Celebrating Five Years of Investing in Future Advisors: Schwab's RIATA Scholarship Program Recognizes 15 Promising Students in 2025
Today, Schwab Advisor Services, in partnership with Charles Schwab Foundation, announced the 15 recipients of its 2025 Registered Investment Advisor Talent Advantage (RIATA) Student Scholarship. In its fifth year, the initiative is committed to broadening pathways into the advisory profession by alleviating financial roadblocks and equipping emerging leaders with meaningful, high-impact learning experiences.
Following an expansion of the RIATA Student Scholarship program this year, each recipient will be awarded $15,000 to help cover enrollment for the 2025–2026 academic year. In addition, the program will match students with independent RIA leaders for one-on-one mentorship, providing personal guidance and real-world exposure to the profession.
"Each year, we're inspired by the drive, passion, and tenacity of the students who apply—and this year's recipients truly stand out," said Jon Beatty, Managing Director, Head of Schwab Advisor Services. "Their passion and potential are exactly what the future of this industry needs, and we're proud to be part of their journey as they take their first steps toward a career in the financial services industry."
This year, more than 600 students from over 60 universities across the country applied. Scholarship applications were reviewed by firm leaders from Schwab Advisor Services' RIA Talent Advantage Advocacy Board. These professionals are committed to cultivating strong workplace cultures, attracting a broad range of talent, and supporting the next generation of advisory professionals in their firms and communities.
The recipients of the 2025 RIATA Student Scholarship are:
- Adam Campbell, Howard University, Junior
- Ashley Ponto, Temple University, Senior
- Brea Eckes, The University of Alabama, Junior
- Brock Neiderer, Brigham Young University – Idaho, Senior
- Emilio Gonzalez III, The University of Texas – Austin, Senior
- Grant Harkness, Western Michigan University, Junior
- Ian Mueller, University of Missouri-Columbia, Junior
- Isabelle Peacock, The Ohio State University, Junior
- Jack Edlin, Grand Canyon University, Senior
- Jenna Smith, Utah Valley University, Junior
- Jeremy Vanderhoff, Pennsylvania State University, Senior
- Jinnelle Brewster, Florida A&M University, Senior
- Keira Vu, St. Mary's College of California, Sophomore
- Mason Dexter, The University of Akron, Senior
- Tatum Seibert, Indiana University, Junior
According to the recently released 2025 RIA Benchmarking Study, 74% of firms plan to hire in 2025, signaling continued growth across the independent advisory space. Notably, more than a third of firms recruited top talent from colleges and universities, underscoring the importance of connecting with early-career talent.
"As the RIA industry evolves—driven by growth, client needs, and emerging technologies like AI—fresh thinking has never been more essential," said Lisa Salvi, Head of Business Consulting & Education, Advisor Services. "We're proud to support the students stepping up to meet that moment. Their curiosity, adaptability, and ambition will help shape a profession ready for what's next."
Through programs like the RIATA Student Scholarship and other long-standing initiatives, Schwab is committed to supporting, educating, and mentoring the next generation of advisors. This year, 80 students will take part in the Student Program at Schwab's 2025 IMPACT Conference in Denver, where they'll connect with industry professionals, engage with peers, and gain hands-on experience through tailored programming and speaker sessions.
To learn more about the scholarship recipients or how to apply for next year's scholarship, visit: RIA Talent Advantage Student Scholarship.
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Disclosures
The above-mentioned firms and their employees are not affiliated with or employees of Schwab unless otherwise noted. Mention should not be construed as a recommendation, endorsement of, or sponsorship by Schwab. The views expressed are those of the third party and are provided for information purposes only.
Schwab Advisor Services™ provides custody, trading, and the support services of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"), member SIPC, to independent investment advisors and Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc. ("CSIM"). Independent investment advisors are not owned by, affiliated with, or supervised by Schwab.
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Kristin Meza
Charles Schwab
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Liz Shaw
The Neibart Group (TNG)
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