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How We Work

How We Work

Our reasons for becoming financial professionals are deeply personal. We repeatedly saw many friends and family struggling to find the help they needed to map out their financial future. We are confident that with our understanding of personal finance, coupled with our training as financial professionals, we can help people better prepare for the future. After years in the business, we have developed a reputation for educating individuals in an easy-to-understand manner so they can grasp personal finance and use those concepts to pursue their financial objectives. We feel a commitment to our community.

Our team approach adds perspective to all we do and provides increased benefits to our clients.

Meet Our Team

Vicki R. Brackens, ChFC

President & Financial Planner

(315) 930-4499

(315) 214-7582

vicki.brackens@brackensfsn.com

Vicki Brackens has over 25 years of experience as an entrepreneur working in the area of financial education and financial services. She was co-host of Financial Fitness*, on PBS affiliate WCNY in Syracuse NY. Financial Fitness was...

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Richard J. Cooney, ChFC

Director of Financial Planning Strategies

(315) 314-9916

(315) 314-9916

richard.cooney@brackensfsn.com

Dick has almost 35 years of experience in the field of Financial Services first with CIGNA and Lincoln Financial Advisors and now with Brackens Financial Solutions Network. He is a graduate of Cornell University earning a Bachelor of...

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Melissa M. Heywood

Director of Operations

(315) 314-9506

(315) 314-9506

melissa.heywood@brackensfsn.com

Melissa has been the Director of Operations and Client Services Administrator for Brackens Financial Solutions Network since June of 2014, focusing on providing a wide range of service and support functions for the firm. She has 20...

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Ellion Magsino

Business Operations Associate

(315) 930-2013

(315) 930-2013

ellion.magsino@brackensfsn.com

Ellion is currently a Business Operations Associate for Brackens Financial Solutions Network. He started as a Research Intern in the summer of 2021, and is now with us to help with various day-to-day operations of the business. 

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Christopher Cedano Alcala

Research Intern

christopher.cedano@brackensfsn.com

Christopher is currently a Research Intern for Brackens Financial Solutions Network. He started as a research intern in the summer of 2022 to investigate financial planning for pet owners.He is attending Onondaga Community College and...

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Michael Jennings

Wealth Advisor / Financial Planning Associate

315-748-5540

315-748-5540

michael.jennings@brackensfsn.com

Michael is a lifelong resident of Syracuse, New York and has been in the financial industry since 2019. As a graduate of Syracuse University, Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and Forensic Science. With a...

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