Steven Strong is a Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, where he has been serving affluent clients for over twenty-eight years. He specializes in investment management and wealth preservation, developing personalized strategies that address the complex needs of high net worth individuals. His services include creating portfolio strategies, estate planning, trust services through Bank of America Private Bank, asset and liability strategy implementation, and sophisticated retirement planning. Steven's team focuses on delivering customized advice aimed at helping business owners, non-profit organizations, and high net worth individuals achieve their financial goals. They prioritize clarity and simplicity in financial planning to assist clients in navigating complex financial environments. Steven holds the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Arizona. Outside of his professional career, Steven has an athletic background, having played catcher for the University of Arizona Wildcats Baseball Team. He is a past president of the Junior Achievement Advisory Board. Steven has lived in Tucson for over forty years and resides there with his wife and three children. His personal interests include baseball, fishing, football, gardening, golfing, hunting, spending time with family, and traveling.

Mary Clements is a financial advisor at Merrill with seven years of industry experience. She holds a Series 66 designation and has worked at Bank of America, N.A. since 2018. Outside of her advisory role, Mary instructs group fitness classes at several local fitness centers and nonprofit organizations in Tucson, including the YMCA of Southern Arizona and the Tucson Jewish Community Center. She also serves as a committee member for Angel Charity For Children. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers model-based and discretionary investment strategies supported by internal and third-party managers, serving individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension plans, corporations, and charitable organizations.

Paulette Yates is a Series 66-registered financial advisor at Merrill with 14 years of industry experience. She has been with Merrill since 2010 and concurrently affiliated with Bank of America, N.A. since 2016. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension plans, corporations, and charitable organizations.

Kelly Stephenson is a financial advisor at Merrill with 14 years of industry experience. He holds the Series 66 designation and has been with Merrill since 1999. He also serves as a Successor Trustee in a separate capacity. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program, offering both model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, and institutions.

Layla Tovar is a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. She focuses on creating personalized wealth management strategies tailored to clients' unique financial situations and goals. Her areas of expertise include college education planning, divorce transition planning, family wealth management strategies, personal retirement planning, small business strategies, special needs planning, and retirement income. Layla follows the Merrill tradition of community involvement through volunteer work with local organizations. Outside of her professional role, she pursues a variety of personal interests including basketball, chess, cooking, dancing, football, golfing, hiking, music, traveling, and yoga.

Joseph Poliseo is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He began his career with Merrill in 1998, initially serving as Head Operations Controller in New Jersey. Over the years, Joseph held various roles in client service and management, later moving to Arizona in 2005 to become Client Relationship Manager for the Phoenix-Tucson Complex, overseeing client services for seven offices and 150 Financial Advisors. He transitioned to a Financial Advisor role in Tucson, Arizona in 2015, focusing on providing comprehensive wealth management solutions that address clients' evolving needs and financial goals. Joseph’s areas of expertise include college education planning, personal retirement planning, portfolio management services, tax minimization, and retirement income strategies. He holds the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ (CRPC™) designation and the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation, demonstrating his commitment to ongoing professional development. Joseph earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Technological Entrepreneurship and Management from Arizona State University, complementing his extensive experience in financial services. Outside of his professional work, Joseph enjoys spending time with his wife, Marissa, and their three daughters. He also has personal interests in basketball, music, and watching movies.

Michael Mansour is a financial advisor at Merrill with one year of industry experience. He holds a Series 66 designation and has prior work history that includes roles at Bank of America, Northern Arizona University, Peak Corrosion Control, and local educational institutions. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension plans, corporations, and charitable organizations.

Michelle Dojaquez is a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. She has been in the financial industry since 2018 and joined Merrill Lynch in 2024. In her role, Michelle focuses on building trusted relationships and supporting clients through personalized financial strategies that align with their unique goals and priorities. Her areas of expertise include retirement income planning, portfolio management, tax minimization, small business strategies, special needs planning, and managing wealth for diverse client groups such as women and the LGBT community. Michelle emphasizes understanding clients' personal perspectives to create tailored plans encompassing education funding, retirement lifestyle coverage, and long-term family goals. Michelle holds a Bachelor's Degree from Northern Arizona University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. She also holds the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation. Outside of work, she enjoys activities such as chess, cooking, music, reading, swimming, watching movies, and spending time with her family.

