Lance's Role: Managing Director Professional Background: Lance Gunkel is Syverson Strege’s Managing Director, overseeing the design and implementation of the firm’s financial, client service, staffing, and reporting processes. His objective is to make sure the company is meeting its service commitments to clients. He also plays a role in shaping the future growth and development of the organization, as well as serving as a member of the investment committee. Lance grew up in Bismarck, North Dakota, and has been with the firm since 2003. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Drake University and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and Finance from the University of Iowa. Lance is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) charterholder. He has been quoted in many publications including the CFA Magazine, Des Moines Register, Des Moines Business Record, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Financial Planning magazine. Personal: I am driven to work hard for our clients in an effort to help them reach the goals that are important to them and, in addition, assist the communities they live in. Outside of the office I enjoy time with family: my wife Carolyn and two boys, Will and Pete. I love family time spent laughing and I try to avoid "dad jokes!" My wife and I work to teach our boys the benefits of an active lifestyle, helping others, and the virtue in being kind and generous in all of our relationships. I previously served as a faith formation teacher. I enjoy reading, international travel, and am an avid ultrarunner, including 100-mile races. The “why” of my existence is to share experiences with my family at every stage of life – not just at the end! Also, a lifelong goal is to give to programs that enable marginalized individuals and groups improve their life circumstances.