Your Professional Advisory Team

John Hurlow, CPWA®, C(k)P®, AIF®

Chief Executive Officer,  Senior Financial Advisor

Professional Experience

Why did you choose your profession? 

Quite simply, helping people. There are four languages that are not taught to everyone in school. Those are the languages of finance, tax, insurance, and legal.  In the world of financial planning, we not only speak all four but understand how they all work together. We are extremely passionate about educating our clients.  In the end, what brings us joy is counting the number of thank you notes we receive from clients thanking us for providing them with the comfort in knowing they will be okay, the clarity of knowing they have done the right thing, and the confidence to focus freely on what they choose. Thank you notes from clients are one way that I know we are successfully helping them and making a difference in their lives.  I have been collecting thank you notes since I was a paperboy in the early 80's and have boxes full of them.  

What is your favorite thing about being part of the Hurlow TEAM? 

The people on our team and the clients that we serve. We have been extremely fortunate to pull together an amazing team of people. I feel lucky and blessed to work with each of them every day. In addition, there is not one client that I am not excited to talk to, whether it is about their financial or personal life. 

What causes are you passionate about?

Anything that has to do with helping children and people in need.  There were so many people in my life who offered a helping hand, a lift up, an encouraging word, an insightful message, or sage words of advice.  I believe everyone needs and deserves the same type of positivity to help them flourish. No one truly is self-made. I love to support organizations and people who spread hope, help, and a belief in oneself that anything is possible.

What do you love to do outside of work? 

I like to spend time on the lake, enjoy my time with family - my wife, Christina, and our six children: Rachel, Grant, Gavin, Garrett, Ethan, and Ella. I enjoy working on projects around the house, listening to music, reading business-related books, golf, tinkering with cars, and volunteering in the community.

What is a fun fact about you?

I am a proficient rollerblader, decent ballroom dancer, and I can still pull off a few Michael Jackson dance moves. My favorite arcade game is Galaga, and my favorite cars are the Panoz AIV Roadster, Shelby Cobra, Lotus Emira, and Honda CRX.

Education and Affiliations

Educational Background

• 1996: Indiana University: Bachelor of Science in Business. Double Major in Marketing & Management. Minors in Psychology & Political Science
• 2003: Indiana University: Non-Profit Management Certificate. 

Professional DESIGNATIONS

• 2016: University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®)
• 2011: UCLA Anderson School of Management; Certified 401(k) Professional (C(k)P®)
• 2007:  The Retirement Advisor University (TRAU): Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®)
• 1999:  Series 65

Professional Organizations

• Bloomington Health Foundation – Past Board Member
• New Hope Family Shelter- Board Member
• Bloomington Parks & Recreation Foundation - Board Member
• Sycamore Land Trust - Advisory Board Member
• National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) – Member
• Investment & Wealth Institute - Member
• Monroe County Community Foundation - Past President
• Hoosier Hills Estate Planning Council - Past President/ Member
• Wonderlab Museum of Science- Past Board Member
• Bloomington Economic Development Corporation - Member
• Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce – Member

Mike Carson, CFP®, CIMA®, CRPS®

Chief Operating Officer, Senior Financial Advisor

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

From an early age, I was interested in money and investing.  My Dad talked with me about the stock market and we would track the stocks he owned in the newspaper on the weekends.  When I was a senior in high school, I had the opportunity to take a personal finance class at a local college.  I really enjoyed it and knew from that point, I wanted to become a financial planner.  I was very lucky to get connected with John Hurlow and start an internship with the firm during my sophomore year of college.  I was even more lucky that he offered me a full-time job after graduation.  I’ve been here ever since!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

I love being a part of a team that cares so much about our clients and each other.  We are all 100% focused on our mission of providing our clients with clarity, confidence and comfort.  Everyone on the team has great respect for each other, a passion for continuous learning, and cares deeply about providing our clients with great service and advice.  

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I’m very passionate about promoting financial literacy in our community.  I believe that all children would benefit from learning more real-life skills, such as how to deal with money, from an early age.  I’ve been involved with Junior Achievement of Central Indiana for many years, serving as a board member and volunteer.  Junior Achievement’s mission is to empower children to own their future success through hands-on learning opportunities that promote financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work-readiness.  

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

When I’m not at work, I love spending time with my wife Katie, our children Beau and June, and our dog Reese. I also enjoy traveling, watching/ attending Indy-car races, driving on my racing simulator, and building things/ working around the house.  

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I studied and worked abroad in Sydney, Australia during my junior year of college.  

