Sean McKenna
Managing Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Management Director
Phone:
(510) 891-0502(510) 891-0502
The McKenna Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley
Sean McKennaDaniel I Deitrick, CFP®Shams Deitrick, CFP®Jennifer Schneidermann, CIMA®Molly McKenna, CFP®Kellen AliShanna Bearden, CPWA®John Zimmermann, CFP®Chloe McKenna
Direct:
(510) 891-0502(510) 891-0502
Direct:
(925) 930-3848(925) 930-3848
Industry Award WinnerOur Mission Statement
We strive to manage your wealth with purpose across generations so you and your family may live a more meaningful and financially confident life
A Diverse Multigenerational Team
The McKenna Wealth Management Group is a diverse, multigenerational team serving diverse, multigenerational clients. Our team manages over $3.875 Billion in client assets and is proud to have earned national and local recognition as one of the top wealth management teams in the US, selected as one of Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams in 2024 & 2025, and listed in Forbes' Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams – Northern California for 2024 & 2025.
Our focus is on building longstanding relationships based on trust, understanding, and shared values. We come to work every day engaged in making a difference in the lives of our clients. We take our business personally and believe you will not find a team of professionals more committed to helping you achieve your financial goals.
Our objective is to provide straightforward advice that helps to simplify, organize, and streamline your financial life. We personalize every relationship and tailor every financial solution to align with your specific needs and ambitions. After all, your goals are unique; how we achieve them should be too.
OUR CORE VALUES
- Relationships begin with careful listening: The details matter, and help us not only better understand your current situation but create the optimal roadmap to your successful financial future.
- Every decision will be focused on making the right decision for you: We will present you with the best options available, and with unbiased, objective advice.
- We aim to be the trusted source for all your financial needs: We hope to be your first phone call for any financial or life decision.
- When it comes to service, we go above and beyond the basics: No matter how simple or complex your needs, there is always someone here to help you.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
Decades of Experience & Perspective
The McKenna Wealth Management Group was founded in the early 1960s, and we are fortunate enough to still be working with many of those clients’ families to this day. Our team has many decades of experience, offering perspective and financial guidance as you take on new challenges at each phase of life.
We manage over $3.8B of assets for clients and their families who typically have a net worth in excess of $20M.
Our client base is diverse, but the common thread is that they all wish to live meaningful and financially worry-free lives. We work with entrepreneurs & business owners, executives & professionals, and multi-generational private wealth families.
Clients look to us for guidance:
We manage over $3.8B of assets for clients and their families who typically have a net worth in excess of $20M.
Our client base is diverse, but the common thread is that they all wish to live meaningful and financially worry-free lives. We work with entrepreneurs & business owners, executives & professionals, and multi-generational private wealth families.
Clients look to us for guidance:
Simplifying Your Financial Life
• Organizing & streamlining finances
• Holistic risk management & investing
• Creating a solid roadmap to meet their goals
• Concise, straightforward advice to help make smart financial decisions
• Holistic risk management & investing
• Creating a solid roadmap to meet their goals
• Concise, straightforward advice to help make smart financial decisions
Managing a Life-Changing Event with Confidence
• Planning for a large windfall or liquidity event
• Selling a business
• Transitioning to retirement
• Losing or separating from a spouse
• Selling a business
• Transitioning to retirement
• Losing or separating from a spouse
Using Debt Opportunistically
• Overseeing & managing liabilities
• Financing the purchase of a property
• Expanding a business
• Short-term debt financing
• Financing the purchase of a property
• Expanding a business
• Short-term debt financing
Developing a Lasting Legacy
• Working with/educating the next generation
• A trusted team for family members to turn to philanthropic guidance and resources
• Estate and trust planning
• A trusted team for family members to turn to philanthropic guidance and resources
• Estate and trust planning
A Roadmap to Your Financial Future
Our clients have different needs at different life stages: some may be focused on accumulating wealth and planning for life events such as marriage, buying a house, saving for both their kids’ college education and their future retirement. Other clients may be in retirement and focus on creating cash flow, passing on wealth to the next generation, or creating a philanthropic gifting strategy. Most clients are interested in minimizing taxes along the way.
Having a solid roadmap that is adjusted and updated regularly is the foundation for financial success. Our highly-personalized approach to financial planning begins with gaining a thorough knowledge of your values as well as your vision for the future. With a Family Wealth Director, four Certified Financial Planners (CFP®s), two Financial Planning Specialists, and three Lending Specialists on the team, the McKenna Wealth Management Group is experienced and capable of handling the simplest to the most complex planning cases.
Our entire team enjoys getting to know our clients and their families. We ask thought-provoking questions and enjoy crafting out-of-the-box solutions to help our clients. Starting with building a net worth statement, understanding your cash flow needs, goals and objectives, we will then work on building a customized wealth management plan that is thoughtfully created to navigate today’s sophisticated markets and tomorrow’s uncertainties. Over time, we'll adjust your plan accordingly to accommodate any changing conditions and meet any special demands that may evolve.
Having a solid roadmap that is adjusted and updated regularly is the foundation for financial success. Our highly-personalized approach to financial planning begins with gaining a thorough knowledge of your values as well as your vision for the future. With a Family Wealth Director, four Certified Financial Planners (CFP®s), two Financial Planning Specialists, and three Lending Specialists on the team, the McKenna Wealth Management Group is experienced and capable of handling the simplest to the most complex planning cases.
Our entire team enjoys getting to know our clients and their families. We ask thought-provoking questions and enjoy crafting out-of-the-box solutions to help our clients. Starting with building a net worth statement, understanding your cash flow needs, goals and objectives, we will then work on building a customized wealth management plan that is thoughtfully created to navigate today’s sophisticated markets and tomorrow’s uncertainties. Over time, we'll adjust your plan accordingly to accommodate any changing conditions and meet any special demands that may evolve.
