6011 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD, SUITE #350 ELLICOTT CITY, MD 21043
(443) 274-3002
[email protected]
TAX TOOL
LEGACY QUIZ
Linkedin Youtube Facebook Instagram
FREE CONSULTATION

our team

headshot of Ozzy smiling

Ozer Culhagil

Chief Executive Officer
Meet Ozer
headshot of Stephanie wearing a red blazer

Stephanie Markwardt

Managing Director
Meet Stephanie

Prashant Sabapathi

Investment Advisor Representative
Meet Prashant
headshot of Nick with his hands folded in front of him

Nicholas Innerbichler

Investment Advisor Representative
Meet Nicholas

Jon DeFeo, CFP®, CRPC®

Investment Advisor Representative
Meet Jon

Daniel DiPeso, CFP®, MBA

Investment Advisor Representative
Meet DANiel
headshot of Connor

Connor Wilson

Investment Advisor Representative
Meet Connor

Andrew Shumate

Investment Advisor Representative
Meet Andrew

Konner Munn

Paraplanner
Meet Konner
headshot of Bill

Bill Fortin

Property & Casualty Specialist
Meet Bill
headshot of Nancy

Nancy Nixon

New Business Manager
Meet Nancy

Jordan Rainville

New Business Assistant
Meet Jordan

Kate Bryant

Marketing and Events Coordinator
Meet Kate

Lindsey Harris

Digital Marketing Specialist
Meet Lindsey

Amanda Miller

Director of First Impressions
Meet Amanda

Lola Kenney

Director of First Impressions
Meet Lola

Mark McGettigan

Administrative Assistant
Meet Mark

Julia Ferguson

Executive Assistant
Meet Julia

Ozer Culhagil, Ph.D.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

Ozer began his career in London and has over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. He holds a Ph.D. in Finance and is also a Special Needs Planner. His client-centric approach to planning focuses on education, advocacy, and coordination of individuals’ goals for themselves and their families. This holistic approach considers investment, retirement, estate, tax, education, and insurance objectives in shaping a financial plan tailored to the client’s needs. As a caring advisor, Ozer is dedicated to learning about your personal goals. Some of his particular areas of experience include estate planning, funding and withdrawing from retirement plans and IRAs, taking full advantage of retirement benefits, and maximizing Social Security benefits.

Ozer understands his clients are in various life stages and believes a financial plan must be tailored toward pursuing short and long-term objectives. He lives in Ellicott City with his wife and their son and daughter.

Steph 2 - Updated - 09.02.26

Stephanie Markwardt

Managing Director

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

As the Managing Director of Elite Income Advisors, Stephanie leads a dedicated team committed to providing exceptional financial advisory services tailored to our clients’ unique needs. Upholding our values of integrity and innovation, she strives to maximize financial outcomes and secure long-term prosperity for our clientele.

In parallel, she is a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) specializing in tax, operating independently as a sole proprietor affiliated with Elite Income Advisors. This affiliation allows our team to offer comprehensive financial planning strategies that seamlessly integrate investment advisory and income planning services with tax implications, ensuring holistic solutions for our clients. As if that wasn’t enough, she offers invaluable experience in tax return compliance.

With a steadfast focus on client success and a nuanced understanding of financial complexities, Stephanie helps navigate the intersection of investment management and tax implications with precision and insight. Our approach is driven by a passion for excellence and a dedication to exceeding expectations, ensuring every client receives personalized, strategic guidance for their financial journey.

PS

Prashant Sabapathi

INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

With over 12 years of experience in financial advising, Prashant R. Sabapathi is a dedicated professional specializing in investment management, tax-efficient retirement and legacy planning, retirement income planning, and estate protection planning. He holds a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland.

Prashant began his career in the financial industry and became independent in 2014 to move away from the “big box retailer” model of insurance and financial firms. His commitment to offering truly custom, independent solutions for his clients drives his work at Elite Income Advisors Inc.

