Lisa Drake Takes the Helm as NAPA President, Aiming for Retirement Security

Lisa Drake Elected as President of NAPA

In a significant leadership transition within the retirement planning sector, SageView Advisory Group has announced that Lisa Drake has been elected as the new president of the National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA) for the 2025-26 term. This important appointment comes as part of SageView's ongoing commitment to promote effective retirement planning and improve financial security for Americans.

Background on Lisa Drake

Drake, who has been with SageView since 2019 as the Managing Director of Retirement Plan Consulting, brings nearly two decades of experience in institutional financial services to her new role. She previously served as president-elect in 2024 and has been an ardent advocate for positive retirement plan outcomes for both plan sponsors and participants.

John Longley, CEO of SageView, expressed his enthusiasm for Drake’s new position, stating, "A passionate advocate for driving positive retirement plan outcomes for plan sponsors and participants, Lisa is the right person to lead this vital organization during this turbulent period for American retirement security."

The Role of NAPA

Established in Washington, D.C., NAPA is a non-profit dedicated to addressing the challenges that retirement plan advisors face. With over 20,000 members, it plays a crucial role in advocating for retirement security and supporting financial advisors as they navigate a rapidly changing landscape. Under Drake's leadership, NAPA is expected to continue its commitment to promote retirement security and to pursue effective advocacy on behalf of its members.

In her inaugural message, Drake stated, "I have served on the NAPA leadership council since 2020, and I am honored to lead the organization as we face one of the most complex environments for American retirement in more than a generation. NAPA will continue to promote retirement security, pursue advocacy, and support financial advisors as we navigate this evolving landscape."

Plans Ahead

As Drake steps into this pivotal role, her objectives are clear. She aims to enhance retirement planning and financial wellness among Americans while continuing to address the retirement savings gap—an issue that is becoming increasingly critical for many households across the nation.

Drake's experience includes working directly with employer-sponsored retirement plan fiduciaries in her role at SageView, where she has honed her skills in advocating for comprehensive retirement planning solutions. Through her leadership at NAPA, she plans to leverage her extensive knowledge and experience to meet the current and future needs of the retirement planning sector.

Acknowledging Challenges

Drake's appointment comes at a crucial time for the retirement planning community, as many Americans face uncertainties regarding their financial futures. The evolving landscape of retirement security necessitates innovative solutions and strategic advocacy, and Drake is poised to provide this as NAPA’s leader. Her hands-on approach and commitment to driving impactful retirement strategies make her a suitable candidate to steer NAPA through these challenges.

SageView Advisory Group, with its strong track record as a leading independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) since 1989, continues to provide consulting and investment management services to retirement plan sponsors. As a notable figure within this esteemed firm, Drake is expected to highlight the essential role of retirement plans in achieving long-term financial wellness for all Americans.

Conclusion

With Lisa Drake appointed as president of NAPA, the organization is set to enhance its role in advocating for retirement security while supporting advisors nationwide. The experience and dedication she brings will not only enhance NAPA's mission but also contribute positively to the future of financial security for countless Americans navigating retirement. As this new leadership unfolds, the retirement planning sector watches closely, hopeful for positive advancements under her guidance.