Our Story and Services

Most wealth management teams talk about trust. We prove it.
Most talk about planning. We execute it.
Most give you one perspective. We give you a roundtable.

Our clients don't settle for anything less than excellence. And neither do we.
We're here to help protect what you've built — and carry it forward.
Year after year. Generation to generation.

Many Minds. One Mission.
The Fortis Wealth Management Group is more than a team — it's a deep collaboration of senior portfolio managers, highly credentialed wealth strategists, and even a PhD economist. From Certified Financial Planners® and Certified Investment Management Analysts (CIMA®) to an Alternative Investments Director, Insurance Planning Director, and Family Wealth Advisors (designation held by just 6% of MS advisors nationwide), the depth of our bench of wealth management talent simply can't be overstated.

The result? Every plan, every investment, every decision is dissected, debated, and refined by top industry minds. This means that your financial strategies and tax mitigation solutions are robust, nuanced, and designed to help withstand the test of time, for generations to come.

A Track Record of Excellence

  • Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors 2023, 2025 (Michael Beers)
  • Barron's Top Advisor Rankings in Columbus 2024 (Michael Beers)
  • Forbes America's Top Wealth Management Teams High Net Worth 2023
  • Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams 2023-2024
  • NAPA's Top Defined Contribution Advisor Teams 2022, 2024

Boutique Service, Big Impact
With us, you're not just another client; you're part of a relationship-driven team that knows, remembers, and anticipates your needs. Clients often tell us our team feels like family — because we are.

Your Next Chapter Starts Here
For a second opinion about your current investments, or to talk about your goals, please call us at (614) 269-3401.

Awards Disclosures:
Source: Barron's (Awarded March 2025). Data compiled by Baron's based for the period October 2023–Sept 2024. https://www.morganstanley.com/what-we-do/wealth-management/barrons-top-1200-financial-advisors-2025
Source: Barron's 2024 Top Advisor Rankings by State. Source: Barron's.com (Awarded Sept 2024) Data compiled by Barron's based on time period from Sept 2023 - Sept 2024
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Nov 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/22-3/31/23.
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023 and 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award
Source: NAPA's Top DC Advisor Teams (NAPA), napa-net.org March 2023. Data compiled by NAPA based on self-reported assets under advisement as of Dec 31, 2022

Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
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    Case Study 1: Unfortunately, grief and financial responsibility often arrive together.

    When a financial decision-maker passes, a spouse is left to handle everything. And when both parents pass, adult children are suddenly faced with decisions that carry not only financial consequences but also emotional ones: settling estates, managing businesses, safeguarding legacies, and navigating family dynamics.

    In these moments, our work extends far beyond paperwork. It's about balancing estate logistics with empathy, preserving what matters most while navigating complex layers of trusts, investments, and charitable intentions. The complexity doesn't end with one generation either — often, decisions made in the first months after a loss ripple outward for decades. And over time, our role shifts from guiding children through transition, to preparing grandchildren for education and inheritance.

    In other words, what begins as immediate support during a painful transition becomes, over generations, the quiet promise we keep from day one: to care your family. Always.

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    Case Study 2: Retirement abroad often begins as a dream…

    A villa by the sea, time with family, the freedom to finally live life on your own terms. But turning that dream into reality can reveal just how many threads need to be pulled together: residency requirements, cross-border taxes, the transition of family businesses, inheritance structures, even the day-to-day logistics of moving wealth across currencies.

    We've guided clients and their families through this maze before —coordinating estate and gifting strategies, business succession, lifestyle funding, and international wealth management. Put simply, we know what it takes to turn a tangle of red tape and competing priorities into a seamless plan for the future. And for our clients, the outcome is more than efficiency. It's the ability to start their next chapter, knowing their family and employees are cared for.

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    Case Study 3: When love and protection must also be planning and preparation.

    When a child has special needs, planning for their future can feel overwhelming for parents. But now, imagine a parent suddenly left to navigate this future alone, after suffering the loss of a spouse. Nights are long, the questions keep coming: How will I make sure essential benefits aren't lost? How can I fund care decades from now? Who will carry this responsibility when I'm no longer here?

    At The Fortis Wealth Management Group, we are a guiding hand for life's every turn. And we step up when families need it most. In a situation like this, that might mean coordinating with attorneys, trustees, and caregivers; establishing a special needs trust; funding long-term care; and designing a plan for future family stewards. Whatever the path forward requires, what we offer a parent isn't just answers. It's clarity and comfort of knowing that a whole team is here for your child and their future.

