Honoring those who serve(d) this Veterans Day
Raymond James has long been a proud supporter of veterans. Recognizing the many sacrifices that military members, veterans and their families make for our nation, our priority is to make Raymond James a top career destination for these individuals.
In honor of Veterans Day, the firm celebrated by sharing stories from advisors and associates who serve(d), participating in and raising money through Valor’s annual golf tournament, and commemorating the official launch of our newest inclusion network, the Veteran Financial Advisors Network (VFAN).
Giving back to those who gave their all
Valor Veterans Inclusion Network is an associate inclusion network that advocates for veterans' education, professional development and community outreach. Valor focuses on the development and growth of all associates by creating a strong community of leaders to include veterans, military spouses, family of service members and allies. We aim to support the veteran community nationwide through national and local outreach programs.
Each year, Valor’s annual Golf Outing brings associates, advisors and community partners together in support of local veterans and their families. Through the fourth annual tournament on November 5, Raymond James and Valor raised more than $120,000 – surpassing this year’s goal of $100,000 – for a dozen non-profit partner organizations. We humbly thank all who attended in person and participated in the raffle virtually in support of giving back to our veterans.
Celebrating the launch of our newest network
VFAN is dedicated to supporting armed services veterans in the development of their financial advisor businesses and careers, and in helping other veterans and military family members discover a challenging, rewarding career that plays to their strengths. Partnering closely with Valor, VFAN provides access to customized skills programs, development opportunities and mentorships. The network’s initiatives include outreach to veterans who are considering their next move after separation or discharge to share information about how their skills can translate to a successful career in financial advising. VFAN advisors also give back to veterans and military family members through philanthropy and volunteerism in their local communities.
To celebrate the launch, Raymond James hosted a luncheon on November 4 at the St. Pete home office and broadcast virtually with keynote speaker Ryan Pitts, a former active duty Army paratrooper and Medal of Honor recipient.
(Pictured here, left to right: financial advisors Gary Curry, AAMS®, CFP®; Patrick Scanlan; Kimberley Mondoñedo, EdD, CFP®, WMS; and Matthew T. Pruitt, MBA; Head of Advisor Inclusion Networks Renée Baker; guest speaker and Medal of Honor recipient Ryan Pitts; Private Client Group President Scott Curtis; Complex Manager Edward Sudzina; and financial advisor Matthew J. Fisher, CFP®, CRPS®;)
“Veterans represent the pinnacle of service and enduring commitment to others, having dedicated entire portions of their lives to the defense of our country,” shared Scott Curtis, Private Client Group president. “These traits are part of what makes veteran advisors excellent financial stewards to their clients, and Raymond James is honored to support these individuals in their mission to advance the careers and businesses of other veterans."
Learn more about our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion associate and advisor networks.
Honoring veterans through art
At Raymond James, we believe that art has the power to reflect our thoughts and the world around us, as well as connect us to one another – both at our firm and throughout our communities. Through their patronage, Tom and Mary James have supported the success and helped share the stories of veteran artists such as Greg Beecham, Dan Namingha, Kim Wiggins and many others. Learn more about their work by visiting their websites or if you are in St. Pete, scheduling an art tour at our home office by calling Sarah Etzkorn at 727.567.1361.
