patient investing.
Carl R Gomez
LPL Financial Advisor
Downtown Peoria, Peoria Airport, Sheridan Village, Virtual Meetings
“Whether you’re just getting started, already have a plan underway, or are in retirement, I can provide financial guidance no matter what life stage you’re in.”
With many years of financial consultative experience, I will customize investment strategies that fit your specific goals and circumstances.
I am FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities, and I hold a State of Illinois license for Life & Health Insurance. I have access to a broad range of investments, including mutual funds, annuities, stocks and bonds.
Professional Services: Financial Planning; Education Planning; 401(k) Planning; Retirement Planning.
About Me
Born in San Francisco in the early 60s, I moved to Peoria in January 2011. I am a family-first guy who also enjoys music, sports, and travel. If my wife and I are not going to see live music, we are planning our next outing to do so. I also enjoy spending as much time as we can with our grandson.
Favorite food? Seafood.
Favorite quote? “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain.
Favorite book? “Sanibel Flats” by Randy Wayne White.
Favorite Holiday? The Fourth of July.
Favorite movie? Field of Dreams.
Place you would like to visit? An extended European vacation.
What’s on your bucket list? To visit as many of our National Parks as possible.
What is your biggest accomplishment? Meeting my wife.
What motivates you? The well-being of my family.
What do you like about helping members pursue their financial well-being? I find great satisfaction in helping members navigate the options available to work toward their financial goals.
Chris L Jackson
LPL Financial Advisor
Chillicothe, Grand Prairie, Northpoint, Virtual Meetings
“As a valued partner with CEFCU Investment Services, I have a strong history of working with Credit Union members, their family, and their friends.”
Working together, I’ll help you make sound financial decisions consistent with your comfort level, investment timeline, and goals.
I am FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities. I hold State of Illinois Life & Health Insurance Licenses and am a Registered Representative of LPL Financial.
Professional Services: Comprehensive Financial Guidance; Insurance Planning; 401(k) Planning; Retirement Planning; Education Planning.
About Me
With nearly 17 years located at CEFCU, my strongest motivation has been always helping members. Investing can be overwhelming, so I really try to discuss the products and services available to them in a way that they can understand.
What is your personal mission statement? My mission is to provide the guidance our members need to pursue their financial goals and service that exceeds their expectations.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime? I would say my favorite hobbies are golfing, fishing, and St. Louis Cardinal baseball.
What do you like about helping members pursue their financial well-being? I think what I like most is the personal relationships I’ve been able to build over the years.
Favorite food? I like steaks on the grill.
Favorite movie? Any good documentary.
What is your dream retirement? My dream retirement is traveling and playing golf.
What's on your bucket list? St. Andrews in Scotland.
Saul Juarez
LPL Financial Advisor
San Jose & Virtual Meetings
“As your life changes, so do your financial needs, and I’ll be here for you at every stage of your life.”
I have access to a wide variety of investment and insurance products. Our strategy is designed to help you build, preserve, use, and transfer assets in more advantageous ways.
I am FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities. I hold State of California Life and Health Insurance Licenses and am a Registered Representative of LPL Financial.
Saul Fernandez Juarez / California / 670 Lincoln Ave., San Jose, CA 95126-3704 / CA Insurance Lic. #OH86317.
Professional Services: Insurance Planning; 401(k) Planning; Retirement Planning; Education Planning.
About Me
My wife and I are empty nesters. Our daughter is a sales executive living in Arizona. We enjoy gardening, barbecuing, and serving in a Christian ministry.
What is your personal mission statement? My mission is to educate and empower myself to serve others. I want to be an asset to those around me and provide help in time of need.
What motivates you? I’m motivated by my faith and my family. My faith because God has done so much for me. My family because of the love we share, and we have shared so many precious moments.
What do you like about helping members pursue their financial well-being? I enjoy the interaction process and getting to know CEFCU members’ needs. I enjoy building their financial plan and strategy to help them pursue their goals.
Favorite food? Love Italian food.
Favorite quote? “The greatest among you will be your servant.” – Matthew 23:11.
Favorite movie? My Cousin Vinny.
Favorite book? Bible.
Favorite Holiday? Christmas.
Something on your bucket list? European tour.
Place you would like to visit? Italy.
Biggest accomplishment? Raising my daughter who has made me very proud.
Adam Personett CFP®
LPL Financial Advisor
Eureka, Germantown Hills, Washington & Virtual Meetings
“My mission statement is to help people understand their financial situations and their opportunities; and to be a guide through the complexities of financial planning.”
Whether you’re just starting to invest or looking to plan for retirement, kids’ educations, estate planning or other goals, I will help you develop a customized plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
I have a FINRA Series 7, 63, and 65 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities. I hold a State of Illinois license for Life & Health Insurance.
