Luca Partners Team
"Beginning the moment I was introduced to Whit and his talented team over 10 years ago, they have always centered the paramount interest of my family’s well-being and goals into every interaction. I trust 100% of our family’s assets into their care with full confidence there is an entire team committed to our mutual success!"
- Nelson Powell, Commercial Banker
After years of collaboration and informal working relationships, Jimbo, Whit & Charles merged their three respective teams to form Luca Partners. With over 150 years of combined financial services and investment experience, Luca was formed to help fulfill the mission of bringing order to the chaos that surrounds a family’s financial planning. By merging practices, Luca Partners has been able to create an enduring firm that is driven by integrity, dedication, and excellence, to provide comprehensive, strategic, and inter-generational planning to families and businesses.
Jimbo Huckabee , CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Partner and Wealth Management Advisor
Jimbo Huckabee, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Partner and Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional
- Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®)
- Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®)
- Life/Health/Long-Term Care Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 6, 7, 9, 10, 63
Professional Background
Jimbo Huckabee has been challenging clients to plan for financial security since starting his career with Northwestern Mutual in 1995, shortly after graduating from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler Business School. He has established himself as a leader by cultivating relationships based upon integrity, knowledge and commitment within his firm and industry. Jimbo has also served as the Managing Director of Northwestern Mutual's Chapel Hill-Durham Office since 2002.
Throughout his Northwestern Mutual career, Jimbo has qualified for numerous company and industry awards and has also received The Triangle Business Journal's “40 Under 40” award for his achievements with Northwestern Mutual and in the community.
About Me
Jimbo is a lifelong resident of Durham where he lives with his wife Emmy, their daughter Boyce, and sons Quin and Sam. In addition to spending time with his family, he enjoys playing golf, snow skiing, and cheering on the Tar Heels.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be?
Jack Nicklaus, the retired professional golfer. His ability to win was remarkable and his mental game was always on point. He could block out the noise and successfully execute whenever he needed to. Since his retirement, he has remained relevant to the game, by designing golf courses all over the world and I admire the success he’s had in creating a life and career after playing professional golf.
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Italian food
Whit Newton , CFP®
Partner and Wealth Management Advisor
Whit Newton, CFP®
Partner and Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Management and Society from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional
- Life/Health/Long-Term Care Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 6, 7, 63
Professional Background
William "Whit" Newton has been guiding his clients toward financial security with Northwestern Mutual since 2009. He primarily focuses on retirement planning, investment strategy, and insurance and business planning opportunities with a strong concentration in investment, medical, dental and business markets. Whit strives to build long-term client relationships with the goal of minimizing financial stress.
About Me
Whit is a native of Eastern North Carolina, born and raised in Clinton. Whit and his wife, Sarah, a Senior Industry Consultant at SAS, met through best friends while on a trip to the Iron Bowl. The two were married in 2013 in Birmingham, Alabama, where Sarah grew up. They happily reside in Raleigh with their kids, Henry, George, and Emma, and their Goldendoodle, Barclay.
In a free moment, you're likely to find Whit with his family and friends. He enjoys traveling and a good glass of wine. He considers himself a true athlete who exercises religiously and is a regular fixture on the golf course.
I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the guitar
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
French fries
Charles D. Irvin , CFP®, RICP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Partner and Wealth Management Advisor
Charles Irvin, CFP® ChFC® RICP® CLU®
Partner and Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance Concentration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional
- Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®)
- Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®)
- Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®)
- Life/Health/Long-Term Care Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 6, 7, 63
Professional Background
Charles joined Northwestern Mutual and began his practice in 2009. He has been focused on building a wealth management team committed to comprehensive planning and client relationships. Charles has been a leader both locally and nationally and travelled across the country speaking on topics of leadership, comprehensive planning, and building a team. Charles’s desire for clients is for them to have confidence in their financial plan such that they feel empowered to enjoy what they spend!