Scott Tobin is a Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He works with individuals, families, business owners, and retirement plan sponsors to develop goals-based financial strategies that reflect clients' priorities, circumstances, and long-term objectives. His work includes investment performance analysis, portfolio manager evaluation, and strategic asset allocation, and he coordinates with clients' professional advisors to consider investment, estate planning, and tax implications as part of broader financial plans. Scott holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification, the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® designation, and the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ designation. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Washington in 2009. After a high-school internship with Merrill, he joined the firm in 2010 and has gained experience in its Phoenix and New York City offices before returning to Tucson. He has been recognized on the Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors" list for 2026 and the Forbes "Top Next Gen Wealth Advisors Best in State" list for 2023 through 2025. The Lewis / Poliseo / Tobin Wealth Management Team has also been recognized on the Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams" list for 2024 through 2026. Scott supports local organizations including United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, the Jewish Community Foundation of Southern Arizona, and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. He lives in Tucson with his wife Tracy and their two children.

Matthew Lang is a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. In his role, he works closely with clients to develop strategies that address their short-, mid-, and long-term financial goals. He provides resources and guidance on topics including general investing, retirement planning, and saving for unexpected events. Additionally, he facilitates access to Bank of America specialists for banking, credit, home financing, and small business solutions. Matthew holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Arkansas and has earned the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation. He emphasizes building lasting relationships with clients based on trust, integrity, and education, aiming to empower individuals and businesses to achieve financial confidence and long-term success through personalized and transparent strategies. Outside of his professional work, Matthew enjoys basketball, golfing, pickleball, and spending time with his family.

Mary Williamson is a financial advisor with Merrill in Tucson, Arizona, holding Series 63 and Series 66 licenses and bringing 23 years of industry experience. She has been with Merrill Lynch Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc. since 2011. Outside of her advisory role, she manages Flourish Aromatherapy Studio, LLC, a family business where she creates skin care products. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, and institutional investors, implementing a mix of internal and third-party management and tactical asset allocation.

Keith Courser is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and a U.S. Air Force veteran. He brings a disciplined and strategic approach to financial planning, drawing on his military background and academic training in economics. Keith focuses on providing tailored guidance in areas such as college education planning, family wealth management, legacy planning, retirement income, and tax minimization. With a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Arizona and the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation, Keith leverages his understanding of economic trends and financial markets to help clients navigate their financial futures. His experience encompasses portfolio management services and personalized retirement planning, serving individuals, families, and businesses. Outside of his professional work, Keith enjoys golfing, hiking, pickleball, reading, running, and spending time with his family. His commitment to providing practical, informed financial advice is grounded in a philosophy of empowering clients to achieve long-term financial security and build lasting wealth.

Matthew Apostolik serves as Senior Resident Director and Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill, where he has worked since 1996. He leads the Tucson Merrill office and is a senior partner with SAS Wealth Management. Matthew supports individual clients in articulating their financial objectives and developing investment and wealth management strategies centered on their goals. Additionally, he assists institutional clients through 401(k) education and enrollment meetings. Matthew earned dual bachelor's degrees in finance and business economics from the University of Arizona. He holds several professional designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP), Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), CERTIFIED PLAN FIDUCIARY ADVISOR (CPFA), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC), Personal Investment Advisor (PIA), and Retirement Accredited Financial Advisor (RAFA). He is a member of the Investments and Wealth Institute, the CFP Board of Standards, and the Financial Planning Association. Residing in Tucson with his wife Carmen, Matthew and his family enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, fly-fishing, rock climbing, tennis, biking, camping, fishing, golfing, hunting, photography, and canyoneering. They also participate in community service efforts, including volunteering at the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.