Prashant’s personal philosophy is grounded in the belief that “losses hurt you more than gains help you,” and he integrates this principle into his clients’ financial plans. He emphasizes that financial planning is fundamentally about balancing “money in vs. money out.” This principle remains crucial both during one’s working years and into retirement. Prashant focuses on creating a strong foundation of reliable income for his clients, ensuring stable and secure golden years. He differentiates himself by specializing in asset preservation, minimizing taxation, and leaving a tax-efficient legacy for heirs. He is particularly suited for clients who are in the distribution phase of life rather than the accumulation phase.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Prashant is an avid golfer and musician. His personal journey, including his mother’s diagnosis of dementia at the age of 57, has deeply influenced his commitment to helping clients prepare for life’s financial challenges. His experience allows him to empathize with and support families facing similar situations, ensuring they are as financially prepared as possible.

headshot of Nick with his hands folded in front of him

Nicholas Innerbichler

INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

Nick is a talented Investment Advisor Representative and Licensed Fiduciary. He began his career in the financial services industry in 2004 working for one of the oldest brokerage firms in the U.S. He also worked for one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S. as an advisor and in operations. His experience includes wealth management, income & retirement planning, and managing the operations of a 100+ advisor financial services office. He’s always been proud to work closely with clients on their insurance and investment needs and enjoys developing lasting relationships with his clients and their families.

Nick is a graduate of Towson University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. He holds the Series 66 and his Life & Health insurance license in the state of Maryland. A 30+ year resident of Howard County, he currently lives with his wife Amy and their sons Sean and Evan in Columbia, Maryland.

JD

Jon DeFeo, CFP®, CRPC®

INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

A lifelong resident of Westminster, Maryland, Jon earned his bachelor’s degree in business and finance from McDaniel College and has always had a passion for helping others navigate their financial future. In high school, he was a tri-sport athlete until a back injury ended his playing career, teaching him resilience and the importance of adapting to life’s unexpected challenges—lessons that now shape his approach to financial planning. While in college, he worked as a mechanic, giving him firsthand experience in the blue-collar world and a deep appreciation for hard work and financial stability.

As a CFP®, CRPC®, and CFEI®, Jon specializes in retirement and holistic financial planning, helping individuals and families create strategies for long-term financial security. Having worked for both large institutions and smaller firms, he has experience assisting clients from all backgrounds and financial situations. He co-hosts Retire Smart Maryland Radio and Retire Smart Maryland TV alongside co-founder Prashant Sabapathi while also leading community seminars to educate people on financial literacy and retirement planning.

Beyond his work, Jon is a dedicated dad who loves spending time with his wife, son, and daughter. Whether he’s hiking, exploring the outdoors, or relaxing at the beach, he prioritizes family time while remaining deeply committed to serving his clients.

DD

Daniel DiPeso, CFP®, MBA

INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE

Daniel DiPeso is a CFP® professional and Investment Advisor Representative with Elite Income Advisors, bringing a robust background in finance and investment management to the team. Native to Baltimore, Maryland, Dan’s academic journey began at Calvert Hall College High School and continued at Towson University, where he excelled as a student-athlete playing lacrosse. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in finance and a minor in economics. Dan further advanced his education by earning a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Loyola University, and he holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification, a designation recognized as a standard of excellence in comprehensive financial planning.

Before joining Elite Income Advisors, Dan built his career as a Senior Financial Analyst and Portfolio Analyst, where he developed a disciplined approach to portfolio management and financial strategy. That experience continues to shape the way he works with clients today, pairing technical depth with a practical understanding of what it takes for a retirement plan to hold up over decades. As a fiduciary and Investment Advisor Representative, he is committed to upholding the highest standards of client care, ensuring every recommendation aligns with clients’ financial goals and best interests to help them achieve a fulfilling retirement.

Dan’s investment philosophy for his clients is simple: “It’s not about what you can make, it’s about what you can keep.” He believes lasting retirement outcomes come from protecting what clients have already built, managing risk and taxes with intention, and keeping more of every dollar working toward the life they want. That same thinking extends to estate planning, where he helps clients structure their assets so what they have worked for transfers efficiently to the people and causes that matter most to them.

Outside of work, Dan enjoys an active lifestyle that includes golfing, playing beach volleyball, running, spending quality time with friends and family, reading, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. His well-rounded experience, credentials, and steady, client first approach make him a trusted resource for clients navigating their financial futures.

headshot of Connor

Connor Wilson

INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

Connor is a Licensed Fiduciary and Investment Advisor Representative at Elite Income Advisors, where he specializes in retirement planning, investment management, and wealth preservation. With a Bachelor of Science in Finance from York College of Pennsylvania, he brings a strong academic foundation to his role. He is dedicated to crafting personalized and strategic financial plans tailored to each client’s unique goals and circumstances.

Outside of work, Connor enjoys trying new foods, cooking, and spending quality time with friends and family. His commitment to both professional excellence and a balanced personal life underscores his approach to client service and relationship building. He leverages his expertise to help clients navigate complex financial landscapes with confidence and clarity, ensuring their financial well-being for the long term.

placeholder-1.png

Andrew Shumate

investment advisor Support

Throughout his life, Andrew, has made serving others an integral part of who he is. Prior to his time in the financial industry, he spent 20 years in hospitality management, running several successful businesses where he consistently listened to the needs and concerns of his clients and tailoring solutions to meet those needs. Though his focus has shifted from business finances to personal finances, he continues to carry that into his relationships today by making sure his clients feel heard and to understand their unique stories to help them achieve their retirement goals. 
 
