Celebrating Your Shared Story

Nov 25, 2025 | Uncategorized

Exploring your family’s history during the holidays.  

Holiday family traditions are about more than food. They’re the perfect time for connection, gratitude, and remembering those who came before us. As you gather around the table this season, take a moment to reflect on your shared story, and start the process of preserving it for the next generation.

Exploring your family’s history adds meaning to the holiday, deepening your appreciation for the people and experiences that shaped your life. Just as we pass down recipes or heirlooms, tracing your family tree and history helps keep your family’s values and memories alive.

 

Why Family History Belongs at the Holiday Table

Every family has a keeper of stories. The aunt or uncle who remembers who farmed where, who served in the war, or who made the famous cranberry salad. The holidays offer a natural opportunity to collect and share those memories while everyone is together.

Researching your family history is a way to honor the sacrifices, dreams, and determination of those who came before you. It can help younger generations feel rooted in their heritage and connected to something larger than themselves.

 

How to Begin Building Your Family Tree

  1. Start With Yourself

Begin by recording your own story—birthplace, key life events, relationships, and traditions. Then expand to your parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. You are the starting point of your family’s living history.

  1. Begin at Home

Explore old albums, letters, or newspaper clippings that may hold forgotten details. Certificates, photos, and military records can reveal surprising connections and add depth to your story.

  1. Ask the Experts—Your Relatives

Holiday gatherings are the perfect time to listen. Ask older family members what they remember about their parents or grandparents. Their firsthand stories often fill gaps that official records cannot.

  1. Explore Public Records

When you’re ready to go further, visit federal, state, or county archives. Census records, property deeds, and marriage licenses can help trace your family’s journey across generations.

 

Turning Gratitude Into Legacy

Make storytelling part of your family’s holiday traditions. Write down memories, share old photos, or start a family tree together. By preserving your family’s history, you create a legacy of gratitude that lasts long after the dishes are cleared and the leftovers are gone.

CSP #926856. Exp. 10.31.26

Director of First Impressions

May 21, 2025 | Uncategorized

This position has been filled. Please check back for future opportunities!

Director of First Impressions

Our Director of First Impressions position is an essential full-time position (in our Huron office) responsible for a clean, warm and inviting environment for anyone who interacts with our practice.

Your Mission: To ensure all clients, strategic partners, COIs, and potential clients of the Cornerstone community experience distinct, personal interactions with our practice that leaves them feeling seen, heard, and reassured.

What You Will Love To Do:

  • Connect and create a memorable experience with every interaction whether it be with a client, strategic partner, or visitor.
  • Greet our clients and prospective clients on the phone and in person.
  • Develop and provide WOW experiences to everyone who enters our office.
  • Champion a positive work environment for our team.
  • Embrace innovation by bringing new ideas and innovative solutions to enhance our client experiences and office operations.
  • Take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional growth to expand your skills and knowledge. 
  • Work with a team that is dedicated to making a real impact in the lives of our clients and the community.
The Cornerstone Team

You Are the Rockstar We Are Looking For If:

You are hardworking and dependable.

You are highly organized and have an ability to prioritize and stay focused.

You find it easy to empathize with others.

You have high standards for your work and focus on impact.

Excellence matters to you.

You are adaptable and resilient when faced with rapid-fire demands on your attention.

You are an optimistic, highly motivated self-starter and a quick learner.

You are resourceful ~ you have a “figure it out” attitude about new projects or tasks you haven’t done before.

You invest in people by building relationships and strive to understand how to meet their needs.

You are passionate, proactive and forward-thinking.

    You are humble.

    You lead your life, push through comfort barriers and don’t settle for the status quo.

    You have grit and thrive under pressure.

    You have outstanding communication skills; oral and written, and presentation and interpersonal skills needed to successfully interact with prospects, clients, financial professionals and other associates.

    You have previous administrative and or customer service experience.

    You have a general understanding of what branding is and isn’t.

    You are proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Calendar).

    You utilize basic AI tools to enhance efficiency and client engagement.

      Required Education and Experience:

      EDUCATION

      High school diploma or equivalent required

      Associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred (but not required)

      EXPERIENCE

      2+ years of experience in a customer-facing role such as administrative support, reception, or customer service.

      Experience in a professional office environment is a plus.

      Familiarity with financial services or working in a highly regulated industry is a plus.

      LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

      No licenses are required for this position, but any relevant certifications in customer service, office administration, or related fields are a plus

      Benefits/Compensation

          • 401k with opportunity for profit sharing
          • Flexible Spending Account Program
          • Clothing allowance for CFS apparel
          • Charitable Giving Leave
          • Paid Time Off
          • Education Assistance
          • Salary range $33k-40k, depending on qualifications
          • Performance Based Bonuses

      Submit your resume and cover letter to: michelle@mycfsgroup.com or by mail to:

      Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Inc.