Niklas Scherer is a Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, where he has been employed since December 1992. He specializes in areas including college education planning, family wealth management strategies, managing new wealth, personal retirement planning, portfolio management services, tax minimization, and retirement income. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arizona in December 1988 and holds the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC™) certification from the College for Financial Planning Institutes Corp., awarded in November 2004. Niklas is also recognized as a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). His community involvement includes serving as a member of the Assistance League of Tucson Advisory Council. Outside of his professional work, Niklas resides in Tucson with his family. He enjoys activities such as movies, off-roading in his RZR, skiing with his sons, adventure sports, hiking, music, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Alejandro Ursua is an International Wealth Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and a member of The GTZ Group. He joined the firm in 2015 and focuses on relationship management while providing client service. Alejandro contributes to team efforts by identifying opportunities and supporting the achievement of client objectives. He also represents Wealth Management Client Associates on the International Wealth Management Client Associates Working Group, supporting international offices. Alejandro earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a certificate in Finance from the University of Arizona in 2017. Prior to joining Merrill Lynch, he worked as a Financial Consultant for New York Life. He holds the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS) and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designations. Born in Colima, Mexico, Alejandro has spent most of his life in Arizona. He is a member of the Eller Centurion at the University of Arizona and participates in local soccer leagues. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

David Smith is a financial advisor with Merrill in Tucson, AZ, holding a Series 66 credential and four years of industry experience. Prior to joining Merrill and Bank of America N.A., he worked in sports-related roles including positions at Club Champion Golf and The Preserve Golf Club. He also serves as a trustee for a family revocable trust. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program, offering model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, and institutions.

Patrice Njento is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He focuses on providing personalized financial guidance by building strong, lasting relationships with individuals, families, and business owners. Patrice works to align clients' finances with their goals, values, and vision for the future. He specializes in areas such as college education planning, divorce transition planning, legacy planning, liquidity management, personal retirement planning, portfolio management, and small business strategies. Patrice is a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) and assists clients with a broad range of needs from general investing to retirement preparation. Patrice holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Law and a Master of Business Administration in Finance, both from National University San Diego. He is multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, and French. Additionally, he is associated with the IFORFACT GROUP LLC and is involved with the 355th Medical Group in Tucson, AZ. Outside of his professional role, Patrice has interests in cooking, dancing, football, golfing, interior decorating, running marathons, soccer, spending time with family, woodworking, and writing.

Renee Ann Duryea is a Financial Solutions Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. In her role, she works directly with clients to define their financial goals and develop portfolio strategies aimed at helping them pursue those goals. She provides ongoing advice and adjusts portfolio recommendations as clients' situations evolve. Her expertise includes general investing, retirement planning, and preparing for unexpected financial needs. Renee values getting to know her clients personally to understand what matters most to them, enabling her to tailor strategies accordingly. Renee holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of the Philippines. She has earned professional designations including the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC) and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA).

Jennifer Tarpening is a financial advisor at Merrill with eight years of industry experience. She holds the Series 66 designation and has been with Merrill since 2015. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension and profit-sharing plans, corporations, and charitable organizations.

Alejandro Cuesta is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He began his career in 2011 as a Client Associate while finishing his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Commerce at the University of Arizona. After gaining experience in the administrative side of wealth management, Alejandro became a partner with his mentor, Jim Wood Sr, in 2013. He holds the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation. Alejandro is originally from Tucson, where he graduated from Sabino High School and worked as an auto mechanic while attending college.

Scott Hufault is a Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He joined the firm in 1992 and focuses on developing financial strategies and recommendations tailored to high-net-worth individuals, their families, and their businesses to help meet both short- and long-term financial goals. Scott holds a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., and is a qualified Portfolio Manager. He provides traditional advice and guidance, as well as manages personalized investment strategies that may include individual stocks and bonds, Merrill model portfolios, and third-party investment strategies, with the ability to manage these on a discretionary basis through the firm’s Investment Advisory Program. Scott earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Finance from the University of Arizona in 1990. He is committed to a consultative approach that involves listening to clients’ financial situations, preferences, and goals, followed by customized portfolio design and ongoing discussions covering investments, retirement, estate planning, and philanthropy. Scott also participates in community volunteer work aligned with Merrill’s tradition of community involvement. Outside of work, his interests include basketball, billiards, boating, fishing, horseback riding, music, skiing, swimming, table tennis, and tennis.