About Me
Charles is married to Lisa and they have 3 kids, ages 5 and under, David, Abigail, & Bennett. From attending sporting events, hiking, camping, and hunting, they love spending time together outdoors as a family. Charles & Lisa are passionate about being involved in their community. Together they serve on the Board of Young Life and are active members at their church, the Church of the Good Shepherd in Durham, where Charles is an officer. Charles also serves on the Board of the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill.
Do you have a hidden/secret talent?
I am a member of a super-secret all men’s choir group at church called the “Bull Frog Choir”. There are 2 requirements to join; volume & conviction. We performed twice and have not been asked to perform since.
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Anything from a smoker. I am secretly obsessed with smoking meats.
Sasha Buslovich
Marketing Associate
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Meredith College
- Life/Health Insurance Licenses
Professional Background
Sasha joined Northwestern Mutual in 2018, shortly following graduation. As a Marketing Associate, she is primarily responsible for connecting with clients to schedule appointments, managing client relations, planning events, and creating marketing materials.
About Me
As a North Carolinian born and raised, Sasha grew up in Eastern North Carolina, but moved to Raleigh for college where she has lived since. During her downtime, Sasha finds joy in reading, traveling, discovering the latest restaurants, and attending any event with live music.
Do you have a hidden/secret talent?
I can consume an entire box of Girl Scout cookies in one sitting. Thin Mints are my all time favorite.
Dream vacation location?
Truly, anywhere I haven’t been is somewhere I want to go, but if I had to choose one place, I would say Thailand.
Katherine Curfman Gardiner, CFA®
Director of Wealth Management
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a second major in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation
- Life/Health Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 7, 66
Professional Background
Katie joined Northwestern Mutual in 2016 after moving back to the Triangle area from New York. Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, Katie was a Vice President at Goldman Sachs in the Private Wealth Management division where she advised high net worth individuals, families, and select foundations and endowments. Katie enjoys helping clients navigate the markets and focus on their broader financial picture.
About Me
Katie and her husband Ryan have two children, Liam and Tucker, and a golden retriever, Hudson. In her free time Katie enjoys traveling, cooking, trying new restaurants in the Triangle, and spending time with her family.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be?
Ina Garten – She’d pick the best restaurant!
Who/what inspires you?
My parents. They raised four kids, coached/cheered at countless soccer matches over the years, and are the best “Nana” and “GW” to my boys.
William N. Jova II
Director of Investment Management
- Bachelor of Science in Economics from East Carolina University
- Life/Disability/Long-Term Care Insurance licenses
- FINRA Series 6, 7, 63, 65, 66
Professional Background
William "Bill" N. Jova, II began his career in financial services in 1997 as a college intern for Northwestern Mutual and following graduation, Bill joined First Union National Bank as a Financial Specialist. At First Union, he gained valuable experience in banking, brokerage, and lending.
Having realized that Northwestern Mutual was where he would best be able to help clients achieve financial security, Bill returned to Northwestern Mutual as a Financial Representative in July of 2002. Bill went on to hold the position of Investment Specialist and now holds the position of Director of Investment Management. In his role, Bill focuses on the investment aspect of the financial planning process.
About Me
In his free time, Bill enjoys spending time with his wife Jessica, their family and friends, and traveling with his horses.
Dream vacation location?
Cattle drive in Wyoming
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sweet potatoes
Lindsey Moore, CFP®, RICP®
Associate Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional
- Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®)
- Life/Health Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 7 and 63
Professional Background
Lindsey started at Northwestern Mutual in 2010. During her time, she has had several roles within the company, but has found her true calling as an Associate Wealth Management Advisor with Luca Partners. Lindsey’s primary emphasis is on building client relationships that focus on holistic planning.
About Me
When she’s not in the office, you can find Lindsey enjoying time with her husband, Jared, and their golden retriever, Hattie. Together, they enjoy going on camping trips in the mountains as a family. Lindsey and Jared attend First Presbyterian Church in Raleigh and enjoy volunteering when they have the opportunity. Lindsey also enjoys reading, practicing yoga, and enjoying a good glass or two of red wine.