We work with individuals, families, and institutions whose wealth carries weight — for families, communities, and legacies. For them, every decision has ripple effects, every choice shapes the future. They don't just want guidance; they want a team that sees the full horizon, spots what others might miss, and orchestrates every element of their financial world with precision and care. Here are the types of questions we help them answer:

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    Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
    • How can I strategically grow my company while protecting personal wealth?
    • What structures will ensure a smooth succession or exit, preserving both business and family legacy?
    • How do I manage concentrated ownership and equity across multiple ventures?
    • How can I align executive compensation, retirement programs, and philanthropic goals with long-term strategy?
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    Executives & Professionals
    • How can I optimize my compensation and equity awards without undue risk?
    • What strategies secure my lifestyle today while preparing for tomorrow?
    • How do I protect wealth through career transitions or unexpected events?
    • How can I ensure my estate, charitable giving, and legacy plans reflect my values and ambitions?
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    Multigenerational Families
    • How do we preserve, grow, and pass on wealth across generations without creating conflict?
    • What's the best way to educate and prepare heirs for financial responsibility?
    • How can family offices, trusts, and philanthropic initiatives work together seamlessly?
    • How do we protect legacy while maintaining flexibility for changing family needs?
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    Institutional & Endowment Clients
    • How can we achieve long-term growth while meeting mission-driven objectives?
    • What strategies balance risk, liquidity, and income requirements?
    • How do we integrate complex investment policies with governance and oversight?
    • How can we preserve capital and impact for decades to come?

Awards & Designations

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    Barron's 2025 Top 1,200 Financial Advisors
    Michael Beers, Managing Director and Financial Advisor at the Fortis Wealth Management Group, was honored as 2025 Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors in Columbus, Ohio.

    [Source: Barron's (Awarded March 2025). Data compiled by Baron's based for the period October 2023–Sept 2024. https://www.morganstanley.com/what-we-do/wealth-management/barrons-top-1200-financial-advisors-2025]
    Click to Read More
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    Barron's 2024 Top Advisor Rankings in Columbus
    Michael Beers, Managing Director and Financial Advisor at the Fortis Wealth Management Group, was honored as #27 to Barron's 2024 Top Advisor Rankings in Columbus.

    [Source: Barron's 2024 Top Advisor Rankings by State. Source: Barron's.com (Awarded Sept 2024) Data compiled by Barron's based on time period from Sept 2023 - Sept 2024.]
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    Barron's 2024 Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams
    The Fortis Wealth Management Group has been named #196 to Barron's 2024 Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams.

    [Source: Barron's 2024 Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams. ​Source: Barron's.com (Awarded April 2024) Data compiled by Barron's based on time period from March 2023 - March 2024.]
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    Forbes 2023 America's Top Wealth Management Teams High Net Worth
    The Fortis Wealth Management Group has been named to
    Forbes America’s Top Wealth Management Teams High Net Worth, Top 100.

    [Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Nov 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/22-3/31/23.]
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    2023-2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams #5
    The Fortis Wealth Management Group has been named #5 Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams in Ohio for two consecutive years.

    [Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023 and 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.]
    Click to Read More
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    Barron's 2023 Top 1,200 Financial Advisors
    Michael Beers, Managing Director and Financial Advisor at the Fortis Wealth Management Group, was honored as 2023 Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors in Columbus, Ohio.

    [Source: Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State​Source: Barron's.com (Awarded Mar 2023) Data compiled by Barron's based on time period from Sept 2021 - Sept 2022.]
    Click to Read More
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    NAPA's 2022 Top DC Advisor Teams
    The Fortis Wealth Management Group has been named to the National Association of Plan Advisors’ list of the nation’s top defined contribution (DC) Advisor Teams with Assets under Advisement over $100 Million.

    [Source: NAPA’s Top DC Advisor Teams (NAPA), napa-net.org March 2023. Data compiled by NAPA based on self-reported assets under advisement as of Dec 31, 2022.]
    Click to Read More
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    CFP® - Certified Financial Planner™
    The Certified Financial Planner™ designation is awarded to candidates who have demonstrated extensive knowledge in the areas of Education, Investment, Tax, Retirement, Estate and Insurance planning strategies. CFP® professionals must accrue several years of experience related to delivering financial planning services to clients and pass a comprehensive exam before calling themselves a CFP® Professional and are held to strict ethical standards to ensure financial planning recommendations are in the best interest of their clients.
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    Certified Investment Management Analysts (CIMA®)
    As the premier designation in the industry, the CIMA® is an intense educational experience focusing on asset allocation, manager search and selection, investment policy and performance measurement.
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    Insurance Planning Director
    The Insurance Planning Specialist designation was developed for Financial Advisors who have significantly incorporated insurance planning into their practice.
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    Family Wealth Advisor
    The Family Wealth Director designation within Morgan Stanley is awarded to a highly trained group of select Financial Advisors serving an elite clientele facing more complex wealth management challenges. Family Wealth Directors within Morgan Stanly have extensive experience, dedicated training and access to specialized resources to address planning for ultra-high net worth families in the areas of wealth transfer, business succession planning, asset preservation strategies, family governance and wealth education.
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    Alternative Investments Director
    The Alternative Investments Director designation acknowledges said advisors as specialists to provide investment advice across Alternative Investments.