Nathan Clark is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, bringing over 20 years of experience in financial planning. He specializes in comprehensive planning, investment management, and risk mitigation, focusing on helping clients pursue their financial goals through personalized wealth management strategies. Nathan’s approach emphasizes understanding clients’ life priorities to create flexible plans aligned with their family, goals, and aspirations. Nathan holds the Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor™ (ADPA™) and Accredited Wealth Management Advisor™ (AWMA™) designations, reflecting his expertise in addressing the unique needs of high net-worth individuals, families, and business owners. He earned a Bachelor's Degree from Western International University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix. In addition to his professional work, Nathan is actively involved in the community. He serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations, including the Reid Park Zoological Society, Reid Park Zoological Foundation, and Step Up to Justice. Outside of his advisory role, Nathan enjoys interior decorating, reading, and spending time with his family.

Fernando Gandara serves as an International Wealth Advisor and Managing Director specializing in wealth management. With over 27 years of experience in the financial sector, he focuses on assisting families and individuals in creating, preserving, and transferring generational wealth. He applies a personalized approach, aiming to understand each client's unique aspirations and financial situations to develop tailored financial plans. Fernando holds a Bachelor's Degree from Instituto Tecnologico de Monterrey and carries the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation. His expertise spans several areas including college education planning, family wealth management strategies, international wealth management, liquidity management, and investment strategy for both individuals and corporations. In addition to his professional work, Fernando enjoys outdoor and recreational activities such as biking, golfing, running, scuba diving, tennis, yoga, and traveling. He values spending time with his family and finds joy in exploring new places with them. He is proficient in English and Spanish and operates within Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, leveraging resources from Bank of America and Merrill to support his clients.

Donald Sheldon is a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, focusing on helping clients make informed financial decisions tailored to their unique values and goals. He works closely with individuals, families, and business owners to develop personalized strategies that align with their financial objectives. His areas of expertise include corporate benefits, LGBT wealth planning, personal retirement planning, small business strategies, and tax minimization. Donald holds several professional designations, including Accredited Wealth Management Advisor (AWMA), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC), and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). Donald was educated at Tucson Accelerated High School. He is actively involved in his community and supports the Pima Animal Care Center. In his personal time, he enjoys biking, hiking, and pickleball.

Tracy Mcnamara is a financial advisor with Merrill in Tucson, AZ, holding Series 63 and Series 65 licenses and bringing 36 years of industry experience. She has been with Merrill since 1983. Outside of her advisory role, she is involved in a family-held landscaping business, where she manages financial transactions. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers a range of model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, and institutions.

Andrew Isaac is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He specializes in creating personalized wealth management strategies that align with clients' individual priorities and goals. Andrew collaborates closely with clients to develop flexible financial plans that respond to changing market conditions while utilizing investment insights from Merrill and banking solutions from Bank of America. His areas of expertise include college education planning, family wealth management strategies, liquidity management, managing new wealth, personal retirement planning, portfolio management, socially responsible and ESG investing, individual and corporate investment strategies, and retirement income. Andrew holds a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation and earned a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Arizona. Andrew lives in Arizona, where he has resided since 1986. He enjoys biking, soccer, and spending time with his three daughters and granddaughter. He is also involved in the community as the CFO of the Jewish Educational Tax Credit Organization (JETCO).

Sergio Salazar is a financial advisor with Merrill in Tucson, AZ, holding a Series 66 credential and 13 years of industry experience. He has worked at Merrill and Bank of America since 2018 and previously spent two years with Catalina Wealth Management and Centaurus Financial Inc. Salazar is involved in managing a family-owned LLC related to real estate holdings. Merrill, along with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program, offering model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, retirement plans, and charitable organizations.

