
William R. Abeles Jr., CFP ® , CLU ® , ChFC ®
Managing Director – Investments
- 240.513.2713
- [email protected]
Professional:
Bill Abeles has dedicated more than four decades to helping individuals, families, business owners, and retirement plan participants pursue their financial goals with confidence. He began his career in 1984. Before long, he joined his father and became part of the family business. Since then, Bill has built his career around creating lasting client relationships and providing personalized guidance tailored to each client's unique needs and objectives.
A significant focus of Bill's practice has been working with employer-sponsored retirement plans, including 401(k) and pension plans. Over the years, he has partnered with companies of all sizes, assisting with plan design, implementation, education, and ongoing participant communication. His experience has given him a deep understanding of the important role retirement plans play in helping employees prepare for the future.
Bill believes the most successful financial strategies take a comprehensive view of a client's life. By integrating retirement planning, wealth management, investment planning, and employer benefits, he helps clients develop strategies that support both their current needs and long-term aspirations. His commitment to delivering thoughtful, informed advice has remained constant throughout his career, and he continues to stay current with industry developments and evolving planning strategies.
To further enhance the guidance he provides, Bill earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification, as well as the Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations through The American College of Financial Services. He is also a proud graduate of Muhlenberg College, where he earned degrees in Economics and Business Administration.
Known for his genuine approach, dedication to service, and commitment to helping others succeed, Bill values the trust clients place in him and considers it a privilege to help them navigate life's financial opportunities and challenges.
Community Leadership:
Bill’s passion for his community is reflected in his commitment to service. He serves as Senior Warden at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Hagerstown and as Treasurer of the Hagerstown-Wesel Sister City Affiliation.
On the Personal Side:
Beyond the office, Bill's greatest enjoyment comes from spending time with his wife, Beverly, and their four children, Will, Charlie, Maddie, and Kevin. With family members now spread across the country, he and Beverly enjoy traveling whenever possible to stay connected and create lasting memories.
An avid sports enthusiast, Bill has spent many years coaching youth athletics and enjoys just about any outdoor activity. His love of baseball extends well beyond the sidelines, and he has participated in adult baseball tournaments in Cooperstown, New York. He has also completed two Philmont High Adventure backpacking treks through the mountains of New Mexico alongside his Eagle Scout sons.
Something You May Not Know
One of Bill's most memorable experiences came in 2008 when he managed the 11-12-year-old Federal All-Star Team on an unforgettable run to the Little League World Series. After capturing the Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship in Bristol, Connecticut, the team earned the opportunity to compete on one of youth baseball's biggest stages in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
CA Insurance License Number: 0K95642, Resident State: MD

