Meet the 2024 RIA Talent Advantage Scholarship Winners!

Schwab Advisor Services™ and Charles Schwab Foundation have created the RIA Talent Advantage Student Scholarship to help remove financial barriers, advocate for diversity, and open doors for future talent within the independent RIA industry.

This year the RIA Talent Advantage Student program had the honor of awarding 13 winners with a $10,000 scholarship, up from 12 winners in previous years. These students are planning and seeking a career in the RIA profession.

These scholarship winners represent the future of our industry, and we are excited for you to get to know them. Meet our 2024 RIA Talent Advantage Scholarship winners!

Read the press release to learn more about the scholarship.

Morgan Allen, Creighton University, Senior

"My goal is to offer hope and peace of mind, enabling clients to reach financial independence and contribute to the needs of their family and community. Financial planning is a service-industry as you put your client's needs and interests at the center of your work together."

Ryan Arp, The Ohio State University, Senior

"My career goal is to bridge the gap between financial dreams and realities of those in their later years. I aim to have a meaningful impact on their lives and address the anxieties that many face when considering whether they have saved enough to carry out the rest of their lives."

Micah Barker, The University of Texas at Austin, Junior

"I strive to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable industry, where diversity is not just acknowledged but is celebrated as a cornerstone of excellence and innovation."

Jeremiah Barwick, Winthrop University, Senior

"My time in the military not only reinforced but amplified my desire to serve. The Air Force's core values of integrity, service before self, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence became the guiding principles shaping my actions and decisions. As an aspiring Certified Financial Planner, I endeavor to extend helpful knowledge, advice, and support to meet the needs of those I encounter, guided by the principles of integrity and honor."

Chloe Garcia, University of Delaware, Senior

"How can I help my future clients achieve financial freedom and a life without worrying about money? I strongly believe this is achievable through advocating for more practical and prevalent financial literacy that spreads awareness of how to be financially responsible and savvy."

Blake Grisvard, The Ohio State University, Sophomore

"The independent RIA industry is calling—a space where numbers meet narratives, where financial empowerment transcends what is on paper. As I step into this profession in a few short weeks, I carry with me the torch of commitment, fueled by personal experience, classroom knowledge, and an unwavering belief that financial well-being is attainable for all."

Gabi Kim, The University of Texas at Austin, Junior

"Through community outreach initiatives, engaging workshops, and educational programs, I intend to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to successfully navigate their financial futures. My passion and journey to the RIA industry is driven by a strong commitment to promote financial empowerment, guided by the belief that knowledge is power."

Magdalena Latek, University of Colorado Boulder, Senior

"Leveraging my experiences, I aim to empower all individuals, regardless of background, financial knowledge, and financial understanding, to achieve financial security and independence."

Isabella Galindo Pacheco, The University of Texas at Austin, Sophomore

"I fully intend on pursuing this career out of wanting to put people's lives on track and to grant them a secure future and I am doing everything possible to continue on this trajectory. I hope in the future to own my own community wealth management firm where I can work directly with families and help safeguard their financial futures."

Michael Ray, University of North Florida, Senior

"My greatest motivation lies in the realm of financial planning and the profound impact it can have on people's lives. I am driven by the opportunity to build lasting relationships with clients, guiding them through their financial journeys, and ultimately providing them with peace of mind and financial security."

Alexandra Shipley, Utah Valley University, Senior

"For as long as I remember, I've always known I wanted to grow up to be someone who helps people for a living. Financial planning can make such a positive impact in the lives of those who utilize it, and I have loved my chance to help bring this resource to those in my local community."

Eber Silva, Texas Tech University, Senior

"My commitment to the RIA industry is rooted in a deep-seated passion for empowering individuals to take control of their financial futures. Through a combination of education, experience, and a steadfast dedication to serving clients' best interests, I am confident that I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I have the privilege to serve."

Jay Zheng, Bentley University, Junior

"As a first-generation immigrant from China, I understand the challenges that newcomers must confront when adapting to a country with a vastly different cultural landscape and societal systems. Moving forward, I am committed to immersing myself deeply within my community."