Katie Bruno, CFP, CDFA

09/29/2025

The FAFSA for the 2026–27 academic year is officially open!

The U.S. Department of Education launched the form early this year on September 25, 2025, ahead of the usual October 1 release date. Completing the FAFSA is the first step to accessing federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, but it’s important to know that colleges and universities also use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for their own institutional scholarships and aid. In other words, it’s not just a government aid tool — it’s the key to being considered for the full range of available resources.

The 2026–27 FAFSA applies to college and career school attendance from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, and can be completed at studentaid.gov

Filing early is critical, as many states and schools award funds on a first-come, first-served basis.

07/18/2025

Paying for college can feel overwhelming—but good information makes all the difference.

The Omaha Public Library is hosting a free event to help you understand your options:

Financing Your Education (Link here: https://omaha.bibliocommons.com/events/6855cb78f60a5c0141b496a)

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 | 6:00–7:00 PM

Benson Branch Library

Led by a member of the Creighton TRIO team, this session will cover financial aid basics, including grants, loans, and scholarships. A 30-minute Q&A will follow the presentation.

This is a great opportunity for students, parents, and adult learners to get clear, practical guidance on how to fund education — Open to all adults. No registration required.

Sharing this as a financial planner who believes in the power of accessible, trustworthy financial education.

05/29/2025

🎓 Happy 5/29 Day! 🎓
Today’s a perfect reminder to think about future college costs—and how a 529 plan can help.

Whether you’re saving for your kids, grandkids, or even thinking about going back to school yourself, a 529 plan offers:

👉 Tax-free growth
👉 Tax-free withdrawals for education
👉 Flexibility for all kinds of schooling—college, trade school, even K-12 tuition

Plus, recent changes even allow unused funds to roll into a Roth IRA in some cases.

If college savings has been on your to-do list, consider this your nudge. It’s never too early—or too late—to start planning ahead.

💬 Reach out if you want to learn more or chat about how it might fit into your plan.

07/19/2024

Thank you to CREW Omaha for the invitation to speak on your panel about balancing personal finances while building a career in real estate. It was an honor to be alongside Dr. Ed Horowitz. CREW Omaha is leading an outstanding summer coffee series with opportunities to hear from experts in many fields and gain valuable insights. Check out future events here: https://www.raymondjamesconnect.com/afiSiO

05/29/2024

Today is 529 Day—May 29!

Every parent & grandparent should know about the tax advantages of this education planning option. National 529 College Savings Day is a great time to review your college savings goals and the benefits of investing in a 529 account. Read more here: https://www.raymondjamesconnect.com/asDuZs

01/30/2024

I had an excellent time this last Friday moderating a panel for the FPA of Nebraska for college students majoring in financial planning and other next-gen financial professionals. Together, Nick Shannon, Barbara Rizvi, and Chris Tooker reviewed various career paths, job responsibilities, and compensation.

You can learn more about the FPA of Nebraska and our future meetings here! https://www.raymondjamesconnect.com/aC_Whv

01/15/2024

Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Our office and the markets are closed Monday, January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

01/06/2024

The FPA of NE is hosting their 1st CE day of 2024 on Jan 26! I'm looking forward to moderating a panel discussion for next-gen advisors.
The session will cover entry-level planning positions, including job responsibilities, compensation and career paths.

If you are a current student and you would like to attend, please reach out. I'd love to get you a ticket to join us for these high quality and timely educational programs! https://www.raymondjamesconnect.com/aqE8NH

01/01/2024

What are your intentions for your money in 2024?

Start investing?
Max out your retirement contributions?
Start a business?
Pay off debt?
Plan for kids?

Smart planning at the beginning of the year can help you stay organized and prepared.

Reach out if you'd like to discuss what strategies could benefit your overall financial goals in 2024.

calendly.com

11/02/2023

Hearing from some of the best thought leaders in the industry today with Pauline Quinn at the forum in Nashville. So many great insights and ideas that we can use to help elevate our client experience and navigate the current market volatility. Thank you, First Trust!