July 21, 2025

A Summer of Reflection, Gratitude, and Purposeful Growth

Heather Gudac

Summer Roots and Reflections

Long, light-filled days invite reflection, and at Financial Symmetry, summer is woven into our history. Many of us first crossed this threshold as interns—wide-eyed, curious, determined—and chose to plant our careers here. That shared beginning has shaped a culture of learning, collaboration, and service that carries us—and our clients—through every season.  

We are honored to have been recently featured in WealthManagement.com’s annual RIA Edge 100, which goes a bit deeper into our history.  

Honoring a Pathfinder: Catherine Tillery

This summer, we celebrate our first retirement. Nearly eight years ago, Catherine Tillery pivoted into tax planning and entrusted her second act to us. She expanded our tax services, mentored new planners, and modeled steady expertise, grace, and support to our clients. Catherine now begins a chapter of travel, gardening, and time with her grandniece and grandnephew. Your imprint is permanent, Catherine—thank you. 

Welcoming the 2025 Internship Class

Our 24thyear internship cohort reminds us why we invest in education: 

  • Huy Truong – NC State (graduating Dec 2025, Business/Finance) 
  • Charlie Barstow – Virginia Tech (Financial Planning & Wealth Management) 
  • Anthony Rosen – Univ. of South Carolina (Finance & Business Analytics) 
  • Yasemin Bali – NC State (Business/Finance) 
  • Andrew Briley – NC State (Accounting, Data Science minor) 

Their questions keep us sharp, and their enthusiasm fuels our purpose. 

Interns Who Became Colleagues

Growth is a hallmark here. This summer, two interns are moving forward with us: 

  • Avery Wade joins us as a Tax Planning Associate. 

Marking Milestones

Former interns who now celebrate anniversaries: 

Their journey shows that lasting commitment and forward-thinking go hand in hand. 

Leading Through Uncertainty

While headlines echo daily hardships, natural disasters, and turbulent markets, our commitment remains unshaken: stay calm, think long-term, and serve with excellence. We’ve weathered storms before and emerged stronger because our compass is fixed on enhancing our clients’ today for an enriched tomorrow. 

Looking Ahead

Our next chapter builds on these deep roots. We’re investing in data-driven planning tools, expanding community outreach, and strengthening pathways from internship to leadership to better steward your financial life. 

Whether you’ve been with us since day one or you’re considering a relationship with Financial Symmetry, know that you’re supported by a legacy of talent, curiosity, and care. If you have a question, a milestone to celebrate, or simply want to say hello, reach out. We’d love to connect. 

 

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July 21, 2025

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Heather is the Chief Operating Officer and a Partner at Financial Symmetry, where she leads with a people-first mindset and a deep commitment to thoughtful, scalable growth. A former intern herself, she’s spent nearly two decades shaping systems that support both team development and long-term client care.

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