Our Team

Tamara S. Kukainis is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, and has been presiding over Schwartz Financial Associates since 1997. In September 2023, Schwartz Financial Associates joined forces with Firstrust Financial Resources, in alliance with Equitable Advisors. She began her career in the financial planning industry in 1987 and has since expanded the practice to include full-service brokerage accounts, an enlarged in-house client support staff, professional portfolio management and custom-designed employer-sponsored retirement and insurance plans. Mrs. Kukainis holds a BA in Economics from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. Her professional background includes corporate banking and cash management.

Daniel Kukainis is a Managing Partner and Financial Advisor at Schwartz Financial Associates of Firstrust Financial Resources. In September 2023, Schwartz Financial Associates joined forces with Firstrust Financial Resources, in alliance with Equitable Advisors. Prior to joining the firm, Daniel successfully completed AT&T’s leadership training program and managed a number of retail company stores. He subsequently gained experience as a Financial Services Representative for TD Bank. Daniel holds a BA in Economics and History from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. His primary duties include working with next generation Schwartz Financial clients, creating and implementing marketing and social media outreach, and providing ongoing Financial Planning Services. Daniel’s number one goal is to provide superior customer service to all of our clients.

Barbara Pettit is the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional at Schwartz Financial Associates of Firstrust Financial Resources, in alliance with Equitable Advisors. Prior to joining Schwartz Financial Barbara worked at TIAA and Vanguard. Barbara holds a B.S in Finance from Drexel University.

Jenna Frisby is our Director of Client Services whose duties include appointment scheduling, general office support and client assistance, as well as special projects as required.

Shari Plevinsky is our Director of Operations and cheerfully handles all customer service requests. Shari also is responsible for Compliance Administration, Bookkeeping and Operational Support. Shari brings many years of valuable experience to our firm.