Staff - Klaas Financial

Financial Advisers

Nate Breiby, CFP®, CRC®
Investment Adviser Representative
Maleeah Cuevas, MBA
Chairman of the Board
Investment Adviser Representative
Director of Marketing
Alyssa Ebert, CFP®
Investment Adviser Representative
Kyle Kite, MBA, CFP®
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Investment Adviser Representative
Craig J. (C.J.) Klaas
CEO, President
Investment Adviser Representative
Eric S. Schmitz, CFP®
Investment Adviser Representative
Eric Schwartz, CFP®
Investment Adviser Representative

Paraplanners

Dylan Henderson
Paraplanner
Michael Schlimgen, CFP®
Financial Planner
Morgan Tegeler
Paraplanner

Client Service Associates

Teera Blevins, FPQP®
Client Service Specialist
Kimberly Keller
Team Support Specialist
Brandi Noorda, FPQP®
Operations Assistant
Cheryl Rice
Corporate Coordinator of Client & Site Services
Client Service Associate
Amy Yan
Client & Site Services Coordinator

Operations and Compliance

Stephanie Mowers
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Rita Rhodes
Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)

Portfolio Managers

Josh Stirling, CFA®
Chief Investment Officer (CIO)
Nate Winslow
Sr. Portfolio Trader
Rachael Herold-Plakut
Portfolio Analyst

Retirement Plans

Forrest Ross, MBA, AIF®, CFP®
Director of Retirement Plans

Tax Advisory & Preparation

Jenny Doty, EA
Tax Specialist

Marketing

Kristin Smetana
Marketing Engagement Specialist

Founder

Craig M. Klaas
Founder-Retired

Kristin Smetana

Marketing Engagement Specialist

Joined Klaas Financial in 2025

Kristin joins us a vibrant and dedicated professional who graduated from Illinois State University in 2024 with a double major in English Studies and Mass Media. She has always been passionate about the art of storytelling and communication, which she brings to life in her work.

Family holds a special place in Kristin's heart as she loves to visit family in Florida and Texas. Balancing her professional life, Kristin is an avid gym-goer who values health and fitness, often finding her energy and inspiration in her workouts. She also enjoys trying out new recipes that pique her interest.

With her blend of creativity, enthusiasm, and genuine warmth, Kristin is excited to make a meaningful impact in her field and foster relationships that last a lifetime.

Dylan Henderson

Paraplanner

Joined Klaas Financial in 2025

Dylan earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance from Northern Illinois University in 2024. Born and raised in the Rockford area, he has over three years of experience in the financial industry, having started his career at a local credit union shortly after graduating from Harlem High School.

A passionate sports fan, Dylan cheers on the Baltimore Ravens and Orioles, with football and baseball holding a special place in his heart. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, and his dog Dexter.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? The most adventurous goal I have is to visit all 30 Major League Baseball parks and experience a game at each. It's a way to combine my love for baseball with travel and new experiences.
What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? Currently, I am binging the TV show Dexter. I’m hooked on its suspenseful storytelling and how it keeps me constantly engaged and on the edge of my seat.

Jenny Doty, EA

Tax Specialist

Joined Klaas Financial in 2024

Jenny brings a unique blend of experience and expertise to our team. After moving to the Rockford area to pursue her passion for farming, Jenny transitioned into educating beginning farmers on financial management, where she developed a specialized focus on farm taxation.

With a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University, Jenny is dedicated to helping clients navigate complex tax concepts and gain a clear understanding of their tax returns. Jenny is an Enrolled Agent, able to represent taxpayers before the IRS.

Outside of her professional role, she operates a small flower farm and enjoys hiking and traveling with her family.

