I grew up in Hyde Park, went to St Sebastian’s, and earned a BS and MBA from Northeastern. I was fortunate to play hockey and captain the team in my senior season, but we did not win a Beanpot!
I joined the Boston Police as a Cadet and spent about five years with the department. The next question that usually gets asked is, “why did you leave?” Honestly, it was one of the most difficult decisions I made up to that point in my life. I caught the finance “bug” my senior year at NU. However, I still had the desire to be a “cop”- it’s what I knew and grew up around. About a year after graduating from the academy and with my interest in finance growing, I decided to get my MBA. A few years later, after earning my MBA, I had the opportunity to join an investment firm.
I wrestled with the decision for a long time and consulted with family and friends. Some suggested trying to do both police and finance. However, I had too much respect for the profession, the department, and my partner not to be wholly committed to being a police officer. I did not think it would be fair to my partner or fellow police officers if I were not "all in.” Moreover, it could be potentially dangerous to myself and those around me if I was not 100% "there” during my shift.
It’s been over 20 years since I made the transition, and the next question that usually gets asked is, “Do you miss the job?” About a year after I made the move into finance, 9/11 happened. While both the finance and 1st responder communities were directly impacted, I remember watching the NYPD and NYFD do what they do best and “answer the call.” Heroism in action-an unwavering commitment to help.
In April of 2013, the Boston Marathon bombing happened. I had family, close friends, and former co-workers working there that day. Again, the response from the BPD, EMS, and medical personnel was heroism in action
I know I did not become a police officer to one day get the chance to be “a hero.” I put on that uniform, like so many continue to do today, to help make a difference in somebody’s life.
From a financial perspective, that is my goal with BLF-to answer the “call” and be of service. I welcome the opportunity to make a difference in the financial lives of 1st responders and their families.
Some days, I miss “the job,” but every day, I miss the camaraderie and the collective desire to help. Today, I am grateful to be in a position where I can provide financial guidance to people I consider friends.
I love Paul Harvey’s "Tribute to a Police Officer," it is well worth the three minute listen and rings so true in today’s environment.