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Our Staff

Passion is a characteristic all our staff shares.  Each one of our staff are specifically trained for the functions they provide. Our staff includes graduates of some of the best schools and programs in the nation. We are happy to provide to our clients a staff comprised of, MBA's, CSOP's, CRSP's,  and attorneys. Local professionals with a passion for what we do. Your team, of local experts are ready to assist all your needs.

     
       
             
             
 
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Craig A. Kuhlman
President & CEO


Craig joined Reliance in February 2006 as President & CEO. He brings with him over twenty years of experience, with significant trust expertise and management skills. Craig holds a Master of Business Administration degree with emphasis in Finance and Marketing from the University of Findlay, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology from Ambassador University in Pasadena, California, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Finance from University of Findlay. He has several professional certifications: Certified Retirement Services Professional, Graduate of Retirement Plan Services School, and Cannon Trust School - from Cannon Financial Institute, N.A.S.D. Series 7 License, Advance Personal Trust Sales and Relationship Management and several courses in retirement and estate planning from the University of California in Los Angeles.

"I am absolutely delighted to join the Reliance Financial Services team. My passion for the past twenty years aligns with our mission of growing and preserving your wealth. I look forward to working with our team to continue building your relationship with us."


 

 

David A. Bell, Certified Retirement Services Professional
Executive Vice President


Since 1989 David has been working in the banking industry. For over the past decad
e he has concentrated his efforts on corporate trust principally defined contribution retirement plans. When asked why he was drawn toward Reliance he noted, "I really wanted to get back to an organization that operated under local autonomy. I wanted to be able to make promises and deliver on those promises."

After receiving a Bachelors of Business Administration degree in finance from Bowling Green State University, he attended the University of Toledo to obtain his Masters of Business Administration majoring in Finance. Since this time he has attended numerous training sessions and achieved his CRSP designation from Cannon Financial Institute.

From Plan design to employee communications, David is well versed in all aspects of establishing and maintaining today’s most popular retirement plans. He enjoys all opportunities for communicating the merits of leveraging plan benefits.


 

 

Jay Hanson, Certified Retirement Services Professional
Senior Vice President


Jay has been servicing Retirement Plan clients as well as Personal Trust clients with Reliance since 1995. He began his career at Reliance as the Investment Coordinator, he was responsible for investment analysis, portfolio design and implementation. As a Senior Vice President, Jay is dedicated to attaining his clients' financial goals through both Retirement Plans and Personal Trust services.

Jay brings to Reliance a strong educational background. He received his Bachelors degree in Business Administration at The University of Toledo and his Masters of Business Administration at Ball State University focusing on Corporate Entrepreneurship. He has also earned the designation of a Certified Retirement Services Professional (CRSP). He looks forward to continuing his education in the financial services industry through seminars and additional professional designations.

"I enjoy taking my clients through the basic financial planning of looking at where they are today compared to where they want to be in the future. Together we come up with a plan that will accomplish their goals. I take great pride in knowing our clients place their trust in us and in turn we strive to provide excellent customer service with the highest of integrity."


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Dale Grocki
Vice President


Dale brings a wealth of experience to Reliance.  Admitted to the Ohio bar in November, 1991, he has over 12 years experience in the areas of trust, estate and tax planning.  In March 2001, Dale left his legal practice and accepted a position with National City Bank as a Trust Administrator.  He now works at the position of Senior Trust Administrator with Reliance. 

Originally from Toledo, Dale and his wife Verna moved to Bryan, Ohio, in September, 1994.  “We like northwest Ohio, and Bryan in particular.  We live in the historic district in a historic home, which we love.  Bryan and Defiance are great communities to live and work in.” 

“Trust administration truly is interesting.  It involves a cutting edge merger of law and investment practices.  It not only requires technical expertise, but a considerable exercise of discretion in applying that knowledge to the situations of individual beneficiaries, which are invariably unique.  It’s the type of job where you can truly feel as though you have made a difference.”

 

 

Liz Zartman, Certified Securities Operations Professional
Vice President


Liz joined Reliance in December of 1998, with over twenty-four years experience in Trust Operations and trust accounting systems. Liz currently holds the position of Trust Operations Manager.

Liz completed coursework in Accounting at Indiana University and she has attended numerous seminars and workshops specific to Supervision and Trust Operations. She holds certification as a Securities Operations Professional from the Institute of Certified Bankers.

"I really enjoy working with a team that is so focused on providing the very best service for our clients."

 

Tracy Baughman
Vice President



Born and raised in Defiance, Tracy earned his Bachelors of Business Administration at Eastern Michigan University in 1997 with an emphasis in Finance. After graduating, he began working for Rurban Financial Corp. as a Management Trainee. After going through the 18-month program and learning about nearly every facet of company, Tracy joined Reliance as Investment Coordinator. He is now the Senior Investment Administrator. Tracy also earned a Masters of Business and Organizational Leadership degree from The Defiance College in 2004.

His hobbies include, working on computers and renovating houses. Tracy is also the Treasurer of Defiance/Paulding County CrimeStoppers, and a BIG brother for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

"I enjoy working with people to make sure their investments are matched with their long-term goals."

