Biography of Michael C. Walther II
PERSONAL MISSION
To assist families in their efforts to provide their loved ones with special needs with the financial resources and other supports necessary to live their lives to their fullest potential.
BACKGROUND
Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri
One brother on the Autism spectrum with other developmental delays
Bachelor Degree and M.B.A. from Vanderbilt University
Professional Credentials
- CPA/ Personal Financial Specialist
- Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®)
- Chartered Financial Advisor (CFA®)
Career Highlights
Began career as tax accountant at Arthur Andersen; Co-Founded and led Altair Advisers to manage $2.7 billion in client assets; Founded Oak Wealth Advisors in the midst of the 2007-2009 recession to serve families with members with special needs; NAPFA 2023 Excellence in DEI Award winner; ‘Investment News’ inaugural list of Hot 100 wealth professionals redefining success in the industry
OUTSIDE OF WORK
Married for 30+ years to Beverly Walther
We have two children
I enjoy playing, coaching, and watching sports
I have been collecting sports memorabilia since childhood and have amassed one of the largest collections in the country
KNOWLEDGE SHARING
Presented at National Conferences to the following professional organizations: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Financial Planning Association, National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, Academy of Special Needs Planners, Garrett Planning Network
Presented at National Conferences to the following non-profit organizations: National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Down Syndrome Society, Cure Congenital Muscle Disease, Gigi’s Playhouse, Together for Choice
University Presentations and Classroom Lectures: Purdue University, University of Georgia, University of Illinois, University of Wisconsin, San Diego State University, Texas Tech University, Vanderbilt University
Local Charities and Schools: NSSRA, Ups for Downs, Clearbrook, Center for Independent Futures, Chicago Public Schools, New Trier H.S. Glenbrook South H.S., Glenbrook North H.S., Highland Park H.S., NAMI CCNS
PUBLICATIONS & MEDIA
Book: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities co-authored chapter on special needs financial planning
Magazines: Business Week, Investment News, CFA Institute Journal, Financial Planning, Financial Advisor
Newspapers: The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Chicago Sun-Times
Television: CNBC, Chicago ABC News
SPECIAL NEEDS MEMBERSHIP & LEADERSHIP
First IL financial planner admitted into Academy of Special Needs Planners, NAPFA Special Needs MIX Group founder and leader, NAPFA DEI Committee Member, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation Advisory Board member, Former treasurer of the National Association for Down Syndrome and the Northern Suburban Special Recreation Foundation