“Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.”

HENRY DAVID THOREAU

We couldn’t agree more! 

In fact, this guiding principle has inspired our company name and philosophy. At Walden Wealth, our highest aspiration is to help you design and enjoy your best possible life and legacy. 

We are thinking partners, strategists, coaches, organizers, and advocates. In addition to our extensive financial knowledge and experience—it’s our yes-we-can-help-you-get-there approach that makes all the difference. 

meet our team...your team

Sarah Hannibal

CFA, CPA (inactive), Co-Founder  

sarah@waldenwealth.com

In reviewing both personal and corporate finances, Sarah will help determine strengths, risks and opportunities—and transform that information into realistic, concrete goals.   

“Beyond the numbers, I strive to understand and respect the emotion, challenges and influences involved in decision-making, so I can help you achieve the level of financial freedom you desire.”   

Qualifications

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA, inactive)

• 25+ Years  of experience in both personal and institutional financial management in Cleveland, New York, Chicago, London and Singapore

• CFA Society of Cleveland, Women’s Advisory Committee Member

• Expertise in working with Commercial Real Estate Professionals

• Named Notable Woman In Finance by Crain’s Cleveland Business, 2018

Education

• University of Michigan Ross School of  Business - MBA with distinction

• Miami University - BS Accounting.

Community Involvement

• Board Member, Estate Planning Council of Cleveland

• Gilmore Academy Member of the Board of Trustees - Investment Committee

• President, Landerwood Swim Club 2019 - 2022

• Financial Coach, M.I.A.M.I. WOMEN Giving Circle, Miami University

• Parish School of Religion Teacher, St. Dominic Church

Brenna Paananen

CFP®, CIMA®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL COUNSELOR ™

WEALTH ADVISOR | PORTFOLIO STRATEGIST

brenna@waldenwealth.com

From a young age, Brenna knew that she wanted to pursue a career in financial planning. She is passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives through financial education and empowerment.  

“My job allows me to combine rigorous analytical work with getting to know someone on a personal level. Watching clients learn, grow, and achieve their wildest dreams has been so rewarding.” 

Qualifications

• Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)

• Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®)

• Certified Financial Counselor ™ 

• Cleveland/Akron Society of Financial Services Professionals, Board Member, Social Media Committee Chair

• CFA Society of Cleveland, Member

Education

• The University of Akron - BBA in Financial Planning, BBA in Corporate Financial Management

Community Involvement

• Coach, The University of Akron- FSP Career Exploration Competition

• Volunteer, Various Financial Literacy Events

Madeline Rowe

CFP®, Wealth Management associate 

madeline@waldenwealth.com

Madeline is a John Carroll graduate with a degree in both Finance and Wealth Management & Financial Planning. She combines her desire to help people with her knowledge in financial planning, all while creating lasting relationships with clients.

“I chose this career path because it gives me the opportunity to work closely with individuals and create a meaningful, personal connection with them. Listening to clients with compassion and understanding while providing a positive, stress-free experience is always my focus.”

Qualifications

• Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)

• Securities Industries Essentials (SIE) certified

• David M. Benacci Award for Promising Investment Managers

• CFA Institute Research Challenge, Americas Semi-Final Contestant

• Internship Experience with MassMutual and Valmark Financial Group

• FEI Outstanding Finance Major

• Beta Gamma Sigma The International Business Honors Society, life time member

Education

• John Carroll University – BSBA in Finance, BSBA in Wealth Management and Financial Planning

• NEOMA Business School - Rouen, France 

Community Involvement

• Volunteer, Greater Cleveland Food Bank

• Volunteer, Lebanon Presbyterian Church

Carol Goldstein

Office Manager

carol@waldenwealth.com

Carol values her roles as a client-care concierge and a supporting member of the Walden Wealth team. Her ability to switch gears quickly and reprioritize allows her to help clients meet their needs and goals successfully. Carol brings a wealth of diverse experience to Walden and her background working for both small businesses and Fortune 100 companies is reflected in her unique skill set.

Qualifications

• Certified Notary Public in the State of Ohio.

Education

• Lake Erie College - Masters in Business Administration.

• Cleveland State University - BS Mechanical Engineering Technology.

Community Involvement

• Red Cross “Hero’s for Babies “ Donor.

• Walk to End Alzheimer’s team member