Around the Firm 4Q 2024
Big Announcement
Innovest is excited to announce the launch of a new division, IPS Philanthropy Architects (IPSPA), led by renowned nonprofit giving expert Greg Ring. IPSPA is dedicated to unlocking new philanthropic opportunities for donors by encouraging them to give creatively – through their assets, business ownership, and real estate, which are often overlooked. By blending Innovest’s financial and investment expertise with a deep understanding of nonprofit needs and tax-advantaged giving strategies, IPSPA equips organizations with the tools necessary to maximize donations and provide long-term sustainability through innovative giving approaches.
Progressions & Team Updates
As we wrap up the final quarter of 2024, Innovest is proud to share some exciting developments within our team. These advancements reflect our team’s dedication and exceptional contributions, underscoring our commitment to excellence and stewardship.
We are thrilled to announce that Frank Cornett, CFP®, has been named Innovest’s newest Partner, and Joanne Cinalli, CFPA™, has earned a well-deserved progression to Vice President.
We also celebrate the achievements of John Walsh and Ian Gilbert, who have advanced to the role of Analyst, and Christine Attai, Anna Berdahl, and Taylor Smith, who have been elevated to Senior Analysts.
These team members have consistently demonstrated their unwavering commitment to serving our clients and advancing Innovest’s mission. Their growth is a testament to their hard work and the values that guide our organization. Congratulations to all on these remarkable milestones!
Finally, Ian Gilbert, Carol Van Gytenbeek, and Brian Curran were acknowledged with the Service to Others Award for their commitment to their fellow employees in October, November, and December, respectively.
Awards & Publications
Innovest has been named a "Best Place to Work" by Pensions & Investments for the 10th time in 11 years, highlighting our team’s dedication and commitment to a supportive and collaborative work environment. We were also ranked among the top 20 Corporate Philanthropists in the Denver area by the Denver Business Journal for 2023.
Several prominent publications featured our team members this quarter. Principals Sloan Smith, CAIA, MBA, CPWA®, and Steven Fraley, CFA, MBA were highlighted in Citywire’s “Due Diligence Report,” where they shared valuable insights on how to fuel financial objectives. Principal Christian O'Dwyer, CFA, and Analyst John Walsh co-authored an article titled "The Power of Spend-Down Funds and Immediate Attention," published in The NonProfit Times in November 2024. In addition, Manager Peter Girard and Senior Analyst Natalie Miller, CFA, contributed an article to Advisor Perspectives called “Electing to Stay Invested This November” in November 2024. Another article in Advisor Perspectives published in November 2024, “The Bond Market Update: What You Need to Know,” was written by Steven Fraley and Analyst Austin Cleveland. Lastly, Principal Rick Rodgers, AIFA®, and Manager Sydney Aeschilmann’s article, "New Fiduciary Rule Stayed by Court as ERISA Turns 50," was published in TEXPERS in November 2024.
Service To Others
Innovest was proud to participate in Colorado Gives Day, where we finished in second place in the Corporate Challenge, thanks to the generosity of our employees. As part of our commitment to service, Innovest employees volunteered at the Girls Inc. of Metro Denver clothing closet, organizing professional attire to help young women prepare for interviews and internships. Our team also volunteered for Colorado Uplift, Project Angel Heart, and St. Thomas More Catholic Church. Furthermore, Innovest employees participated in the annual Joy Drive for the Little Flower Assistance Center, collecting supplies for families in Aurora, Montbello, and Green Valley Ranch, and assisted families in finding gifts at the Denver Santa Claus Shop, supporting the nonprofit’s mission, "A Toy for Every Girl & Boy."
Conferences, Speaking Engagements, and Sponsorships
Innovest hosted the Arizona Defined Contribution Conference (AZ/DC) in Scottsdale, Arizona in November 2024, which provided a valuable networking opportunity for Arizona public plan professionals and fostered the exchange of industry knowledge. Also in November, Innovest co-sponsored the Driving Nonprofit Success Through Endowments Virtual Nonprofit Conference, where Principal Christian O'Dwyer, CFA, presented the 2024 Economic Update. This topic was also addressed at the FORT (Family Office Round Table) and FORVIS Summit both in November 2024, presented by Principals Kristy LeGrande, CFA, MBA and Steven Fraley, CFA, MBA.
In October and November, Innovest took participated in various wellness, career, and city fairs, where we provided financial wellness advice and educated Colorado youth regarding career opportunities in the finance field. Innovest also proudly sponsored and participated in the Colorado Uplift TeeUp for Uplift Golf Tournament. Colorado Uplift teaches leadership and life skills to urban youth in Denver and Aurora. Finally, Principals Jared Martin, AIF®, CFP®, Steven Fraley, CFA, MBA, and Frank Cornett, CFP® along with Senior Analyst Christine Attai, attended the 2024 Weld Legacy Foundation Gala, supporting the foundation’s work to increase the capacity of health and education-focused nonprofits in Weld County.