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2010: Indiana University - Kelley School of Business; Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship & Corporate Innovation

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2014: Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®)
• 2013: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM professional
• 2012: Chartered Retirement Plan Specialist (CRPS®)
• 2010: Series 66

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Estate Planning Council of Indianapolis - Past President
• Junior Achievement of Central Indiana -Board Member, Investment Committee Member
• National Association for Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) - Member
• Investments and Wealth Institute - Member
• Riley Children’s Foundation – Member of Professional Advisors Council

Gordon Nesbit, CFP®, CIMA®, RMA®, CRPS®, CPFA®

Financial Advisor

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

After having been a personal client of a commission-based financial advisor, I soon recognized the difference between the “suitability standard” offered by brokers and the “client best interest standard” offered by fiduciaries.  It became my mission to become a fiduciary advisor, providing objective and comprehensive financial advice with no inherent conflict of interest, no commissions, and no kickbacks.  Every client deserves that.    

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

At Hurlow Wealth Management Group, we take our jobs seriously; there is a lot at stake, and our clients have put a lot of trust in our ability to care for them.  Although this responsibility can at times be stressful, we never allow that to keep us from having fun at the same time.  There are always plenty of laughs, terrible movie quotes, and opportunities to share experiences with other team members.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

Animal welfare is important to me.  My wife and I volunteer several times each week at our local humane society where we care for the shelter pets awaiting a new home.   We regularly foster dogs, cats, and kittens as well – in addition to our permanent menagerie of dogs, cats, lizards, snakes, and fish.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

Away from the office, I like to maintain an active lifestyle, spending most of my free time in the gym, running, kayaking, fishing, or hiking the trails of southern Indiana.  I have two sons, Mack and Isaac, who at times can be fun to hang out with.

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

 I am a two-time Ironman triathlon finisher, and my wife, Karrie, and I aspire to run a marathon on each continent.

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2017: University of California, Irvine; Certificate in Personal Financial Planning
• 1996: Indiana University; Bachelor of Science in Psychology

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2020: Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®)
• 2019: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM professional
• 2019: Retirement Management Advisor® (RMA®)
• 2019: Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®)
• 2017: Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist^SM (CRPS®)
• 2017: Series 65

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) - Member
• Investments & Wealth Institute - Member
• National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA) - Member
• Financial Planning Association of Greater Indiana (FPA) - Member

Joseph Q. Manley, CFP®, EA

Financial Advisor 

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

Well, I am obsessed with spreadsheets and enjoy getting to know people. It may be corny to say, but I love how from time to time I can make a big, positive difference for someone. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW team? 

Every person here has a sense of humor but takes their jobs very seriously. 

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

Hyper-local charities, as well as larger charities that have made a difference for people I know.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

My wife and I enjoy spending time with our three kids, hiking or camping around lakes or woods nearby, play board games, watching a movie, or enjoying other people’s boats 😉. Rachel and I love when we have a quiet morning free to take a breakfast date. I don’t mind watching a Formula 1 race, either.

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I have a music degree and play the oboe. My brother and I were in a couple of small-town, local commercials as children.

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2019: University of Alabama; Master of Science in Human Environmental Science, Concentration in Family Financial Planning and Counseling
• 2005: Evangel University; Bachelor of Music in Music Education

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2020: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM professional
• 2018: Series 65

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Financial Planning Association of Greater Indiana (FPA) - Member
• Hoosier Hills Estate Planning Council - Member

Derek Grimmer, CFP®, CPFA®

Financial Advisor

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

To help people. Personal finance is complicated, and there are people in the industry who provide more confusion with opaque fees and fancy finance language. My goal is to sift through the various complexities of a client’s financial situation to provide clarity, confidence, and comfort.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW team? 

The people I work with. John and Mike have built a great team of helpful, knowledgeable, and personable people who are all dedicated to providing the best advice and service to our clients. 

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

Financial literacy among young adults and under-served individuals and families. 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

I love to stay active. In the summer I love going to the lake and wake-boarding; in the winter I love snowboarding and very excited to start planning a trip out west to be able to get on real snow on real mountains.  If weather does not permit those activities, I enjoy reading and the NFL RedZone channel. 

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

Although I am an Indiana University graduate, I can still be seen cheering for Purdue sports. I blame my grandpa and dad for that.