David M. Abeles, AAMS ®, CFP ®
Managing Director - Investments
- 240.513.2715
- [email protected]
Professional:
Dave entered the financial services industry in 1987. Before joining Wells Fargo Advisors, he spent seven years managing an employee benefits practice for an international consulting firm. Prior to that he worked for a large international corporate insurance company.
For nearly four decades, he has helped individuals, families, business owners, and institutions navigate important financial decisions with confidence and clarity while helping them pursue their financial goals. He has built his practice on personalized advice, disciplined planning, and lasting client relationships.
Dave focuses on comprehensive wealth management, retirement planning, investment strategy, institutional accounts, and employer-sponsored retirement plans. He works closely with clients, both individual and institutional, to develop customized financial strategies designed to address their objectives through every stage of life.
His vast experience with both retail and retirement investments provides a valuable perspective on investment selection, plan governance, and fiduciary oversight with a broad understanding of the challenges faced by each sector.
Dave is an integral part of the development of investment processes and strategies implemented within our practice. His experience and thoughtful perspective contribute to a disciplined approach to investment research, portfolio construction, and ongoing oversight.
Committed to professional development, Dave has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification and the Accredited Asset Management Specialist® (AAMS®) designation. He is a graduate of historic Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania.
Community Leadership
Dave believes meaningful success extends beyond financial results and into the communities where his clients and team live and work. He has devoted substantial time to civic, educational, and charitable organizations throughout the Hagerstown area.
Dave is a longtime member of the Hagerstown Rotary Sunrise Club, Dave has served as Club President, Sunrise Rotary Foundation President, and Chair of the International Committee. He strongly supports Rotary International’s mission of “Service Above Self” and is a five-time Paul Harris Fellow.
Dave currently serves as Chair of the Hagerstown Community College Foundation Investment Committee. His prior community leadership roles include Chairman of the Board of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, President of the Board of Community Rescue Service, and President of the St. James School Parents Association and FHCC Board Member.
On the Personal Side:
Dave and his wife, Stacey, live in Hagerstown, Maryland. They are the proud parents of three adult children, Zach, Connor, and Sophia. Although their children have left the nest, Dave and Stacey make family time a priority and enjoy visiting them whenever possible.
Something you May not Know:
The team’s motto is “Helping Clients Navigate Through Financial Waters.” As it turns out, financial waters are not the only waters Dave knows how to navigate. In his younger years, he was an accomplished competitive swimmer and qualified twice for the YMCA National
Swimming Championship in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
CA Insurance License Number: 0K93158, Resident State: MD.

Ryan Flurie, MBA, CFP ®
Managing Director – Investments
- 240.513.2726
- [email protected]
Professional:
Ryan Flurie is a Managing Director – Investments with the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, where he advises high-net-worth individuals, families, business owners, institutions, and nonprofit organizations on wealth accumulation, investment management, retirement planning, and legacy strategies.
Since entering the financial services industry in 2007 and joining the team in 2011, Ryan has played an integral role in guiding clients through complex financial decisions while helping oversee the investment process, strategic planning initiatives, and the development of enhanced client solutions. His approach combines institutional-level investment specializations with a personalized commitment to helping clients build, preserve, and transition wealth across generations.
Prior to joining the team, Ryan served as a Commercial Lender and Business Banker with M&T Bank, where he advised business owners and middle-market companies on financing, growth, and capital planning strategies.
Ryan has received professional recognition from Forbes America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, 2024 and was a Leadership Maryland, Class of 2022 Graduate. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional, received his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Frostburg State University and his Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Finance from Salisbury University. While attending Salisbury University, Ryan was a member of the varsity soccer team and earned All-Academic Conference honors on three occasions, demonstrating a commitment to both athletic and academic excellence.
Community Leadership:
Ryan is deeply committed to civic engagement and community impact throughout Western Maryland. His leadership and volunteer involvement include:
• Hagerstown Rotary Club- • The Order of the Good Samaritan, Frederick Health
- • Former Board Member, Hagerstown Rotary Club
- • Former Board Member, Maryland Symphony Orchestra
- • Former Board Member, Leadership Washington County
- • Mentor, Washington County Public Schools First-Generation College Program
In partnership with the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, Ryan has helped coordinate annual charitable contributions supporting Habitat for Humanity through grants from the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation since 2011.
On the Personal Side:
A lifelong Maryland resident, Ryan was raised in Hagerstown in a family of entrepreneurs and community leaders. He currently resides in Frederick, Maryland and remains active in the local community.
Outside the office, he enjoys playing soccer, mentoring students, and supporting organizations dedicated to education, housing, healthcare, and community development.
Something you May not Know:
One of his more memorable community experiences was participating in Dancing with the ARC Stars, a fundraising event benefiting The Arc of Washington County. Ryan and his partner earned first-place honors while helping raise more than $100,000 for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While he credits his mother's successful dance studio for any inherited talent, others might argue that his competitive spirit played an equally important role.
CA Insurance License Number: 0K91072, Resident State: MD.

