Approved for a 2-hour course: NC CIE, NC CPE, and NC CLE.  Applied for a 2-hour course for CFP.

Abstract: This session will equip financial professionals with insights into the critical role of fiduciary services in supporting vulnerable populations, particularly older adults and individuals with disabilities. Drawing from the expertise of Guidance Carolina (formerly Corporation of Guardianship), the course will highlight practical applications, case studies, and innovative strategies that highlight how compassionate, responsible fiduciary practices can improve the quality of life for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Speakers:

Dorian Sylvester, Executive Director
Dorian Sylvester joined the Guidance Carolina team in May 2014. As Executive Director, Dorian ensures all operations within the organization are consistent with GC’s values, mission, goals and policies. Dorian received a BA in Political Science and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Gerontology from UNC-Greensboro. Dorian earned her Master of Social Work with a concentration in Aging from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She has more than 25 years’ experience in geriatric mental health and community-based social work practice with older adults. She has also served as an adjunct instructor teaching Elder Law at Guilford Technical Community College and at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro teaching Social Services for the Aging. Prior to GC, Dorian served for 11 years as Long-Term Care Program Manager and Senior Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman at the Piedmont Triad Regional Council Area Agency on Aging. Dorian is active in numerous local, state, and national advocacy organizations. She is a passionate advocate for elder justice and is a champion for the rights of older adults and individuals with disabilities, especially those who are vulnerable or who have been victimized.

Patricia Whitebread, MBA, Associate Director
Patricia Whitebread joined Guidance Carolina in 2023 as a Financial Administrator and now serves as Associate Director. She has over 25 years’ experience leading operations within the Finance Industry. Previously, Patricia served as Executive Vice President of Loan Operations, Triad Financial Services, where she led the reorganization of the Land Home Division to better serve the company’s strategic objectives and oversaw all loan origination functions. She led multiple cross functional projects including implementation of new software and onboarding of new investor relationships. Prior to that, Patricia served as Regional Portfolio Manager for Credit Human Federal Credit Union where she directed loan originations, collections and remarketing efforts and systems to meet company objectives. Patricia holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and an MBA, both from Guilford College. She is currently pursuing an MSF (Master’s in Finance and Investment Management) at UNCW. Patricia and her husband Steven enjoy traveling, NFL football, live music and spending time with family.

Saskia Barnard, Director of Client Services
Saskia Barnard, MS, QP, CMC, officially joined Guidance Carolina (GC) as Trust Care Manager on July 1, 2017, but had previously been working as an Independent Contractor with GC for more than a year. Saskia leads GC’s care management team and serves as the primary point of contact for all GC clients, their families, and legal representatives. Saskia has over 20 years of care management experience focused on specialty areas including Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, mental health diagnoses, aging/elderly populations as well as the Military. She received her BA in Sociology with a Concentration in Health Care and Aging and continued on to receive her Master of Science degree in Gerontology, graduating with Honors. Saskia is currently an active Board Member with The YMCA of Greensboro Metro Board, and is a Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Health Coach.

Gregg Ellis
Gregg Ellis co-founded Ellis Brothers, Inc., in 1993 after receiving degrees from North Carolina State University in Business Management and Economics.  Since then he has been a full service investment advisor to individuals, families, and institutional clients.  To better serve clients Gregg entered into the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst program in 2007 and was awarded his Charter in 2011.