With diverse industry experience, certifications and personal interests, our team is well equipped to serve all your financial needs. Unlike other firms where you are limited to the support of one representative, at HFA you’ll benefit from the personalized attention of your dedicated advisor as well as the value-added support and resources of our full advisor team.
Ken Burke is President and Chief Executive Officer at High Falls Advisors. His responsibilities include managing the firm’s finances, working with clients on implementing their financial plans, and developing exit plans for privately owned companies.
Ken joined HFA in 2014. He has more than thirty-five years of finance and tax experience and previously served as Partner at a regional CPA firm. He is the founder of FocalPoint Business Coaching of New York, a consulting firm specializing in business performance improvement and succession planning.
Ken graduated Cum Laude from Niagara University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting. He holds the AICPA PFS (Personal Financial Specialist) credential, is a Certified Public Accountant and holds the Series 65 license.
A recipient of the 40 Under 40 Award from Rochester Business Journal, Ken is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants. He serves on the Niagara University School of Business Advisory Board and previously served as Board Chair of the Arthritis Foundation Rochester Chapter, National Audit Committee Member Arthritis Foundation and Board Chair of the Society for Financial Service Professionals.
Ken resides in Fairport with his wife. They have four grown children and four grandchildren.
Why Finance?
While in school, I asked my Dad for advice on choosing a college major. He said, “Study accounting/finance, it is the language of business.” Some 35 years later, I couldn’t agree more.
Personal Motto
Be equally concerned about the success of others as you are with your own.
Jennifer Vogler is the Executive Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer at High Falls Advisors. In addition to her leadership role and compliance work in the firm, she is also a Senior Financial Advisor, providing planning and tax preparation services to HFA clients.
Jennifer joined HFA in 2006. She is an attorney and has more than 25 years of experience in real estate and estate planning and administration, having run a private solo law practice. Jennifer serves as Secretary of the St. John's Foundation Board and is the Finance Consultant for Irondequoit Girl Scouts. She is a former Board Member and Treasurer of Irondequoit Kiwanis. Jennifer received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hamilton College and her law degree from SUNY at Buffalo School of Law. She holds a law license with New York State.
A lifelong resident of Irondequoit, Jennifer lives with her husband and dog, Shirley, only fourteen houses from where she grew up. In her free time, she enjoys watching and reading British mysteries, visiting her daughter, hiking, travel, and exercise.
Favorite Things About Rochester
The seasons (even winter)—our summer and fall are typically beautiful and I think the winter makes us truly appreciate these seasons.
The entertainment options—we have fantastic restaurants, theatre (GEVA and Auditorium), music (RPO), movies (The Little Theatre). We also have, in my opinion, the best cheeseburgers in the country (Don’s Original).
Bucket List
I want to travel more. Particularly, I’d love to go to the Shetland Islands and on Safari. I did accomplish my bucket list item of a ½ Marathon back in November 2021 and a Tough Mudder in September 2022. I’m not sure I “love” running now but I do love participating in races and events, the challenge of preparing, and the camaraderie of training and participating as a group.
Jim Englert is a founder of High Falls Advisors. Pre- and post-retirement counseling services are the linchpins of his practice. His background as a benefits counselor at Eastman Kodak Company gave him the foundation for an independent planning business, which he operated for a number of years. At HFA, Jim provides clients with guidance focused on the broad topic of financial planning, including all the disciplines. He tends to begin a planning engagement by discussing the current issues that are top of mind to the client. Retirement planning and retirement income planning are some of the most common requests he receives. In addition, he always gets involved during income tax filing season as he believes that understanding the tax implications of any financial decision is critical.
Jim has played an important role in developing the professional aspects of financial planning in New York State. He is an Enrolled Agent with the IRS and has served on the Board of Directors of the Upstate New York Chapter of the Financial Planning Association and as the President of that organization. He was also President of the Western New York chapter of the Institute of Certified Financial Planners. In addition, he taught CFP® candidates through the Medaille College CFP® certification program and was on the adjunct faculty of the College of Financial Planning. Jim also serves on the Board of Directors of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
Jim lives in Irondequoit with his wife of over 50 years. He loves to read, and on occasion has been seen on the beach reading about investment strategies and markets; he calls it his pleasure reading. Jim is passionate about music, particularly classical and jazz. He has an extensive music collection that requires its own room and much to the amazement of his family, it is still growing. He loves the unique opportunities Rochester has for music and theatre lovers and you will often see Jim and his wife at the RPO and GEVA. When not at work, reading or at the theatre, he loves to travel with his wife and their teenage granddaughter.
Why Financial Planning?