Immediate Financial Planning
• Can I afford to buy a vacation home?
• Can you help me understand and manage my equity-based compensation (stock options, RSUs)?
• Should I sell assets or borrow from my portfolio to pay for my home remodel?
• What is the best way to help my children buy their first home?
• What is the right balance of taxable, tax deferred, and real estate investments?
• What is the right amount of cash to hold in my portfolio?
• Can you help me understand and manage my equity-based compensation (stock options, RSUs)?
• Should I sell assets or borrow from my portfolio to pay for my home remodel?
• What is the best way to help my children buy their first home?
• What is the right balance of taxable, tax deferred, and real estate investments?
• What is the right amount of cash to hold in my portfolio?
Life Planning
• If I take a year off to travel, how will it affect my longer term planning goals?
• What are the challenges of having significant wealth?
• When should I be creating or updating a trust?
• Am I on track for an early retirement?
• When should begin to educate my family on finances?
• How do I bring up the topic of beginning to help my aging parents with their day-to-day cash flow and portfolio decisions?
• What are the challenges of having significant wealth?
• When should I be creating or updating a trust?
• Am I on track for an early retirement?
• When should begin to educate my family on finances?
• How do I bring up the topic of beginning to help my aging parents with their day-to-day cash flow and portfolio decisions?
Smart Investing
Your appetite for risk in your portfolio, ranging from losing sleep over a potential loss to going all-out for growth potential, should be a primary consideration when deciding on investments. However, to manage risks, you have to see them first.
The McKenna Wealth Management Group has extensive experience in investing portfolios and managing risks through all market environments. We seek to uncover where hidden risks lie within your overall portfolio, and how these risks might impact your returns during different historical and hypothetical market shocks. This allows us to make smarter, more informed financial decisions about reallocating assets, making new investments, or staying the course.
When investing your portfolio we use a combination of active and passive strategies to simultaneously control portfolio expense and provide added value from selective managers. We supplement these strategies with individual stock exposure to companies and themes where Morgan Stanley’s proprietary research and investment committee support our team’s strong conviction. We believe that smart investing always requires careful consideration of how taxes may affect your real returns, along with creative cash flow generation, and ways of lowering the risk associated with concentrated holdings.
Our experienced team has achieved the most senior designations and recognition within Morgan Stanley with two Managing Directors, an Executive Director, two Senior Vice Presidents, a Family Wealth Director, Senior Portfolio Management Director, we are uniquely positioned to bring you access to the intellectual capital and vast resources of Morgan Stanley including the investment banking, capital markets, and institutional securities group.
The McKenna Wealth Management Group has extensive experience in investing portfolios and managing risks through all market environments. We seek to uncover where hidden risks lie within your overall portfolio, and how these risks might impact your returns during different historical and hypothetical market shocks. This allows us to make smarter, more informed financial decisions about reallocating assets, making new investments, or staying the course.
When investing your portfolio we use a combination of active and passive strategies to simultaneously control portfolio expense and provide added value from selective managers. We supplement these strategies with individual stock exposure to companies and themes where Morgan Stanley’s proprietary research and investment committee support our team’s strong conviction. We believe that smart investing always requires careful consideration of how taxes may affect your real returns, along with creative cash flow generation, and ways of lowering the risk associated with concentrated holdings.
Our experienced team has achieved the most senior designations and recognition within Morgan Stanley with two Managing Directors, an Executive Director, two Senior Vice Presidents, a Family Wealth Director, Senior Portfolio Management Director, we are uniquely positioned to bring you access to the intellectual capital and vast resources of Morgan Stanley including the investment banking, capital markets, and institutional securities group.
Tax Efficient Investing
• Can you help create a strategy for exercising and selling my company stock options that doesn’t push me into a higher tax bracket or the alternative minimum tax?
• Should I adjust my portfolio or stock option strategy as a result of the tax or policy changes coming from Washington, or should I leave things alone?
• What is the best way to diversify and build a portfolio using smart tax strategies?
• Can you help me defer my current capital gains?
• Should I adjust my portfolio or stock option strategy as a result of the tax or policy changes coming from Washington, or should I leave things alone?
• What is the best way to diversify and build a portfolio using smart tax strategies?
• Can you help me defer my current capital gains?
Risk, Diversification & Timing
• Can you stress test my portfolio to show me what would have happened during 9/11, the Great Financial Crisis, COVID, or if interest rates moved up or down 1%?
• How much company stock is too much?
• Should I dollar cost average my cash or get invested right away?
• Can you “drive the car” for me, handling the day-to-day investment decisions so I can have time to focus on my work, family and life?
• How do I optimize investing the cash from a windfall or liquidity event?
• How much company stock is too much?
• Should I dollar cost average my cash or get invested right away?
• Can you “drive the car” for me, handling the day-to-day investment decisions so I can have time to focus on my work, family and life?
• How do I optimize investing the cash from a windfall or liquidity event?
The Best of Tech + Human Touch
We take pride in making our clients’ financial lives more organized and straightforward.
Our service and banking team consists of seven dedicated associates. Traci, Yvonne, Ricky, Cara, Steve, Tammi, and Ethan deliver a personalized, human connection and use Morgan Stanley’s cutting edge technology for the convenience, simplicity and security of our clients.
Their role is to help clients consolidate their finances, handle the day to day needs of money movements, and assist in using the suite of technology that will allow clients to better understand and manage their wealth. Their goal is to always make the process and interaction simple, straightforward, and enjoyable.
