At Scholar Financial, we believe
that financial planning and
investment management should
be grounded in both academic
rigor and practical experience.
At Scholar Financial, we believe
that financial planning and
investment management should
be grounded in both academic
rigor and practical experience.

As professors of finance and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, we bring a unique depth of knowledge and a passion for helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals. We‘ve seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing investors in today’s complex financial landscape. That’s why we founded Scholar Financial – to provide comprehensive, objective, personalized and trusted financial planning and investment advice tailored to your specific needs and aspirations. And to protect our clients from the many Wall Street sharks that far too often prey upon unsuspecting investors.

Meet Your Financial Guides

Experienced Professors & CFP® Professionals

Chris Brown, PhD, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Learn more about Chris Brown

Ron A. Rhoades, JD, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Learn more about Ron Rhoades

Our Client-Focused Approach

At Scholar Financial, we believe in building strong, collaborative relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique circumstances, goals, and values. Then, we develop customized financial plans that align your finances with your life goals.

We Are A Fiduciary,
Fee-Only Firm

As a fiduciary, fee-only firm, we are committed to always acting in your best interest. We provide transparent and objective advice, and our investment decisions are driven by data and research, not commissions or hidden agendas.

Our Commitment to Transparency

Our fees are transparent and based solely on the services we provide. We do not accept commissions or any other compensation that could create conflicts of interest, a problem that often permeates Wall Street firms and insurance companies.

Advocating for You

Ron A. Rhoades, JD, CFP® is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading voices on fiduciary standards in financial planning. As a practicing attorney, Certified Financial Planner™, and Professor of Finance, he is regularly sought out by major financial publications and industry organizations to share his expertise. The articles and features below reflect his ongoing commitment to advancing investor protections and holding the financial services industry to the highest standards of conduct.

  • 2020 September

  • Tools Tools

    2021 December

  • 2022 June

    Heart Heart
  • Tools Tools

    2022 June

  • 2022 September

    Tools Tools

    "Fiduciary September 2022 — Panel: Reg BI Enforcement and Guidance at Two Years"

    The Institute for the Fiduciary Standard discussed a panel in which Ron, former SEC Commissioners, and DOL officials provided expert commentary on the state of investor protections under Regulation Best Interest. 🔗 https://thefiduciaryinstitute.org/2022-2/

  • "WKU’s Financial Planning Association Student Chapter Hosts the 4th Annual Financial Planning Symposium"

    Western Kentucky University News reported on this conference, during which Ron joined nationally recognized figures including Jeffrey Levine as the keynote speaker. The event drew financial planning professionals and students from across the region. 🔗 https://www.wku.edu/news/articles/index.php?view=article&articleid=11492

    Tools Tools

    2023 September

  • 2024 November

    Tools Tools

  • Trump Labor Secretary ‘applauds’ Trump and his executive order to put ‘alts’ in 401(k)s, but president is overstepping Congress, fiduciary expert says.

    RIABiz features Ron recommending plan sponsors avoid private equity and other “alternative investments” as not meeting ERISA’s prudent investor rule standard.

    Tools Tools

    2025 August

Older couple walks along the beach, feet in the water and hands in the airReady to Experience the
Scholar Financial Difference?Contact us for a complimentary consultation today
to discuss your financial goals and discover how
we can help you achieve them.GET STARTED

Older couple walks along the beach, feet in the water and hands in the airReady to Experience the
Scholar Financial Difference?Contact us for a complimentary consultation today
to discuss your financial goals and discover how
we can help you achieve them.GET STARTED