      280 Dakota Ave. S

      Huron, SD 57350

      605-352-9490

      Attn: Michelle Stahl

       

      Sioux Falls office located at 7408 S. Bitterroot Pl., Sioux Falls, SD 57108

      At Cornerstone, you’ll find a culture that emphasizes personal responsibility, excellence, open communication, mutual respect, and team environment. If you are committed to helping us make a difference, we look forward to hearing from you.

      We believe working with the team at Cornerstone will be one of the greatest experiences of your life.

      Back to Careers

      Do you have any questions?

      We would love to connect with you!


      Celebrate National Blood Donor Day

      Apr 22, 2025 | #Cornerstone Community

      Community Blood Drives in Huron and Sioux Falls this June

      We are proud to support National Blood Donor Day, officially observed on June 14, by supporting two upcoming blood drives – one in Huron and one in Sioux Falls. These events are open to the public so ask a friend, schedule your donation, and help spread the word! Help save lives through the gift of blood donation – June 2nd in Huron and June 13th in Sioux Falls.

      At Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Investing in People isn’t just something we say. We believe in building stronger communities by getting involved and making a difference.

      Huron Community Blood Drive – June 2

      Hosted by HRMC, this mobile community blood drive is a convenient and powerful way to help others. 

      🩸 Appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure availability. Walk-ins may not be accepted depending on space and staffing.

      📍 Location: HRMC Legacy Plaza Auditorium
      📅 Date: Friday, June 2
      🕐 Time: 12:30 – 5:45 p.m.

      Schedule your donation appointment

      Sioux Falls Mobile Blood Drive at the Cornerstone Office – June 13

      We’re hosting the Bloodmobile at our Sioux Falls office!

      🩸 Appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure availability. Walk-ins may not be accepted depending on space and staffing,

      📍 Location: Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Sioux Falls Office
      📅 Date: Friday, June 13
      🕐 Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 

      Schedule your donation appointment.

      You will check in with the bloodmobile staff inside at Cornerstone’s front desk. 

      Photo / Video Disclaimer

      Cornerstone Financial Solutions reserves the right to take and use photographs/video at any event sponsored by Cornerstone Financial Solutions. By attending, you understand that you may be photographed, filmed, or videotaped and you hereby give Cornerstone Financial Solutions the unqualified right to take pictures and/or recordings of you and grant the perpetual right to use your likeness, image, photo (collectively, “image”), without compensation, for broadcast or exhibition in any medium and to put the finished pictures/recordings to any legitimate use without limitation or reservation. You hereby waive, release and forever discharge Cornerstone Financial Solutions and Raymond James Financial Services from and against any and all claims or actions arising out of or resulting from any use of your image. Cornerstone Financial Solutions shall not be obligated to use, and may elect not to use, your image.

      Be the difference. Donate blood.

      Why Donating Blood Is So Important

      Giving blood is a simple act with a big impact. Whether it’s your first time or one of many, your donation can help save lives and support hospitals in urgent need..

      Here’s why your donation matters:

        • Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.
        • One donation can save up to three lives.
        • Blood cannot be manufactured—it must be donated.
        • The entire process takes about an hour.

      Cornerstone’s Commitment to Community: Investing in People

      Our mission is to help people live their best lives—and that means contributing to something greater than ourselves. Supporting events like the blood drive in Huron and hosting the community blood drive in Sioux Falls reflects our core value to Invest in People through community action, compassion, and shared purpose.

       

      Who Can—and Can’t—Donate Blood

      Blood donation is a generous act, but it’s important to know if you’re eligible before signing up. In general, most healthy adults can give blood, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind:

      You Can Donate Blood If You:
        • Are at least 16 years old (16- and 17-year-olds may need parental consent)
        • Weigh at least 110 pounds
        • Are in generally good health
        • Haven’t donated whole blood in the last 56 days
        • Are feeling well on the day of your appointment

       You May Not Be Eligible If You:

        • Are currently sick or have a fever
        • Have low iron levels (anemia)
        • Are pregnant or recently gave birth
        • Have recently had certain vaccinations, surgeries, or medical procedures
        • Traveled to certain countries with malaria risk
        • Use specific medications that temporarily defer donation

       If you’re unsure, the Bloodmobile staff can review your eligibility confidentially during your appointment or you can visit their website ahead of time for a full list of eligibility criteria.