Service & Banking assistance may include:
• Transferring in assets that may be scattered across multiple institutions
• Sending out or bringing in wires
• Setting up monthly cash-flows to cover daily expenses
• Taking special attention to make sure accounts and beneficiary designations are titled correctly
• Re-ordering checks or debit cards
• Assisting with online or app features
• Communicating information on your behalf with your external tax or legal advisors
• Rolling over 401k or retirement accounts
• Setting up portfolio-based lines of credit
• Connecting you with Private Bankers to assist with mortgages/refinances or tailored loans
• Settling estates
Our service and banking team consists of seven dedicated associates. Traci, Yvonne, Ricky, Cara, Steve, Tammi, and Ethan deliver a personalized, human connection and use Morgan Stanley’s cutting edge technology for the convenience, simplicity and security of our clients.
Their role is to help clients consolidate their finances, handle the day to day needs of money movements, and assist in using the suite of technology that will allow clients to better understand and manage their wealth. Their goal is to always make the process and interaction simple, straightforward, and enjoyable.
Service & Banking assistance may include:
• Transferring in assets that may be scattered across multiple institutions
• Sending out or bringing in wires
• Setting up monthly cash-flows to cover daily expenses
• Taking special attention to make sure accounts and beneficiary designations are titled correctly
• Re-ordering checks or debit cards
• Assisting with online or app features
• Communicating information on your behalf with your external tax or legal advisors
• Rolling over 401k or retirement accounts
• Setting up portfolio-based lines of credit
• Connecting you with Private Bankers to assist with mortgages/refinances or tailored loans
• Settling estates
Next Gen Banking
• How will you save me time and effort by minimizing paperwork and steps?
• Can we exchange sensitive information securely without going through email, which can be hacked?
• Do you provide a platform where I can seamlessly manage all aspects of my financial life in one place, with one app and one website?
• Can I authorize a wire with a simple touch from my phone anywhere in the world?
• Do you provide a secure cloud storage service where I can digitally file all my most important documents?
• Can we exchange sensitive information securely without going through email, which can be hacked?
• Do you provide a platform where I can seamlessly manage all aspects of my financial life in one place, with one app and one website?
• Can I authorize a wire with a simple touch from my phone anywhere in the world?
• Do you provide a secure cloud storage service where I can digitally file all my most important documents?
Personal Touch
• When call in, will I get personalized service from a person who knows?
• Will you help me monitor my budget and cash flows, and coordinate with my outside tax and legal advisors?
• Who will walk me through all of the perks and benefits that I’ll get as a Morgan Stanley banking client?
• Can I efficiently leverage my portfolio at Morgan Stanley to provide liquidity for a large expense?
• Who will work with through every step of settling my parents estate?
• Will you help me monitor my budget and cash flows, and coordinate with my outside tax and legal advisors?
• Who will walk me through all of the perks and benefits that I’ll get as a Morgan Stanley banking client?
• Can I efficiently leverage my portfolio at Morgan Stanley to provide liquidity for a large expense?
• Who will work with through every step of settling my parents estate?
Location
1999 Harrison St
Suite 2200
Oakland, CA 94612
US
Direct:
(510) 891-0502(510) 891-0502
1333 N California Blvd
Suite 133
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
US
Direct:
(925) 930-3848(925) 930-3848
Meet The McKenna Wealth Management Group
Daniel I Deitrick, CFP®
Managing Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Family Wealth Director
Phone:
(510) 891-0597(510) 891-0597
Jennifer Schneidermann, CIMA®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Specialist, Lending Specialist
Phone:
(925) 930-3848(925) 930-3848
Shams Deitrick, CFP®
Executive Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Management Director
Phone:
(510) 891-5286(510) 891-5286
Molly McKenna, CFP®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor
Phone:
(510) 891-0545(510) 891-0545
Kellen Ali
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Portfolio Management Director
Phone:
(510) 891-5273(510) 891-5273
Shanna Bearden, CPWA®
Associate Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Specialist, Workplace Advisor - Equity Compensation
Phone:
(510) 891-0547(510) 891-0547
John Zimmermann, CFP®
Financial Advisor, Workplace Advisor - Equity Compensation
Phone:
(510) 891-5206(510) 891-5206
Chloe McKenna
Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Specialist
Phone:
(510) 891-0541(510) 891-0541
Traci Bilas
Vice President, Group Director
Phone:
(510) 891-0514(510) 891-0514
Yvonne Gray
Assistant Vice President, Wealth Management Associate
Phone:
(925) 930-3833(925) 930-3833
Ricky Martell
Assistant Vice President, Wealth Management Associate
Phone:
(510) 891-0508(510) 891-0508
Cara Zeller
Wealth Management Associate
Phone:
(510) 891-5287(510) 891-5287
Steve Drackert
Wealth Management Analyst
Phone:
(510) 891-0516(510) 891-0516
Tammi Lars
Senior Client Service Associate
Phone:
(510) 891-0594(510) 891-0594
About Sean McKenna
Sean is a Managing Director and founder of McKenna Wealth Management Group. A second-generational advisor, he began his career at Morgan Stanley in 1992 after earning a Business degree, with an emphasis in Finance, from the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley. Sean strives to provide every client with a “high touch” personalized experience founded on old school principles of trust, deep relationships and accessibility.
Sean provides long-term vision for our team. As a Senior Portfolio Management Director, he is also responsible for investment selection and managing portfolios for a broad range of client goals, needs and circumstances. He enjoys following and understanding the world of complex, ever-changing economic news and explaining it to clients in a concise, simple and easy-to-understand way. He stresses the importance of ignoring the noise that can easily distract clients or lead to emotional investing.
Sean is a lifelong resident of Danville, CA. He and his wife, Kelly, have three grown children. He is a current Board member of Wilderness History and Open Access (WHOA) and often participates in the Save Mount Diablo events. Away from the office, Sean loves all things outdoors – from gardening and hiking to skiing, horseback riding and mountain biking.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Sean provides long-term vision for our team. As a Senior Portfolio Management Director, he is also responsible for investment selection and managing portfolios for a broad range of client goals, needs and circumstances. He enjoys following and understanding the world of complex, ever-changing economic news and explaining it to clients in a concise, simple and easy-to-understand way. He stresses the importance of ignoring the noise that can easily distract clients or lead to emotional investing.
