Celebrating 80 years of love + legacy

On September 6th, my mom, Ann, turns 80 years old. It’s a milestone that has me reflecting not only on her incredible life, but also on the quiet ways women shape our world for the better—often without fanfare or spotlight.

Mom has always been my North Star. She taught me how to live with compassion, give back to my community, and nurture others—values that are now at the heart of my business and everything I do. Growing up, I watched her quietly, steadily improve the world around her. She never expected recognition; she just did what needed to be done, with love.

Her story started during a time of uncertainty—her father was serving in the Pacific when she was born, and she faced her own battles early on, surviving polio at the age of five. The effects of that disease lingered, but you’d never know it from the way she lives her life: with energy, curiosity, and a fierce determination to help others.

My mom earned a master’s degree in biology from Michigan State—where she also met my dad, Chuck. They’ve been married for 56 years, building a life together that’s full of love, laughter, three children, and eight grands who are all pursuing their own dreams.

But what stands out most to me is the way she has spent her life giving back. She volunteered with the Junior League, worked with incarcerated women, and tackled court reform. One of her proudest achievements, other than her family, was saving Crisis Services in Buffalo during the 1980s. She stepped in when the organization was struggling, took on the challenge of leadership and reform to ensure that critical mental health services would remain available for anyone in need. To this day, she’ll rattle off their phone number from memory: 716-834-3131. She’s never needed to call, but she’s made sure so many others can.

For over 50 years, my mom has quietly shaped Western New York for the better. She’s proof that leadership is often showing up, rolling up your sleeves, and making things happen—again and again, without ever asking for applause.

As I help women build brighter financial futures, I think of my mom and all the women like her. Women who change the world in big and small ways, often behind the scenes. I am so grateful to have her as my example and my inspiration.

Happy 80th birthday, Mom. You are, and always have been, the light that guides our family—and me.

  Retirees below to make sure you’re using every advantage available to you!