Our Team

JAMES KEENAN

For over 30 years, Jim has been a trusted partner in working with many high net worth investors and families in the region. From the most complicated estate planning projects to the most sophisticated investment strategies, Jim has always recognized that serving as an advisor in any capacity is first and foremost a privilege. The responsibility we are given to protect and preserve and grow your wealth is built on a foundation of trust that has been established over time. It is tremendously rewarding to help our clients and their families manage their financial lives. And we pledge to always act with integrity and honesty on your behalf.

As one of the very first SEC-registered investment advisors in the area, Walter and Keenan was founded by Jim’s uncle Donald Walter. Both Don and Jim are attorneys and have been very active in our client’s wealth management, estate planning and asset transfer strategies. As a CFA and a member of the CFA Institute, Jim is a proud to associate with the most disciplined and prestigious group of trained investment professionals in the world.

Outside of the office, Jim has been very active and engaged in the non-profit community. He is President of the Judd Leighton Foundation which serves to perpetuate the legacy of his friend and mentor in our region in the areas of healthcare, education and economic development. He also serves as chair of the Beacon Health Foundation Investment Committee and as chair of the University of Notre Dame’s Graduate Studies and Research Advisory Council.

Interests outside of the office include travel, biking, reading biographies, cross training, golf and college football. But most of all, Jim enjoys spending time with his family.

EDUCATION

  • J.D. Wayne State University Law School (Detroit, MI)
  • B.A. University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, IN)

Professional Licensure

  • Chartered Financial Analyst, CFA Institute
  • Past Member of the Michigan Bar

James Sawdon

James is a Senior Investment Advisor at Walter & Keenan.  As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM and Certified Public Accountant, James works with clients to help them meet and exceed their financial goals. With over 12 years of experience in investment and asset management, financial consulting, audit, and tax services, James brings a comprehensive and consultative approach to building your investment and wealth profile. James joined Walter & Keenan Wealth Management in 2019 after three years working in the Oliver Family Office in South Bend, Indiana where he served as Vice President and Investment Analyst. Prior to moving to South Bend, James worked in Chicago in several consulting roles that included Deloitte, RSM/McGladrey, and Shepard, Schwartz & Harris LLP.

Outside of work, James enjoys playing an active role in the community engaging in volunteer organizations as well as the growing entrepreneurship community in the South Bend – Elkhart region. James also enjoys spending time with his wife and daughters, biking and hiking local trails as well as spending time on the golf course.

Education

  • Masters of Business Administration, University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, Indiana)
  • Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Calvin University (Grand Rapids, Michigan)

Professional Licensure

  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM
  • Certified Public Accountant

Community Involvement

  • Beacon Health System – Foundation Board Member
  • Community Foundation of St. Joseph County – Board Member
  • South Bend Symphony Orchestra – Board Member
  • Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka – Member of Class 46

Dan Wolfson

Dan is a Senior Investment Advisor with a JD from Indiana University McKinney School of Law.  With nearly a decade of experience in high net worth wealth management and advisory services, Dan has an expertise dealing with complex investment, estate and financial planning needs.  Dan joined Walter & Keenan in 2021.  He previously worked for RSM US Wealth Management in South Bend and Elkhart, Indiana where he served as a director in wealth management. 

As a 2017 recipient of the Michiana 40 Under 40 award, Dan continues to be an advocate for stewardship, growth and innovation in the South Bend-Elkhart Region.  A South Bend native, he is passionate about connecting with business owners and volunteer organizations to help create a positive impact in the community.  His biggest joys in life are spending time with his wife (Colleen) and three daughters (Millie, Rosie, and Juliette), playing the piano and golfing.

Education

  • J.D. Indiana University McKinney School of Law (Indianapolis, IN)
  • B.A. Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)

Professional Licensure

  • Series 65
  • Life & Health Insurance (Indiana)

Kari Jambor

Kari is the Finance Manager at Walter and Keenan Wealth Management and our newest team member. She comes to us with over 25 years of accounting experience in both the public and private sectors. Resulting in the privilege of working for some of the most reputable, community-minded organizations within the Michiana area. These are Crowe, University of Notre Dame, Surestep, St. Anthony de Padua Parish, and Kruggel Lawton CPAs.

Aside from accounting and office management her expertise has been in process improvement and building strong client relationships. Throughout her career, she has served on numerous committees that benefitted local non for profits and charitable organizations.

Kari and her husband John have four children and two Beagles. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with family and volunteering at St. Anthony’s Parish and St. Joseph High School. When not traveling to visit her older children, you will find her cheering on her daughter’s soccer team or rooting for the Fighting Irish. Kari is also a movie buff and an avid reader.

Education:

    • B.S in Accounting and Business Administration – Indiana University

Professional Licensure:

    • Notary Public, State of Indiana