I really enjoy sharing my knowledge with our clients. I get the greatest enjoyment in seeing that I have assisted a client in achieving their personal goals.
Most Embarrassing Moment
I had always avoided public speaking until my first assignment in human resources at Eastman Kodak Co. was to deliver the new employee orientation. While trying to learn the technology of a brand new training room (think slide projectors and movie projectors during the 1970s), I had everything set up and ready to go. With 30 new employees, I began the presentation. I started to get really engaged with the topic and while walking around the front of the room, I tripped over the cord that controlled everything in the room. The screen went up in the ceiling, the projectors started to roll. I then declared an early coffee break and survived the incident!
Jim McBride is a founder of High Falls Advisors. He serves as an independent advisor to the firm.
Jim has spent more than fifty years in the financial industry and previously operated the investment advisory firm that would later become High Falls Advisors. Earlier in his career, he held various positions in commercial banking throughout Upstate New York.
Jim received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maine. He is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) and holds the Series 66 license.
He is a member of Grantmakers Forum of New York. He has held various board positions at St. John’s Home, Including Board Chair. He also volunteers at various charitable organizations and is active in his church.
Jim resides in Hilton with his wife. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren, fishing, water sports and playing golf.
An Interesting Fact About Me
Years ago, I was in Las Vegas for a banking conference and a group of us decided to catch a show after dinner. I was sitting there minding my own business when Suzanne Somers pulled me up on stage for about 20 minutes. I had my fleeting moment of fame while walking back to the hotel when a limo pulled up next to me, the window rolled down and an elderly woman pointed to a jumbotron and said, “That’s you!” There up on the screen was the picture of Suzanne and I entertaining the crowd.”
Bob Vay is the Office Manager at High Falls Advisors. He oversees all elements of operations for the firm, including trading, billing, benefits and human resources.
Bob joined HFA in 2006. He has more than thirty years of management experience and is a former owner of Vay-Schleich & Meeson Funeral Home.
He holds the Series 65 license. Bob is an Executive Board Member of the Rochester-Genesee Valley Funeral Directors Association, past President and former Board Member of the Rochester Eye and Tissue Bank, former Board Member of Nazareth Schools, past Chair of Nazareth Schools Development Committee and past Chair of the Dioceses of Rochester Parish Thanksgiving Appeal.
Bob lives in Irondequoit with his wife, their three children and two dogs.
Personal Motto:
A quote from Arthur Ash: “Start where you are – Use what you have – Do what you can."
12 Things I Believe
Kevin McPherson is the Chief Financial Officer and Director of Tax at High Falls Advisors. He leads our tax department, including integrating tax planning and compliance services into our comprehensive financial planning process.
Kevin joined HFA in 2021. He brings 23 years of client service experience as a principal in the tax department of a regional CPA firm. Kevin specializes in personal and corporate tax planning and compliance, as well as IRS and State Revenue Department audit representation.
Kevin holds a Bachelor of Science degree from St Lawrence University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Syracuse University. He is a Certified Public Accountant and is pursuing the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
Kevin is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is a Monroe County Baseball Region (MCBR) coach and previously served on the board of directors for Water for South Sudan Inc. and Friends of Women’s Rights National Historical Park.
Kevin lives in Brighton with his wife, their three children and two dogs. In his spare time, he enjoys sailing, kayaking and hiking.
Personal Motto
A quote from Wayne Gretzky: “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.”
Bucket List
To go hiking and whitewater rafting in Patagonia.
Randi Beach is the Director of Client Services, Senior Financial Advisor at High Falls Advisors. She works with clients in the development of financial plans and investment strategies. She is also a member of the firm’s tax team, assisting with tax planning and preparation during tax season and throughout the year.
Randi joined HFA in 2006. She has twenty years of financial industry experience and previously served as a Client Service Specialist for a national financial planning firm in Rochester.
Randi received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Finance from SUNY Fredonia. She holds Series 6, 7, 63, 65 and Life, Accident and Health Insurance licenses.
She resides in Ontario with her husband, their two children and dog. In her free time, Randi enjoys camping, boating, traveling and being a cheer mom.
An Interesting Fact About Me
My high school graduation present from my dad was a tandem skydive. I hated every minute of it.
Favorite Food
I love homemade pizza from our wood-fired pizza oven, enjoyed with my family by the pool.
Debbie King is the Director of Operations, Senior Financial Advisor at High Falls Advisors. She develops customized planning strategies to assist her clients with their short- and long-term goals. Debbie is committed to understanding her clients’ specific situations and helping them make informed financial decisions as they plan for their future.