Building wealth is one thing. Preserving it across generations is another entirely. Each generation faces new challenges: changing businesses, evolving tax laws, shifting family dynamics, and life's inevitable transitions.

Excellence Without Compromise
Our team includes two Family Wealth Directors — a distinction held by just 6% of Morgan Stanley advisors nationwide. Backed by the full breadth of Morgan Stanley's Family Office Resources, that means we have the firsthand experience, intellectual capital, and institutional-caliber capabilities to deliver coordinated, sophisticated solutions that preserve and grow wealth across generations.

Bridging Generations
We understand that different generations often have distinct perspectives and priorities. Our multigenerational team acts as a bridge, facilitating clear, thoughtful communication across family members so everyone stays aligned. This approach helps prevent misunderstandings, ensures shared decision-making, and keeps the family's vision intact.

Continuity You Can Count On
Families face life's transitions at unexpected moments. That's why our team approach matters: no single advisor carries the burden alone, and our team is here for the long haul. You'll never be left navigating critical decisions without experienced guidance —whether it's succession planning, inheritance, or multigenerational investments.

WORKPLACE FINANCIAL BENEFITS WITH MORGAN STANLEY AT WORK

Our mission is to help your company elevate your workplace financial benefits—helping you to attract and retain top talent. Our end-to-end solutions support your company and employees at any stage of growth through a powerful combination of modern technology, insightful guidance, and dedicated service.

    Equity Solutions

    Equity ownership is a powerful motivator. Streamline equity management through our leading-edge technology and provide global audit-ready reporting and insights, alongside customizable participant experiences to engage and educate your employees on how to make the most of their benefits. Our global solutions support private and public companies at any stage of growth.

    • Equity Administration and Financial Reporting
    • Liquidity Events
    • 409A Valuation Services and Cap Table Management

    Learn more
    Retirement

    For your employees, retirement is more than a date in the future—it's a milestone that takes time, hard work, and the right tools. Through our consultative process, we strive to assist with the management of your fiduciary responsibilities and risk, simplify plan management, and help you improve retirement readiness for your employees.

    • Defined Contribution Consulting
    • Solutions-Oriented Plans
    • Fiduciary Investment Oversight

    Learn more
    Deferred Compensation

    Access a range of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation plan services or pick the ones that best fit your needs. We provide recordkeeping and plan design, portfolio construction services, and plan education for your executive talent. We help you determine the appropriate plan design and inform a funding strategy through a needs-based assessment and consultative approach.

    Services include:

    • Recordkeeping and Plan Design
    • Portfolio Construction
    • Wealth Management Services
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    Executive Services

    Our dedicated team provides concierge-level support for your executives' equity compensation plans, from 10b5-1 trading plans to form filing related to Rule 144 transactions, to access to wealth management and tax-optimization strategies, so helping them navigate their complex financial needs with greater confidence and certainty:

    • Equity Compensation Services
    • Equity Award Analysis
    • Specialized Solutions
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    Saving and Giving

    Saving and Giving benefits can make a real difference in your employees' lives as they can support the things that matter most to them—like saving for education and repaying student loans. Show that you are committed to your employees' priorities with leading-edge solutions that help them chart a path toward financial well-being.

    • College Savings
    • Student Loan Repayment and Refinancing
    • Charitable Giving
    Learn more
    Financial Wellness

    We offer Financial Wellness with every solution we provide. Through a powerful combination of education, digital tools and guidance, Financial Wellness is designed to address the unique needs of your employees and empower their financial journey at every stage. Give your employees the confidence to take charge of their finances.

    • Financial Education
    • Digital Tools
    • Financial Guidance

    Learn more

Location

4449 Easton Way
Suite 300
Columbus, OH 43219
US
Direct:
(614) 269-3401(614) 269-3401
Fax:
(614) 867-9292(614) 867-9292
221 East 4th St
Atrium Two 22
Cincinnati, OH 45202
US
Direct:
(614) 269-3401(614) 269-3401
545 Metro Place South
Suite 300
Dublin, OH 43017
US
Direct:
(614) 798-3100(614) 798-3100