      Schedule Your Appointment

       

      HRMC Legacy Plaza Auditorium June 2

       

      Bloodmobile at the Cornerstone Office June 13

       

      Raymond James is not affiliated and does not endorse HRMC, Huron Regional Medical Center, Bloodmobile. CSP #779324 Exp. 4.22.25

      Market Volatility, Tariffs, and Your Financial Strategy

      Apr 8, 2025 | Investing

      A Message from Your Cornerstone Financial Solutions Advisory Team

      At Cornerstone, we believe Clear is Kind. To us, that means open, honest, and timely communication—especially when things feel uncertain. In times of stress, maintaining calm poise and clear thinking is essential—not just for investment decisions, but for well-being.

       

      Understanding Recent Market Volatility

       

      Market Volatility and What’s Driving It 

      Over the past several days and weeks, we’ve all felt the weight of market volatility. Whether you’re enjoying retirement, preparing for it, or just beginning your financial journey, these moments can stir up concern. That’s why we’re reaching out—to keep you informed, grounded, and confident, even amid the noise.

      Market fluctuations have intensified in recent weeks, driven largely by global trade tensions. A key factor is the recent tariff overhaul initiated by President Trump. This effort aims to reshape global trade, revive U.S. manufacturing, and address long-standing imbalances.

      These changes come with global ripple effects. Nations across the world—from China to Namibia—are implementing retaliatory tariffs, increasing uncertainty and complicating global economic outlooks.

       

      Tariff Increases at a Glance

      • The average effective U.S. tariff may jump to 20–25%, up from 3%in 2024.
      • The full impact is still unfolding, with potential for negotiation or de-escalation.
      • Short-term volatility is likely to continue.

       

      Historical Context: Uncertainty Isn’t New 

      Many of you remember navigating other uncertain times—9/11, the Brexit vote, or the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Despite the fear and uncertainty, in each case markets found their footing and recovered—often sooner than expected.

       

      Bear and Bull Market Patterns Since 1980

      • Bear markets: Average decline of 30%, lasting about 282 days
      • Bull markets: Average gain of 96%, lasting over 1,000 days

       

      Why Timing the Market Doesn’t Work

      10 of the best 20 trading days happened in years with overall losses

      11 of the worst trading days occurred in years with positive returns

      This data shows that staying invested through market turbulence is one of the most effective long-term wealth strategies. And that’s why our focus remains on the big picture. The last thing we want to do is sell your hard-earned lifetime savings at a discount because of short-term fear. We remain firmly committed to helping you navigate through the noise with confidence and clarity.

      A Personal Note from Andrew: The Timeout That Wasn’t

      I just got back home last night from a weekend in Omaha, Nebraska, where I was coaching my 8th grade boys’ basketball team.

      We started strong—winning our first two games—and in our third game Saturday night, we had a solid 12-point lead with just five minutes left. But then, as sports so often mirrors life, things began to unravel. Slowly, the momentum shifted.

      With under 30 seconds remaining, we were clinging to a 2-point lead. I was holding on to my last timeout. Then it happened—we got trapped near the sideline. I was yelling—screaming—for a timeout. But the officials didn’t hear me. We turned the ball over. Five seconds left. The other team launched a deep shot. It went in. Game over. We lost by one.

      Andrew Ulvestad, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL®, AAMS®
      Andrew Ulvestad

      CFP®, AAMS®

      Wealth Advisor, RJFS

       

      All night, I replayed it in my head. Should I have called timeout earlier? Subbed differently? But it wasn’t just one play that cost us the game—it was a series of plays—good and bad—over the entire course.

      That’s exactly how the market feels right now. Volatile. Frustrating. Emotional. It’s easy to look at one bad day or week and think we should’ve done something differently. But markets, like games, aren’t won or lost in a single moment. They’re shaped by disciplined, consistent decisions over time.

      Here’s what’s worth remembering:

      • Since 1980, markets have averaged a 10% drop every year,with an average intra-year decline of 13–14%.
      • Yet the S&P 500 has delivered around 10% average annual return.

      That’s not because there weren’t bad plays—it’s because investors stayed in the game.

      So, if you’re feeling anxious, please know: we are here—coaching from the sidelines with a long-term game plan in mind. We can’t control every bounce of the ball, but we can control how we respond.

      Recenter, Refocus, and Realign Your Financial Plan

      It’s been a rough stretch lately—one of those times where uncertainty creeps in and the future feels more foggy than clear. Just like in Andrew’s basketball game, momentum shifted, and things started to spiral.

      It’s easy in moments like that to feel overwhelmed—to lose focus or doubt the plan we set in motion. We know many of you have felt that in your financial lives, too.

      But maybe that’s the signal we need—not to panic, but to pause. Let’s call that last timeout.
      Let’s:

      • Step back: Reflect on your overall financial goals
      • Clear your head: Don’t let fear dictate decisions
      • Revisit your plan: Make adjustments, not rash moves

      There’s still time left on the clock, and staying disciplined, focused, and intentional can make all the difference.

