Our Team
Meet Our Team
Discover the heart of Special Journey Solutions: our exceptional team. Each member brings a unique blend of expertise and dedication. Together, they form a mosaic of talent committed to guiding you with wisdom, care, and unparalleled professionalism.
BRUCE H. SHAM, CLF
Advanced Special Care Planner
Bruce H. Sham, with over 40 years in financial services, specializes in assisting families with children with special needs. His commitment shines through in his advocacy and support for accessing crucial resources and government benefits. Winning awards like the Advocacy Award from Montgomery County MHMR and the Ricky Godorov Key Day Award, Bruce’s contributions have profoundly impacted countless individuals with disabilities. His Amanda Sham Resource Center leadership highlights his dedication to making a difference in the community.
DUSTIN JACQUETTE
Financial Services Professional
Dustin Jacquette, a Smeal College of Business graduate, brings a rich blend of customer service, finance, and operations skills from his time at Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Since joining Special Journey Solutions in 2017, his approach has centered on understanding and meeting client needs with exceptional service. His community involvement, particularly with the United Way Foundation, reflects his commitment to making a positive impact, professionally and personally.
MALLORY JACQUETTE
Business Development and Marketing Coordinator
Mallory Jacquette, joining in March 2021, has rapidly become a pivotal force in business development and marketing. With a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies and a diverse office management and marketing background, she excels in enhancing client relationships and driving business growth. Her multifaceted role is instrumental in steering the team toward peak productivity and ensuring a seamless client service experience.
CHRISTOPHER OTTEN
Director of Investments
Christopher Otten, a financial planner and investment specialist, began his journey in entrepreneurship at a young age, leading to a profound understanding of wealth building and financial security. A Villanova University alumnus and former athlete, Christopher applies his experience to help clients secure and grow their assets. His involvement in nonprofit boards, including The Wardrobe, and his CLTC designation testify to his dedication to client-focused, ethical financial planning.
Susan Walter, MBA, ChSNC
Financial Services Professional
Susan joined Special Journey Solutions after moving to Philadelphia from the Midwest. She brings a wealth of experience to disability consulting and comprehensive planning, drawing on a combination of personal and professional expertise.
After her son was diagnosed with a medical condition that causes seizures, she learned firsthand about disability planning and the niche needs of education, government benefits, special needs trusts, and holistic estate planning. Her professional history includes work in corporate, not-for-profit, and higher education instruction. She worked with the Epilepsy Foundation of Chicago in their community action boards and volunteers with the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania as an advocate. She is writing a book and publishing stories about her experiences navigating the systems and bureaucracies that support individuals and families with disabilities.
After her son was diagnosed with a medical condition that causes seizures, she learned firsthand about disability planning and the niche needs of education, government benefits, special needs trusts, and holistic estate planning. Her professional history includes work in corporate, not-for-profit, and higher education instruction. She worked with the Epilepsy Foundation of Chicago in their community action boards and volunteers with the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania as an advocate. She is writing a book and publishing stories about her experiences navigating the systems and bureaucracies that support individuals and families with disabilities.
CHRISTINE TOPPING
Financial Services Professional
Christine Topping, with a finance degree from Stockton University, is driven by her entrepreneurial spirit to empower clients to make informed financial decisions. Her work centers on helping individuals and businesses manage finances and plan for the future. A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, Christine’s leadership roles in organizations like the Women’s Resource Center demonstrate her commitment to fostering positive change and gender equality in the financial industry.
Danielle Bloom, CPA*
Director of Relationship Development
Danielle is a licensed CPA with over 13 years of experience in tax and financial compliance. She spent seven years at KPMG, specializing in tax information reporting and withholding, followed by six years in corporate tax roles at BNY Mellon and JPMorgan Chase. Danielle transitioned into personal financial planning after meeting her husband, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years in the insurance industry. Together, they combined their expertise to help individuals and families navigate financial decisions with clarity and purpose.
*Danielle Bloom is a Licensed CPA, but not practicing on behalf of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) or MML Investors Services, LLC.
*Danielle Bloom is a Licensed CPA, but not practicing on behalf of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) or MML Investors Services, LLC.
Jarret Cohen
Financial Services Professional
Jarret Cohen is a lifelong entrepreneur and licensed financial services professional with over 25 years of experience across industries, including fintech, real estate, and employee benefits. He has built and sold multiple ventures, bringing a strategic focus to tax planning, business succession, and wealth preservation.
A Long Island transplant from Allentown, PA, Jarret has studied in three countries and spent time in a yeshiva, reflecting a deep commitment to both education and spiritual growth. His career began with a focus on business owners, but a personal realization—shaped by friends and loved ones with disabilities—shifted his path. Today, he views special needs planning not just as a profession, but as a higher calling.
A Long Island transplant from Allentown, PA, Jarret has studied in three countries and spent time in a yeshiva, reflecting a deep commitment to both education and spiritual growth. His career began with a focus on business owners, but a personal realization—shaped by friends and loved ones with disabilities—shifted his path. Today, he views special needs planning not just as a profession, but as a higher calling.
Collaborative Strength: Our Resource Team
Our Resource Team is the backbone of our client service excellence. With their diverse expertise and collaborative approach, this dedicated group ensures every aspect of our service is seamlessly integrated. Their commitment underpins our promise to deliver tailored, practical solutions for every client’s unique journey.
CYNTHIA ST. PIERRE
Head of Marketing
Cynthia St. Pierre, a Syracuse University alumna, is the dynamic force behind our marketing at Special Journey Solutions. Since 2009, her innovative strategies in media collaborations and event sponsorships have significantly amplified our brand presence in Philadelphia. Cynthia’s keen insight into market trends and her close work with associates enhance our client engagement and outreach, ensuring our message resonates effectively in the community.
TOM KILKER
Head of Compliance
Tom Kilker, with a robust background in economics and finance from LaSalle University, has been pivotal in our compliance department since 2007. His expertise ensures that all business operations adhere to the highest ethical standards, safeguarding our client’s trust. Holding multiple FINRA registrations, Tom’s guidance is crucial in maintaining integrity in all our financial services, which is foundational to the solid and reliable relationships we build with our clients.
Let’s Build Your Financial Future Together: Get in Touch with Us
Embark on a journey towards financial security and peace of mind with our team at Special Journey Solutions. Our dedicated professionals are committed to crafting personalized strategies that align with your unique goals. Bruce, Dustin, Mallory, Christopher, Christine, Cynthia, and Tom are more than just experienced professionals; they are your partners in navigating financial complexities with integrity and care.
Connect with Special Journey Solutions today at 610-766-3074 and let’s work to transform your financial aspirations into reality.