Zane E. Schreiber, CFP ®
First Vice President, Investments
- 240.513.2714
- [email protected]
Professional:
Zane enjoys working closely with his clients to help bring clarity to their financial picture and incorporating a plan to help navigate retirement. He believes this begins by building a personal relationship with each client and taking the time to understand each unique situation. Zane is also actively involved with the engagement and employee education of the team’s institutional retirement plans. Before joining the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, he was a student-athlete in baseball, at The George Washington University in Washington, DC where he double majored in Finance and Organizational Sciences.
Community Leadership:
Zane is passionate about serving his community and has sat on the boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and United Way. Whether coaching at Federal Little League or spending time mentoring his "Little Brother," he is committed to helping the next generation of Washington County youth build confidence, character, and opportunities for success.
On the Personal Side:
Born and raised in Hagerstown, Maryland, Zane grew up in a family of five and continues to call the area home with his wife, Maggie, and their dog, Lou. When he's not in the office, you'll likely find him exercising at the YMCA or enjoying time with family and friends.
Something you May not Know:
Zane’s parents did not deviate from the letter ‘Z’. His siblings, Zach & Zoe, make it very easy for others to get their names confused. Family competition reigned true within the Schreiber household - all three Z’s went on to play Division 1 sports. Zach played football at Liberty University and Zoe played volleyball at Marshall University.
CA Insurance License Number: 4001633, Resident State: MD.

Brandon K. Skaggs, MBA
Vice President, Investments
- 240.513.2720
- [email protected]
Professional:
Brandon Skaggs is a seasoned financial services professional with more than two decades of experience across asset management, wealth advisory, and real estate investment. Before joining the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, Brandon worked within Wells Fargo’s Wealth and Investment Management group, helping high-net-worth clients incorporate complex real estate and specialty asset strategies into their broader investment plans. Prior to Wells Fargo, he spent approximately ten years specializing in economic forecasting and market analysis within the commercial real estate industry.
Brandon brings experience in portfolio management, client-centered investment planning, trust and fiduciary administration, and real estate analysis. But ask him what he values most about his profession, and the answer is simple: the people.
He considers it a privilege to help clients navigate important financial decisions and significant life transitions. That responsibility motivates him to build lasting relationships, earn trust, and become a dependable resource not only for his clients, but also for their families. He especially enjoys the opportunity to work across multiple generations and recognizes the personal role a Financial Advisor can play in a family's life.
Whether helping with a major financial decision or answering a simple question, Brandon takes the same approach: if it's important to you, it's important to him. That philosophy also drives his commitment to continually learn and grow, both personally and professionally, so he can better serve the people who rely on him.
Brandon earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Maryland and later completed his MBA with a Certification in Data Science from Mount St. Mary’s University.
Community Leadership:
Brandon's commitment to serving others extends well beyond his professional life. He coaches youth lacrosse in the Middletown, Maryland community, is active with the Greater Hagerstown Committee, and serves on the board of Housing Frederick, an organization focused on improving housing stability for residents of Frederick County.
He also enjoys joining colleagues in supporting local organizations and sponsorship opportunities throughout the region. And yes, every now and then, community involvement means spending an afternoon as part of a foursome on the golf course.
On the Personal Side:
Much of Brandon's life outside the office revolves around his four children. He loves watching his boys compete on the football and lacrosse fields and cheering them on from the sidelines. He hasn't completely surrendered the field himself, either, and still enjoys competing in adult hockey and lacrosse leagues.
When he's not at a game or practice, Brandon can often be found tackling a home improvement project, spending time with family and friends, or learning something new.
Something you May not Know:
Brandon is a first-generation college graduate and a proud Marine Corps veteran. He served in the infantry, an experience that reinforced lessons about hard work, commitment, accountability, and teamwork that continue to influence how he approaches both life and his work with clients.
And like his colleague Zane, Brandon's family has embraced a letter-themed naming tradition. Brandon is the oldest of more than a dozen cousins, all of whom share one unusual family distinction: every one of their names begins with the letter "B."
CA Insurance License Number: 4484655, Resident State: MD.