Professional Services: 401(k) Planning; Retirement Planning, Education Funding, Investment Management; Insurance Planning
About Me
I am a native of Central Illinois; born and raised in Peoria, Illinois and graduated from Eureka College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Certificate of Financial Planning from Northwestern University. I’m married with two small sons.
Do you have a favorite sport? I am a huge Chicago Bears fan.
What is one of your accomplishments? I am proud to say I served our country in the United States Army for several years.
What do you do in your spare time? I volunteer for Easterseals of Central Illinois, and am an active member of the Germantown Hills Chamber of Commerce.
What motivates you? Every person is different, so I find it rewarding coming up with strategies for every unique situation. I enjoy portfolio construction and advising on financial concerns in an ever-changing world.
Roger Phillis
LPL Financial Advisor
Bloomington, Normal & Virtual Meetings
“Regardless of where you are in life, I have the tools, financial products, and practical life experience to develop the right investment strategy for you.”
Helping others is a passion of mine, and I really want to help you achieve your financial goals. We can start small and grow or evaluate and build on any financial plans you have.
I am FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities. I am a Registered Representative of LPL Financial.
Professional Services: Financial Planning; Investment Management; Retirement Planning; 401(k) Transitions; Education Funding.
About Me
My wife and I have been married for more than 42 years. We have three children and nine grandchildren (with a 10th on the way).
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime? I enjoy music and playing drums in a band with some of my coworkers.
What motivates you? I have a passion for helping people.
Do you have any pets? We have three dogs.
What do you like about helping members pursue their financial well-being? I enjoy helping others determine strategies that seek to grow and preserve their hard-earned dollars.
Hank Skaggs
LPL Financial Advisor
Canton & Pekin
“I will guide you in making sound financial decisions that align with your specific needs, comfort level, experience, and time horizon.”
Planning for retirement can be extremely complicated. I work with people to help make it simple.
I am FINRA Series 7 and 66 registered with LPL Financial to sell Securities. I hold State of Illinois Life and Health Insurance Licenses and I am a Registered Representative of LPL Financial.
Professional Services: Financial Planning; Portfolio Management; Retirement Income Planning; Insurance Planning; Education Funding.
About Me
My family enjoys exploring our local parks with our dog.
What is your personal mission statement? I work with members to pursue their personal financial goals while putting their needs first. We will work together on a regular agreed upon amount each year as well as when there are life changes.
What motivates you and why? I want to help members make smart financial decisions so that they can live the life that they want.
What do you like about helping members pursue their financial well-being? I like helping members work toward their financial well-being as it allows them to focus on other important aspects of their lives.
Favorite song? “Faster Horses” by Tom T. Hall.
Favorite food? Texas-style beef brisket.
Hobbies/outside of work? I enjoy exploring local parks with my wife Sara, our new daughter, and our dog Murphy.
Favorite book? Non-Fiction: “The Laws of Wealth" by Dr. Daniel Crosby
Fiction> “Hemingway on Hunting”- Ernest Hemingway.
Service Assistants
Frank Francis
Sales Assistant
“I will do everything in my power to give our clients the best experience possible.”
In my current role, I schedule appointments and service client accounts. I enjoy being able to help our clients prepare for their future.
About Me
My hobbies and passions include sports, sports, and more sports.
What motivates you? Family. I am trying to create the best life for them.
Kyla Newell
Sales Assistant
“What my future has in store is what keeps me going each day, and it is helping people prepare for their futures.”
About Me
I am a Mom of one and we have one four-legged family member as well.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime? I have a fondness for music, gardening, and exploring.
Do you have a particular place you would like to visit? I am Italian, so a lengthy trip to Italy has always been a dream of mine.
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. CEFCU and CEFCU Financial Services are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using CEFCU Financial Services, and may also be employees of CEFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, CEFCU or CEFCU Financial Services. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:
- Not Insured by NCUA or Any
other Government Agency - Not Credit Union
Guaranteed - Not Credit Union
Deposits or Obligations - May Lose
Value
Your Credit Union (“Financial Institution”) provides referrals to financial professionals of LPL Financial LLC (“LPL”) pursuant to an agreement that allows LPL to pay the Financial Institution for these referrals. This creates an incentive for the Financial Institution to make these referrals, resulting in a conflict of interest. The Financial Institution is not a current client of LPL for advisory services. Please visit https://www.lpl.com/disclosures/is-lpl-relationship-disclosure.html for more detailed information.
The LPL Financial registered representative(s) associated with this website may discuss and/or transact business only with residents of the states in which they are properly registered or licensed. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident of any other state.