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2019: Indiana University - Kelley School of Business; Bachelor of Science in Business, Major in Finance & Operations Management

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2022: Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA® )
• 2021: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional
• 2019: Series 65
• 2019: Financial Planning Association; Pro Bono Financial Planning Certificate

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Financial  Planning Association of Greater Indiana (FPA) - Member
• Estate Planning Council of Indianapolis - Member
• National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA) – Member

T. CLAIRE KEST, CFP®, CAP®

Financial Advisor and Director of Financial Education

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

I accidentally chose to work in the financial services industry. After graduating from college with an English degree, I applied to work for a lawyer who was also a syndicated writer and author. She also happened to be the owner of a boutique RIA, similar to the Hurlow Wealth Management Group. I knew very little about money management when I started, but the longer I worked there, the more I wanted to know. Also, the better investor I became at managing my own money. 

My passion for financial education grew with my own curiosity. I realize now that learning to manage money is not scary or hard, but it does take effort and planning to reach my goals. 

While I may have accidentally chosen to work in the industry, I have intentionally chosen to learn as much as I can and share that knowledge with as many people as possible. While I did not know that I wanted to be a Financial Advisor until later in life, I realize that my journey has prepared me well for this position. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

The leadership at Hurlow has set up a strong foundation to support and guide the team to carry out our client-centered mission. I chose Hurlow because I recognized that this firm holds itself to the highest standard of care, to provide clear guidance as a fiduciary and to ensure clients feel confident and comfortable with advice and service they receive. 

I also share the same passion for continuous learning and looking forward to completing my next certification. I feel encouraged that my pursuit of knowledge is appreciated and supported. 

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I am passionate about education. Ronald Reagan once said, “If America is to offer greater economic opportunity to her citizens, if she’s to defend our freedom, democracy, and keep the peace, then our children will need wisdom, courage, and strength — virtues beyond their reach without education.” As children we learn the basics, but education does not stop at childhood. We live in a world that is constantly changing and evolving, so we must be lifelong learners. 

When someone is willing to work hard to learn something new, anything is possible. With knowledge we gain the ability to change our world for the better. 

I now use my passion for education and knowledge about investing to teach personal finance through my writing and presentations to corporations and community organizations.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

In the winter, I enjoy playing and designing board games. I have loved game nights since I was a little kid. My three sons, Jon-Luc, Nicholas and Liam are willing to play most of the time. They humor me. 

Come spring, I can't wait to have fun outside riding bikes, walking, jogging, playing tennis, watching baseball, and getting out on the water.

I also look for opportunities to volunteer within the community. In 2022, I joined the Bloomington Rotary Club and Civil Air Patrol and now serve in leadership roles in both organizations. 

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?
In 2023, I started taking flying lessons earned my private pilot's license. 

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2020: Boston College, Certificate in Financial Planning
• 2014: University of Connecticut; Bachelor of Arts in English, Cum Laude
• 2012: Norwalk Community College, Liberal Arts and Sciences; Associates Degree, Magna Cum Laude

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2022: Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®)
• 2021: Certified Financial Education Instructor
• 2020: CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP®)
• 2018: Series 65

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Rotary Club of Bloomington - Treasurer 
• Hoosier Hills Estate Planning Council - Board Member
• Financial Planning Association (FPA) - Member
• Bloomington Economic Development Corporation - Board Member 
• Civil Air Patrol - Finance Officer 

Dawnetta Cooper

Financial Advisor

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

Nearly every job I’ve held has been in the capacity of helping others. I began in the financial industry as a receptionist and client service representative. As I learned more about roles and responsibilities, I saw how well my strengths matched with the opportunities available. I pursued further professional development and obtained licenses 7 and 66 which refined my ability to help people at a more focused level. I enjoy being able to answer financial questions, talk through concerns, research topics, and help people reach their long-term goals.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

My favorite thing about being a part of the Hurlow Team is that there is camaraderie between team members. Each person in the firm is approachable and offers in-depth reasoning to questions or concerns. I am impressed by the unity and support offered and that we work together to solve issues.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I am passionate about serving people and helping meet the needs of others. I am especially drawn to underprivileged people groups and demographics. Besides helping on a local level, I am also passionate about the impact of global organizations. I recognize the importance of sustainability and education to support people to meet their own needs and build the framework to move out of impoverished situations.  

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my children, reading, putting together puzzles, lifting, and dancing. I love connecting with people through networking events, lunches, or casual get-togethers.

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I lived in Costa Rica, Mexico, and El Salvador for a total of two years during high school, while my parents completed a two-year humanitarian assignment.