Early in his time with financial services, he worked for two large brokerage/advisory firms but realized that he was done with the corporate life and moved to independent practices. He values having greater flexibility and time to work with people and families on planning for retirement, focusing on retirement income, investment and tax strategies, risk management, and legacy planning. His goal is to build great partnerships to help them successfully attain their retirement vision and goals. He is a Certified Financial Fiduciary and holds a Series 66 and Maryland Life & Health Insurance license. He is currently working towards a degree in Financial Planning and becoming a Certified Financial Planner.
 
Andrew and his wife have lived in Odenton, MD for over 20 years and have two very active and amazing daughters. When he isn’t working with his clients, he can be found either poolside, supporting both daughters’ competitive swimming, where he has been their team representative and a stroke and turn official for the last few years, cheering his oldest at Cross Country and track meets, and in the kitchen or by the grill, keeping his culinary skills sharp to entertain friends and family.
Konner_020826

Konner Munn

Paraplanner

Konner Munn provides comprehensive financial planning with a disciplined foundation in capital markets. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance, with a minor in Economics, from Bryant University. After beginning his career on an options trading floor, Konner developed a deep understanding of market structure, volatility, and risk management—experience that continues to inform his approach to portfolio design and downside protection.

Today, his focus is on holistic financial planning, including investment strategy, tax-efficient retirement planning, cash flow analysis, and legacy planning. Having passed the CFP® examination, Konner has demonstrated advanced competency in comprehensive financial planning and is currently completing the required professional experience to earn the CFP® certification.

Konner believes that a financial plan must be built around the individual—not a product or a template. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every recommendation should align with a client’s goals, values, and tolerance for risk. He prioritizes transparency, accuracy, and clear communication, ensuring clients understand their options and feel confident in the decisions they make. For Konner, effective planning is about creating alignment between today’s actions and tomorrow’s outcomes.

Outside of work, Konner enjoys spending time with friends and family and exploring new destinations. He values experiences, relationships, and perspective—principles that shape both his personal life and his commitment to helping clients design lives supported by thoughtful financial planning.

headshot of Bill

Bill Fortin

PROPERTY & CASUALTY SPECIALIST

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

Bill is a father, grandfather and caregiver to his In-laws and special needs cousins. He has been in the insurance industry for 34 years in multiple capacities—sales, underwriting, claims, and management—throughout his career. This experience provides him with vast working knowledge within the insurance industry that means our clients receive expert reviews and insights. On the client side of things, he manages Personal and Commercial insurance, while being a reliable manager for our team in the office.

headshot of Nancy

Nancy Nixon

New Business Manager

P (443) 274-3002 | F (443) 979-8971 | [email protected]

As our New Business Manager, Nancy assists in the account management and onboarding process of new clients. She meticulously manages transfers, transactions, and new accounts that are processed through the firm. With over 30 years of experience in the financial industry in various roles, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her position.

Outside of work, Nancy enjoys traveling to the beach, walking her dogs, horseback riding, and spending time with her family.

Jordan R

Jordan Rainville

Administrative Assistant - New Business

Jordan is the New Business Administrative Assistant at Elite Income Advisors, where she plays a key role in supporting account management and assisting with the onboarding process for new clients. Her attention to detail and commitment to service help ensure that every client begins their journey with the firm on the right foot, experiencing both professionalism and care.

Born and raised in Ellicott City, Maryland, Jordan earned her degree in Social Sciences from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Before joining Elite Income Advisors, she gained valuable experience as a Project and Conference Assistant for a government contractor, where she honed her skills in organization, communication, and client support—skills that now serve her well in her role with the firm. Outside of the office, Jordan enjoys exploring new destinations through travel, staying active with exercise, and spending time outdoors. She especially treasures moments with her nieces and nephew, finding joy and balance in family time alongside her professional career.

KB

Kate Bryant

Marketing and Events Coordinator

Kate is currently the Marketing and Events Coordinator at Elite Income Advisors, where she has been contributing for the past few months. In her role, she is dedicated to maintaining a welcoming and professional atmosphere for clients both in person and on the phone, ensuring a positive and smooth experience as they engage with the team.

