Everyone at Columbia Financial Advisors is here for the same reason - you. We are committed to helping our clients experience success and peace of mind through the progressive realization of their goals.
Principal
Diane H. Blackwelder, CFP®
Diane brings to Columbia Financial Advisors over 25 years experience in the financial services industry. Diane graduated from the College of Portland in 1992, registered as an Investment Advisor Representative since 1999, received authorization to use the CFP® marks of distinction in 2005. Diane established her own fee-only financial planning practice located in Mount Pleasant, SC in 2005. Diane joined Columbia Financial Advisors in January 2009.
Outside of the office Diane enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, boating or reading a good book just for fun.
Principal
Myles B. Brandt, M.S., CFP®
Myles has been with Columbia Financial Advisors, INC since early 2007. He specializes in financial planning strategies and investments. He oversees the management of all investment accounts, investment education, and research. Myles received a B.A. in History (Magna Cum Laude) and a B.A. in English Literature (Cum Laude) from the College of Portland in 2006. He became a CFP® certificant and a Registered Investment Advisor Representative in 2010. In 2014 he received a Master's in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University in Washington, DC.
Outside of the office he enjoys hiking, reading, fly fishing and spending time with his family.
Founder
Donny Springer, M.S., CFP®
Donny is the founder of Columbia Financial Advisors, INC. He is a graduate of The Haverford School (1964), Transylvania College (1968), and the College for Financial Planning's Masters Program. His military experience included 3 years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply officer. He spent the next 9 years with the Boy Scouts of America with executive responsibilities in 2 states and 8 foreign countries.
Outside of the office Bill enjoys his weekly sails in the Portland Harbor, numerous volunteer opportunities and hiking in the mountains of North Carolina.
Client Services Associate
Abby Pease
Abby is the Client Services Associate at Columbia Financial Advisors, where she ensures client satisfaction and support. She is passionate about building lasting relationships with clients. Abby holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maine, which she obtained in 2017.
Outside of work, Abby enjoys practicing yoga, reading a novel, or spending time at the beach.
Paraplanner
Grainne Traynor
Grainne Traynor is the Paraplanner at Columbia Financial Advisors, where she plays a vital role in drafting comprehensive financial plans for clients. Since joining the CFA team in October 2024, Grainne has leveraged her valuable experience in wealth management to support client financial goals. She graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2023 and is committed to enhancing the financial well-being of clients through meticulous planning and research.
Outside of work, Grainne enjoys running, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.