David Lopez Monroy is an International Wealth Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He joined the firm in 2021 after over 20 years of experience in tax, consulting, and cross-border business practices. Prior to joining Merrill Lynch, David was a partner at BeachFleischman PC, one of Arizona's largest accounting firms, where he founded and led the firm's international tax practice. Before BeachFleischman, he worked with Ernst & Young LLP. At Merrill Lynch, David collaborates with other financial advisors to provide comprehensive financial guidance, coordinating with clients' attorneys, accountants, and advisory teams to offer a family office type service for high net worth and ultra-high net worth families. He focuses on client areas such as education planning, family wealth management strategies, liquidity management, retirement planning, and portfolio and investment management. David holds professional designations as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). David earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona. He is bilingual in English and Spanish. Throughout his career, he has been active in community leadership roles with organizations such as Ronald McDonald House of Southern Arizona, Carondelet Foundation, Salpointe Foundation, Kino Border Initiative, Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce, and Nexus Executives.

Luis Zaragoza is an International Wealth Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He has over 25 years of experience in the financial industry, beginning his career in 1996 at HSBC Investment Banking in Mexico. Throughout his career, Luis has worked with Ixe Casa de Bolsa, Vector Casa de Bolsa, and Actinver before joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2015. Luis specializes in family wealth management strategies, international wealth management, liquidity management, managing new wealth, portfolio management services, socially responsible investing including values-based and ESG investing, women and wealth, and individual and corporate investment strategies. He holds the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation and earned his bachelor's degree from Instituto Technologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey. Luis is fluent in English and Spanish. Originally from Navojoa, Mexico, Luis enjoys cooking, music, scuba diving, swimming, table tennis, tennis, traveling, watching movies, and spending time with his family.

Cynthia Hanning is a financial advisor at Merrill with 23 years of industry experience. She holds the Series 66 designation and has worked at Merrill for over 25 years. Outside of her advisory role, she serves as the executor for her parents' estate. Merrill, together with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm offers model-based and discretionary investment strategies for individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension plans, corporations, and charitable organizations.

Douglas Haynes is a Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He joined Merrill in September 1993 and serves as a Senior Vice President. He holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) certification awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Doug specializes in family wealth management strategies, personal retirement planning, portfolio management services, and retirement income. His team focuses on addressing the wealth management and investment needs of high-net-worth families, aiming to customize financial assets to meet client goals while prioritizing clarity and convenience. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arizona in December 1988 and an MBA from the University of Phoenix in March 1997. Doug is a second-generation native of Tucson, is married, and has three children. He has coached a local high school football team and is involved in community activities including supporting a local community foundation, serving on the board for a Tucson-based PTSD non-profit ministry, and participating on the University of Arizona Foundation Professional Advisory Council. His personal interests include camping, fishing, football, hiking, hunting, racquetball, and traveling.

Sven Silberschlag is a Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He began his career in 2004 as a financial advisor following an internship at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management while earning a finance degree from the University of Arizona. Sven applies a goals-based approach to wealth management, focusing on defining client priorities and potential pitfalls to shape strategies that assist individuals and families throughout different life phases. He holds several professional designations including the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP) certification awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ (CRPC) designation from the College for Financial Planning, and the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA) designation from the Investments and Wealth Institute™. Sven's expertise encompasses areas such as education planning, executive compensation, equity compensation services, family wealth management strategies, personal retirement planning, portfolio management services, socially responsible and ESG investing, tax minimization, and retirement income. Sven is actively involved in his community, serving on the board of trustees at Casa de los Niños and having been a past president and executive member of the Active Men's 20/30 Club. He and his wife Jenny, both Tucson natives, have two young boys. Sven has a strong appreciation for the outdoors and enjoys camping, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and canyoneering. He is a member of the American Alpine Club and the Climbing Association of Southern Arizona.

Juan Blanco Rosas is a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He holds the professional designation of Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). He earned his Bachelor's Degree from Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey. His role involves providing financial advisory services within Merrill Lynch Wealth Management.