Originally from Harford County, Maryland, Kate attended Shepherd University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education. She later moved to Baltimore City, where she now resides. Prior to joining Elite Income Advisors, she spent six years as a High School Physical Education Teacher in Baltimore County, where she had the opportunity to help students develop healthy habits and physical fitness. Outside of work, Kate stays active with social sports, loves to travel and explore new cultures, enjoys diving into a good book, and cherishes every moment spent with her friends and family.

LH

Lindsey Harris

Digital Marketing Strategist

Originally from East Tennessee and now proud to call Maryland home, Lindsey Harris brings a long-standing background in creative media to Elite Income Advisors. As a Digital Marketing Strategist, she combines her expertise in photography, videography, editing, and analytics to elevate EIA’s digital presence. Lindsey leads podcast and video production, social media growth initiatives, and AI-enhanced content workflows that make production efficient and data-driven.

Known in her family as the family historian for her curiosity and ability to truly understand people, Lindsey values storytelling that connects on a personal level. She has a wide range of experience producing film projects and has been featured in both film and pageantry magazines. A mom of two, she brings creativity and warmth into everything she does—both at home and in the studio. When she’s not editing or brainstorming new content, you can usually find her with a camera in hand and a chai latte that somehow always disappears faster than expected. Her work strengthens brand visibility, drives engagement, and supports EIA’s mission of delivering clear, personalized financial education to clients and their families.

2dd4564a-343b-4767-ba5d-78d01587e9da-web-compressed

Amanda Miller

Director of First Impressions

Amanda is the Director of First Impressions at Elite Income Advisors, where she ensures that every client and visitor feels welcomed from the moment they arrive. With her friendly demeanor and excellent organizational skills, she helps create a positive and professional atmosphere that sets the stage for a great client experience.

Amanda is passionate about health and wellness, staying active at the gym and enjoying quality time with her family in New Jersey. She loves exploring new restaurants, particularly when it comes to Mexican cuisine, and is always on the hunt for great food spots. Whether she’s spending time with loved ones or discovering new places, Amanda brings energy and enthusiasm to everything she does, making her a valuable part of the Elite Income Advisors team.

32fe46b0-45a0-4a80-9bf7-0955c838e2e9

Lola Kenney

Director of First Impressions

Lola Kenney serves as the Director of First Impressions at Elite Income Advisors, where she creates a welcoming and professional atmosphere for every client. In this role, she is the first point of contact for visitors, making sure each interaction reflects the firm’s commitment to exceptional service. With a focus on customer care and strong communication skills, Lola ensures clients feel valued from the moment they arrive. She also supports the administrative team by coordinating daily office operations, managing client inquiries, and assisting with projects that contribute to a smooth and efficient workflow. Her ability to combine professionalism with warmth helps set the tone for lasting client relationships.

Lola graduated from Towson University in May 2025 where she studied Sport Management and Business Administration. Outside of work, she enjoys watching movies, particularly thrillers, and true crime documentaries. She’s also passionate about live music and always looks for opportunities to attend performances. Lola is an avid fan of coffee and good food, and has a strong interest in creative projects, especially arts and crafts and other hands-on activities. She values the opportunity to unwind by exploring new creative outlets and finding inspiration in everyday experiences. Lola also enjoys spending time with friends and family, often sharing meals and discovering new places to eat.

b55aa694-335e-4bf7-94b8-943a8e93a1cc-web-compressed

Mark McGettigan

Administrative Assistant

Mark is the Administrative Assistant at Elite Income Advisors to Prashant Sabapathi, where he provides essential support to ensure smooth daily operations and exceptional client service. With a strong attention to detail and an organized, proactive approach, he assists with scheduling, documentation, and communication across the team. Known for his friendly demeanor and reliability, he takes pride in being a dependable resource within the office.

Outside of work, Mark enjoys gaming in all forms—board games, console, and building PC LEGO creations, attending concerts, visiting Irish and Renaissance fairs, and spending time with his four cats.

Julia F

Julia Ferguson

Executive Assistant

Julia is an Executive Assistant supporting the CEO, with a focus on improving efficiency, streamlining operations, and providing adaptable support wherever it’s needed most. She brings a proactive, problem‑solving mindset to her role and is passionate about helping the organization run as smoothly as possible.
 
Originally from Virginia, Julia recently relocated from Charlottesville to Maryland. While she loved living close to the mountains, she’s excited to explore everything Maryland has to offer. Julia earned her Bachelor of Arts in Art History with a minor in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. A lifelong athlete, she played basketball in high school and club volleyball in college, and she continues to enjoy weightlifting, hiking, fishing, and spending time outdoors.