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.
Vicki R. Brackens, ChFC
President & Financial Planner
(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...
Richard J. Cooney, ChFC
Director of Financial Planning Strategies
(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...
Melissa M. Heywood
Director of Operations
(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...
Ellion Magsino
Research Intern
(315) 930-2013
Ellion.Magsino@brackensfsn.com
Ellion currently works as a Research Intern for Brackens Financial Solutions Network for this summer to investigate the current status of diversity in the financial services industry. During high school, Ellion conducted several...
Michael Jennings
Business Development Associate/ Financial Planning
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...