On April 27, 2026, Steward Partners, a well-respected independent financial services firm, announced that 14 of its esteemed advisors have earned a prestigious spot on InvestmentNews' 2026 5-Star Financial Planners list. This recognition speaks to the unwavering commitment, integrity, and innovative strategies these professionals exhibit in assisting clients to navigate their financial journeys.
The 5-Star Financial Planners list is an annual accolade which honors financial experts who not only achieve remarkable results but also demonstrate a thorough understanding of client needs and long-term objectives. The advisors from Steward Partners who achieved this honor represent a diverse range of skills and specializations within the financial planning sector, each committed to delivering tailored advice and exceptional service.
Jeff Gonyo, the Head of Wealth Management at Steward Partners, emphasized that this achievement reflects the company’s cultivated culture of excellence and collaboration. "Having 14 advisors named in a single year is not coincidental; it’s representative of the environment we've nurtured at Steward Partners. We attract professionals dedicated to elevating the financial well-being of our clients by genuinely listening and understanding their aspirations and concerns. This is what sets us apart, and it’s what leads to recognition like this. I am incredibly proud of our team,” he stated.
The recognized advisors include:
- - Keith Barberis, CFP® - Director, Wealth Manager
- - DeHaven Becker, MBA, CFP®, ChFC® - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Jason Bottenfield, CFP®, CDFA® - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Aaron Brachman, CFP®, AAMS®, AIF® - Executive Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Corey Briggs, CFP®, CIMA® - Director of Wealth Planning
- - Christopher J. Detmer, CFP®, CHFC®, CLU® - Executive Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Michael Englehart, CLU®, CFP® - Senior Vice President, Wealth Manager
- - John Ferguson, CFP®, CPWA®, CEPA - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Carl Gravina, CFP® - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Faiza Kedir - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Wayne McCormick, CFP®, CHFC® - Executive Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - George Nottingham, CFP® - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - James Sahagian, CFP®, MBA - Managing Director, Wealth Manager
- - Courtney M. Shrewsberry, CHFC® - Vice President, Wealth Manager
This accolade not only amplifies the reputation of those honored but also reinforces Steward Partners' status in the competitive financial services landscape. Since its establishment in 2013, the firm has experienced remarkable growth while maintaining its commitment to a culture of transparency and excellence. Recently, Steward Partners was ranked as the 9th RIA in Barron's Top 100 RIAs for 2025, managing nearly $50 billion in client assets by December 2025. The firm's success stems from its comprehensive wealth management approach, focusing on personal, family, and multigenerational financial planning.
For more details about the InvestmentNews 2026 5-Star Financial Planners, visit InvestmentNews’ official website. As financial advisory continues to evolve, accolades like the 5-Star list help underscore the essential role of trusted advisors who prioritize client needs and long-term success. The recognition awarded to these advisors serves as a beacon for those seeking financial guidance, highlighting the importance of integrity and a personalized approach in achieving financial aspirations.
To learn about the innovative services offered by Steward Partners and how their advisors can assist in navigating a comprehensive financial strategy, visit their website at www.stewardpartners.com.