ROCHESTER, NY

In 1980, Fred began his career in Financial Consulting. Since then, he has held several leadership and management roles within the company. Fred is responsible for hiring and training many of the top-level managers and associates within the company. He is a nationally recognized and awarded leader that has transitioned that success into working with his personal clients.

In 2001, Fred created Cypress Financial Consultants to bring a team of advisors and staff together to better serve their clients. He has been able to build the organization to become a member of the Paramount Planning Group, a division of Equitable Advisors that recognizes the top 5% of all Equitable Advisors financial professionals across the country. He is also a member of the Equitable Advisors Elite Producer Group. Fred specializes in working with small business owners, the self-employed, and professionals. He sincerely enjoys helping solve issues that his clients face when making decisions around investments, insurance, the challenges business owners face, and estate planning strategies. Fred entered the company Hall of Fame in 1991 and is a Golden Life Award Recipient. He was recognized as a National Honor Associate by his peers, which epitomizes the Equitable standard of professional achievement. His work has been published in several industry articles and books. Fred resides in Webster, NY (and parts of Florida in the winter).

He’s the proud father of two sons, Josh and Jake, that share his passion for the New York Mets and NY Giants. You can find Fred at Midvale Country Club (where he is a past President), Naples FL, and many other courses golfing with his friends and enjoying life. A crowning jewel in his illustrious career has been the addition of his son Josh who joined the Cypress Team and is a true partner. In addition, his “nieces” Gabby and Gillian are proud members, creating a true family affair.

SYRACUSE, NY

I grew up on Long Island and attended Syracuse University. After graduation in 2002, I decided to make Upstate New York my home and became an advisor after graduation. I currently live in Manlius with my wife Lauren and Daughter Alyssa. The planning process I adhere to is client-oriented in that the concerns and questions of the clients are what drive the vehicles they choose. It is my job to guide them through the process utilizing the knowledge and resources that I have. Focused attention, service and commitment to my clients has afforded me the ability to operate my practice mainly on a referral basis. This allows me to provide my existing clients the level of service and professional advice they deserve.

Why did I join Cypress? The opportunity for our firm to help more people in Upstate New York and throughout the country through idea sharing, collaboration and teamwork.

California Insurance License #: 4119176

ROCHESTER, NY

Steve graduated from Cortland State University in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Minor in Computer Applications. Steve has been actively working in the business community for 18 years. He started his career consulting for small businesses and start up business owners on their internal operating structures. As his consulting career continued to expand he narrowed his concentration and began to deal more directly with company benefits. In 2000, Steve became an advisor in the Rochester Branch and then Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC upon formation where his primary focus is dealing with closely held corporations and their benefits. Steve’s consultative approach and Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC’s vast network of resources allows him to discover strategies to each unique business situation he encounters. Steve enjoys skiing, golfing, hunting, fishing. Born and raised in Upstate New York, he moved to Rochester in 1999. Together with his wife Amy and their two children Emily and Kyle, Steve resides in Fairport, New York.

I went to college with a strong interest in the financial world. It has always fascinated me how the ability to manage economic affairs could have such a profound effect on a person’s life and future. As I pursued my career, I've had the added benefit of building solid relationships with clients, allowing me the opportunity to be a part of the milestones in their lives.

Why did I join Cypress? I wanted to be part of a team to accomplish my goals. I was lucky to have started my career at the same time that Cypress was being formed and started working on the team from its inception.

SKANEATELES, NY

Originally from Western New York, I graduated from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. I became an advisor shortly after college and have continued with the same firm for over 20 years. Today my family and I reside in Skaneateles, NY. In 2020 I made a move to establish my own office close to home and often walk to work.

As a kid I wanted to be a stock broker “when I grew up”. I later realized how important a well-rounded financial plan is to becoming truly successful. Today I only work with families who want to secure their future by creating a financial plan and aligning appropriate investment and risk management strategies. My clients typically have a net worth of $1M or higher and we manage their entire portfolio.

Why did I join Cypress? Being part of a team is a vital part of a successful financial planning practice. The financial world is complex and working with other successful advisors helps bring the best thinking to help clients with their unique situations.

CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ™ professional are certification marks owned by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. These marks are awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements. Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network.