Meet The Fortis Wealth Management Group

About Lewis Assaley

Lewis A. Assaley, CIMA®, is a Financial Advisor, Senior Institutional Consultant and Senior Vice president in Morgan Stanley’s downtown Cincinnati office. Lew’s responsibilities include providing wealth management services to high net worth clients throughout the United States. Lew’s experience includes helping clients with their financial goal setting, review investment policies, asset allocation, investment manager selection and the monitoring of their portfolios. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Lew was a Senior Vice President-Investments and Senior Investment Management Consultant at Prudential Securities where he began his financial services career over thirty-five years ago. In 2006, Lew was co-chair of Morgan Stanley’s Consultant’s University held at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. Lew earned a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Cincinnati. He has taught both undergraduate and graduate students at the Thomas More College, Miami University and the University of Cincinnati. Lew is a periodic lecturer and commentator on the stock market and current economic conditions. Away from the office, Lew and his wife Pat are involved in the philanthropic efforts of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
Securities Agent: NH, FL, TX, MT, IL, DE, CA, AL, OK, NE, CO, SC, OR, ME, MA, LA, IN, HI, TN, NJ, MS, WV, MO, MN, CT, WY, WI, NC, MD, AZ, VA, OH, NM, AR, WA, UT, PA, MI, IA, GA, DC, NY, NV, KY, KS; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1796896

About Michael Beers

As the founder of The Fortis Group, Michael envisioned a financial advisory team that placed clients’ needs at the forefront of the practice. His approach is centered on obtaining and understanding his clients’ goals and objectives before anything else. He is a steadfast advocate on the importance of “process over product.” A talented portfolio manager, Michael has helped his clients navigate through markets with incredible resolve and efficiency. His 20 years of industry experience coupled with the strength of his team make Michael an incredible resource in the often-complicated financial lives of his clients.

Michael joined Morgan Stanley in 1999. He has particular expertise in providing solutions for business clients in need of corporate retirement plan solutions (such as 401(k)s, 403(b)s, Multiple Employer Plans, Frozen Defined Benefit Plans, and strategies for highly compensated employees). So that he can remain a knowledgeable resource for clients, Michael actively pursues specialized continuing education opportunities. His professional certifications include Certified Investment Management Analyst® designation (CIMA®), Chartered Retirement Plan Specialist designation (CRPS®), and Certified 401(k) Professional designation (C(k)P®). Michael has a bachelor’s degree in business from Kent State University.

Michael and his team support organizations that promote the arts, particularly those that provide access to music education to at-risk and disadvantaged youths. He and his wife, Leyla, have three young boys, Daxton, Weston and Dalton. An avid outdoorsman, Michael is involved with various environmental groups and actively supports causes for wildlife conservation. He enjoys fly fishing, sporting clays and archery, as well as hiking with his family. He is passionate about music, plays guitar and mandolin, and enjoys reading in his spare time.
Securities Agent: OH, AL, TX, TN, MI, WY, PA, NV, MA, HI, FL, OR, OK, NM, MS, WA, DE, CA, WV, UT, MT, MO, MN, CT, IA, CO, SC, NY, NJ, GA, VA, LA, KY, KS, IN, IL, AZ, NE, ME, DC, WI, NH, NC, MD, AR; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1408705

About Howard Burnett

Howard is experienced in helping the individual-investor and small business-owner with retirement planning and strategizing to help meet other important financial objectives. He focuses on building portfolios tailored to his clients’ specific requirements. His nearly 50 years in the financial industry has provided him with extensive knowledge on how to effectively position client portfolios through both high and low markets.

Through his years as a financial advisor, Howard has served as a branch coordinator for trading in many complicated financial instruments such as options, insurance, and annuities. He is a member of the team’s investment committee and has attained the firm’s Financial Planning Specialist designation. He has been registered with the various security agencies, insurance companies, and commodity agencies for almost 50 years and recently received his NMLS license. Howard has a B.S. in Business Administration from The Ohio State University and a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of Oklahoma.

Howard and his wife of close to 50 years, Ellen Berliner Burnett, have two adult children and five grandchildren. Through the years, he has served as president, executive board member, and board member for many local not-for-profit organizations. Out of the office, he enjoys playing pickleball and cheering for the Oklahoma City Thunder. He is a season ticketholder of both Ohio State football and basketball. He and his wife travel frequently. Howard recently relocated his office to Houston, Texas, and will continue to maintain his affiliation with The Fortis Wealth Management Group.
Securities Agent: AL, UT, OH, LA, VA, SC, NH, NC, MD, FL, NV, MI, HI, GA, WI, WA, NM, CT, OK, CO, TX, MT, MN, ME, KY, DE, CA, AR, TN, MS, MO, KS, PA, OR, MA, IN, DC, AZ, WY, WV, NY, NJ, NE, IL, IA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1398798
CA Insurance License #: 0G15854

About John Carnes

John focuses his talents consulting to the investment needs of high net worth families and institutional investors. John follows a creative yet disciplined process to help solve the complex needs common to sophisticated investors. This includes the use of alternative investments and integrating other advanced planning techniques for the development of a prudent investment solutions and portfolio design.

