This year marks a major milestone for DeFranco Financial—our 10-year anniversary.
In April of 2016, Dustin DeFranco founded the firm with a simple but powerful mission: to help people. It all began in a small, one-person office with a leaky roof in Bellaire, Ohio, but it grew quickly. In just over a year, fueled by strong client growth and the firm’s first acquisition, DeFranco Financial outgrew its original space and moved to its current home on National Road in Wheeling, West Virginia—now known as the DeFranco Building.
From the beginning, DeFranco Financial set out to do things differently. With no minimum account size requirements, we have built a firm that serves everyone—from ultra high-net-worth individuals and businesses to those just getting started. If you have ever walked through our doors, you know it’s not your typical financial advisor’s office. The space reflects who we are—a noteworthy blend of professionalism and approachability, designed to make clients feel both comfortable and confident in the guidance they receive.
But our vision extends beyond financial planning. We strive to build a business that not only serves clients but also strengthens the community and supports the professionals within it. Today, that vision has evolved into a unique platform for advisors—one that prioritizes independence, collaboration, and meaningful support. Six advisors have joined the firm under this model, helping expand both our reach and impact.
Financial Advisor, Josh Schamlz, states, “DeFranco Financial has given me the ability to grow my practice on my own terms, while still being part of something bigger—a team that’s focused on doing meaningful work for our clients and making a real impact in the community.”
Giving back has always been core to who we are. Whether it’s supporting local youth programs, sponsoring community events, serving on boards of charitable organizations, or volunteering with organizations like House of the Carpenter, our team is committed to making a difference beyond the office.
Over the past decade, DeFranco Financial has grown from a single advisor to a team of ten professionals, bringing together more than 175 years of combined industry experience. Today, we proudly serve over 1,000 households across more than 30 states.
Along the way, our advisors have been recognized for their achievements, including honors such as the LPL Master’s and Ascent Club Programs. Most recently, Dustin DeFranco was named to Barron’s Top 1500 Financial Advisors list—a national recognition that reflects the trust our clients place in us every day. Barron's 2026 Top 1500 Financial Advisors award is based on assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory record, quality of practice and philanthropic work.
Dustin shares,“As we reach this ten-year milestone, we are incredibly grateful for every client, advisor, and team member who has been part of this journey. It’s a privilege to earn that trust each day, and we remain committed to helping as many people as we can for years to come. Because, at the end of the day, it’s all about people.”
The DeFranco Financial Team
Dustin DeFranco, Founder & Financial Advisor
Heather DeFranco, MA – Financial Advisor & President, Strategy & Operations
Susan Pokwatka, CFP®, RICP®, ChFC® – Senior Wealth Consultant
Danielle Rittenhouse – Director of Client Relations
Paul Barnette, CRPC® – Financial Advisor & VP, Investments
Patty Grodhaus – Client Relationship Specialist
Bruce Trushel, CLU®, ChFC®, MBA – Financial Advisor & VP, Investments
Josh Schmalz – Financial Advisor & VP, Investments
Jessie Schmalz – Client Relationship Specialist
Derek Simpson – Financial Advisor & VP, Investments