SYRACUSE, NY

I am originally from the Syracuse area, after spending my first few collegiate years attending Hartwick College in Oneonta NY, I transferred and graduated from Syracuse University in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree and a concentration in Finance. I became an advisor shortly after college and have continued with the same firm for over 14 years. I currently reside in Camillus, NY with my wife Marcey and three children, Maria, Michael, and Anthony. With any free time, I enjoy the outdoors. Hunting and fishing are a few of my favorites, but just being out there is therapeutic.

From my earlier years in college I wanted to be a Financial Advisor. Back then my perception of the career was that I would be working with stocks, bonds and mutual funds. I quickly realized to be successful in this career a more holistic approach must be taken. The focus on one’s investments is important. However, risk management and having a financial plan in place arguably takes presentence.

Why did I join Cypress? Being part of this team allows us all to benefit from idea sharing and tapping into each other’s expertise. This allows me to confidently provide the best service and advice to my clients.

SYRACUSE, NY

As a financial consultant since 2005, I have been able to build a career due to a skill set that is well suited for this profession. Above anything else, a professional must embody an ethos to serve clients and put their needs first. One must listen and be able to discern exactly what a client wants. A good consultant must also be a student of the markets and understand the history of why and how we got to where we are today. Having perspective and being able to communicate that vision is vital in gaining trust. Confidence is required. Being able to lead is imperative.  

This profession provides me with a unique position to build strong bonds with some truly wonderful people. It has become a personal mission of mine to make my clients feel like family. By encouraging an open line of communication, I hope to constantly be on top of each of my client’s ever changing needs. Whether it’s saving for their future or protecting their loved ones, I will be here to help them meet their goals.

Having grown up in Auburn, NY to a family of 2nd generation immigrants, my story is very similar to others in Central New York. Hard work and service were instilled at a young age. Opportunity led me to Silicon Valley for my high school years. Good fortune landed me at a school with a national recognized wrestling team. Having found success in the sport, I wrestled for Syracuse University until the team was cut due to Title IX. I continued wrestling and transferred to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Graduating with a degree in Business Administration, Pittsburgh became my home for 2 years. After spending so much time away from home, I decided to move back to CNY to be closer to family. I haven’t looked back since. Currently I enjoy an active lifestyle and count the following activities as important aspects of my life: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, fishing, carpentry, weightlifting, travel, skiing & snowboarding.

Why did I join Cypress? Joining Cypress Financial Consultants has allowed me to align myself with a group of like-minded and respected professionals focused on building wealth for our clients. Collectively we share ideas and strategies allowing us to stay on top of an ever-changing landscape of investments options. We also collaborate on how to utilize sophisticated financial planning tools designed to better educate our clients on what they could face in the future. Together we are stronger. Leverage our expertise and discover how we can help you too.

CA Insurance License #4265804

SYRACUSE, NY

I have been an advisor since 2003. Providing personalized service to every client is a cornerstone to my business practice and I am dedicated to building focused plans for the specific needs of each client. I strive to help everyone prioritize their financial goals and meet them by teaching the importance of measuring debts, managing budgets and investing sensibly. For the past 18 years, I have built long-lasting relationships that drive me to continue the work I do every day. I became an advisor because I saw that there was a need to teach and guide others through their financial journey.

Why did I join Cypress? I joined Cypress to be part of a team of professionals, each with their own unique set of specialties, that when partnered with my own could provide my clients with a broader base of financial resources.

 OUR PROCESS

SYRACUSE, NY

Born in Birmingham, England, Garry is a Private Wealth Advisor with 40 years of experience, built upon a desire to help others.  With a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into building wealth, he takes pride in developing strategies to help protect and potentially grow the assets of his clients. He finds immense satisfaction in guiding individuals through a comprehensive financial planning process, ensuring that the right balance of investment, risk, tax, and estate planning is in place. His goal has always been to empower his clients to achieve financial independence and a lasting sense of security, allowing them to live their lives with confidence.

Garry is active in both community and industry affairs. He is a Past-President and member of the Board of Directors for the Ronald McDonald House of Central New York and is currently on the Board of Directors for Elmcrest Children's Center, the Taishoff Center Advisory Council, the Business Engagement Group for InclusiveU.  

Garry is also a Past-President and member of the Syracuse chapter of the National Association of Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and the Estate Planning Council of Central New York. In addition, he was the recipient of the NAIFA Syracuse 2012 William J. Crandall Distinguished Service Award given to those individuals that exemplify the highest ideals of our profession. He holds the Certified Life Underwriter (CLU®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®) and Accredited Investment Fiduciary, (AIF®).