Forrest Ross, MBA, AIF®, CFP®

Director of Retirement Plans

608-442-5637 x140

Joined Klaas Financial in 2022

Forrest is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, holding a BBA in Business Management and an MBA in Finance. He earned his CFP® designation in 1999 and his Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation in 2018. Outside of work, Forrest finds joy in traveling, exploring National Parks, and hiking. He also has a passion for gardening and takes pride in tending to his flower garden. Spending quality time with his three sons is a top priority for Forrest.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? I went whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon with my 3 sons.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? Any place in the Caribbean with a beach. Definitely my happy place!

www.cfp.net

Nate Breiby, CFP®, CRC®

Investment Adviser Representative

815-877-8440 x120

Joined Klaas Financial in 2020

Nate graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Finance. His dedication to professional excellence is evident through his achievements, including earning the Certified Retirement Counselor® designation in 2015 and becoming a Certified Financial Planner® professional in 2018. Outside of his professional pursuits, Nate cherishes spending time with his wife and watching their two young children grow. In the summer months you will find Nate on the golf course standing on the wrong side of the ball. He is also an avid snow skier who enjoys an annual trip out to Colorado with friends.

What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? Mad Men. With an incredible cast, character development, and capturing many historical events in the 1960s, it is a must watch.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? The Rocky Mountains. The most beautiful, quiet place where time seems to stand still.

www.cfp.net

www.infre.org

Maleeah Cuevas, MBA

Chairman of the Board
Investment Adviser Representative
Director of Marketing

815-877-8440 x122 (Northern Illinois)

Joined Klaas Financial in 2006

Originally from southern California, Maleeah and her husband, Frank, enjoyed raising their four children in the Midwest. She finds immense joy in spending time with family who currently live coast to coast; playing the piano, and indulging in her passion for cooking. An avid traveler, Maleeah enjoys exploring new destinations and learning about different cultures. On a daily basis, she loves developing relationships with her clients while helping direct them toward a long and satisfying retirement. She has her MBA from Judson University; a Master's Degree from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies; and a Certificate in Financial Planning from Boston University. Maleeah has a membership interest in Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC.

What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done or would like to do? I traveled to Japan and climbed Mt. Fuji, twice! I still have my original hiking stick!
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? Travel back to India! There are few places on Earth that are as fascinating with the food, the smells, the scenery, and the lovely people.

Alyssa Ebert, CFP®

Investment Adviser Representative

815-877-8440 x113

Joined Klaas Financial in 2019

Alyssa earned her BA in Economics from Northern Illinois University in 2019 and is a Certified Financial Planner®. Having grown up in the Chicagoland area, she has called the Rockford area home for most of her adult life. Outside of financial planning, Alyssa delights in watching her son play soccer, exploring local parks with her dog, and discovering new restaurants. She is passionate about outdoor activities and aims to explore as much of the world as possible. Alyssa values the connections she makes in her role and finds it rewarding to see people live out their retirement dreams that they’ve worked so hard to achieve!

What is your favorite podcast, and why do you enjoy it?
“The Yes Theory Podcast”, because they travel with intent to build connections with strangers and change lives wherever they go.“We Can Do Hard Things”, because it’s good to be reminded that we are capable of achieving whatever we set out to. There is nothing more empowering than realizing you are already equipped with the tools to change your life!
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do?
Skydiving in Key West! (Still less risky than timing the market)

www.cfp.net

Kyle Kite, MBA, CFP®

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Investment Adviser Representative

815-877-8440 x118

Joined Klaas Financial in 2014

Kyle entered the financial industry in 2011 and has since demonstrated his commitment to excellence. He earned his MBA from NIU in 2015 and became a Certified Financial Planner® professional in 2016. Born and raised in Rockford, Kyle and his wife, Ashley, still proudly call it home. They both share a love for travel and enjoy spending quality time with friends and family. Kyle has a membership interest in Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? I would love to learn to scuba dive and to ride a motorcycle the whole Route 66 from Chicago to LA.
If you had to pick up a theme song for your workday, what would it be? Even though I love my job it has to be: It’s 5 o’clock somewhere.

www.cfp.net

Craig J. (C.J.) Klaas

CEO, President
Investment Adviser Representative

608-442-5637 x137 (Southern Wisconsin)

Joined Klaas Financial in 2007

C.J. graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in Economics. He married Blair Klaas in 2005, and they have three children: Grace, Paige, and Landon. C.J.’s father, Craig M. Klaas, founded Klaas Financial in 1976. Before joining the retirement planning and investment industry, C.J. played professional soccer for the Seattle Sounders. In 2014, InBusiness Magazine honored him on their '40 under 40' list of rising business stars in the Greater Madison area. C.J. has a membership interest in Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC.

