About AAAA’s Top Fifty Under 50 Distinguished financial services Professionals.

 

AAAA’s top fifty U 50

Honoring exemplary Black/African American Financial Advisors, Financial Planners, Financial Consultants, Home Office Professionals, and industry executives.


Beginning in 2020, The Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA) established a tradition of honoring exemplary Black/African American Financial Advisors, Financial Planners, Financial Consultants, Home Office Professionals, and industry executives annually. These individuals stand out for their extraordinary leadership within their organizations, and the industry.

These professionals are not only the torchbearers of our profession – The Wealth Management/Financial Planning Profession but also the vital links that have enhanced the stature of wealth management and financial planning within the Black/African American community. They have played an integral role in bridging the gap between expert financial advice and a community that greatly benefits from a tailored, culturally sensitive approach to engagement.

Additionally, these accomplished professionals are spreading financial planning knowledge in the Black/African American community. Their expertise, combined with a profound understanding of the unique needs and challenges of their clients, has enabled them to offer unparalleled advice, ensuring that their clients feel secure and empowered in their financial decisions.

But their influence extends beyond their clientele. Each nominee’s leadership, fueled by passion and creativity, has inspired other advisors, planners, and consultants. Their commitment has not only uplifted their clients but also supported their fellow professionals and the communities they serve. In doing so, they have truly become the driving force that has significantly propelled AAAA’s mission forward.

Those accomplishments highlight the potential within our community and underscore our resolve to continue using financial planning to build bridges to financial prosperity.

AAAA’s Fifty Under 50 Top Distinguished Professionals Selection Process:


Nominations are reviewed by a committee of peers every year. The goal is to curate a list of 50 exceptional Financial Advisors or industry professionals assisting advisors under 50. The list recognizes not just newcomers but those who have already made a significant impact in the industry but were not seen.

The selection process is thorough, ensuring each honoree has demonstrated a high level of professional achievement. It includes assessing their accomplishments, with particular emphasis on significant contributions that have advanced or reshaped our industry in some way.

Beyond their accomplishments, the committee evaluates the leadership qualities exhibited by the nominees. Leaders who inspire their teams, lead by example, and make strategic decisions to drive their organizations forward are the ones they select.

Honorees are also considered based on their potential, or 'promise'. This encapsulates their capacity to continue to grow, innovate, and influence the industry positively. As well as their dedication to mentoring the next generation, commitment to increasing the numbers of Black/African American Financial Advisors and Financial Planners, or engagement in community outreach and education.

Through this rigorous process, we aim to celebrate those who truly represent the future of the wealth management industry, bringing to the fore their achievements, leadership skills, and the promise they hold for propelling the industry to new heights.

IN ADDITION:

Self-nominations are welcome. No one knows your accomplishments better than you.

The judges will base their decisions solely on the information provided on the nomination form. Please provide detailed information so the judges can give the nominee full consideration. 

If selected, honorees will be required to provide a color headshot photo.

AAAA’s Fifty Under 50 Top Distinguished Professionals

Basic Qualification Criteria:

  1. Must be a current member of AAAA in good standing.

  2. Must be a leader within his or her organization.

  3. Must have had demonstrable career achievements.

  4. Must have substantial community involvement outside his or her day-to-day job.

  5. Must not be a previous winner.

  6. Nominees will be required to provide a brief biography about their careers and interests.

Nominate yourself or someone deserving today below

The criteria for fifty Under 50 (closed)

The FINAL deadline to nominate has passed. Winners will be notified by Thursday, August 31, 2023.

Winners will be formally announced and celebrated at V.I.S.I.O.N. Conference.


Other AAAA Performance Awards

 

About the Excellence in Community Service Award

This award recognizes one member of the Association of African American Financial Advisors every year, who is a Financial Advisor, Financial Planner or Home Office Professional and has made a significant contribution to their community while achieving other substantial career advancements.

The winner demonstrates leadership within their organization and a commitment to serving our community beyond their professional duties.

IN ADDITION:

Self-nominations are welcome. No one knows your accomplishments better than you.