Thomas J. Trimble, CMFC®
Vice President, Investments
- 240.513.2729
- [email protected]
Professional:
Tom began his career with Wells Fargo Advisors, more than 15 years ago, as the Hagerstown Maryland Complex Operations Liaison, where he developed a strong foundation in client service, operational excellence, and relationship management. Shortly after, he joined The Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors and has been serving clients in a Financial Consultant capacity since.
Throughout his career, Tom has focused on helping clients navigate complex financial decisions and create strategies aligned with their long-term goals. His specializations include wealth management and insurance planning. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management with minors in Finance and Economics from Stevenson University and has earned the Chartered Mutual Fund Counselor® (CMFC®) designation.
What Tom enjoys most about his role is solving problems and helping clients achieve their financial goals. He is motivated by building meaningful relationships and serving as a trusted resource for individuals and families as they plan for their financial future.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of work, Tom enjoys traveling, following sports, and spending time with his family. A lesser-known fact about him is that he attended culinary school with aspirations of becoming a chef. One item still on his bucket list is traveling to Spain.
Something you May not Know:
Described by colleagues and clients as analytical, reliable, and optimistic, Tom lives by the quote: "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." — Dalai Lama
CA Insurance License Number: 0G71374, Resident State: MD.

Colleen M. Randall
Financial Consultant
- 240.513.2712
- [email protected]
Professional:
Colleen joined Wells Fargo Advisors in 2023, bringing more than a decade of retail banking experience and a passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals. A 2011 graduate of the Richard J. Bolte School of Business at Mount St. Mary’s University, she has built her career around guiding individuals and families through the stages of their financial journey. Colleen’s favorite part of her role is building genuine relationships with clients, learning their unique stories, and helping them create plans that support their goals and dreams.
Colleen values meaningful connections and enjoys getting to know people beyond the numbers. Whether she’s discussing financial goals, sharing book recommendations, or debating the best sushi spot in town, she brings an approachable, personable style to her interactions. Her commitment to building lasting relationships, combined with her dedication to helping clients pursue their goals, makes her a trusted partner for those she serves.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of work, Colleen’s life is wonderfully busy as a mom to two young children, a six-year-old and an infant, who keep her on her toes and make every day an adventure. Free time may be hard to come by these days, but when she finds a spare moment, she enjoys getting lost in a good book, no matter the genre, enjoying her favorite sushi, lifting weights, or fitting in a ride on her Peloton.
Something you May not Know:
Colleen’s high school season included playing basketball. Her young adult season included eloping in Jamaica. Her motherhood season was recently expanded by blessing her family with the first boy since 1953.
CA Insurance License Number: 4484656, Resident State: MD.

Bonny L. Brown
Associate Vice President, Investments
- 240.513.2709
- [email protected]
Professional:
Bonny’s tenure spans over 25 years in the financial services industry, including time regulated by both FINRA and the SEC. Through a variety of positions, she has extensive experience with both external and internal clients, focusing on providing service excellence, team building with emphasis on professional growth, and maintaining risk mitigation protocols to foster audit ready environments. She prides herself on building relationships, leveraging resources and thinking outside the box for alternative solutions, always seeking to improve outcomes. Her “I get it” demeanor and “we” based mentality is demonstrated as she faces challenges head on, leading by example with respect and integrity. She is a proud Penn State graduate, having earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting, minor in Legal Environment of Business and minor in Business Logistics. Her education, experience, registrations (FINRA 7, 9, 10, 31, 63, 65) and insurance licensing, enhance our practice foundation. Performing in a COO type role, she strengthens our structure, facilitates change for efficiencies and encourages a team-oriented environment where input is welcomed and valued.
On the Personal Side:
Bonny is motivated by the motto … One Life, Live It! Her heart smiles brightest when spending time with her faith, family, friends and fur babies. She enjoys those times even more when they involve grilling, firepits, corn-hole or watching the mountain view sunsets from her back yard. Occasionally you may find her on her Harley Davidson or in her Bronco, destinations unknown. During football season, you’ll see her on the go watching her grandsons block and power their ways down the field. Saturdays, she watches college football, with a strict Do Not Disturb policy when the Penn State Nittany Lions, Georgia Bulldogs or Maine Maritime Mariners are playing. The rest of the week, you know it, it’s Pittsburgh Steelers and Atlanta Falcons time; although she does admit, the Baltimore Ravens are growing on her.
Something you May not Know:
One of Bonny’s favorite expressions is “throw a noodle on the wall” … one day something’s going to stick. Falling is not failing, it’s an attempt at excellence. She believes everything we know came from someone’s idea, somewhere, at some point in time. Had they not spoken up, where might we be?
CA Insurance License Number: 4487741, Resident State: PA.