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Gwen Anderson
Assistant Vice President


Gwen has been part of the Reliance Financial Services team since 1990. She has been a very valuable part of our company serving in variety capacities over the years. Currently she serves as the Network Systems Manager and Corporate Secretary. Gwen earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Business Education from Wittenberg University.

“I have really enjoyed the challenge of learning new technology and putting that knowledge to work for our clients.”

 
 

 
Laura Kline
Senior Trust Administration
 

Laura joined Reliance in June 2006 as a Senior Trust Administrator. For over seven years, she has excelled in serving the clients of our holding company, Rurban Financial Corp. She is eager to apply her skills to service RFS clients needs. Laura has attended Cannon Trust Schools.

Laura is a native to Northwest Ohio, a Defiance College graduate and currently resides in Bryan with her husband and two sons.

"I am proud to be working for a company that excels in offering exceptional customer service.  Assisting you in meeting your financial goals is what we do best."
 

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Karen McCarthy
Personal Trust Assistant



We consider ourselves fortunate since Karen joined our company in 1996.  Since then, she’s been helping our clients by taking care of their ongoing needs.  Whether you’re making a simple inquiry or have a specific account related issue, you will appreciate Karen’s professional attitude and genuine concern. 

“Personal Trust is never the same from day to day.  Each person and situation is unique.  I enjoy the variety of clients and celebrating with them as they meet their personal goals.”

Karen earned her BS from Northwest Technical College in 1983 majoring in Executive Secretarial.  In addition, Karen attended Midwest Trust School in 1998 and 1999 earning her certification in both Fiduciary Principles and Personal Trust I.  Karen continues to attend various seminars and workshops to stay current with the changing financial landscape. She is a graduate of Cannon Trust Schools.


 
Teri Westrick
Trust Operations Assistant



Teri joined the Reliance Investment Department in 1996, initially working with portfolio design, trading, and investment performance data.  In 2001 she joined the Trust Operations Team, and has played an integral part in providing clients with the Trust Operations services they need.

She has more than 20 years of business experience prior to her employment with Reliance. Teri continues with a course of study, workshops, and seminars that will enhance her focus on investments, and operational services.

“We are a very team oriented department in Operations. It allows us flexibility, and a greater understanding of the overall needs of our clients, as we strive to achieve Customer Service Excellence.”


 
Melissa Moninger
Employee Benefit Assistant



Melissa joined Reliance in December 2000. She comes to us with an extensive background in customer service. She takes great pride in her work and strives for excellence. She is committed to serving our clients. Melissa attends seminars and various training workshops to continue her knowledge in the financial industry.

She initially worked with investment data and the investment products we employ. Melissa expressed a strong desire to understand the Employee Benefits/IRA side of the business and enjoys providing first class service to our clients and their inquiries. Our clients depend on her quick responses.

"As a team, we take pride in providing first class customer service. You'll never hesitate to call Reliance for assistance." She is committed to serving you.
 

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Jeannie Fisher
Administrative Secretary



Joining Reliance in January of 2006, Jeannie has over 9 years of experience meeting customer's expectations. She is very attentive to customer service and committed to solving problems.

Jeannie is a graduate of The Defiance College with a Bachelor in Human Resources Management and Social Sciences. She continues to advance her education by attending seminars and various training workshops.

 

 
Dustin Jennings
Investment Assistant


Dustin joined Reliance in September 2005 and has been in the financial services industry for the past three years. He began his career as a Customer Service Representative on a military post in Mannheim, Germany.

"The lessons learned and friendships made since I entered the financial services industry have paid me untold dividends. Teaching our military men and women about basic finances and helping them achieve their financial goals was a humbling and rewarding experience. Those experiences have encouraged me to apply the same enthusiasm and hard work I witnessed the soldiers do in their jobs to the work I do for each client of Reliance Financial Services."

Dustin's educational endeavors have earned him a Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree from Bowling Green State University and he is currently working toward a Master of Business and Organizational Leadership degree from The Defiance College.

 

 
Diane Norden
Trust Operations Assistant Manager
 

Diane joined Reliance Financial Services in December 2005. She became exposed to the securities industry in 1995 by working as a registered representative assisting clients with insurance and investment needs. Diane has previously worked in the brokerage service operations and compliance areas. She is currently licensed with NASD Series 7 and 24. Diane comes to us with an extensive background in customer service.

Diane attended Northwest State Community College and she attends various training workshops and seminars to expand her knowledge in operational service for the financial industry.

 
 
Bonnie Bost
Branch Operations Manager
 

Bonnie joined Reliance in November of 2005, brining with her many years of experience in customer service, management and accounting. She is an alumni of Defiance College with an associated Degree in Business Management. She currently holds the position of Branch Operations Manager with our Brokerage Office.

She and her husband, She reside in Napoleon. They stay very active with their six children and 11 grandchildren and enjoy traveling.

"I find the financial services industry very interesting as well as challenging. I truly enjoy assisting clients with their financial needs."
 

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401 Clinton St.  •  P.O. Box 467  •  Defiance, Ohio 43512  •  1-419-783-8007 •  1-800-273-5820

 

 

 

 

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