Centers of Excellence
Our eight Centers bridge academics, philanthropy, and industry to build programming around topics and communities, conduct industry-defining research, and connect professionals through virtual and in-person experiences.
Our Centers’ Role
Cultivate Talent
We promote career pathways and enhance knowledge that strengthens the industry’s future.
Develop Programs
We craft applied education that promotes lifelong learning across communities and areas of expertise.
Host Events
We build in-person and virtual gatherings discussing deep, specialized knowledge you’re passionate about.
Conduct Research
We conduct applied research that firms and policymakers use to strengthen financial services.
Meet Our Centers
Building Sustainable Economic Change
Center for Economic Empowerment & Equality
Supporting Military Community Transitions
Center for Military & Veterans Affairs
dvancing Women in the Profession
Center for Women in Financial Services
Focusing on Ethics in the Industry
Center for Ethics in Financial Services
Addressing Complex Caregiving Needs
Center for Special Needs
Strengthening Advisor Service
Center for Financial Security
Fostering Charitable Impact
Center for Philanthropy & Social Impact
Improving Retirement Security
Center for Retirement Income
The Latest From Our Centers
Read the Latest Research
Onboarding Gen Z
How can financial services firms attract and retain Gen Z talent? This study provides a roadmap to strengthen the professional pipeline.
An Epic Retirement Planning Experience
Horizons 2026
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind industry event May 4-6, blending a five-star retreat with programming from top retirement experts.
Advanced Special Needs Planning Symposium
2026 Symposium
Join professionals from across this discipline May 7-8 for insightful and deep conversations on special needs and disability planning.
Our Centers’ Impact
173
Educational scholarships awarded in 2025.1
50
CEEE NextGen Program scholars chosen in 2025.1
1,794
Enrollments in Know Yourself, Grow Your Wealth® consumer financial education program in 2025.1
Discover Our Insights
Podcasts
Retirement Income Bracketology
Eric Ludwig, PhD, CFP®, RICP®, and Zach Morley, RICP®, former Wisconsin Badger and college basketball player, discuss retirement income planning and more in a special edition of Shares.
March 12, 2026
On-Demand Webcasts
An Up-to-Date Look at Exit Planning for Business Owner Clients
Join our expert thought leaders as they discuss exit and succession planning.
March 10, 2026
Press
The College Appoints Alfonso Cobb to Lead CFP® and ChFC® Programs
The College marks a new chapter for its CFP® Certification Education and ChFC® Programs with Alfonso Cobb, EdD, MSPFP, MSAT, MSFA, CPBC®, CFEI®, MPAS®, CSM®, as program director.
March 02, 2026
Insights
How Leaders and Legends Inspire Us All
As we mark Black History Month this year, I’m drawing inspiration from legends, including the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, and focused on helping the next generation of financial leaders.
February 26, 2026
Insights
Announcing: Your 2025 President’s Report
I’m proud of the strides our College community continues to make in promoting applied knowledge, growing specialized expertise, and building stronger connections in financial services.
February 24, 2026
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Support Our Mission
It’s our mission to benefit society — and with your help, we’ll continue to advance the financial services profession, strengthen underrepresented communities, and ensure Americans grow in financial security.
Our Partners in Philanthropy
National Strategic Philanthropic Partners
National Philanthropic Partners
1 The American College of Financial Services. Centers of Excellence Impact Report. 2025.