Chris Collins
2024 was a difficult year for Chris, his family, and the WWA family. His beloved wife of 32 years passed away after a courageous battle with breast cancer. They were able to take a short trip early in 2024. In the spirit of renewal Chris recently took a guided group motorcycle tour through the Himalayas; the people were truly kind and welcoming. On a bright note, his son Garrett has just joined the WWA team, and we are all excited for him to be a part of the team.
Chris’s mantra only became stronger in 2024 and that is the fact that all of us need each other in this world. He needs each of you, he needs his family, friends, and his team. The support Chris received from so many of the special people he serves, and he works with is what kept him going. Thank you for continually putting your faith and trust in us and allowing us to work with each of you. We take great pleasure in our ability to help in any way possible.
Alex Simon
The past year has been full of changes and opportunities. The design and updates using new strategies, both business and personal, have been considered and implemented. The technology adopted by Alex and his team is now proven and pays dividends every day! Client performance and business continuity has continued to flourish. Exercising and staying healthy has moved up on the priority list (we are getting older after all). Vacations this year included skiing in VT and a visit to the Balkins. Spending time in the war-torn areas of the former Yugoslavia, provided a genuine fondness for life here in the US. The family spending more time in Florida has offered new experiences and growth. We miss the fall and winter and do spend time visiting the tristate area when possible. Additional time biking, hiking, boating and fishing keeps us grounded and thankful.
Scott McCaffery
2024 was another exciting year for the Russell-McCaffery’s as Eleanor graduated Pre-K and got on the school bus and started Kindergarten in September. Eleanor took swim classes during the spring and summer and is getting more comfortable in the water. Scott and Jen enjoyed a couple of overnights courtesy of Grammie and a week down the shore as a family. Jen continues to shine in her massage business while being an amazing mom. The fall is a great time to reflect and the Russell-McCaffery’s have a lot of gratitude, and we wish everyone the best
Jenica Roffina
2024 kicked off with a much-needed trip to Tampa- a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Jenica continued her work with horseshoe crab conservation through Save Coastal Wildlife and hiking became a grounding ritual throughout the year. Her gym routine also remained consistent, complimenting her outdoor adventures. One of her proudest moments was being named Big Sister of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters, which gave her a greater platform to share the importance and joys of mentorship. Her Little Sis is currently excelling in her first year at Gardner Webb in North Carolina. Summer was filled with trips to the beach and family remained at the center of her world, with the standout being her little brother’s wedding in October. She looks forward to further travel in 2025.
Kim Kandels
This year was full of milestones and changes. Kim attended a memorable family reunion, reconnecting with loved ones and sharing cherished moments together. She and Steve celebrated their 5 year anniversary. On the home front, they welcomed two new furry family members –their cats, Toby and Salem, who have brought endless joy and energy to their lives. Over the summer, they transformed their backyard into a tropical oasis, creating a serene escape for a few months. They skipped vacation this year due to Kim having two separate foot surgeries, but they still found moments of relaxation and joy at home. Despite the challenges, it’s been a year of growth, love and resilience.
Garrett Collins
2024 has brought a lot of change to Garrett’s life. He began the year as a sales consultant to car dealerships throughout the boroughs of New York City and upstate New York, offering products and ideas to help everyday efficiency. When his mother passed away (and he got tired of his car being his office), he decided to switch gears entirely and join the WWA family alongside his father Chris. He is now studying to become an advisor full-time.
Garrett enjoys staying active through the gym and sports. He still plays baseball in a wooden bat league and started golfing over the summer. He also enjoys cooking and spends as much time as possible with friends and family doing everything from hiking in national parks to watching the Yankees with his grandparents over dinner.
With this year being full of changes and the unexpected, Garrett is incredibly excited to join the WWA team and looks forward to working hard and helping in as many ways as possible.