Debbie joined HFA in 2011. She has seventeen years of industry experience and previously served as Director of Operations and Practice Management Specialist for a local financial planning firm. She earned the Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM designation from the College for Financial Planning in 2015.
Debbie holds Series 7, 66 and Life, Accident and Health Insurance licenses.
She resides in Hilton with her husband and their three dogs. In her free time, Debbie enjoys kayaking, hiking and experiencing new adventures.
Favorite Thing About Rochester
My favorite thing about Rochester, and New York in general, is the biodiversity of our environment. There are wetlands, waterfalls, parks, hiking trails, forests and mountains in our state, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna. Being an animal and nature lover, I am never bored. I just take a walk or a drive to soak it all in. It’s never the same experience twice.
What I Do When I’m Not Working
I’m currently involved in training my Icelandic Sheepdog, Cayden, to become a Canine Good Citizen. He will work his way up to earn a certificate as an AKC Therapy dog, so he can one day provide comfort to those in need.
Russ Mandrino is a Financial Advisor at High Falls Advisors. He develops relationships with individuals and families, and provides concentrated expertise in the management of stock portfolios.
Russ joined HFA in 2007. He has fifteen years of portfolio management experience and a long career in banking and trust administration. He currently serves on the High Falls Advisors Investment Committee. Previously, he served as an Investment Advisor for a wealth management firm in Rochester. He is a past President of the Rochester Estate Planning Council.
Russ received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Rochester. He holds Series 7, 63 and 65 licenses.
Russ resides in Pittsford with his wife. In his spare time, he enjoys travelling, listening to music and watching sports.
Most Memorable Moment of My Career
Once, while attending a social engagement with an employer in New York City, I met former Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger.
Personal Motto
As Mother will say, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
Raechel Taddei is a Tax Manager at High Falls Advisors. She is responsible for tax preparation and planning services.
Raechel joined HFA in 2021. She brings 35 years of client service experience and previously served as a Tax Manager for a local certified public accounting (CPA) firm.
Raechel received a degree in Business Administration from MCC and holds licenses as an IRS Enrolled Agent, and a QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor. She is a member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) and serves as Director for the New York State Society of Enrolled Agents (NYSSEA) and Secretary of the NYSSEA Western Chapter.
Raechel resides in Greece, NY, with her husband and has two sons. She enjoys gardening, hiking, sewing, and spending time outdoors. Her favorite Rochester spots include the Charlotte Beach Pier and Turning Point Park.
Why High Falls Advisors?
I was drawn to HFA because of their commitment to client service and the range of services they offer, in addition to tax compliance. It is an exciting team to work with, and I look forward to helping clients achieve their financial goals.
Bucket List Items
I would love to visit and hike all the national parks.
Jamie Bushart is a Tax Manager at High Falls Advisors. She is responsible for small business support and tax preparation services.
Jamie joined HFA in 2024. She has 15 years of tax experience and previously served as a Senior Tax Manager for a local accounting firm and Treasurer at the Village of Webster.
Jamie received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from SUNY Geneseo. She is a Certified Public Accountant, a QuickBooks Advanced Certified ProAdvisor and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Jamie resides in Marion, NY, with her husband and two children. She enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with her family.
Why High Falls Advisors?
I am excited and proud to be a member of HFA. HFA is full of talented and genuine people who truly care about one another and our clients. Together we provide an unparalleled, integrated service.
Favorite Thing About Rochester
My favorite thing about Rochester is the seasons and I love embracing all the local opportunities with my kids. From picking apples to sledding to swimming, we are fortunate to live in an area where we can experience so much.
Ray Macera is a Tax Accountant at High Falls Advisors. He is responsible for preparation and review of personal income tax returns and fiduciary taxes for trusts and estates.
Ray joined HFA in 2015. He has 47 years of tax experience and previously served as a Supervisor at the Rochester office of a global news and information services company. He specializes in the preparation and filing of fiduciary tax returns.
Ray received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from St. John Fisher University.
Ray resides in Webster, NY, with his wife with whom he has three children. He is a member of the Italian American Sports Club.
What I Do When I’m Not Working
In the spring, summer and early fall I take care of a vegetable garden that produces tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, garlic, onions, broccoli, squash, beans, cucumbers, lettuce, parsley, basil and arugula.
Personal Motto
Be good to other people and God will reward you.
John Littwitz is a Benefits/Healthcare Specialist at High Falls Advisors. He advises the firm’s clients on healthcare needs.
John joined HFA in 2013. He previously worked in Human Resources and Benefits positions at Eastman Kodak and as a Supervisor at MVP Health Care.
John received a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Finance.
He previously served on the school board in West Irondequoit. In his spare time, John enjoys running and serving as an official for boys’ lacrosse and volleyball.
