With summer officially underway, I’ve found myself reflecting on milestones, anniversaries, and the power of longevity.
This year, my favorite hockey team, the Carolina Hurricanes, captured their second Stanley Cup Championship—20 years after their first title in 2006. As a fan since the early 2000s, it’s been especially meaningful to celebrate this moment and reflect on just how much can happen over two decades.
I’ve also been thinking about what it takes to build a great team. Why Coach Rod Brind’Amour isn’t in the Hockey Hall of Fame yet is beyond me, but what I’ve always admired about him is the way he leads: holding high standards while making sure every player understands their value and contribution. Rod was part of the 2006 championship team and then led the 2026 team to another Stanley Cup. Talk about being in it for the long haul.
Coincidentally, 2006 was also the year I began my career with Financial Symmetry.
That connection makes this summer even more special, as Financial Symmetry celebrates 25 years of serving clients across the Triangle and beyond. I’m grateful to be part of an organization that, like any successful team, is built on dedication, growth, and a commitment to serving others.
One of the ways we’ve invested in our future over the years is through our internship program, which is also celebrating its 25th year. Developing talent takes time, patience, and a willingness to invest in people long before the results are visible. That’s something great coaches and great organizations have in common.
This summer, we’re excited to welcome four exceptional students who are expanding their knowledge and bringing fresh perspectives to the wealth management profession:
- Andrew Briley returns as our first Portfolio Management Intern. He is a rising senior at NC State University, majoring in Accounting with a minor in Data Science.
- Vusumzi Plamana is pursuing a Master of Business Administration at Meredith College.
- Nehemeya Zewdu is a junior at NC State University majoring in Accounting.
- Sadie Cunningham is a senior at NC State University pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and a minor in Economics.
Another milestone worth celebrating is the continued success of our internship program and how it has helped us build our team. This summer, we’re excited to welcome three former interns into full-time roles as they begin the next chapter of their careers with Financial Symmetry:
- Yasemin Bali, Data Operations Associate
- Charlie Barstow, Client Service Associate
- Anthony Rosen, Client Service Associate
Watching interns grow into professionals and teammates is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Their curiosity, dedication, and fresh perspectives help shape the future of Financial Symmetry while strengthening the legacy we’ve built together.
Coming back to the Hurricanes for a moment—not because we’re hoisting Stanley Cups around here (though I can dream!), but because leadership leaves an impression. I’ve learned a great deal from listening to Rod Brind’Amour’s locker room talks and press conferences over the years. He consistently shines the spotlight on the people around him and reminds everyone that success is a team effort.
As Financial Symmetry celebrates 25 years, I’m grateful for the many people who have contributed to our success—our 900+ clients, more than 40 colleagues, interns, and team members past and present. The strongest organizations, like the strongest teams, are built one relationship at a time.
If you’ve made it to the end, I’m glad you’re here. Whether you’ve been with us for years, recently joined us, or are just getting to know Financial Symmetry, thank you for being part of our story.
And if you’re not yet working with us, we’d welcome the opportunity to connect. We would be honored to be part of your wealth team. Like Rod, we’re in it for the long haul.
Here’s to another summer of learning, growth, and new beginnings.