As a three-time alumnus of the University of Kentucky, John expanded his learning by earning a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering in 1994 and 1998, and a Master of Business of Administration in 2006. After a 12-year career as a Civil Engineer, John recognized his passion for helping individuals and institutions make sound financial decisions. Every client's situation is different which allows for formulating customized solutions to help them reach their goals.

John joined Morgan Stanley in 2006 and in 2011 he earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM certification to increase his knowledge base in area of financial planning which includes - retirement, estate planning strategies, education and investments.

John is a former board member of the Malia’s CORD foundation and former Finance & Investment Committee member of the Cincinnati Chapter of the American Red Cross. He is also a former board member and investment committee member of the Northern Kentucky University Foundation. In his spare time, John enjoys to run, golf, the outdoors, and spend time with his family. John and his wife Kathleen have 3 children and reside in Edgewood, KY.
Securities Agent: KY, AZ, UT, MT, MO, MN, NM, NJ, MA, GA, CO, MS, LA, FL, MD, IL, AR, AL, NV, MI, OH, NY, VA, SC, PA, NH, NC, DC, WY, OR, OK, KS, IN, HI, WI, WA, NE, IA, CT, WV, TX, TN, ME, DE, CA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1451599
CA Insurance License #: NMLS#: 1451599
AR Insurance License #: NMLS#: 1451599

About Jon Cleary

As a veteran of the financial services industry since 2002, Jon draws on his background to help clients plan for and achieve their financial goals. As a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, Jon emphasizes the difference between financial planning (which addresses the time leading up to retirement), and retirement income planning (which addresses the years of life where sources of income can be less certain). Jon has extensive years of experience implementing income and cash flow solutions along with legacy and long term care (LTC) needs.

Similar to his work with individuals, Jon brings a collaborative approach to business owners and the servicing of their corporate retirement plans. In working with plan sponsors of 401(k)s and other qualified plans, Jon stresses the importance of focusing on the financial health of a company’s employees. While there are many complicated moving parts of a retirement plan, educating participants is something Jon is passionate about to help ensure their chances of success in retirement.

Jon graduated with a degree in economics from Otterbein University, where he also played baseball. Upon graduating, Jon continued working at Fifth Third Bank and Fifth Third Securities, where he cultivated his skills in lending, cash flow and investment management. Jon is a member of the Westerville Sunrise Rotary where he serves on the club’s foundation investment committee. He is a member of the Blendon Masonic Lodge. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities, attending sporting events, and spending time with his family at their farm in Hocking Hills. He currently resides in Westerville, OH with his wife, Kim, two children and two French bulldogs.
Securities Agent: AL, VA, OR, IN, OK, NC, MA, IA, GA, FL, CO, HI, MI, WV, WI, SC, WY, UT, OH, NY, NM, NH, MS, MN, PA, NJ, MT, KS, CA, TX, NV, MO, MD, DE, NE, ME, LA, DC, CT, WA, TN, KY, IL, AZ, AR; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
CA Insurance License #: 0K72072

About Tony Penzone

Tony’s focus on the team is to manage his clients’ investment portfolios so that they may see their wealth and cash flow potentially grow over the long term. He focuses on asset management and developing portfolio strategies for clients, with a focus on individual security selection and sophisticated income-generation strategies.

Prior to coming to Morgan Stanley, Tony was a Senior Vice President at Merrill Lynch for more than 40 years. He has a B.S.B.A. degree from The Ohio State University.

A Columbus native, Tony lives in Powell, Ohio, with his wife, Rebecca. His charitable involvement includes work with Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Outside the office, he enjoys reading, traveling, fine dining, physical fitness activities, gardening, and bird watching.
Securities Agent: MN, IA, CA, PA, OH, MT, DE, MS, MO, KY, IL, AZ, TN, MA, DC, CO, WV, OR, ME, WI, KS, WA, VA, MD, LA, CT, AR, NY, NH, MI, IN, FL, AL, WY, SC, OK, NV, NM, NE, NJ, NC, GA, UT, TX; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

About Peter Risch

With over 25 years of wealth management experience, Peter takes great pride in becoming a trusted advisor to the successful individuals and families with which he works. He has a profound understanding of the complexities that exist in the presence of significant wealth, which he manages through his keen intellect and ability to be creative and resourceful. Pete knows the importance of utilizing tax-efficient strategies within portfolios and is well-versed in Morgan Stanley’s many alternative investment offerings. He has extensive experience with estate planning strategies, which includes effectively utilizing various trust strategies and helping them navigate the often-complicated financial and emotional characteristics of intergenerational wealth transfers.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2014, Pete worked at J.P. Morgan for 23 years, most recently as a leader of the Private Bank in the Columbus office. He has attained the Morgan Stanley designation of Family Wealth Advisor, which is awarded to advisors who show significant knowledge in the areas of family wealth management and Morgan Stanley’s premier lifestyle service offerings. Peter received his bachelor’s degree in Business from Miami University.