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2007: Evangel University; Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies and a Spanish minor

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2021: Series 7
• 2021: Series 66

PROFESSIONAL Organizations

• National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA) - Member
• Hoosier Hills Estate Planning Council - Member

Eldon McCabe, AFC®

Financial Advisor

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

I chose the profession because it offers the ability to have an impact on the wellbeing of others. Growing up, I was part of a low-income family with little understanding of financial concepts. My parents started a family young. With five children, multiple failed businesses, and limited opportunity in the geographic area, family finances were often the cause of tension.

While still early on myself, I have made plenty of financial mistakes along the way and understand the stress it brings. Helping people obtain peace of mind and secure a successful financial future is something that excites me about the work we do. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

My favorite part is the people. Everyone is enjoyable to be around, and good at what they do. People have developed different expertise so there is always someone to go to for some additional insights, and they are happy to do so. It truly is a team environment which is different from some of the places I’ve been employed in the past.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

Financial literacy is something I am passionate about. Prior to joining the Hurlow Team, I spent a few years working in the Sanford Center for Financial Planning and Wellness at Western Michigan University (WMU). This center’s mission was to help both the WMU student population and Kalamazoo community with financial literacy education. In this role we worked with people of all ages and backgrounds. While no longer in this role, I hope to continue serving those in need of financial literacy education and training. 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

Outside of work I am a fan of golf, disc golf, and weight training. My wife and I are also fans of camping, hiking, and exploring the outdoors together. 

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I deadlifted 600 lbs. the day before my 20th birthday as part of a $20 bet. Have yet to do so again. 

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2021: Western Michigan University – Haworth College of Business; Bachelor of Business Administration, Majors in Personal Financial Planning and Leadership & Business Strategy 
• 2023: Kansas State University – College of Health and Human Services; Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning, Focuses in Financial Therapy and Advanced Financial Planning 

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2023: Accredited Financial Counselor
• 2023: Series 65

PROFESSIONAL Organizations

• Financial Planning Association of Greater Indiana (FPA) - Member

Laura Dunbar, FPQP®

Client Service Manager/ Compliance Manager

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

I feel like my profession chose me. I have many years of banking in my background. While working in the bookkeeping department of a bank operation center and in banking centers, I found a love for customer service and back office operational tasks. I was looking for a change from banking, however I wasn’t sure exactly what my next adventure was going to be when I receive a phone call from an advisor at Hurlow Wealth Management Group to see if I wanted to come in for an interview. I believe I am perfectly suited for my position here at Hurlow. I enjoy helping clients take care of their service-related needs. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

From day one, everyone on the team has been very supportive and compassionate. Hurlow is my home away from home. As we continue to grow, our Hurlow family grows. I cherish the friendships I have built my co-workers.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I have three dogs; two that were my husband’s fur babies that I inherited when we started dating and one is a rescue I found on the side of the road. Someone had clearly abused and her left out to fend for herself. I strongly believe if people are wanting to add a dog or cat to their family, they should go to the animal shelter. So many fur babies are looking for a new home at the local animal shelter. Like Bob Barker always said before signing off The Price is Right, “help control the pet population — have your pets spayed or neutered!"

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

Outside of work I love being with my family and friends. I have the most adorable toddler who keeps me busy most of the time I’m not at work! My husband and I enjoy going to IU football and basketball games. HOO HOO HOOSIERS! We also like going to concerts and traveling when we have the chance. 

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I enjoy decorating cakes! 

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 2002: Ivy Tech; Associates Degree in Business Administration

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

• 2016: Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional (FPQP®)

Dona Cornman

Client Service Coordinator

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

A dear friend of mine, Laura, kept trying to convince me to work alongside her. We had worked together previously, and it feels just like old times!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

The many personalities of our team. The people are funny, smart, and compassionate. They make going to work so fun!

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I am passionate about finding a cure for cancer!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? 

I love camping, spending time with my family, especially my grandson.

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I'm terrified of heights, but loved when I went parasailing in the Caribbean. 

Stacey Isom

Client Service Coordinator

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

I worked in marketing for many years and decided that it was time for a change. An opportunity came along that allowed me to come and work with Hurlow Wealth Management Group and I jumped at the chance.  I love working with clients and learning about the finance industry.  I feel this was a great move for me and I could not be happier with the move.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

Our team.  I work with great group of people who take their jobs seriously and genuinely care about the financial well-being of our clients.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

My youngest son had a kidney transplant, so I am passionate about talking to people about COTA (Children’s Organ Transplant Association) and how they help families with a child facing a transplant. I am also a supporter of Riley Hospital for Children. They have helped my son and so many other children.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I love to spend time with my family.  We are avid IU fans and look forward to IU football and tailgating in the fall and basketball in the winter. Go Hoosiers!  I also enjoy working in my flower beds.