Sean is a lifelong resident of Danville, CA. He and his wife, Kelly, have three grown children. He is a current Board member of Wilderness History and Open Access (WHOA) and often participates in the Save Mount Diablo events. Away from the office, Sean loves all things outdoors – from gardening and hiking to skiing, horseback riding and mountain biking.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: AL, AK, TX, PA, IA, VT, NY, NH, OR, MI, AR, UT, NV, MD, KY, IN, FL, DE, SC, MS, HI, GA, DC, MN, MA, LA, NC, MO, IL, VA, AZ, WY, OK, NJ, NE, ME, KS, ID, CT, WI, WA, TN, OH, NM, MT, CO, CA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1297754
CA Insurance License #: 0B28940
NMLS#: 1297754
CA Insurance License #: 0B28940
About Daniel I Deitrick
Dan joined The McKenna Group in 2009. He is an experienced Certified Financial PlannerTM (CFP®) and Family Wealth Director, a credential earned by less than three percent of all financial advisors at Morgan Stanley. He earned an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of California at San Diego then went onto earn his Master’s degree in Human Biodynamics from the University of California at Berkeley.
With an emphasis on financial planning, insurance protection strategies, liability management and stock-based compensation, Dan enjoys creating a detailed plan to help clients achieve their goals. He works hard to take the complexity out of people’s lives so they can make clear and purposeful decisions. One of his favorite parts of the job is helping clients transition from their working years to retirement. This includes developing an income stream that meets their needs without any change to their current lifestyle.
Dan and his wife, Gwen, currently live in Lafayette with their four children. He loves exercise and being outside. He combines these passions in a variety of activities that include cycling, running and adventuring racing. Dan is also very active in his kids’ lives, serving as coach for many of their sports teams.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
With an emphasis on financial planning, insurance protection strategies, liability management and stock-based compensation, Dan enjoys creating a detailed plan to help clients achieve their goals. He works hard to take the complexity out of people’s lives so they can make clear and purposeful decisions. One of his favorite parts of the job is helping clients transition from their working years to retirement. This includes developing an income stream that meets their needs without any change to their current lifestyle.
Dan and his wife, Gwen, currently live in Lafayette with their four children. He loves exercise and being outside. He combines these passions in a variety of activities that include cycling, running and adventuring racing. Dan is also very active in his kids’ lives, serving as coach for many of their sports teams.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: ID, HI, CO, WY, OR, NM, CA, UT, NV, MO, MN, ME, GA, TX, NY, KY, IN, AR, MS, WI, VT, OK, OH, MT, MI, MA, DC, CT, WA, TN, NH, MD, KS, PA, AZ, AL, AK, VA, SC, NC, LA, IL, IA, FL, DE, NJ, NE; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1261953
CA Insurance License #: 0G09986
NMLS#: 1261953
CA Insurance License #: 0G09986
About Jennifer Schneidermann
Jen works closely with successful individuals and generational families, solving their financial challenges and making complex topics easy to understand. She graduated magna cum laude from UCLA with a degree in Economics and minor in Spanish and was elected Phi Beta Kappa. Jen began her career in 2002, working side-by-side with her father, Paul Sanderson, at Smith Barney (now Morgan Stanley) for 18 years before joining with the McKenna Group in early 2020. Jen has recently been recognized as a Forbes 2025 Best-In-State Top Women Wealth Advisor for her consistent excellence in her work. She is regularly recognized as a top advisor by Forbes and Working Mother Magazine and has designations as a Financial Planning and Lending Specialist.
With experience in all areas of wealth management, Jen combines out-of-the-box thinking with modern technology to resolve complicated client situations. Her experience as a working mom provides deep understanding of the balance between work life and family life. Using firsthand experience, she guides families in making critical financial choices – from buying a home and saving for their children’s education to planning for retirement, buying life insurance and working with an attorney to set up a trust. Jen loves simplifying clients’ financial lives, helping them achieve their goals and enjoy what matters.
Jen lives in Alamo with her husband, Ron, and their three kids and dog. She is an active supporter of John Muir Hospital and a former board member of the JFK University’s Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership. Jen has many passions that include traveling, exploring new places and cultures, teaching her kids about music and cheering on the UCLA sports teams.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
2023, 2024, 2025 Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors & Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In- State (formerly referred to as Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors, Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors)
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 2024, 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in Sept of year prior to the issuance of the award.
2019-2020 Working Mother Magazine & SHOOK Research's Top Wealth Advisor Moms
Source: Workingmother.com Awarded October 2019 and 2020. Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month period concluding in Mar of the year the award was given.
2017-2019 Forbes' Top Next Generation Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded June 2017) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/2016 – 3/31/2017.
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded June 2018) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/17 - 3/31/18.
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Feb 2019) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/17 - 6/30/18.
With experience in all areas of wealth management, Jen combines out-of-the-box thinking with modern technology to resolve complicated client situations. Her experience as a working mom provides deep understanding of the balance between work life and family life. Using firsthand experience, she guides families in making critical financial choices – from buying a home and saving for their children’s education to planning for retirement, buying life insurance and working with an attorney to set up a trust. Jen loves simplifying clients’ financial lives, helping them achieve their goals and enjoy what matters.
Jen lives in Alamo with her husband, Ron, and their three kids and dog. She is an active supporter of John Muir Hospital and a former board member of the JFK University’s Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership. Jen has many passions that include traveling, exploring new places and cultures, teaching her kids about music and cheering on the UCLA sports teams.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
2023, 2024, 2025 Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors & Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In- State (formerly referred to as Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors, Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors)
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 2024, 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in Sept of year prior to the issuance of the award.