Who/what inspires you?
People who are selfless! We can all learn from them!
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pizza – there are a ton of different styles and toppings, you really could go a long time before you had to repeat a type!
Mike Overman, CFP®
Associate Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Economics from Hampden-Sydney College
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional
- Life/Health Licenses
- FINRA Series 7 and 66
Professional Background
Mike began his career in financial services in May of 2011 as an associate in the Investment Planning Dept in the Richmond, VA network office of Northwestern Mutual. In June of 2015, Mike joined the Durham office as an Associate Wealth Management Advisor. Mike's role consists of working throughout the financial planning process, specializing in investment analysis, and portfolio construction.
About Me
In his downtime, Mike enjoys offshore fishing and spending time with his wife Holly, his son Hayes, and their Cavalier King Charles puppy that rules the house.
Do you have a hidden/secret talent?
I know sign language.
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Nachos from Gonza
Selena Quintanilla
Financial Representative Assistant
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Mount Olive
Professional Background
Selena joined Luca Partners in May 2020 as a Financial Representative Assistant. Prior to joining our team, Selena spent 7 years in the administrative field in various roles, where she wore multiple hats. Selena focuses on supporting the investment management aspect of the financial planning process.
About Me
In her spare time, Selena enjoys anything dealing with cooking and baking, attending all kinds of festivals, trying new foods and flavors at a new restaurant and lastly spending quality time with friends and family!
Who/What inspires you? Running into people with positive/happy attitudes inspire me to focus on all the positive God has given me! What is “negativity” and what do you eat with?!
I've always wanted to learn how to play the drums!
Eric Radwin
Associate Financial Representative
- Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Colorado State University
- Life/Health/Long-Term Care Insurance Licenses
Professional Background
Eric has been with Northwestern Mutual since July 2019 and joined Luca Partners in November 2020 as an Associate Financial Representative. In his role, he focuses mainly on new insurance business and client meeting preparation. Prior to working at Northwestern Mutual, Eric spent 9 years in the hotel industry where he worked in and managed Front Office Operations.
About Me
Eric moved to North Carolina from New Jersey in 2015. He has traveled to over 30 countries, most of them done during a 5-month trip prior to moving to NC. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, fishing, golfing, and traveling.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be? Marco Pierre White. He’s the youngest chef to ever win 3 Michelin stars. The food and the stories would be amazing.
I've always wanted to learn how to play the guitar
Allyson Ramos
Associate Financial Advisor
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Life/Health Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 6 and 63
Professional Background
Allyson started with Northwestern Mutual in 2006 as a part time assistant and gradually increased to full time starting in 2012, working for multiple advisors on both the investment and insurance side of the business. Now, she primarily focuses on investment operations and building long-term relationships based on integrity, knowledge, and commitment, with an overall goal of helping people define, build, and enjoy prosperous lives.
About Me
Allyson was born in Columbia, SC, but has resided in North Carolina most of her life. Now she lives in Hillsborough with her husband David, who also works for Northwestern Mutual as a Financial Advisor, their three kids, Sailor, Grayson, and Chesley, and three dogs. In a spare moment, Allyson can be found reading, cheering on her kids at various sporting events, and spending time with her family.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be?
Michael Smerconish
Who/what inspires you?
My little sister inspires me - so profoundly, it’s hard to explain. Knowingly or not, every aspect of her life is guided by this mantra: “Act as if what you do makes a difference. IT DOES.” - William James
Hanna Rickfelder
Associate Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources and Marketing from Grand Valley State University
- Life/Health Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 7 and 63
Professional Background
Hanna began her career with Northwestern Mutual as a Campus Recruiter in Grand Rapids, Michigan following graduation. She transitioned to the Durham-Chapel Hill office after moving to North Carolina early in 2018. In her role, Hanna focuses most of her time onboarding and servicing investment management clients.
About Me
In her free time, she enjoys crafting, camping and going to the beach with her husband, Jake and aussiedoodle, Lucia.