A lifelong native of Central Ohio, Peter is a resident of New Albany with his wife, Jill, and two daughters. He and his family actively support the community through their involvement with various charitable organizations. For five years, Pete was a coach with Handshake America, an organization focused on coaching student athletes for success in life. In 2020, he was named Coach of the Year. Currently, he serves as an ambassador for the group. An avid cyclist, Peter supports Pelotonia for cancer research and Ride 2 Recovery for our veterans. He and his daughter enjoy playing polo and often plan and host charity polo matches. He is a member of the U.S. Polo Association, Play Polo Club and The Cycling Club. Pete and his family enjoy attending the Central College Presbyterian Church.

Disclaimer:
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third‐party corporate trustee.
Securities Agent: OR, AZ, UT, NJ, MD, TX, SC, NV, MO, IA, GA, WY, OH, HI, TN, NY, NM, NH, NC, MS, IN, AL, WA, OK, NE, IL, AR, CO, MI, MA, WV, WI, VA, LA, KS, CA, PA, ME, CT, MT, MN, KY, FL, DE, DC; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 837388

About Matthew Broderick Selker

As a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley, Matthew understands the importance of shaping relationships that reflect clients’ needs, preferences and aspirations. Whether they’re seeking to accumulate wealth, invest for income, foster financial independence for future generations or address the financial needs of a business, Matthew works to develop strategies that help achieve specific goals.

A native Cincinnatian, Matthew earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Xavier University. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2014, Matthew worked at Merrill Lynch and PNC Wealth Management.
Active in the community, Matthew currently sits on the Cincinnati Public Library’s Foundation Board; and, previously sat on the board of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Cincinnati Ballet, and the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music (CCM). In 2015, Matthew was named a Great Leader Under 40 by Venue Magazine for his community involvement. Matthew lives in Turpin Hills with his wife, Natalie, and their sons, Liam and Noah.
Securities Agent: CO, AR, OR, NH, WI, PA, IN, AL, WY, WV, MD, HI, UT, MA, LA, KY, DE, CA, MS, ME, WA, NM, MO, TN, SC, NC, GA, AZ, VA, MT, KS, OH, NY, NV, NJ, NE, MN, MI, IL, IA, FL, CT, TX, OK, DC; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1472979

About Jonathan Young

As a Senior Vice President at Morgan Stanley, Jonathan (who also goes by Jonny) helps his clients preserve their success and ensure their legacies through his three decades of experience in wealth management. Throughout his impressive tenure, he has enjoyed seeing many clients through the various stages of their distinguished lives; from their humble beginnings, to the growth-driven chapters of middle and late adulthood, to the transition into retirement and thereafter. Jonny is no stranger to real-life issues and he prides himself on his ability to find solutions for his clients through a profound and intentional understanding of the individual or family he is working with. His attention to detail and penchant for creating deep relationships is apparent in his ability to add value not only to his client’s financial lives, but also in working toward helping them achieve and secure the lifestyle they’ve worked so hard to obtain.

Jonathan has been helping clients reach their goals since 1989. He began his career at Lehman Brothers in San Francisco, later returning to his hometown of Columbus Ohio in 1995. Jonathan holds a number of distinctive credentials. Along with being a Portfolio Management Director, Jonathan holds a Certified Financial Planner™ designation, He is also a Morgan Stanley Family Wealth Director. Earned by just 2% of all Morgan Stanley Advisors, it is one of the firm’s most prestigious designations. Tenets of his practice include asset protection, wealth transfer strategies, and tools for philanthropic giving. Jonathan earned his B.A. in marketing from the Ohio State University, and an M.B.A. from Ohio Dominican University.

Jonathan and his wife of 24 years, Pam, have three children and live in Bexley, Ohio. Jonathan and his family are involved in numerous charitable organizations throughout the community. Outside of the office, Jonny is very active by playing basketball and golf. He is an avid reader and enjoys spending time with his family.
Securities Agent: MI, MN, WI, OK, MS, LA, FL, DC, UT, NM, NC, MT, HI, TX, IL, AZ, WY, WV, TN, PA, NE, DE, CO, NY, ME, GA, AL, OR, NV, NH, MD, SC, NJ, MA, KS, IN, CT, AR, WA, VA, OH, MO, KY, IA, CA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
CA Insurance License #: 4009677

About Kristen Ullman

As Assistant Vice President and Group Director, Kristen oversees the team’s client service department. She assists in the development and implementation of complex wealth management strategies and also administers corporate retirement plans. Kristen helps manage client appreciation events and works to ensure her team is actively involved in various volunteer efforts and charitable causes. Applying her exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, she quickly, efficiently, and accurately addresses clients’ needs.