2019-2020 Working Mother Magazine & SHOOK Research's Top Wealth Advisor Moms
Source: Workingmother.com Awarded October 2019 and 2020. Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month period concluding in Mar of the year the award was given.
2017-2019 Forbes' Top Next Generation Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded June 2017) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/2016 – 3/31/2017.
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded June 2018) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/17 - 3/31/18.
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Feb 2019) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/17 - 6/30/18.
Securities Agent: DC, AZ, AK, VA, UT, SC, NV, MT, ME, TX, PA, NY, NM, MD, IA, CT, AL, WY, OK, OH, NH, LA, FL, CA, AR, WI, WA, MI, NJ, MN, GA, NC, MS, MO, DE, CO, NE, MA, VT, TN, OR, KS, IN, KY, IL, ID, HI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1293940
CA Insurance License #: 0E19524
NMLS#: 1293940
CA Insurance License #: 0E19524
About Me
Shams is an Executive Director at Morgan Stanley and joined the McKenna Wealth Management Group in 2023. He began his career at Smith Barney in 1999 and after eight years moved to Raymond James, where he spent the next 16 years. Shams is experienced in all aspects of wealth management. He focuses on helping clients with important stock-based compensation decisions, and is able to leverage his experience and knowledge as an Alternative Investment Director with Morgan Stanley’s vast resources when integrating alternatives into client portfolios.
Shams is an educator at heart and thrives when explaining complicated concepts in an interesting and easy to understand manner. He has enjoyed the opportunity to lead educational seminars covering stock-based compensation for multiple Fortune 500 companies. Shams recognizes that often the largest financial pitfalls for clients are not investing decisions, but rather planning mistakes. Having attained the designation of Certified Financial Planner (CFP) many years ago, Shams uses his deep knowledge of planning and two decades of experience to guide clients to successful outcomes.
Shams graduated Phi Beta Kappa from University of California at Santa Cruz with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and currently lives with his two children in Whitefish, Montana. He is passionate about the outdoors and is an avid backcountry skier, mountain biker, wake-surfer and traveler. He joins his son on the ski and bike trails and is a dedicated horse father to his daughter.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Shams is an educator at heart and thrives when explaining complicated concepts in an interesting and easy to understand manner. He has enjoyed the opportunity to lead educational seminars covering stock-based compensation for multiple Fortune 500 companies. Shams recognizes that often the largest financial pitfalls for clients are not investing decisions, but rather planning mistakes. Having attained the designation of Certified Financial Planner (CFP) many years ago, Shams uses his deep knowledge of planning and two decades of experience to guide clients to successful outcomes.
Shams graduated Phi Beta Kappa from University of California at Santa Cruz with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and currently lives with his two children in Whitefish, Montana. He is passionate about the outdoors and is an avid backcountry skier, mountain biker, wake-surfer and traveler. He joins his son on the ski and bike trails and is a dedicated horse father to his daughter.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: LA, HI, NC, NJ, MT, ID, FL, DE, CO, AL, IA, DC, WA, KS, IL, SC, MO, MI, WY, MD, AR, VT, TX, TN, PA, NE, MN, ME, GA, CA, AZ, AK, NV, NM, NH, MS, MA, KY, OR, OK, OH, NY, IN, CT, WI, VA, UT; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 2518752
CA Insurance License #: 0C93301
NMLS#: 2518752
CA Insurance License #: 0C93301
About Molly McKenna
Molly grew up in the financial industry and became a Financial Advisor in 2017, following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional she focuses on financial planning and prides herself in being a good listener. Molly is a graduate of the University of Colorado – Boulder, earning a B.S. degree in Finance and Marketing. She believes successful people all share a common bond: They encounter important life events that require timely guidance to help them make the right financial decisions for themselves, their careers and their families. She is there to help them each step of the way.
Molly focuses creating long-lasting relationships with our next generation of clients. She leverages her years of family knowledge, her skills in modern technology and her forward-thinking creative ideas to help clients solve their financial needs. Molly finds it very rewarding to design financial strategies for help families buy new homes, save for college, and plan for retirement.
A California native, Molly now lives in San Francisco. Her favorite leisure activities including skiing, yoga, hiking, traveling and creating great memories with family and friends.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Molly focuses creating long-lasting relationships with our next generation of clients. She leverages her years of family knowledge, her skills in modern technology and her forward-thinking creative ideas to help clients solve their financial needs. Molly finds it very rewarding to design financial strategies for help families buy new homes, save for college, and plan for retirement.
A California native, Molly now lives in San Francisco. Her favorite leisure activities including skiing, yoga, hiking, traveling and creating great memories with family and friends.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: VA, SC, KY, IN, NC, MN, CT, NJ, MI, ME, KS, ID, GA, NV, NM, MA, AZ, WY, MS, MO, AR, WI, VT, OK, NY, NE, IL, DE, WA, FL, DC, CO, TN, PA, OH, NH, MT, MD, LA, CA, AK, UT, TX, OR, IA, HI, AL; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1724235
CA Insurance License #: 0M39133
NMLS#: 1724235
CA Insurance License #: 0M39133
About Kellen Ali
Kellen is a Financial Advisor with the McKenna Wealth Management Group. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Santa Cruz and his M.B.A. from California State in Monterey Bay. An advisor since 2015 he worked alongside his father-in-law, Bill Williford, until 2019 when they joined forces with the McKenna Group.
Kellen’s primary responsibilities include investment selection and relationship management. He combines our team’s years of investment experience with today’s modern forms of media to stay updated on world events and identify new investment ideas. Kellen is a great listener and will quickly assist anyone on our team when needed. He believes that getting the small things right makes a big difference.