Garry currently splits his time between Skaneateles, NY, and Naples, FL, and is partnering with his son, Matthew, to deliver the highest level of service to their clients, continuing a legacy of financial guidance and dedication. 

Best of all, he never loses sight of one essential element- personal service. The true value of your planning is measured by the service you receive AFTER your plan is implemented, thus serving the first, last and always.

SYRACUSE, NY

AUBURN, NY

I joined financial industry in 2012, although I would say I've been a part of this industry for much longer. My Dad has worked in the industry for over 30 years. After graduating college and moving back to upstate NY he convinced me to come join his team of financial professionals in Syracuse. It wasn’t a hard decision as I have always admired the work he has done through the years, helping people to identify their financial goals and protecting their families along the way. I initially started to work quite a bit within the NYS public school system. Here I helped faculty and staff to start their retirement savings while also putting an important focus on protecting their NYS retirement plans through life insurance. I grew my business through referrals from this network of wonderful teachers and staff and am so appreciative for that. As the years have passed, I have begun to branch off into focusing on helping individuals and families. I help them to establish and implement a financial strategies to help them to grow retirement savings, college savings, and investments, all while protecting their children and households through life insurance. It has been a rewarding career thus far. One that has allowed me to also grow my family over the last ten years. I look forward to growing further now that I have joined the Cypress team.

Why did I join Cypress? I decided to join Cypress to better serve my existing and future clients. Although I have learned and gained a lot of knowledge over the past ten years, having a highly respected team who has been working for 20 plus years in the business is very reassuring. My sister and business partner has been a part of this group for (3) years. I have been able to see firsthand how helpful it has been for her to have a team behind her. It gives me the confidence that I will be able to help my clients no matter what their situation or needs may be. I look forward to working with this group and growing my business further to help many more individuals, families, and small businesses address their financial and protection goals.

SYRACUSE, NY

Four consecutive generations of the Hesse family before myself bypassed college and worked as Corrections Officers at Auburn Correctional Facility. The mindset was simple, 'work hard and provide for your family'. However, I had my eyes set on changing the standard that was instilled in my lineage for many years. Growing up in Auburn, NY, I ventured off to attend Siena College in Albany, NY where I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance. In my junior year at Siena, I was given the opportunity to work as an intern with Equitable Advisors in the Albany office. Two years later, I accepted a position with Equitable Advisors as a Financial Advisor. Aside from working, I enjoy a very active lifestyle, which includes skiing, ice hockey, traveling, and weightlifting.

From a young age, I was taught a multitude of qualities that I continue to pertain to this day, but two stand out. First and foremost, to be a reliable person. One who is willing to drop whatever task is at hand to assist others. The latter of the two: the importance of being fiscally responsible. After the completion of my internship at Equitable, I came to the realization that I can embody a career revolving around two characteristics that I am most passionate about.

Why did I join Cypress? One night I approached Michael Leone and asked if he was searching for an intern. Michael appreciated my courage and ability to approach others. In the following months, he gave me the opportunity, which eventually led me to Cypress. As a member of Cypress Financial, I am able to enhance the resources which are at my disposal. The ability to join the team has not only given me the capacity to collaborate with likeminded individuals, it also gives families the ultimate confidence that they will be provided with a well-rounded financial plan for years to come. Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network.

 OUR PROCESS

SYRACUSE, NY

Matthew Payne is a second-generation financial advisor with a background as unique as it is diverse. His journey began as a trained biochemist, evolved into a career as a professional opera singer, and extended into entrepreneurship, all before he became an Investment Fund Specialist. This blend of analytical, creative, and strategic skills has given him a unique perspective on financial advising. Growing up in a household where discussions about 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance, and estate planning were common topics of conversation, he has now returned to his roots by partnering with his father, a four-decade veteran of the industry, to continue a family legacy of financial advising.

He prides himself in delivering robust investment offerings, retirement preparation strategies, and comprehensive wealth planning services. His experiences across various industries and global travels have shaped his philosophy of simplifying financial complexity and providing clear, actionable strategies.

Why did I join Cypress: Matthew is passionate about helping individuals, businesses, families, and retirees build wealth, plan for retirement, and organize their estates, he believes that anticipating clients' needs and delivering consistent, professional service is key to creating lasting value. With his father and Cypress Financial Consultants LLC, Matthew delivers a seamless financial planning experience.

