"Without knowing where you are, how can you begin? 
Without knowing where you’re going, how can you get there?  
Without having a plan in place, how can you succeed?"

- Lysa Kristensen, CFA


Working as a fee-only advisor through my own firm allows me to put my clients’ needs first and foremost. I am able to create unique, objective, unbiased, and comprehensive solutions for each client's Financial Wellness. I do not receive commissions or referral fees, and have the freedom to place clients with trusted colleagues specialized in legal, tax or insurance, who provide an equivalent level of exceptional service.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Lysa began her career with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York assessing the health of financial institutions within The Federal Reserve Second District.   Building on the foundation of financial analysis and risk management, Lysa transitioned to managing the Trading and Investment risk associated with global, multi-billion dollar portfolios as a Principal with Barclays Global Investors (acquired by BlackRock in 2009).  After working with very large institutional clients, Lysa found her passion working on an intimate level with individuals, families and charitable foundations as a Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager with First American Trust.  In this most recent position prior to starting her own firm, Lysa gained an appreciation for the challenges her clients faced in managing their personal financial situation and recognized their need for support from a trusted professional partner.  As a result, Lysa formed her own company, Laurel Terrace Finance, LLC in 2014  with the purpose of helping individuals, couples, and families organize and manage their personal financial affairs.   

Lysa received her BA in Political Science from Arizona State University, and graduated with an MBA/Masters in International Management from the prestigious Thunderbird School of International Management.  Lysa has also met the rigorous requirements to hold her CFA® designation.  

Lysa is frequently called upon to speak with High School Graduates, Parent Organizations & Mom's Groups, and Wellness Groups to discuss living a Financially Healthy Lifestyle.  

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