Outside of work Kellen enjoys playing tennis, golfing – traditional and disc – and riding through the East Bay hills on his motorcycle, “Lou”. Originally from Grass Valley, Kellen and his wife, Briana, and children, Skylar and Brady, currently live in Lafayette, CA.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Kellen’s primary responsibilities include investment selection and relationship management. He combines our team’s years of investment experience with today’s modern forms of media to stay updated on world events and identify new investment ideas. Kellen is a great listener and will quickly assist anyone on our team when needed. He believes that getting the small things right makes a big difference.
Outside of work Kellen enjoys playing tennis, golfing – traditional and disc – and riding through the East Bay hills on his motorcycle, “Lou”. Originally from Grass Valley, Kellen and his wife, Briana, and children, Skylar and Brady, currently live in Lafayette, CA.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: WA, NC, NM, ME, WI, NJ, NE, LA, GA, AR, VT, SC, OH, KY, IA, FL, VA, TX, AL, AK, WY, MT, MO, MN, DC, CO, PA, NY, NV, ID, DE, CT, OR, NH, MS, MD, AZ, KS, CA, MA, IN, IL, UT, TN, OK, HI, MI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1498380
CA Insurance License #: 0K90955
NMLS#: 1498380
CA Insurance License #: 0K90955
About Shanna Bearden
Shanna is a Financial Advisor and Certified Private Wealth Advisor® professional with the McKenna Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley. Prior to joining the group in 2022, Shanna spent nine years as a Private Banker at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, where she focused on finding creative solutions for clients’ lending and cash management needs. Shanna has over 18 years of experience in the financial services industry, focused on helping high net worth clients plan, invest, and manage liabilities to achieve what matters most to them.
Shanna graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. While born and raised in Illinois, Shanna has called the Bay Area home for the last 16 years. She and her husband Steve live in the East Bay, and spend their weekends in the Napa Valley. They enjoy cycling, boating, and attending Bay Area sporting events. Shanna spends time volunteering and supporting national and local organizations, including The American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Shanna graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. While born and raised in Illinois, Shanna has called the Bay Area home for the last 16 years. She and her husband Steve live in the East Bay, and spend their weekends in the Napa Valley. They enjoy cycling, boating, and attending Bay Area sporting events. Shanna spends time volunteering and supporting national and local organizations, including The American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: CT, IL, MI, CO, MN, GA, DC, VA, UT, PA, MO, MD, MA, IA, FL, NJ, LA, KS, WI, OK, NV, AL, NE, NC, IN, ID, HI, TX, TN, OR, OH, NH, MS, ME, CA, AK, VT, NY, KY, AR, WY, WA, DE, AZ, SC, NM, MT; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1039472
NMLS#: 1039472
About John Zimmermann
John Zimmermann is a Financial Advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) with the McKenna Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley. He received his bachelor’s degree from The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota, where he double majored in Psychology, and Spanish, with a minor in Organizational Behavior.
John has over a half-decade of industry experience at Morgan Stanley, working in multiple capacities from operations to client services, and, later, as a wealth management analyst. He now uses his knowledge and experience to help clients identify their financial goals and develop personalized strategies to meet them.
John is known on the team as a “Jack of all trades” when it comes to helping clients answer even the most complex financial questions. Whether it be buying a home, sending kids to college, strategies around equity compensation, or saving for retirement, John believes that the cornerstone of reaching any goal is having a plan.
Born and raised in Minnesota, John now calls Martinez, California, his home, where he lives with his wife Megan, their son Eli. John loves all types of outdoor adventures from ultra-marathons and alpine skiing, to sailing in different parts of the world. It isn’t uncommon to find him skiing in Tahoe on Saturday, then sailing in the bay on Sunday!
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
John has over a half-decade of industry experience at Morgan Stanley, working in multiple capacities from operations to client services, and, later, as a wealth management analyst. He now uses his knowledge and experience to help clients identify their financial goals and develop personalized strategies to meet them.
John is known on the team as a “Jack of all trades” when it comes to helping clients answer even the most complex financial questions. Whether it be buying a home, sending kids to college, strategies around equity compensation, or saving for retirement, John believes that the cornerstone of reaching any goal is having a plan.
Born and raised in Minnesota, John now calls Martinez, California, his home, where he lives with his wife Megan, their son Eli. John loves all types of outdoor adventures from ultra-marathons and alpine skiing, to sailing in different parts of the world. It isn’t uncommon to find him skiing in Tahoe on Saturday, then sailing in the bay on Sunday!
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: WY, AK, NY, MT, MI, KY, CT, AR, TX, TN, NJ, MA, DC, VA, NH, MN, OR, NC, LA, IA, AL, WA, UT, ID, FL, CO, SC, NV, NM, NE, ME, KS, HI, GA, DE, WI, MS, IL, AZ, VT, MD, IN, CA, PA, OK, OH, MO; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2381916
CA Insurance License #: 4255015
NMLS#: 2381916
CA Insurance License #: 4255015
About Chloe McKenna
Chloe is a third-generation Financial Advisor and Financial Planning Specialist with the McKenna Wealth Management Group. She joined the McKenna Team in 2023 after graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder where she received her degree in Finance and Marketing with a minor in Sociology.
Chloe is passionate about helping the next generation create and meet their financial goals. Growing up around a family of Financial Advisors has taught her the importance of investing and planning ahead for life events. Chloe prides herself on being disciplined, hardworking, and a little competitive. As the newest team member, she has the time and energy to focus on clients' needs.