Chad Horton is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, bringing 24 years of experience in serving a multi-generational clientele across Arizona and more than 20 other states. His practice focuses on working with active and retired business owners, corporate executives, and physicians, particularly during times of transition such as retirement or changes in family status. Chad emphasizes personalized financial strategies that align with clients’ risk tolerance, liquidity needs, and long-term objectives. Chad holds a Bachelor's Degree from Arizona State University and earned the Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) certification, along with the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation. He integrates Merrill Lynch’s strategies and research to customize client portfolios and collaborates closely with clients’ CPAs and attorneys to support tax minimization and estate planning. Chad prioritizes clear communication with both spouses and addresses issues such as Social Security, long-term care, healthcare costs, and tax-efficient wealth transfer in his comprehensive advisory approach. Originally from Phoenix, Chad grew his interest in investments early, which he further developed at Arizona State University. He lives in Tucson with his wife and two children. Outside of work, Chad enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, and working as a handyman.

Richard Johnson is a financial advisor at Merrill with 40 years of industry experience. He holds the Series 63 and Series 66 designations and has worked at Merrill since 2003 and Bank of America, N.A. since 2011. Outside of advising, he is a co-owner of a family rental property. Merrill serves a broad range of clients, including individuals, retirement plans, corporations, and institutional investors, offering managed account programs, discretionary portfolio management, and brokerage execution services. The firm integrates closely with Bank of America affiliates and emphasizes manager selection, monitoring, and tax-efficient investment strategies.

Jonathan Rafferty is a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He began his career in financial services in 2013 and holds the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation. Jonathan has an Associate degree in Pre-Business from New Mexico State University and has also attended Colorado State University and Liberty University, although no degrees were conferred from these institutions. Jonathan's expertise encompasses college education planning, legacy planning, managing new wealth, personal retirement planning, tax minimization, and retirement income. He works closely with clients to define their financial goals and develop portfolio strategies tailored to their needs, providing ongoing advice to adapt to changing circumstances. Originally from Colorado Springs, Jonathan grew up in an Air Force family and was medically discharged from the U.S. Air Force Reserve while attending college. He is active in community initiatives, volunteering with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement, and RSL-AZ Southern Arizona. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, participating in various sports, running, cooking, and music.

Juan Tapia Camou is an International Wealth Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He joined Merrill Lynch in 2004 after more than 14 years of providing service to international high net worth individuals and their families. Juan focuses on developing portfolio strategies, asset allocation, and diversification to support clients' investment objectives within their risk tolerance. He holds a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation and a Bachelor's Degree from ITESM. Juan's areas of expertise include family wealth management strategies, international wealth management, personal retirement planning, portfolio management services, individual and corporate investment strategy, and retirement income. Juan is fluent in English and Spanish. Outside of work, he enjoys bowling, football, racquetball, and traveling.

Jorge Gomez Del Campo is an International Wealth Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, bringing over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry across Mexico and the United States. He specializes in developing strategies tailored to meet the complex needs of international high net worth families and business owners. Jorge employs a goals-based approach, assisting clients and their families in articulating and defining their financial objectives to create comprehensive investment and wealth management plans. Before joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2009, Jorge worked for BBVA Bancomer from 1993 to 2001, holding positions in Monterrey, Mexico City, Chicago, and Houston. His roles included work in the Investment Banking Division and on FX, Equity, and Derivatives desks. In 1996, he became a member of The Chicago Mercantile Exchange, trading Mexican Peso futures, and in 1997, he traded equities on the floor of the Bolsa Mexicana de Valores. Jorge holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Business from the Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM). He has earned the Certified Investment Management Analyst® designation from the Investments & Wealth Institute™ and has taught in conjunction with The Yale School of Management. Jorge is bilingual in Spanish and English and resides in Tucson, Arizona, with his wife and their four children. Outside of work, he enjoys swimming, spending time with family, and watching Chicago Cubs and University of Arizona games.

Robert Bakos is a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He specializes in a comprehensive approach to wealth management, focusing on understanding clients' goals to develop personalized financial strategies. His expertise includes family wealth management, legacy and philanthropic planning, retirement income strategies, tax minimization, and investment planning for individuals and businesses. Robert graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor's degree in Economics, concentrating in Finance, and holds Series 7 and Series 66 FINRA registrations. He is also a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) and a lifetime member of the University of Arizona Tau Sigma Honors Society. He has been involved in finance since 2005 and joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2015. In addition to his professional work, Robert serves on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of Tucson and El Rio Health, and is a member of the Bank of America Volunteer Committee. His community involvement includes participation with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tucson, Community Food Bank, and El Rio Health.

