About Us
April Ward
Director, Wealth Advisor
As a Wealth Advisor, April works with high net-worth individuals to strategize solutions to reach each client’s financial goals, incorporating the unique needs and circumstances of each client while considering tax consequences, estate planning circumstances and investment objectives. April began her career in the financial arena in 1988 and joined Stoker Ostler in 2004 after working with large, national financial institutions in financial consulting and estate planning.
April has a Series 65 License and is Cannon certified in Investment Management and Personal Trust and Investment Management Sales. In addition, she is a board member of the Central Arizona Estate Planning Council and a candidate to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.
April received her bachelor’s degree in business communications from Arizona State University and her MBA from the University of Phoenix. She has volunteered with the American Cancer Society, St. Theresa Catholic School, the Arizona Community Foundation for Women and most recently chaired "A Mighty Voice" charity event at the Phoenix Zoo to raise awareness about pediatric motor neuron diseases.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
Michelle L. Decker, CFP®
Portfolio Manager
michellel.decker@stokerostler.com
As a Portfolio Manager, Michelle works closely with clients to identify individual financial goals and develop a portfolio strategy that will achieve those goals. She is responsible for maintaining proper asset allocation and diversification of each client’s investment portfolio. Michelle has been with Stoker Ostler since February 1998, joining our team with financial advisory experience.
Michelle is a member of Stoker Ostler’s investment committee which sets the investment policies and portfolio strategies that we follow in working on behalf of clients. She regularly contributes articles to Stoker Ostler publications.
Michelle earned her M.B.A. degree from Arizona State University. She earned her B.B.A. degree in Finance from Idaho State University. She received her Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS) certification from the College of Financial Planning. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.
Michelle loves baseball and has enjoyed both coaching and “team Mom” responsibilities for her sons’ teams. She also enjoys outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