Kristen has been a member of the team since it started and has worked at Morgan Stanley since 2001. She is a branch ambassador and is tasked with assisting others in the branch on firm initiatives. Her industry licenses include Series 7, 63, and 66, and she also holds her Ohio Life, Accident, and Health Insurance licenses.

Kristen and her husband live with their two sons in Hebron, Ohio. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time outdoors and volunteering at her children's schools and sports organizations.

About Ashley A. Hill

Ashley Hill graduated from Ohio University with her degree in Communications and has been working in the finance industry since 2006. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2019, Ashley built a career consulting with advisors on long term care and generational wealth planning as well as executive benefits. She also served as a Wealth Advisor developing financial plans and planning processes for advisors in Central and Southern Ohio. After a long career as a consultant to advisors and helping them grow a business with comprehensive financial planning strategies she took a break to care for her grandmother. During that time away from her career, she knew that she wanted to return in a capacity that would directly impact the lives of clients and find a team to join that valued financial planning as a key part of their practice. Ashley joined the Fortis Wealth Management Group in 2022.

Currently, Ashley oversees the financial planning standard of care for clients and serves as a lead financial planner on the team to ensure we are providing clients with all the solutions available to them through our advisors here at FWMG as well as throughout Morgan Stanley. She is a dog mom to a feisty five-pound Mi Ki named Rocco, and proudly known as Aunt Ashley to seven nieces and nephews and counting!

About Brian Moore

Brian Moore is a graduate of Otterbein College, Class of 2000, achieving his Bachelors of Science in Economics. Destined for a career in finance, Brian joined the industry straight out of college, due to his love of the intellectual challenge within the investment industry, plus the opportunity to work with people. Prior to joining the Fortis Wealth Management team, some of Brian’s prior experience includes working for 6-years as a member of Graystone Consulting in Columbus, Ohio where he served as an Institutional Consulting Associate. In this capacity, he managed relationships and portfolios for endowments and foundations. Prior to his time spent with Graystone, Brian worked at Nuveen Investments as a Product Development Associate from 2007-2010. He spends his time working with the Financial Advisors on the team to formulate investment strategy for implementation with clients, conducting research on markets, and investment manager strategies for inclusion in portfolios to implement the Team’s collective view on investment markets. Brian resides in Sunbury with his wife, Brooke, their twin boys Madden and Mason, and dog, Gidget. Some of his passions include reading about history and current events, as well as learning from the great investors for their timeless wisdom.

About Angela Blawut

Angela started her career at Morgan Stanley in 2015 as a Service Professional and advanced fast to the position of Section Manager in the Cash Management Department.
She joined the Fortis Wealth Management Group in in 2018 after deciding to advance her career at the branch level. Angela is now Portfolio Associate and Market Coach for the Ohio Valley Complex. When Angela isn’t helping clients, she also manages marketing for the Fortis Wealth Management Group.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Angela worked for WesBanco Bank, both in West Virginia and Ohio. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from West Virginia University and holds her Series 66 and 7 licenses. Additionally, Angela enjoys organizing volunteer activities and client events to support organizations that is aligned with the team.

Outside of the office, Angela enjoys spending time with her husband, Bryan, playing the piano, sewing, and gardening. Angela and Bryan live in Etna, Ohio with their 3 pets, Ellie, Phyllis, and Velma.

About Laura LaMarca

As a Business Development Associate, Laura is dedicated to providing exceptional client service working alongside Financial Advisor, Tony M. Penzone, as part of The Fortis Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley.

With more than 10 years of experience in the financial services industry, she has acquired a breadth of knowledge where she offers support for diverse client needs, taking great satisfaction in resolving issues, answering questions, and helping advance each client’s unique goals.

Laura bases her work in customization and anticipatory service in operations, communications, administration, financial analysis, investment trades, and event planning. She enjoys building long-term relationships with her clients and their family members.

Laura currently holds her Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. She is an honors graduate of The Ohio State University with a BSBA degree in finance from the school’s Fisher College of Business.

Laura resides in Chagrin Falls, Ohio (a suburb of Cleveland) with her husband, Nick, and son, Luca. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, nutrition and wellness, yoga/Pilates, traveling, art, decorating, and music.

About Tracy R. Patrick

Tracy is a Registered Client Service Associate of The Fortis Group at Morgan Stanley. She joined the team in January 2022 and has been a helping hand in continuing to serve clients and growing relationships. Since joining, Tracy has earned her Series 7 and 66 licenses.