The judges will base their decisions solely on the information provided on the nomination form. Please provide detailed information so the judges can give the nominee full consideration. 

If selected, honorees will be required to provide a color photo.

BASIC CRITERIA FOR AWARD QUALIFICATION

 
 
  1. Must be a current member of AAAA in good standing.

  2. Must be a leader within his or her organization.

  3. Must have had demonstrable career achievements.

  4. Must have substantial community involvement outside his or her day-to-day job.

  5. Must not be a previous winner in the last 24 months.

  6. Nominees will be required to provide a brief biography about their careers and interests.

The criteria for Excellence in Community Service (closed)

The FINAL deadline to nominate has passed. Winners will be notified by Thursday, August 31, 2023.

Winners will be formally announced and celebrated at V.I.S.I.O.N. Conference in September. You must be present to receive your recognition certificate.


 

About The Top Producer Awards


The Top Producer Awards, presented by the Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA), serve as a celebration of exceptional performance and dedication of licensed Black/African American Financial Professionals within the Wealth Management industry.

This prestigious recognition aims to honor top-performing financial advisors and financial planners who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication to their clients, and a consistent record of excellence in their work.

The awards offer a platform to showcase the talent, commitment, and contribution of Black/African American Financial Advisors, Financial Planners and industry professionals who are reshaping the wealth management landscape.

By highlighting their achievements, AAAA not only recognizes their professional excellence but also promotes diversity, encourages aspiring advisors and planners, and reinforces the positive impact of their work on the communities they serve.

The honorees, chosen by a committee of their peers, are judged on their accomplishments, leadership qualities, and potential for future impact.

Whether you're an accomplished financial advisor, a rising star in the industry, or a professional supporting advisors, the Top Producer Awards offer a unique opportunity to gain recognition for your hard work, inspire others, and reaffirm your commitment to the financial well-being of the clients and communities you serve.

BASIC CRITERIA FOR AWARD QUALIFICATION

  1. Must be a current member of AAAA in good standing.

  2. Has not won the award in the previous 24 months.

  3. Has been in business longer than 4 years.

  4. Is consistently a top performer & team player. 

  5. Has documentation proving top performance.

  6. Has a good reputation among colleagues.

  7. Has a social/community involvement profile.

  8. Has none or minor regulatory infractions on U4.

 
 

Top B/AA Financial Advisor

category: Assets

Under Management (closed)

Wirehouse and Bank Brokerage

Independent and Super Regionals

The Top B/AA Financial Advisor who wins the Assets Under Management (AUM) Award, is a top performing Financial Advisor with a dedication to their craft truly unmatched.

This highly esteemed recognition presented by the Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA) seeks to honor Financial Advisors who have demonstrated exceptional capability in gaining and managing their clients' assets.

The FINAL deadline to nominate has passed. Winners will be notified by Thursday, August 31, 2023.

Winners will be formally announced and celebrated at V.I.S.I.O.N. Conference in September. You must be present to receive your recognition certificate.

TOP B/AA RIA Practice Category: Number of Households seen in 24 months (closed)

RIA and Hybrid RIA

The Financial Planner who clinches the Top Black/African American (B/AA) Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) Practice award is indeed a top performer in the field. Their unwavering commitment and unparalleled dedication to their craft has set them apart in the industry.

This highly esteemed recognition presented by the Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA) seeks to honor Financial Planners who have demonstrated exceptional capability in gaining and managing their clients' relationships.

The FINAL deadline to nominate has passed. Winners will be notified by Thursday, August 31, 2023.

Winners will be formally announced and celebrated at V.I.S.I.O.N. Conference in September. You must be present to receive your recognition certificate.

Top B/AA Financial Advisor

category: annual revenue (closed)

The Financial Advisor who clinches the Top Black/African American (B/AA) Financial Advisor Annual Revenue award is a top performing Financial Advisor with a dedication to their craft truly unmatched.

The FINAL deadline to nominate has passed. Winners will be notified by Thursday, August 31, 2023.

Winners will be formally announced and celebrated at V.I.S.I.O.N. Conference in September. You must be present to receive your recognition certificate.