What is your favorite podcast, and why do you enjoy it?
“The Rational Reminder Podcast” by Benjamin Felix & Cameron Passmore. I love this podcast since they interview the best and brightest minds in the world of retirement planning, portfolio management, and behavioral finance.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? Austria. I played a soccer tournament outside of Vienna, Austria when I was a teenager and thought it was BEAUTIFUL and vowed to return as an adult. Sadly, I have yet to return but hope to someday soon.

Eric S. Schmitz, CFP®

Investment Adviser Representative

608-442-5637 x118

Joined Klaas Financial in 2023

Eric is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Financial Planning from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and earned his CFP® designation in 2024. A proud native of Southeast Wisconsin, he now resides in the Madison area with his fiancée, Kelly. In his leisure time, Eric finds joy in spending time with family and friends and staying physically active through a variety of sports. He is an avid supporter of Wisconsin sports teams and enjoys engaging in conversations about recent TV and film releases.

What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? True Detective. The first season with Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson is one of my all-time favorites. I like how the show combines classic detective-themed tropes with paranormal-like elements.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? Rome, Italy. As someone who enjoys learning about history, I would love taking in the city’s beautiful landscape and ancient architecture.

Eric Schwartz, CFP®

Investment Adviser Representative

608-442-5637 x142

Joined Klaas Financial in 2020

Eric is a CFP® professional and a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science in Personal Finance. A native of Northeast Wisconsin, Eric has called Madison home for over 15 years. Eric is an active member of the Rotary Club of Madison, a member of the Board of Trustees for the Madison Rotary Foundation, and Vice President of the Cherokee Park Neighborhood Association. In his free time, Eric enjoys cheering on the Packers, the Badgers, and all of Wisconsin’s professional sports teams. He also enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. Eric has a membership interest in Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC.

What is your favorite podcast, and why do you enjoy it?
Pivot – It keeps me up-to-date on current events and provides great commentary on the evolving world of technology.
What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? The new season of True Detective! Great writing and a wild story.

www.cfp.net

Michael Schlimgen, CFP®

Financial Planner

608-442-5637 x133

Joined Klaas Financial in 2022

Michael is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Personal Finance – Financial Planning and Economics, and earned his CFP® designation in 2024. A lifelong resident of the Madison area, hailing from Cottage Grove, he has deep roots in the community. Michael's enthusiasm for sports is evident in his avid support of UW Football and Basketball, often attending games with friends and family. In his free time, he enjoys playing baseball, basketball, and hiking, as well as indulging in his passion for music.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? I would like to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. The physical, mental, and emotional demands to accomplish something of that nature are immense, so doing so would be a monumental moment in my life and something that I would love to achieve.
What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? I’ve watched “Suits” on Netflix several times, and what keeps me hooked is how well the show is made and how it portrays the challenges of working at a high-intensity law firm.

www.cfp.net

Teera Blevins, FPQP®

Client Service Specialist

815-877-8440 x130

Joined Klaas Financial in 2018

Teera and her husband, Justin, call Machesney Park home and she became part of the Klaas team in 2018. She is a proud graduate of Hononegah and Northern Illinois University. Teera and Justin are loving parents to Brooklyn and Chase. As true Cubs fans, they named their Australian/Husky mix puppy "Ivy" after the iconic ivy at Wrigley Field. When not chasing after their little ones, they love pontoon boating and snowmobiling.