       

      We’re Here to Guide You 

      Whether you want to realign your investment strategy, revisit your goals, or simply talk about why you started your financial journey, let’s continue to make smart, steady moves together. Sincerely,

      Your Cornerstone Financial Solutions Advisory Team

      Gordon Wollman, MS-Financial Planning, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL® Founder & CEO, CFS Wealth Advisor, RJFS
      Gordon Wollman 

      MS-Financial Planning, CFP®, ChFC, CMFC®, CRPS®, AWMA®, AAMS®, ChFEBC℠
      Founder & CEO, CFS
      Wealth Advisor, RJFS

       

       

      Jill Mollner, MBA, CFP®
      Jill Mollner  

      MBA, CFP®

      Andrew Ulvestad, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL®, AAMS®
      Andrew Ulvestad

      Wealth Advisor
      CFP®, AAMS®

      Jory Flanery, Associate Advisor
      Jory Flanery

      Associate Advisor

      Any opinions are those of Cornerstone Financial solutions and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. CSP #767134 Exp. 4.7.26.

      Breaking Barriers: Women Leading the Way at Cornerstone Financial Solutions

      Mar 9, 2025 | #Cornerstone Community

      Pictured L-R

      Jill Mollner, MBA, CFP®

      Branch Operations Manager

      Wealth Advisor, RJFS

      Michelle Stahl

      Partner, Chief Operating Officer, CFS

      Office Manager, RJFS

      Shelli Carlson

      Chief Experience Officer, CFS

      Branch Associate, RJFS

      International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, is a global celebration of the achievements of women and a call to action for gender equality. In 2025, the theme “Accelerate Action” urges organizations and individuals to push forward in breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women in all fields.

      In the traditionally male-dominated financial services industry, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership roles. As of 2024, women hold only 18.4% of C-suite positions globally, with projections estimating an increase to 21.8% by 2031.*

      However, at Cornerstone Financial Solutions, the narrative is refreshingly different. The practice has always prioritized expertise, skills, and leadership ability over anything else, and as a result, its history is filled with women in leadership roles. Today, three out of four members of the organization’s leadership team are women—an achievement that reflects both ongoing dedication to excellence and a remarkable success story in an industry where women remain underrepresented in leadership. Their success is not a product of quotas or trends but of hard-earned expertise, commitment to the practice’s core values, and relentless drive to serve clients at the highest level.

      Jill Mollner: Financial Planning with Heart

      Jill Mollner, a Certified Financial Planner® professional and MBA graduate, combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the profound impact financial choices have on people’s lives. Raised in Sioux Falls, her parents instilled a strong work ethic and appreciation for financial responsibility in Jill and her sister.

      Jill’s approach to financial planning is personal. For her, success is about more than numbers; it’s about helping her clients realize their dreams. Jill is passionate about mentoring and showing her two daughters that women can lead and thrive in any industry.

      Michelle Stahl: The Engine Behind Excellence

      Celebrating her 25th anniversary with Cornerstone this year, Michelle Stahl is a cornerstone of the practice—both in name and in action. As Chief Operating Officer, she ensures that every aspect of the operations reflects a commitment to putting clients first. A Huron area native, Michelle has spent her entire career at Cornerstone, starting the day she interviewed after graduating from Southeast Technical Institute.

      A mother of four daughters, Michelle is deeply invested in fostering a culture where women can thrive in leadership roles, both professionally and personally. Beyond the office, she is active in the community, focusing much of her efforts in Huron and the surrounding communities.

      Shelli Carlson: Crafting Exceptional Client Experiences

      With more than 25 years in the financial industry, Chief Experience Officer Shelli Carlson is a natural leader with a passion for mentoring the next generation of professionals. She leads marketing, business development, and client engagement at Cornerstone, fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring clients feel the depth of expertise and care Cornerstone offers. 

      Outside of work, Shelli loves photography and travelling with her husband. As a new grandmother, she is also focused on leaving a legacy that empowers future generations of women to step into leadership roles.

      A Model for the Future

      The leadership of these three dynamic women at Cornerstone Financial is a powerful reflection of the “Accelerate Action” theme for International Women’s Day 2025. Their success is not just an internal triumph—it serves as an inspiring example of progress in financial services. By fostering a culture of excellence, value, and commitment, Cornerstone Financial is proving that breaking barriers isn’t just possible—it’s necessary.

      As the financial industry continues to evolve, companies like Cornerstone Financial demonstrate that when women lead, industries transform. This International Women’s Day, let their journey inspire others to champion female leadership, ensuring that talent and dedication continue to drive the industry forward.

      *Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1322160/share-of-women-financial-services-leadership-worldwide/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

      Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Inc. is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. CSP #737250 Exp. 2026.03.05.

      Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.