Paula Gonzales is a Wealth Management Advisor leading a Merrill wealth management team that assists individuals, families, and businesses in approaching their wealth with thoughtful and strategic planning. She has been with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management since 1994 and brings more than 25 years of experience to her role. Paula helps clients from various states and backgrounds, including those contemplating retirement, actively building wealth, and extended family members of current clients seeking personalized care. Paula's expertise extends beyond investment management. She dedicates time to understanding her clients' unique financial situations, including budgeting, asset consolidation, trust and estate planning options, and lending opportunities through Bank of America. Her approach involves designing balanced portfolios tailored to client priorities. Prior to her current role, she served as a Premier Banker, providing her with insight into the lending process. She holds a B.S.B.A. in Finance and Real Estate from the University of Arizona and has earned the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® and the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ designations. Within the firm, Paula serves on the Leadership Team for the Merrill Women's Exchange as the Tucson liaison and as Mentor Chair, fostering mentor-mentee relationships among advisors. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, attending live music events, and photography.

Judith Lewis is a financial advisor with Merrill, holding a Series 66 credential and 26 years of industry experience. She has worked at Merrill since 1999 and Bank of America, N.A. since 2009. Outside of her advisory work, she participates in Desert Angels, Inc., a nonprofit organization that serves as a forum for accredited investors interested in venture capital for Southwest regional startup and early stage companies. Merrill, along with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program, offering model-based and discretionary investment strategies for a range of clients including individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension plans, corporations, and charitable organizations.

Derek Patla is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He focuses on a range of client needs including college education planning, family wealth management strategies, legacy planning, liquidity management, personal retirement planning, socially responsible and values-based investing, as well as retirement income strategies. Derek began his financial services career in Tucson in 1997 and has been active in professional and community organizations. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Arizona and has earned several professional designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC), and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). Derek's professional approach is defined by the principles of trust, simplicity, and purpose. A native of Tucson, Arizona, Derek is a founding member and president of the Rotary Club of Tucson Presidio. He has also previously served as the guild president for the Vail Youth Symphony. Outside of work, Derek enjoys spending time with his wife and four children, as well as pursuing interests in music and photography.

James Wood is a Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He and his team, The Wood/Cuesta Group, provide financial coordination and customized wealth management strategies for families, corporate executives, and small business owners in Tucson, Arizona, and across the country. Their approach focuses on simplifying clients’ financial lives through a Goals Based Wealth Management process and collaborating with attorneys, tax professionals, and insurance experts to deliver comprehensive service. Beginning his career at Merrill Lynch in 2008, James has held roles including Client Associate in Phoenix and Client Relationship Manager in Indian Wells, California, before becoming a partner in the Wood Group in 2014. He holds a Bachelor's Degree from Arizona State University and has earned the Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA) and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designations. His areas of expertise include family wealth management, retirement planning, philanthropic planning, portfolio management, socially responsible investing, and tax minimization. James is active in his community as a board member of the Father's Day Council Tucson benefiting Type 1 Diabetes research, Rotary Club of Tucson, and DM50, a nonprofit supporting Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and its personnel. He also serves as an Honorary Commander for the Air Force base and participates in its Military Affairs Committee. Residing in Tucson, James prioritizes time with his family and enjoys sports, cooking, and golf.

Zulema Noriega is a financial advisor at Merrill with nine years of industry experience. She holds a Series 66 designation and has been with Merrill since 2017. Prior to joining the firm, she was a homemaker for two years. Merrill, along with its affiliate Managed Account Advisors LLC, provides managed account services to Bank of America fiduciary clients through the Select Portfolio Solutions Program. The firm serves a range of clients including individuals, high-net-worth clients, pension and profit-sharing plans, corporations, and charitable organizations, offering model-based and discretionary investment strategies.