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I make the most amazing peanut butter fudge

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• 1997: Indiana University- Kelley School of Business; Bachelor of Science in Business, Major in Marketing

Angie Thilman

Client Service Coordinator

Professional Experience

Why did you choose your profession?

When I was a junior in high school, I worked part-time (10 hours a week) for a regional advisory firm as a receptionist. Four years later, I went to work there full-time. I have been in the business ever since. I love providing thoughtful and efficient customer service to clients. 

What is your favorite thing about being part of the Hurlow Wealth Management Group team?

I love working with a team of people who are so supportive of one another. We all take our jobs seriously and care deeply for our clients.

What causes are you passionate about?

I love animals! My husband and I are passionate supporters of spay and neuter programs as well as our local animal shelter. We believe pets are family and all of us should be doing our part to stop pet overpopulation.

What do you love to do outside of work? 

 I love spending time with family and friends. I enjoy being outdoors, walking, hiking and playing with my dog, Quincy. My husband and I love country music and enjoy going to concerts when we can. 

What is a fun fact about you?

I enjoy target shooting.

Scott Smart, PhD

Investment Committee Advisor

Professional Experience

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

I loved the subject of finance and working with students.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

I enjoy having the opportunity to learn from John and his team. As an academic, having a way to stay in touch with people working in the financial services industry and hearing about their ideas and concerns is invaluable.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I have been a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity for 35 years and have served several terms on the board of our local affiliate. Likewise, I am now serving on my 4^th term as a board member for the IU Credit Union and previously served on their Supervisory Committee. Both organizations do tremendous work to make our community stronger.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I enjoy most outdoor activities, especially fishing and hiking.

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

Here are two. My first full-time job was working as a speech writer in the United States Senate. I graduated from Baylor in 1983, as did Mike Singletary, who came back to campus and finished while playing for the Chicago Bears. He sat next to me at graduation and crossed the stage just before me. The applause he received was so long and loud that you could barely hear my name read as I crossed the stage, an interesting lesson in perspective.

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• Fettig/Whirlpool Finance Faculty Fellow at IU’s Kelley School of Business, where I have worked since 1990.
• Visiting Scholar and consultant on a mergers and acquisitions team at Intel in 1999.
• Ph.D. from Stanford in 1991. My undergraduate degree in economics and finance is from Baylor University (1983).

Click here to see Dr. Smart’s full Indiana University biography which includes his long list of publications, awards, experience, and academic degrees.

Greg Geisler, PhD

Tax Committee Advisor

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROFESSION? 

I love teaching and seeing students trying their best to learn complex, valuable information that will help them in their careers. Also, the articles I publish at the intersection of income tax and financial planning are always challenging puzzles that I enjoy solving.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE HURLOW TEAM? 

Being a CPA for the first 5 years and an academic for the past 25 years of my career, I find that “watching from the sidelines” (as academics do) is no substitute for understanding real issues that clients have. The Hurlow team is always interested in finding solutions for how they can assist clients in reaching their goals.

WHAT CAUSES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

Participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for lower-income members of the community. I’ve taught VITA volunteers for 15 years and have been a tax return preparer/reviewer for 5 years. The three years before I came to IU, I worked every Saturday during tax season at a VITA site in Ferguson, Missouri. Now I prepare and review tax returns for VITA in Bloomington.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

There’s nothing more enjoyable than hanging out with my wife Sheila and daughter Lilly because we all have the same sense of humor. I also love to play volleyball and tennis. I still root for all of Pittsburgh’s professional sports teams because I grew up there. 

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?

I delivered the daily newspaper in Pittsburgh from age 7 to age 18. Why so long? I did the math and determined I made a lot more money per hour than a minimum wage job.

Education and Affiliations

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• Clinical Professor, Indiana University-Bloomington  2018 – present
• Assistant, Associate, and Full Professor, University of Missouri-St. Louis     2002 – 2018
• Visiting Assistant Professor, Indiana University-Bloomington   2001 – 2002
• Assistant Professor, Georgia State University   1995 – 2001
• Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill   1995
• M.B.A., University of Pittsburgh   1990
• Certified Public Accountant (Pennsylvania) at various CPA firms    1984 – 1989
• B.B.A., Accounting, University of Notre Dame   1984

Click here to see Dr. Geisler’s full resume which includes his long list of publications, awards, experience, service, and academic degrees.