AUBURN, NY

I began my financial planning practice in 2012 after graduating from West Virginia University where I received a bachelor’s degree in finance. I first started my career working with K-12 school district employees in the RBG division of Equitable where we help families with retirement and insurance planning. From there I learned that families were unaware of how their investments and insurance policies were connected within their overall financial picture.

This insight gave my enthusiasm to become a creditable resource for my clients. I hold one of the most coveted industry designations with the Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®). My business consists of reviewing and implementing strategies to help individuals, families, and business to both grow and protect their financial futures.

On a personal note, I was born and raised in Auburn, NY which is where I reside today with my wife Stephanie, our sons Benji and Noah and our golden retriever, Champ. In 2015 Gillian DiMora and I created an office in Downtown Auburn.

Why did I join Cypress?  It is important for me to make a difference in individuals’ lives, which is why after being presented the opportunity of joining the Cypress group, I knew this would be a great opportunity to continue to learn from established advisors and work with them. This will help me better serve my clients and expand my practice to others. My practice will be enriched by running different ideas and thoughts by other professionals on our team.

I want to thank all my current clients for trusting me with their financial futures. I am motivated and excited to meet new individuals and families to help with your financial decisions if granted the opportunity.

SYRACUSE, NY

I was born and raised in Auburn, NY, and have been a part of upstate New York my entire life. Following high school, I went on to study Finance and Economics at SUNY Oswego. In 2015, my senior year, I was given the opportunity to intern with Equitable Advisors. Following my internship, I joined the firm full time and began to build my business. I currently reside in Camillus, NY. I enjoy spending my free time with family & friends on Owasco lake or the golf course.

My first job as a young boy was working at a country club. There I had exposure to many successful individuals whom I always wondered what they did or how they became so successful? Turns out, a handful of them worked in financial services. I began to learn more about the career and decided the concept of helping people in my community make smart decisions regarding their finances appealed to me. It is a great feeling at the end of your day or week knowing you are making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Why you joined Cypress? Aligning myself with other professionals who hold themselves to a higher standard was always a goal of mine. By joining a group of experienced advisors, I was able to grow my knowledge and provide a higher level of service to those who work with us through collaboration and teamwork.

ROCHESTER, NY

I graduated from the University of Tampa in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. I played lacrosse at Tampa, which allowed me to continue to be competitive after my high school career. I played lacrosse and football in high school, I also enjoy fishing, golfing, and skiing. I decided to move back to my hometown in Rochester, NY for the opportunity to work with Stephen Ashe. I am fortunate to be given the opportunity to begin my career under such great leadership and mentorship.

I became an financial professional to help individuals, families, and businesses prepare for the future to identify their financial goals. I truly enjoy building strong relationships with individuals which allows me to be a part of their future and help build a financial roadmap with personal customized strategies. The ability to have such an impact on people’s future and always being a resource for them allow me to thoroughly enjoy the services I provide.

Why did I join Cypress? Joining Cypress allows me to have the opportunity to better serve my current and future clients with the experience and expertise behind the Cypress team. I am excited and humbled for the opportunity to provide my clients with the resources of such well-respected professionals of the Cypress team.

SYRACUSE, NY

Joseph A. DiMora, CLU, is a graduate of the State University College at Oswego. In 1984 after several years with a lobbyist firm at the State Capital in Albany, Joe decided to relocate back to CNY and began his career as a Financial Professional. In his first two years, Joe produced at the Million Dollar Round Table Level. Joe entered the management training program in 1986 and in 1988 was promoted to District Manager/VP. The District went on to receive the District Leadership Award six times. In 1993 and 1994, Joe’s district was the #1 team in the country, setting new company records. In 1995, Joe was appointed Executive Vice President to the Syracuse branch office managing approximately 70 advisors throughout the Syracuse, Utica, and NY Southern Tier. His role is focused on growth initiatives related to recruiting, development, retention, and the productivity of the new and experienced financial professionals. Now with 36 years of financial, estate, and insurance planning experience, Joe continues to manage a successful financial services practice.

ROCHESTER, NY

Stefan Grew up in Brockport and Graduated with a BA in Education from SUNY Brockport in 2013. Stefan Started his practice with Equitable in 2015. He currently Resides in Penfield with his wife Ellie, son Sidney and mini Goldendoodle Sandy. While not in the office, Stefan is an avid outdoorsman. You can find Stefan hiking the Adirondacks, fishing in the finger lakes or volunteering his time to the community through his local church.

