Meet Our Experts
Discover the powerhouses behind Federal Employee Benefits Education. Our team collectively brings over 190 years of experience in financial planning and consulting. From award-winning achievements to diverse specializations, each member contributes unique expertise to help you navigate the complexities of federal benefits, retirement planning, and government services.
Joseph H. Spano, Sr. President & Chief Executive Officer
President & Chief Executive Officer, FRC, CFF
Having entered the insurance and financial services industry in 1983, Joe has 44 years of experience and is a life member of the Million Dollar Round Table. As the only 4-time "Top of the Table" member in West Virginia, he authored "The Informed Fed" and earned recognition for his achievements and ethical practices. Joe has written articlles for Barrons, and Plan Sponser, and his articles on Mergers and Aquisitions have been used world wide. Joe Formed Federal Emplyee Retirement Services and is contracted by both the General Services Administration (GSA), and System Award Management (SAM) to obtain bids Nationwide, as well as Federal employees that seek federal educational benefit reviews. His team has over 190 years of Financial and Investment experience, and are Registered Investment Advisors. Joe is also a Registered Financial Fiduciary.
Susan E. Smith, MBA, FRC
Executive Vice President
Susan's career transitioned from teaching to insurance, showcasing her adaptability. Named "Rookie of the Year" at Prudential and later managing a team at Guardian Life, Susan brings extensive marketing expertise to FERS after her successful retirement. Susan, does our federal lead program using 3 of the top federal companies in the world and takes more than 20 qualified leads a week.Â
Terri R. Spano
Director of Institutional Consulting Â
Terri, a Marshall University graduate, came to FERS after 35 years in hospital managment. She manages all FERS bid systems and secures desired federal contracts, while also meeting with federal employees to provide educational services. Terri has one son, and two grandchildren, with whom she spends as much time as possible.
Cheryl Graham Molina
Federal Retirement Consultant
Cheryl Molina is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse and extensive career spanning over four decades. A graduate of Marshall University with a degree in business management, Cheryl's professional journey has been marked by significant achievements in consultative selling, particularly within Fortune 500 accounts.
Her career demonstrates a remarkable depth and breadth of experience. For over 40 years she has worked in consultative selling, building relationships and closing deals with some of the world’s largest companies. More recently she was employed by Accenture, formerly known as Arthur Anderson.
In addition to her business acumen, Cheryl possesses a paralegal degree, showcasing her commitment to legal knowledge and precision. She also holds a real estate license, further highlighting her versatility and drive.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Cheryl is a dedicated mother to two children, Danielle and Michael. Her life reflects a balance of professional excellence and personal commitment.
Zach Walker
Federal Retirement Consultant
Zach was born and raised in Charleston, WV. He attended both Marshall and West Virginia University on full academic scholarship - receiving his degree in Business Finance. His professional career started in south Florida with the Miami Heat, later moving into hospitality management, successfully opening and serving as the GM of several nightclubs and restaurants.
He later transitioned to real estate and property management. Licensed in FL, NC, SC, and WV Zach proudly helped hundreds of people navigate real estate transactions and investments. Zach helps federal employees make the most of their benefits to ensure that their retirement years truly are for enjoyment.
Nikki R. Paterno
Federal Retirement Consultant
Nikki, has over 14 years in the Investment world beginning her career with Smith Barney (Morgan Stanley), as a financial advisor, then moving to Wells Fargo Financial Services as Assistant Branch Manager. Nikki brings a wealth of knowledge to our team, as she has extensive knowledge of the Thrift Savings Plan, its funds and how they are managed. Nikki has won numerous industry awards, and holds an MBA from Penn State University. Nikki and her husband Anthony have 2 boys age 17 and 15, they enjoy sports, camping, boating and spending time with family.