Proudest/Most Memorable Moment
The first time I completed a full marathon (26.2 miles). Since then, I have completed more than 30 marathons including Boston, New York City, Vancouver, Marine Corps (Washington, DC), St. George (Utah), and Grandma’s (Duluth, MN).
What I Do When I’m Not Working
I enjoy traveling to watch major league baseball games and have been to fifteen major league parks.
Tim Verna is a Tax Specialist and also provides client service support at High Falls Advisors. His responsibilities include tax preparation, client service and internal data gathering.
Tim joined HFA in 2011. He has nineteen years of tax preparation and client service experience and previously served as a Machinist and Line Supervisor.
Tim attended the Dale Carnegie School of Management and studied electronics at DeVry Institute. He holds a preparer tax identification number (PTIN) for tax prep.
He resides in Chili with his wife and their dog. They have two grown daughters and two grandchildren. A member of the Parish of the Holy Family Men’s Club, Tim enjoys gardening, biking, watching baseball, taking day trips and reading.
Bucket List Items
I would love to take a trip to Italy to see Rome (Vatican City), Florence, Venice and perhaps a side trip to my father’s hometown of Fara San Martino in the Abruzzo region. Then I’d go on to Greece and visit my mother’s hometown of Flampouro in the Florina region and the various ruins and coastal regions. All the time, I’d be sightseeing and enjoying the food and culture of my ancestors.
Favorite Quote
“We can't do much about the length of our lives, but we can do plenty about its width and depth.”― Evan Esar
Carm Sacco is the Technology Director at High Falls Advisors. He is responsible for implementing and managing new technologies to enhance organizational performance.
Rob Granish is an Associate Financial Advisor at High Falls Advisors. He is responsible for operational support and client relationship management as well as the development of financial plans and investment strategies for clients. He is also a member of HFA's Investment Committee and plays a key role in the operational support of block trading and rebalancing of portfolios.
Rob joined HFA in 2021. He has four years of financial services industry experience and 11 years of experience in client service. He previously served as a Registered Associate for a local financial services firm.
Rob received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Art from Onondaga Community College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Rochester Institute of Technology. He holds Series 7, Series 66, and Life, Accident and Health Insurance licenses.
Rob is originally from Syracuse and resides in Henrietta, NY. He enjoys collecting comic books and attending conventions as well as spending time with family and friends.
Why Finance?
I chose finance because I enjoy helping people. For me, the greatest reward is helping clients achieve their goals and putting them on the path to financial success.
Favorite Foods
Tex-Mex or pizza
Debbie Ferris is the Receptionist at High Falls Advisors. She is responsible for greeting clients, answering phones and scheduling appointments.
Debbie joined HFA in 2012. She previously served as a Receptionist at a local marketing firm.
She resides in Greece with her husband and two pets. They have six grandsons and spend every weekend at the family’s summer camp in Brennan Beach.
Favorite Place in Rochester
I love Letchworth State Park, especially hiking and viewing the beautiful scenery in the fall.
Skills or Talents
I enjoy making quilts for the new babies born into our family.
Caleb Harris is a Financial Advisor Assistant at High Fall Advisors. His responsibilities include gathering and organizing financial data for tax returns, assisting with tax preparation, and supporting the financial and tax teams.
Caleb joined High Falls Advisors in 2022. He is a double major at SUNY Brockport, pursuing finance and marketing, with a minor in economics. He is also studying for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM exam. He anticipates graduating in May 2025.
He lives in Webster with his cat, Pebbles. During his free time, Caleb enjoys watching the Buffalo Bills and participating in kickboxing and jiu-jitsu.
Why HFA?
I love HFA because they have embraced me with open arms and kindness from day one. Their willingness to teach and guide me through every challenge has not only fostered my professional growth but also created a sense of belonging that makes coming to work a true pleasure.
Personal Motto
Education, Kindness, Discipline, Rationality
Steven Luan is a Financial Advisor Assistant at High Falls Advisors. His responsibilities include assisting with tax preparation, organizing financial and tax data, and supporting the financial and tax advisors.
Steven joined High Falls Advisors in 2023. He previously interned with Wells Fargo Advisors and J.B. Hunt. He is currently a senior at SUNY Brockport and will graduate in May 2024 with a double major in finance and business administration. He hopes to pursue his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM certification after graduation.
He lives in Webster and in his free time enjoys traveling to new places and exploring new restaurants.
Bucket List
Speak to Congress/at the White House
Why Finance?
As a first-generation college student, I appreciate how fortunate I am and that has fueled my passion for helping others in shaping a brighter future.