Chloe is thrilled to be following in the footsteps of her family at the McKenna Wealth Management Group, where her father, Sean McKenna, and older sister, Molly McKenna serve as mentors and role models. A native of the East Bay, Chloe recently moved to San Francisco where she enjoys the outdoors and an active lifestyle, and greatly values her time spent with family and close friends.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Chloe is passionate about helping the next generation create and meet their financial goals. Growing up around a family of Financial Advisors has taught her the importance of investing and planning ahead for life events. Chloe prides herself on being disciplined, hardworking, and a little competitive. As the newest team member, she has the time and energy to focus on clients' needs.
Chloe is thrilled to be following in the footsteps of her family at the McKenna Wealth Management Group, where her father, Sean McKenna, and older sister, Molly McKenna serve as mentors and role models. A native of the East Bay, Chloe recently moved to San Francisco where she enjoys the outdoors and an active lifestyle, and greatly values her time spent with family and close friends.
2024, 2025 Barron's Top 250 Wealth Management Teams
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded May 2024, 2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on the period from 1/2023-12/2023 & 1/2024-12/2024.
2024, 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/23–3/31/24.
Securities Agent: NV, GA, IN, CA, UT, TX, SC, MN, MA, ID, IA, DE, NJ, AL, AK, WY, WI, OH, NH, MO, MI, HI, FL, CT, VT, PA, OR, MS, LA, WA, NY, NC, AR, MD, OK, NE, MT, ME, DC, CO, AZ, VA, KY, IL, TN, NM, KS; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2549347
NMLS#: 2549347
About Traci Bilas
Traci has been with Morgan Stanley for more than 20 years. As Group Director, she understands all elements of our operation and provides a great resource for families as they transition wealth from generation to generation.
Traci is a graduate of California State University at Hayward, where she earned her B.S. degree in Business Advertising.
Among her many responsibilities, Traci is our point person for all estate work. As this is a primary area of focus for our practice, her work is critical to the families we support. Traci makes setting up and managing a family estate and any related trusts easy, and works closely with all members of the family, as well as the family attorney and accountant when a loved one passes away. Her years of experience enable her to take something that is complicated and emotional and make it simple and straightforward.
Growing up in Redding, Traci now lives in Piedmont with her husband, Nabin, and two sons, Aryan and Milan. An exercise enthusiast, she loves to run, swim and go on long walks. She also enjoys traveling, cooking and exploring new restaurants.
Traci is a graduate of California State University at Hayward, where she earned her B.S. degree in Business Advertising.
Among her many responsibilities, Traci is our point person for all estate work. As this is a primary area of focus for our practice, her work is critical to the families we support. Traci makes setting up and managing a family estate and any related trusts easy, and works closely with all members of the family, as well as the family attorney and accountant when a loved one passes away. Her years of experience enable her to take something that is complicated and emotional and make it simple and straightforward.
Growing up in Redding, Traci now lives in Piedmont with her husband, Nabin, and two sons, Aryan and Milan. An exercise enthusiast, she loves to run, swim and go on long walks. She also enjoys traveling, cooking and exploring new restaurants.
About Yvonne Gray
Yvonne brings more than 45 years of financial services experience to our team. As a Wealth Management Associate and lead operations manager in our Walnut Creek office, she is essential to helping enhance the client experience. Yvonne’s extensive knowledge of the firm’s administrative functions and operations allows her to quickly align the correct resources, providing clients with the highest level of service.
Yvonne began her career in 1979 at Foster & Marshall, a boutique investment firm that later became part of Morgan Stanley. Over the years, she has worked in almost every position of a retail branch office, including Operations Manager, Branch Administrator and Financial Advisor. This broad set of experiences enables her to understand how each component of the wealth management process fits together, providing her with deep insights that she readily shares. Yvonne enjoys solving problems for clients and watching their families mature and succeed. She has consistently worked with Jen for over 10 years.
Yvonne holds her FINRA Series 7, 9/10, 63 and 65 licenses.
A native of California, Yvonne grew up in Bend, Oregon and now lives in Danville with her husband, Grant, and their son, Jaden. Spending time with family and friends is what gives Yvonne great joy. An avid reader, she enjoys fiction books, especially mysteries. She also likes to visit local wineries and travel every chance she gets.
Yvonne began her career in 1979 at Foster & Marshall, a boutique investment firm that later became part of Morgan Stanley. Over the years, she has worked in almost every position of a retail branch office, including Operations Manager, Branch Administrator and Financial Advisor. This broad set of experiences enables her to understand how each component of the wealth management process fits together, providing her with deep insights that she readily shares. Yvonne enjoys solving problems for clients and watching their families mature and succeed. She has consistently worked with Jen for over 10 years.
Yvonne holds her FINRA Series 7, 9/10, 63 and 65 licenses.
A native of California, Yvonne grew up in Bend, Oregon and now lives in Danville with her husband, Grant, and their son, Jaden. Spending time with family and friends is what gives Yvonne great joy. An avid reader, she enjoys fiction books, especially mysteries. She also likes to visit local wineries and travel every chance she gets.
About Ricky Martell
Drawing on more than 19 years of industry experience, Ricky is a Wealth Management Associate for McKenna Wealth Management. He holds an M.B.A. in Corporate Finance from the University of Dallas and a B.A. degree in Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara. He joined our team in 2019 after working in several operational and client service roles at Bank of America Prime Brokerage and Wells Fargo Advisors.
Ricky’s responsibilities focus on helping clients set up new accounts and roll over existing assets when they change jobs or retire. He works with clients from the beginning to the end of the transfer process, making sure they have online access and understand what they own. Ricky enjoys helping clients simplify their complex lives. He is a consummate professional, paying attention to every detail. Above all, he has the unique ability to have fun while doing follow-up work, ensuring every project is done efficiently.
Outside of the office, Ricky enjoys being the play-by-play announcer for his alma mater’s high school football team in San Francisco. He also enjoys playing piano and guitar and tinkering with his Volkswagen bus. Ricky and his wife, Denise, and two daughters now reside in Alameda, CA.