Kimberly T. Blenckstone
Senior Registered Client Associate
- 240.513.2728
- [email protected]
Professional:
Kim Blenckstone is a Senior Registered Client Associate with more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. She began her professional career in television news, working as an anchor and reporter in South Carolina and Hagerstown from 1988 to 1994. In 1992, she joined Legg Mason and later continued her career with the firm as it evolved into First Union Securities. What started as a position between broadcasting opportunities quickly grew into a rewarding and lasting career focused on client service, relationship management, and team collaboration. Kim earned a bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from the University of South Carolina and became securities licensed in 1997.
On the Personal Side:
A native of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Kim moved to Hagerstown in 1992 and has called the area home ever since. She and her husband of more than 30 years, David, General Manager of the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars, are proud parents of two accomplished children. Their son, Adam, graduated from the University of Delaware and lives in Baltimore with his wife, Elli, and their spirited corgi, Albie. Adam and Elli both work for the Baltimore Ravens. Their daughter, Taylor, is a graduate of Longwood University, where she played Division I lacrosse, and now serves as director of a nonprofit youth lacrosse organization in Charleston, South Carolina.
Kim's favorite part of her role is building lasting relationships with clients. She values the trust developed over many years and considers many clients an extension of her family. She is motivated by creating meaningful connections and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Outside of work, she enjoys attending Hagerstown Flying Boxcars games, cheering on the Baltimore Ravens, staying active, and spending time with family and friends. She especially enjoys visiting the South Carolina coast and reconnecting with lifelong friends.
Something you May not Know:
One thing many people may not know about Kim is that she has a twin brother who lives in South Carolina, and the two share a very close bond. Family remains at the center of her life, and one of her proudest memories is watching her son represent Federal Little League at the 2008 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Looking ahead, Kim hopes to one day travel to England and attend Wimbledon. Known for being loyal, friendly, and someone who never meets a stranger, she enjoys collaborating with colleagues, building relationships, and creating connections both inside and outside the office. After more than three decades in financial services, she cannot imagine doing anything else.

Stephanie N. Kennedy
Senior Registered Client Associate
- 240.513.2708
- [email protected]
Professional:
Stephanie has been committed to providing exceptional client service in the financial services industry since 2006. She began her career as a receptionist with Wachovia Securities prior to its merger with Wells Fargo Advisors and quickly advanced through a series of roles due to her dedication, reliability, and drive to succeed. As an Operations Specialist, she supported four offices before joining the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, in 2017. In recognition of her commitment to exceptional client service and operational excellence, Stephanie was honored as Team Member of the Year in 2016.
As a Senior Registered Client Associate, Stephanie focuses on delivering a seamless client experience through personalized service, operational support, and relationship management. She holds her FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 registrations and earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University.
For Stephanie, the most rewarding part of her role is building meaningful relationships with clients. She enjoys getting to know them beyond their financial goals by learning about their families, interests, and life experiences. She is motivated by the opportunity to help others, serving as a trusted resource, and making a positive difference in the lives of both clients and colleagues. Her commitment to continuous learning and teamwork helps her deliver the high level of service clients have come to expect.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys reading, traveling, watching movies, and following her favorite sports teams, the Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Eagles. She especially loves attending live sporting events and spending weekends cheering on her son, Chase, at his soccer games. A passionate music fan, Stephanie traveled to Cincinnati, Detroit, and Pittsburgh to see her favorite band perform after they reunited following a seven-year hiatus.
Something you May not Know:
Stephanie could be described as dependable, humorous and introverted. One item on her bucket list is visiting all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums, combining her love of baseball and travel. Growing up, she dreamed of becoming an astronaut and remains fascinated by space exploration, with hopes of experiencing space travel one day.