TOP B/AA RIA Practice Category: annual revenue (closed)

The Financial Planner who clinches the Top Black/African American (B/AA) Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) Annual Revenue award is indeed a top performer in the field. Their unwavering commitment and unparalleled dedication to their craft has set them apart in the industry.

This highly esteemed recognition presented by the Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA) seeks to honor Financial Planners who have demonstrated exceptional capability in gaining and managing their clients' assets.

The FINAL deadline to nominate has passed. Winners will be notified by Thursday, August 31, 2023.

Winners will be formally announced and celebrated at V.I.S.I.O.N. Conference in September. You must be present to receive your recognition certificate.


 

Exceptional Employers in The Wealth Management Industry

Each year, the Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA) celebrates exceptional employers in the Wealth Management industry through a unique recognition program.

The firms recognized span a diverse spectrum - from boutique practices employing fewer than 20 people to expansive companies boasting hundreds of professionals on their rosters. Each one, regardless of size, has made a conscious investment in cultivating a workplace atmosphere and culture that not only attracts top-tier talent but also inspires the best from its team members.

The heart of this recognition lies in the commitment these firms demonstrate towards creating an inclusive, supportive, and motivating work environment. They exhibit dedication towards personal and professional growth of their employees, offering opportunities for continual learning and career advancement. Furthermore, these firms understand that fostering a culture of respect and acknowledgment encourages collaboration, boosts productivity, and fuels innovation, all of which are key to their continued success in the industry.

By recognizing these standout firms, AAAA aims to not only applaud their efforts but also to set a benchmark for excellence within the industry. It serves to inspire other firms to invest in their culture and employees, ultimately uplifting the entire financial advice industry and advancing AAAA's mission to promote diversity and excellence.

BASIC CRITERIA FOR AWARD QUALIFICATION

(Minimum of two responses required to qualify or can be nominated by AAAA.)

  1. High B/AA Employee Engagement Scores: The company should have high employee engagement scores. Engaged employees often reflect a positive workplace culture.

  2. High Employee Satisfaction Scores from B/AA Employees: Measures of employee satisfaction should indicate that employees are content with their work environment, compensation, and opportunities for professional development.

  3.  Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity for B/AA Professionals: The organization has made a commitment to hiring B/AA talent and should have a diverse workforce as well as demonstrate a commitment to promoting inclusivity at all levels. The company should promote and support a healthy work-life balance for its employees. Finally, the organization should have a strong commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in all its operations.

  4.  Opportunities for Growth: There should be clear pathways for career advancement within the organization.

 

Best places to work for b/aa financial advisors and support staff (closed).

These are firms, ranging from small practices with fewer than 20 people to large companies with hundreds, who invest in creating a work culture that attracts and respects black/African American talent.


shaping the future…

These prestigious awards, bestowed by the Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA), pays tribute to those individuals and companies who have relentlessly devoted themselves to advancing diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusivity (#debi) within the Wealth Management industry.


How are licensed award winners profiles leveraged to alleviate the SEC and FINRA compliance concerns?

Our organization is acutely aware of the importance of compliance with SEC and FINRA regulations, particularly as they pertain to the use and promotion of award recognitions.

Firstly, award winners profiles are strictly used in accordance with the regulatory guidelines. All promotional content related to award winners are factual, balanced, and not misleading. We ensure that any representations about the award in any of our communications clearly articulate the basis upon which the award was made, which includes the criteria for the award, the scope of nominees considered, and the process for determining winners.

Moreover, we refrain from using any language that could imply guarantee of future investment success or that the award relates to any specific client experiences. If applicable, we include a clear disclaimer stating that the award is not indicative of the future performance, or that any investor will achieve similar results.

Our communication also consistently emphasizes that investment decisions should not be based solely on the award recognition.

We are committed to maintaining transparency and fostering trust in our engagements, and we cooperate fully with any compliance reviews or audits.

Remember to adjust this response based on your specific practices and procedures. If you are unsure about compliance, consider consulting with a compliance professional or legal counsel.