Having an education background, I always wanted to help people. I find this career helps me fulfill my passion of giving back and educating. Over my tenure, I have found the most enjoyment seeing client accomplish goals they may never though were obtainable.

Why did I join Cypress? Joining Cypress allows me to have the opportunity to better serve my current and future clients with the experience and expertise behind the Cypress team. I am excited and humbled for the opportunity to provide my clients with the resources of such well-respected professionals of the Cypress team.

ROCHESTER, NY

My name is Michaela Covert — up until September 2024, it was Michaela Cramer. Something people are often surprised to learn about me is that I was named after my dad, Michael. He’s pretty convinced he originated this spelling of my name, which most people know as “Mikayla”. I’ve always thought it was special to share almost the same name as my father even if it did lead to plenty of mispronunciations growing up. I grew up in the Rochester area and graduated from Niagara University, but I eventually found my way back to my roots. Although I’d love to spend more time in warmer climates someday, Rochester will always be home base for me. When I’m not meeting with clients or developing new relationships, my behind‑the‑scenes identity comes out I’m drawn to hosting and event planning. It started with planning my own wedding and bringing my vision to life, then evolved into hosting my first Friendsgiving for twenty‑two of my closest friends, and now includes a quarterly themed book club with a few ladies from the office. I genuinely love curating spaces and events that feel unforgettable. Above all, whether I’m guiding clients or designing memorable events, my goal is always the same: to create meaningful experiences built on trust and connection.

I started with Equitable in 2020. Prior to becoming an advisor, my career has always been centered around client and customer facing roles, talking to people has always been a passion of mine. As kids growing up, everyone gets asked the question at least once of, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” my answer changed often but never once was it “a Financial Advisor”. Looking back on my career experiences now though, I realize this is exactly where I’m meant to be. I take pride in building and fostering relationships with my clients and helping them plan for their future, whatever that future may look like to them. At the end of the day, I truly believe that trust in both business and personal relationships is what matters most.

Why did I join Cypress? After spending five amazing years with Equitable, I reached a point in my career where I was ready to grow in new ways. Even though I’m not someone who naturally gravitates toward change, I strongly believe that staying in one place for too long can stall your development—and that was the last thing I wanted to allow.

Joining Cypress offered me the chance to be part of something bigger. The opportunity to work alongside incredibly successful professionals, each with years of deep expertise, meant I’d be surrounded by people who could challenge me, inspire me, and help elevate my skill set. I was genuinely eager for that.

I’ve always found motivation in the quote: “If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room.” – Confucius

To me, growth requires challenge. Cypress represented that next level—a place where I could continue learning, expanding, and becoming better at what I do.

ROCHESTER, NY

I was born and raised in Rochester, New York. I am proud to serve the community that helped shape who I am today. I earned my degree in Finance from St. John Fisher University. My education, combined with real-world experience, allows me to guide individuals and families through important financial decisions with confidence and clarity. My goal is to build lasting relationships grounded in trust, transparency, and consistent communication.

I decided to pursue this career so I can help people gain clarity and confidence in one of the most important areas of their lives, their finances. I’ve always been drawn to problem-solving and building long-lasting relationships. This career allows me to do both while making a powerful impact. Seeing how proper guidance can reduce stress, create opportunities and help both individuals and families reach their goals is incredibly rewarding.

Family plays a central role in my life and influences the way I approach my work. My wife and our two daughters are my greatest motivation. I also come from a large, close-knit family, and I enjoy socializing, dining, and playing cards together whenever we can. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of planning for the future and protecting what matters most. I am grateful for the opportunity to help others work toward financial confidence and peace of mind.

Why did I join Cypress?  I decided to join Cypress so I can collaborate with like-minded skilled professionals who are committed to delivering better outcomes for clients. Being part of a group gives me the opportunity to exchange ideas, refine strategies, and learn from their experiences.

ROCHESTER, NY

Executive Assistant to Steve Ashe

Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. Kristine Long offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

SYRACUSE, NY

Executive Assistant to Alex Henn, Andrew Hagen, and Mike Fasulo

Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. Mary Brown offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

SYRACUSE, NY

Executive Assistant to Alex Henn, Andrew Hagen, and Mike Fasulo

Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. Mary Brown offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

SYRACUSE, NY

Executive Assistant to Garry and Matthew Payne

Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. Mary Brown offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

SYRACUSE, NY

Registered Assistant to Mike Leone and Vinnie Beals

Cypress Financial Consultants, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. Mary Brown offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.