Ricky’s responsibilities focus on helping clients set up new accounts and roll over existing assets when they change jobs or retire. He works with clients from the beginning to the end of the transfer process, making sure they have online access and understand what they own. Ricky enjoys helping clients simplify their complex lives. He is a consummate professional, paying attention to every detail. Above all, he has the unique ability to have fun while doing follow-up work, ensuring every project is done efficiently.
Outside of the office, Ricky enjoys being the play-by-play announcer for his alma mater’s high school football team in San Francisco. He also enjoys playing piano and guitar and tinkering with his Volkswagen bus. Ricky and his wife, Denise, and two daughters now reside in Alameda, CA.
About Cara Zeller
Cara joined the Mckenna team in 2023 and has been with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney since 2007. Cara works to create an outstanding overall client service experience and is responsible for providing ongoing administrative and operational support in a timely, efficient manner. She also assists with all aspects of daily financial management, including preparing financial reports and planning, and reallocation.
A Chicago native, Cara grew up in Tokyo, Japan, and received her B.A. in Spanish from the University of Urbana-Champaign. She lives in Pleasant Hill with her husband Tony, and three children. Outside of the office, Cara enjoys anything fitness-related, cooking, and spending time with her family.
A Chicago native, Cara grew up in Tokyo, Japan, and received her B.A. in Spanish from the University of Urbana-Champaign. She lives in Pleasant Hill with her husband Tony, and three children. Outside of the office, Cara enjoys anything fitness-related, cooking, and spending time with her family.
About Steve Drackert
Steve began his career with Morgan Stanley Dean Witter in March of 2000 before spending 10 years working at Wells Fargo Advisors. Steve has a wealth of expertise with wealth management operations and administrative duties. In his 22 years of industry experience across multiple firms, Steve has become well versed in money movement, performance reporting, retirement plan rollovers, estate account management, securities-backed lending; as well as security trading in equities, ETFs, mutual funds, and municipal and revenue bond allocation to name a few.
After graduating high school, Steve enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Travis AFB, in Fairfield CA; discharged with honors in 1998. Steve received a bachelor’s degree in Communication from San Francisco State University before acquiring his FINRA series 7, 63, and 65 Licenses.
Outside of work Steve enjoys spending time with his family, raising his two young children with his wife Lisa. In his free time Steve enjoys many sports, particularly baseball. He competes in an Orinda softball league, manages his son’s little league team, and occasionally golfs. Steve also enjoys going on date nights, spending time outdoors, wine country, and music festivals.
After graduating high school, Steve enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Travis AFB, in Fairfield CA; discharged with honors in 1998. Steve received a bachelor’s degree in Communication from San Francisco State University before acquiring his FINRA series 7, 63, and 65 Licenses.
Outside of work Steve enjoys spending time with his family, raising his two young children with his wife Lisa. In his free time Steve enjoys many sports, particularly baseball. He competes in an Orinda softball league, manages his son’s little league team, and occasionally golfs. Steve also enjoys going on date nights, spending time outdoors, wine country, and music festivals.
About Tammi Lars
Tammi is a Senior Client Service Associate at Morgan Stanley with over 30 years’ experience with the firm. She joined the McKenna Team in 2022 focusing on coordinating events. She assists with all client and team events, including data processing, analytics, and marketing efforts. Tammi has held many positions within management at Morgan Stanley, including Operations Manager, Complex Administrator, and Branch Administrator. She has also worked on the operational side of the business as a Branch Liaison Representative and Client Service Associate. She holds a series 7 license.
Tammi is a Bay Area native and currently resides in Hercules. She has two sons, John and Joshua, and three grandchildren, Jayvin, Jonah, and Brooke. In her free time, Tammi loves to read a great novel or biography. She enjoys spending time with friends and hosting family gatherings.
Tammi is a Bay Area native and currently resides in Hercules. She has two sons, John and Joshua, and three grandchildren, Jayvin, Jonah, and Brooke. In her free time, Tammi loves to read a great novel or biography. She enjoys spending time with friends and hosting family gatherings.
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Awards and Recognition
Barron's Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams
2024-2025 Barron's Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams (formerly referred to as Barron's Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams, Barron's Top 50 Private Wealth Management Teams, Barron's Top 50 Private Wealth Advisory Teams) Source: Barrons.com (Awarded April 2024-2025). Data compiled by Barron's based on 12-month period concluding in Dec of the year prior to the issuance of the award.
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
2024-2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2024-2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
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Retirement
Working with you to understand your life goals and develop a personalized wealth strategy. Today and for the years to come.
- 401(k) Rollovers
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A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup
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Rational Investing in an Age of Uncertainty
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529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education
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Helping you on key aspects of your business such as ownership, liquidity and developing opportunities.
- Succession Planning
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Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business
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Making sure your philanthropic dollars are managed with the same high quality service as the rest of your wealth.
- Endowments
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Financial Wellness
Enhancing Financial Wellness enables your workforce to do their best work. Companies that invest in financial wellness have an opportunity to:
- Reduce employee stress,
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- Set themselves apart by offering comprehensive financial wellness benefits.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The McKenna Wealth Management Group today.
CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.
1Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is a business of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals 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.
3Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.
4Morgan 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 and other legal matters.
5Morgan 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.
6Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.
Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
7Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are appropriate only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time.
Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.
The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.
Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.
The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.
The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.
CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.
The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.
Awards Disclosures | Morgan Stanley
1Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is a business of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals 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.
3Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.
4Morgan 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 and other legal matters.
5Morgan 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.
6Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.
Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
7Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are appropriate only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time.
Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.
The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.
Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.
The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.
The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.
CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.
The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.
Awards Disclosures | Morgan Stanley
CRC 4665150 (8/2025)