What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? Modern Family. I love all comedy shows but I just love how realistic they are portrayed as to a normal everyday family which makes the show more interesting.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? Anywhere in Europe. I have only been outside of the country once which was Jamaica so I would love to go to Europe and just travel and see as much of the world as I can. I have always wanted to go to Paris, London and Rome.

Kimberly Keller

Team Support Specialist

815-877-8440 x115

Joined Klaas Financial in 2019

Kim and her husband, Joe, are proud residents of Machesney Park, where they have raised their two children, Linzy and Mason. Prior to working with Klaas, Kim spent over 25 years in the insurance industry as a Licensed Customer Service Representative. Outside of work, Kim finds joy in supporting her children's interests, whether it's cheering them on at basketball games or baseball tournaments. During the summer months, the family enjoys quality time together with extended family and friends, engaging in activities such as water skiing and surfing.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? I would love to retire, sell my home, and buy a motorhome for traveling. This would allow us to tow our boat to different lakes and enjoy outdoor activities like skiing and surfing with family and friends.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? I would like to go back to the Hawaiian Islands. I enjoyed the snorkeling on the Island of Kona and would love to go back there and swim with Manta Rays.

Brandi Noorda, FPQP®

Operations Assistant

608-442-5637 x141

Joined Klaas Financial in 2020

Brandi relocated to Wisconsin in 2018 from Denver, CO. She joined Klaas in 2020 and has since earned her Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional® designation. She spends her free time adventuring with her adorable young daughter as they explore all over WI. She has a passion for cooking creative new dishes, painting, music, impromptu dance parties, and thrift shopping.

If you had to pick a theme song for your workday, what would it be? I don’t know about my workday, but my theme song for 2024 is “Its My Life” by Bon Jovi.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? Greece, I’ve always wanted to travel there. The culture and architecture has always fascinated me.

Cheryl Rice

Corporate Coordinator of Client & Site Services
Client Service Associate

815-877-8440 x110

Joined Klaas Financial in 2012

Cheryl is a University of Wisconsin-Platteville alumna, holding a Bachelor of Science degree. Since 1983, she and her husband, Mark, have called Rockford home. Cheryl's greatest joy stems from spending time with her adult children and three grandchildren. Her interests include baking, traveling, and horseback riding, enriching her life with a variety of fulfilling activities.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? The most adventurous thing I have ever done is when I went backpacking for 7 days in the Rocky Mountains the summer after I graduated from high school.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? If I could teleport to anyplace in the world, it would be Hawaii.

Amy Yan

Client & Site Services Coordinator

608-442-5637 x135

Joined Klaas Financial in 2024

Amy graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin. Originally from Guangdong, China, she has made Madison, WI her home and cherishes her connection to the city. Amy finds joy in baking sweets, spending time with family, and taking leisurely strolls. She is also a proud pet owner of Niko, a mini-Schnauzer, and Rey, a tabby cat. She dreams of attending pastry school in France or Japan and hopes to open her own bakery in the future.

Amy is passionate about building strong client relationships and looks forward to welcoming you to our Madison area office!

Stephanie Mowers

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

815-877-8440 x123 (Northern Illinois)

Joined Klaas Financial in 1998

Stephanie brings over 26 years of operational expertise to our team at Klaas, where she has been an integral part of our success. Together, Stephanie and her husband, Jason, have four children and one grandchild. Beyond her professional dedication, Stephanie enjoys music, camping, fishing, gardening, and cherishing time spent with family and friends.

If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be and why? My lakefront property up north, which I have to find and buy first!
If you had to pick a theme song for your workday, what would it be? The Chorus to “I’ll be there for you” by the Rembrandts because I’m the “go to” person when something isn’t working right or when anyone has a question!

Rita Rhodes

Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)

815-900-2202 (office)

Rita acts as Chief Compliance Officer and provides compliance support to Klaas Financial through her consulting business, Adroit Compliance. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance from the University of Phoenix, and over 20 years of experience in regulatory compliance. She and her husband, Neal, have three adult daughters. In her spare time, Rita enjoys taking long walks, bread making, and trying her hand at various crafts.

