On behalf of the Financial Planning Association, congratulations to the CFP® certification on its 50th anniversary!
Since that first class of CFP® professionals in 1973, the marks have become a symbol of unwavering commitment to high standards for competency, integrity, and professionalism. Over the past five decades, those who have earned the right to bear the marks have guided individuals and families toward prosperity and financial peace of mind. They have transformed lives, transcended challenges, played a pivotal role in shaping the financial advisory landscape, and have been driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the communities they serve.
This milestone is a testament to the dedication and hard work of countless professionals who have shaped financial planning. We honor the pioneers who paved the way for our profession and the professionals who continue to uphold the high standards embodied in the marks.
To help tell this fascinating story, we asked two people who have been part of this remarkable journey since the beginning to share their thoughts and memories for a video we showcased at FPA Annual Conference 2023 in Phoenix in September. Ben Coombs, who was part of the first CFP® class in 1973, and Lew Walker, who was part of the third CFP® class in 1975, know better than anyone the ups and downs of those early years and the journey the marks have taken since the beginning. Their story is informative and inspirational as we work to elevate the profession over the next 50 years.
Financial planning has evolved to meet changing times. From new technologies to progressing regulations, CFP® professionals have adapted to meet the ever-changing needs of their clients. We must continue to lean in and support the development of financial planners while protecting the public.
We must continue to promote the importance of CFP® certification. By encouraging those in our profession to pursue certification, we can help ensure they have the knowledge and skills needed to meet the needs of an evolving client base. This means we must work to expand access to CFP® certification by adopting programs that increase the affordability and accessibility of attaining certification by more practitioners.
We must also advocate for policies that sustain the profession by engaging lawmakers and regulators to make financial planning a recognized and respected vocation. Financial planning is a noble profession. FPA believes anyone representing themselves as a financial planner must be qualified to provide these critical services based on threshold standards for competency and ethics. By working together, we can enable consumers to identify and engage with qualified financial planners.
As we celebrate this remarkable anniversary of the CFP® certification, let's acknowledge how far we've come and how much still needs to be done. Let's continue to embrace the marks and focus on the well-being of those we serve. There are challenges ahead, no doubt, but the legacy we leave will be defined by our ability to rise to the occasion. Future generations of financial planners depend on it. To paraphrase the famous quote of Sir Isaac Newton: If we have seen a little further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants. May those who follow say the same of us.
In case you missed it:
- FPA is an Award Winner: Each year, ThinkAdvisor recognizes outstanding organizations and individuals in the financial services industry with their LUMINARIES Awards program. I am delighted to report that FPA won two awards this year in the areas of Community Impact and Thought Leadership/Education. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our chapters, members, volunteer leaders, and professional staff. We have much to be proud of!
- Register Now for FPA Retreat 2024: Join us May 6-9, 2024, in Tucson, Ariz., at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort for FPA Retreat 2024! FPA Retreat is a unique experience where you’ll explore new horizons and participate in essential conversations that truly matter. So, if you're ready to be a part of a vibrant, forward-thinking community, join us at FPA Retreat 2024. And if you register now, you can attend with the lowest possible registration fee!
- New Media Training Program Launched: Developed in partnership with AdvisorPR, we were pleased to launch Media Mastery 2.0, FPA's new on-demand media training program on the FPA Learning Center. You can now learn PR essentials, craft compelling media materials, and learn the art of successful interviews. The first module is free for FPA members, and Modules 1-4 are available to FPA members for $99 and nonmembers for $199.
- New Research on the Power of Client Portals: This new groundbreaking research by eMoney Advisor and FPA shows you the potential of financial technology to supercharge your financial planning practice. The research, showcased at FPA Annual Conference 2023 in Phoenix, reveals how Portal Power Users experience reduced financial anxiety, increased client trust, motivation, referrals, loyalty, and higher client satisfaction.
- FPA Members Get Access to Investment Technology: We were excited to announce a new partnership with TIFIN Wealth to support the growth of independent financial planners by providing access to TIFIN’s personalized investment platform at no cost for FPA members who manage under $100M in AUM. This member benefit aims to empower FPA members with cutting-edge tools and resources to better serve their clients while making innovative investment technology more accessible.
- New FPA Merchandise Store is Now Open: The FPA Merchandise Store offers a range of FPA-themed gifts and accessories that will help you show off your pride in FPA membership. Our online platform ensures a seamless shopping experience, allowing you to browse and purchase your favorite items from the comfort of your home or office.
Happy holidays and thank you for the privilege of your membership and for allowing FPA to be your partner in planning.
Sincerely,