Barbara K. Winters
Senior Registered Client Associate
- 240.513.2717
- [email protected]
Professional:
Barb is a Senior Registered Client Associate with more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. She began her career at Legg Mason in 2000 and joined Wells Fargo Advisors in 2006. In addition to her Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Hood College, she holds FINRA registrations 7 and 66 as well as her insurance license. Barb values the opportunity to work closely with clients and build lasting relationships with them and their families. She finds it especially rewarding to support clients through life’s milestones, including marriages, growing families, retirement, and the arrival of grandchildren. She is motivated by meaningful relationships and the opportunity to continually learn new things.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of work, Barb enjoys traveling with her family, spending time at the beach, and making memories with her three grandchildren. Her oldest grandchild, her grandson, recently graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in engineering. Her oldest granddaughter is a sophomore at Coastal Carolina University. Her youngest granddaughter is in fifth grade.
Something you May not Know:
A sunny day and a handful of Peanut M&M’s are two easy ways to make Barb smile. Another is hearing about the milestones of clients and their families, especially when the babies and grandbabies she remembers being born are now graduating from college!

Carol A. Gillespie
Senior Registered Client Associate
- 240.513.2719
- [email protected]
Professional:
Carol Gillespie is a Senior Registered Client Associate with more than five decades of experience in the investment industry. Her career began in an unexpected way when she walked into the wrong building for a job interview in Baltimore and was hired by Robert Garrett & Sons, a brokerage firm with deep roots in the financial community. Long before computers transformed the industry, Carol learned the business from the ground up, working in a main office where trades were processed manually, stock certificates were delivered by hand, and brokerage operations relied on precision, dedication, and attention to detail. These early experiences provided her with a unique understanding of the financial markets that continues to serve her team and clients today.
A lifelong learner, Carol embraced the waves of technological change throughout her career. From using early spreadsheet programs before Lotus 1-2-3 to studying programming, mathematics, and accounting, she continually expanded her skills to stay in touch with industry developments. Today, she leverages her extensive knowledge to support her team through data analysis, special projects, estate administration, and research that helps drive informed decision-making. Holding her FINRA registrations (7 & 66 ), Carol is known for her deep understanding of investment management concepts, attention to detail, and thoughtful approach to solving complex challenges.
What Carol enjoys most about her role is helping clients and their families navigate important life events, particularly during estate settlements and other difficult transitions. She finds great satisfaction in providing guidance, solving problems, and earning the trust of clients, many of whom she has known for decades. The appreciation she receives from clients and beneficiaries during these meaningful moments remains one of the most rewarding parts of her career.
Carol's passion for the investment business dates back to the late 1960s, and she often describes it as a childhood sweetheart in a professional sense. Her fascination with the markets has never faded, and her curiosity continues to fuel her work today. While she jokingly admits to occasionally overthinking things, she views that tendency as a strength that has helped her identify solutions and avoid pitfalls throughout her career.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of work, Carol enjoys reading, attending book club gatherings, watching history documentaries, cheering on the Washington Commanders, and spending time with her beloved pets. She also enjoys live sports, lunches and dinners with friends, and relaxing evenings at home. A devoted football fan, she once sold her piano to purchase her first set of NFL season tickets in the early 1970s, a story that still reflects her enthusiasm and loyalty to the game. Self-described as dependable, curious, and a homebody, Carol balances her professional dedication with a strong appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. Looking ahead, she enjoys contemplating her next life chapter and jokes that one day she'd love to throw out every alarm clock.
Something you May not Know:
Animals, both wild & tame, are Carol’s passion. She typically starts her daily routine with about two hours of feeding animals. Between her cats, turtles and deer, she stays busy with the livestock both inside and outside of her home. You’d probably be wrong if you think she wouldn’t stop in the middle of the road to pick up a turtle!