Tracy received her Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Finance from Florida State University. Her extensive background in retail sales and financial education helped her create a path in Retail Banking for PNC and BB&T, where she worked her way up to managing a cluster of branches within her 16-year banking career. Tracy’s desire to help others navigate their financial circumstances and achieve their financial goals in life led her to transition becoming a Client Service Associate.

Tracy has a service mentality and loves helping with community events and volunteer work. She is an active member of St. Henry Church in Elsmere, KY. She is a lector at Mass, a leader for their weekly Bingo program (the largest fundraiser for the parish/school) and co-chairs events during the year with their PTO. Over the years, she has also volunteered and taken part in activities for the NKY Chamber of Commerce, United Way and other local organizations in the Greater Cincinnati area.

Tracy is from the West Side of Cincinnati and now resides with her husband and two boys in the Burlington, KY area.

About Tiffany Watt

Tiffany Watt is a proud graduate of Ohio Dominican University, with a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education. She worked in education for 15 years, before transitioning to the Fortis Team in 2021. Finance always intrigued Tiffany, and when she got the opportunity to join the Team, she immediately took it. Watt’s primary responsibilities involve administrative and operational tasks, as well as assisting with retirement plans. Her consistent work ethic is proof of her commitment to providing outstanding support to the team and exceptional service for our clients. A mother of three, Tiffany resides in Centerburg with her husband and children. She enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, swimming and reading.

About Skylar M. Muhlenkamp

Skylar is the Team Administrator for the Fortis Group, providing support for the team and their clients. Skylar joined Morgan Stanley in 2022 as a Service Associate for the Easton, Ohio branch providing administrative and operational support for management, Financial Advisors and clients before joining the Fortis Group in 2023.

Skylar is a graduate of Columbus State Community College with a degree in Graphic Design. In her free time, Skylar loves to travel, play sand volleyball, run, being outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

About Stephanie Polen

Stephanie is a Senior Registered Associate for The Fortis Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management’s downtown Cincinnati office. Stephanie’s responsibilities include aiding the team in developing a “Goal-Planning Track” for our clients. She actively contacts clients to collect the data the team uses in Morgan Stanley’s Goals Planning System*. This platform assists in customizing a goal-tracking plan, which will encompass aspects of a client’s unique financial portrait. Stephanie began her financial services career as a Registered Client Associate at Prudential Securities and spent several years at UBS PaineWebber. With over 30 years in the investment industry, Stephanie joined Morgan Stanley Wealth Management in 2004.

Stephanie currently holds her series 7, 63 and 66 licenses.

Stephanie and her husband, Joe, a middle/high school band director and musician, have two children. They are active supporters and participants of the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati.


*The Morgan Stanley Goals Planning System (GPS) includes a brokerage investment analysis tool. While securities held in a client’s investment advisory accounts may be included in the analysis, the reports generated from the GPS Platform are not financial plans nor constitute a financial planning service. A financial plan generally seeks to address a wide spectrum of a client’s long-term financial needs, and can include recommendations about insurance, savings, tax and estate planning, and investments, taking into consideration the client’s goals and situation, including anticipated retirement or other employee benefits. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) will only prepare a financial plan at a client’s specific request using Morgan Stanley approved financial planning software.

To understand the differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, clients should consult their Financial Advisor, or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.

About Annetta Barnes

Annetta joined Morgan Stanley in September 2021 as a Client Service Associate.

Annetta draws on her depth of knowledge across several positions in the banking industry to provide an exceptional client experience. Her positive attitude and leadership mindset brought her to join Morgan Stanley. Annetta is committed to building long-term client relationships and offering excellent service.

Annetta resides in Northern Kentucky with her husband Jeff and daughter Sophie. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends and is involved in her community and church.

About Rex Points

Rex has 27 years of financial services experience and has been a Registered Client Service Associate for Morgan Stanley since 2023. Rex is the contact for clients for many operational and administrative services. Some of the services he assists with are new account opening, existing account maintenance, requests for fund disbursements and trades.

Rex graduated from Northern Kentucky University in 1998 with a Bachelor’s in Journalism. He started his career in 1997 with Fidelity investments. He currently holds his FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 securities registrations as well as Ohio Life, Health and Accident and Variable Annuity insurance licenses.

Rex lives in Union, Kentucky with his wife Shannon. They have 2 adult children, Keegan and Jena. Rex enjoys spending time with his family, Jeep drives and traveling to Florida’s Gulf coast whenever able.
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Learn about retirement plans for smaller businesses and how to select the right type for you and your employees. Compare SEP or SIMPLE IRAs vs 401(k)s.

Financial Wellness

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Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.

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2Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.

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6Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.

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7Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.

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9Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.

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