Morgan Tegeler

Paraplanner

Joined Klaas Financial in 2024

Morgan is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in finance and has over two years of experience in the industry. A resident of the Rockford area for eight years, she is a dedicated mother to her son, who is active in soccer and wrestling. Morgan prioritizes attending her son's games and meets, and enjoys spending her free time hiking and kayaking with friends and her two dogs.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? I hiked The Garden Walk (15 mile) trail at Glacier National Park last year and loved it! (My legs did not)
What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? Hannibal. It is a psychological thriller/crime drama, and it definitely keeps you on your toes. A great watch!

Josh Stirling, CFA®

Chief Investment Officer (CIO)

608-442-5637 x136

Joined Klaas Financial in 2017

Josh graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Business Administration Finance in 2016 and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation. Originally from Plymouth, WI, Josh and his wife, Kathryn, have family throughout Wisconsin. They have 2 wonderful beagles, Penny & Turina. Outside of work, Josh is an avid biker and baker. You can find him biking the lake loop or out on the hills near Paoli. Josh has a membership interest in Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC.

What is your favorite podcast, and why do you enjoy it?
Planet Money is a fantastic podcast that I’ve listened to for over a decade. The hosts always do a great job of boiling down complicated financial aspects and remaining topical. Some memorable episodes: “Big Government Cheese”, “Robocall Invasion”, and “Rescues at sea, and how to make a fortune”.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done or would like to do? Ride Across Wisconsin has been my group’s annual outing for a few years. A fantastic 2-day 235-mile ride from La Crosse to Milwaukee. Riding across the old rail line trails, we get to see so much of the Wisconsin countryside, and a handful of beautiful train tunnels along the way. This event holds a special place in my heart, and I’ll always enjoy it each year.

www.cfainstitute.org/

Nate Winslow

Sr. Portfolio Trader

608-442-5637 x112

Joined Klaas Financial in 2020

With over two decades of experience in financial services, Nate brings a wealth of expertise to his role, with a particular focus on securities trading. Originally from Salt Lake City, Nate relocated to San Diego in 2005, where he started his family. In June 2019, Nate and his family moved to Wisconsin, his wife's home state, further enriching their lives. Outside of work, Nate's passions include spending quality time with loved ones, indulging in music and concerts, exploring the open road on his motorcycle, mastering the slopes on his snowboard, and enjoying a round of golf.

What is your favorite podcast, and why do you enjoy it? Kreative Kontrol w/ Vish Khanna. He’s a great interviewer and personality. I love music and Vish interviews mostly musicians and comedians, many of whom I’m interested in.
If you had to pick a theme song for your workday, what would it be? Djed by Tortoise from their album Millions Now Living Will Never Die. It’s a long instrumental tune that makes it easy to focus.

Rachael Herold-Plakut

Portfolio Analyst

608-442-5637 x144

Joined Klaas Financial in 2023

Rachael is an accomplished individual holding a Bachelor of Science in Economics and English Literature from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and a Master of Commerce in Applied Finance from the University of Queensland - St. Lucia. Currently, Rachael holds a Series 65 license; as well as the distinction of successfully passing Level 1 of the Chartered Financial Analyst Program (CFA®). Originally hailing from the Twin Cities, she has had the privilege of calling Madison her home for the past 6 years. Rachael's diverse interests include music, literature, and travel, which she pursues with a passion for exploration and discovery.

If you had to pick a theme song for your workday, what would it be? My workday anthem would be ‘Bills’ by Grandson.
What TV show are you currently binging, and what hooked you about it? I’m currently binging Blue Eye Samurai – I love a story that confronts what society deems monstrous.

www.cfainstitute.org/

Craig M. Klaas

Founder-Retired

Founded Klaas Financial in 1976

Craig has a Bachelor's Degree in Finance from the University of Illinois. Craig and his wife, Jan, have 3 adult children and 10 grandchildren with whom they love spending time. Craig is an avid outdoorsman and loves to be outside hunting and fishing.