I've always wanted to learn how to play the piano.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be?
Eminem or Walt Disney
Lauren Sasser
Associate Financial Representative
- Bachelor of Science in Family Consumer Science from Meredith College
- Life/Health Insurance Licenses
Professional Background
Lauren started working with Northwestern Mutual in June 2014 and has worked in various areas within the company. As an Associate Financial Representative, her primary focus is with new insurance business.
About Me
In her spare time, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband Grant and her family & friends, traveling to new places, soaking up the sun at the NC coast, and she also has a love for designing and creating floral arrangements.
Do you have a hidden/secret talent?
I spent 15+ years of my life training in multiple genres of dance. A few of my favorites being hip-hop, jazz, and ballet. I’ll challenge you to a dance off any day of the week and if there’s a dance floor in sight you better believe I’m on it.
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
100% any kind of Mexican food- give me all the chips, queso, tacos, quesadillas! Truly, I could eat tacos every single day and never get tired of it.
Crystal Sykes
Financial Representative Assistant
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Ashford University
Professional Background
Crystal joined Luca Partners in July 2020 as a Financial Representative Assistant. Prior to joining the Luca family, she worked in the medical field for 2 years as a medical receptionist and a patient provider liaison. For about 14 years prior to the medical field, she was an Assistant Teacher for children with severe profound disabilities.
About Me
Crystal was born in New Jersey but grew up in North Carolina. She’s a proud mother of two young ladies and loves her family and her church. In her down time, she enjoys watching movies and is a sucker for her favorite movie, The Golden Rule.
I’ve always wanted to learn how to belly dance
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be? Shrimp
Emily Witzenman
Associate Financial Representative
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington
- Life/Disability/Long Term Care Insurance Licenses
Professional Background
Emily has worked with Northwestern Mutual since 2001. She specializes in client relations and connects with clients to schedule appointments, assists in the servicing of existing insurance accounts, and works with new insurance business.
About Me
Away from the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Matt and two very energetic daughters, Kora Beth and Anna Scott.
I've always wanted to learn how to play the piano.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be?
My family
Jason Yuhase, CFP®
Associate Wealth Management Advisor
- Bachelor of Business Administration with focuses in Trust, Wealth & Investment Management from Campbell University
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional
- Life/Disability Insurance Licenses
- FINRA Series 7 and 63 registrations
Professional Background
Jason Yuhase began his career in financial services in February 2010 a Financial Representative in the Washington DC office of Northwestern Mutual. He has been an associate with our team since February 2013. Prior to beginning his career in financial services, Jason served in the United State Marine Corps.
About Me
Jason and his wife Holly have three kids, Luke, Elizabeth, and Mabel. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and woodworking.
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tacos
Who/what inspires you?
Adam Savage – for his creativity and his ability to make something wonderful out of nothing.
Kevin Zegel
Investment Associate
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of North Carolina Wilmington
- FINRA Series 7 and 63
Professional Background
Kevin joined Luca Partners in June 2021 as an Investment Associate. In his role, he focuses mainly on trading, portfolio analysis, and investment research. Prior to coming to Northwestern Mutual, Kevin spent two years working at Baystate Financial in Boston, Massachusetts where he provided investment product support. He graduated with a degree in Finance from UNC Wilmington in 2018, where he was a member of the Cameron Executive Network and led the Seahawk Investment Management, LLC for a semester.
About Me
Kevin grew up in the North Shore region of Massachusetts. After graduating high school, he moved to North Carolina to attend UNC Wilmington. He enjoys outdoor activities such as skiing, surfing, biking, hiking and more. He and his girlfriend Jenna have two dogs, Duncan and Bowie, who they spend most of their free time with outdoors. They also enjoy growing their own vegetables and cooking, especially grilling and smoking meat.
Dream vacation location? The Canadian Rockies in the summer for hiking/camping or in the winter for skiing
If you could only eat one food item for the rest of your life, what would it be? Bacon