Karen M. Simms
Senior Client Associate
- 240.513.2716
- [email protected]
Professional:
Karen began her career in the financial services industry with Legg Mason in 1998 and later worked with UBS in Bethesda, Maryland, before joining the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors in 2011. As a Senior Brokerage Client Assistant, Karen plays an integral role in the administration and support of retirement plans. Her responsibilities span a wide range of plan management activities, including assisting participants through employment transitions, coordinating enrollment meetings, and serving as a trusted resource for clients and plan participants. Known for her attention to detail and commitment to exceptional service, Karen strives to ensure a seamless and positive client experience. She also works closely with Financial Advisor Ryan Flurie, providing support to help clients pursue their financial goals and helps navigate important financial decisions with confidence.
On the Personal Side:
Raised in a Navy family, Karen had the unique opportunity to live in and experience many parts of the United States while attending several different schools throughout her childhood. She married her husband, Kevin, in 2005 and has called Hagerstown home since 2004. Karen is the proud mother of two adult children, Kyle and Kayla, and enjoys spending time with her family, including their beloved dogs, Blue and Zoey. Outside of work, she enjoys trips to the beach, relaxing with friends by the pool, hiking, and taking long walks with Kevin.
Something you May not Know:
Karen's family are devoted Michigan Wolverines fans and have made several trips to the iconic "Big House" in Ann Arbor, the largest stadium in the United States. During football season, especially on game days, her home can get pretty loud and spirited as family and friends gather to cheer on their team. And when Michigan faces Ohio State in "The Game," the excitement at Karen's house reaches a whole new level.

Lisa R. Artz
Client Associate
- 240.513.2732
- [email protected]
Professional:
Lisa Artz brings a diverse background in customer service, banking, and client support to her role as Client Associate. Her strong work ethic developed early, beginning with a job at Krumpe’s Donuts during high school, where she worked for several years before gaining additional customer service experience in retail positions at the Hagerstown Outlets all while earning her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Frostburg State University. Although she initially pursued a degree in education, she ultimately discovered her passion for business and helping others achieve their goals.
Before joining the team, Lisa spent several years in the banking industry. She began her career in a branch environment, where she developed a strong foundation in client service and financial operations, before transitioning to a remote contact center role specializing in online banking support. Throughout her career, Lisa has built lasting client relationships by delivering exceptional service, navigating complex situations, and finding practical solutions tailored to each client's needs. Her commitment to providing a positive client experience and her genuine desire to help others make her a valuable resource for both clients and colleagues.
In her current role, Lisa enjoys working directly with clients, collaborating with her teammates, solving problems, and embracing opportunities for continuous growth and learning. Her favorite quote, "Teamwork makes the dream work," reflects her belief in the power of collaboration and shared success.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of the office, Lisa's world revolves around family, including her fiancé, son, bonus daughter, and their collection of pets, which includes a unique axolotl named Snax. A lifelong creative, she enjoys reading, painting, drawing, and exploring new crafting hobbies. She can often be found showcasing her creations at local craft shows. In fact, she may be the artist behind certain painted piggy banks!
Something you May not Know:
Something many people may not know about Lisa is that she played softball from ages 6 to 16 and took private pitching lessons from a retired college coach, mastering eight different pitches before a back injury ended her playing career.
If she weren't working in the financial industry, Lisa's dream would be to own a boutique hobby shop with her fiancé, combining their shared interests. The shop would feature her passions for fashion, art, books, crafts, and indoor plants alongside his interests in basketball cards and anime collectibles.
One item still on her bucket list? Traveling to a tropical destination and staying in a wooden bungalow over crystal-clear blue water.

