• BS, Management, SUNY Oswego
• AAS, Accounting, Herkimer County Community College

Melissa joined Strategic in 2007 as an Operations Specialist.  She worked to provide excellent client service to high net-worth individuals and not-for-profit organizations.  In 2010 she was promoted to Senior Operations Specialist where she served in a leadership role over the client service team.  Ready to learn more about the client advisory and financial planning aspect of the business, she was promoted to Financial Planning Associate in 2011.  She currently resides in Utica with her husband Rocco Fernalld, the Project Manager at Quadsimia, and their adored Toy Fox Terrier, Nico. 

"I joined Strategic in 2007 excited to be back in the Utica area and to begin a career path at such a reputable firm.  The Strategic environment is much like that of a family in that they greatly care about the success of their employees.  Each person in the firm is encouraged to follow their career aspirations and is given the resources to do so. 

I believe what sets Strategic apart is their focus on outstanding client service.  We go above and beyond to facilitate our client’s request and to make doing business with us easy.  For example, Strategic does not have voice mail during business hours.  When a client calls, they will always speak to someone who can either help them right away or get them in touch with someone who can.  We ensure that client requests are handled timely and accurately.  This high-level of client service is maintained by exceptional employees who enjoy coming to work every day."

• Captain of Team Strategic, America’s Greatest Heart Run and Walk, American Heart Association
• Annual volunteer, Wonderland of Lights, Resource Center for Independent Living