Karen E. Villarreal
Client Associate
- 240-513-2730
- [email protected]
Professional:
Karen began her financial services career as a bank teller, where she spent a year and a half helping clients with their everyday banking needs and building strong customer relationships. That experience provided a solid foundation for her current role as a Client Associate, where she supports clients and advisors by delivering exceptional service and helping ensure a seamless client experience. Her favorite part of the job is helping clients navigate challenges and finding solutions that make their lives easier. She also enjoys building meaningful relationships and creating positive experiences for her colleagues by way of collaboration, idea sharing and open communication. Her education includes an Associates of Science in Business Administration from Hagerstown Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Financial Economics from University of Maryland Baltimore County. She is currently enhancing her education and financial industry knowledge by pursuing her professional registrations.
On the Personal Side:
Karen is motivated by continuous learning, personal growth, and the opportunity to develop new skills that allow her to better serve clients and contribute to the team.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, solving puzzles, and building LEGO® sets. She values quality time with her family and friends. In her spare time, she relaxes by watching sitcoms with her boyfriend, trying new recipes in the kitchen or exploring creative projects.
Something you May not Know:
For someone we see as dependable, curious and compassionate, you may find it interesting to learn that Karen is a big Marvel fan, keeping up with movies, shows, and comics. Her perfect weekend would include a good book, a challenging puzzle and a Marvel movie marathon. Her perfect vacation might include a visit to Japan or Greece.

Elizabeth A. Lorenzen
Client Associate
- 240-513-2718
- [email protected]
Professional:
Elizabeth “Liz” Lorenzen is a Client Associate who is passionate about helping clients work toward their financial goals while building meaningful, lasting relationships along the way. She began her career in the financial services industry specializing in self-directed IRAs in Frederick, Maryland, where she spent nearly eight years developing experience in retirement accounts and client service. Liz later expanded her experience by working alongside a financial advisor, gaining valuable insight into investment planning and the importance of personalized guidance tailored to each client’s unique needs. Her specialties include client relationship management, self-directed IRAs and retirement accounts, account administration, investment planning support, and problem-solving.
What Liz enjoys most about her role is being part of a team that makes a positive difference in clients’ lives. She takes pride in helping solve problems, providing support when it is needed most, and building trusted relationships with the individuals and families she serves. Motivated by continuous learning, meaningful connections, and collaboration, Liz is dedicated to creating a positive experience for both clients and colleagues.
On the Personal Side:
Outside of work, Liz enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and discovering new places and experiences. Family has always been at the center of her life, and some of her favorite memories are made relaxing at the beach or visiting family in Denmark. Her husband is originally from Denmark, and through her travels she has developed a deep appreciation for Danish culture, strong coffee, delicious pastries, and the concept of hygge—finding comfort and joy in life’s simple moments.
Something you May not Know:
Many people may be surprised to learn that a career in financial services was never part of Liz’s original plan. What began as an unexpected opportunity grew into a fulfilling career that allows her to help others while building meaningful relationships. Looking ahead, she hopes to explore more of Europe, spend an extended summer in Denmark, and eventually retire there someday.
Known for being loyal, supportive, and hardworking, Liz enjoys connecting with others through open communication, collaboration, and genuine relationships. She believes some of the best opportunities in life are the ones you never planned for, a philosophy that has guided both her personal and professional journey.

Oliver
Our Team Mascot
Professional:
A loyal member of our team, Oliver brings a little extra joy and personality to the Abeles Flurie Wealth Management Group. We hope when you are in the office you get the opportunity to meet him! He will greet you with an enthusiastic wag!






