Tara McDonald is a Registered Representative and Registered Investment Advisor who brings a deeply organized, detail-oriented approach to financial planning. Tara is passionate about empowering her clients by using her skills in planning and analysis to help them navigate their unique financial journeys and achieve their goals.
Educational & Professional Background
Tara’s strong educational background in business underpins her financial planning career. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and Marketing after attending Luther College in Decorah, IA (2003-2004) and completing her studies at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO (2005-2007). During her academic career, she was inducted into the Delta Mu Delta honor society and was a member of the American Marketing Association. She also gained valuable real-world experience as a management intern for Kohl’s Department Stores.
Tara’s dedication to her clients is driven by her philosophy that every individual situation is unique and deserves a tailored solution. She takes pride in ensuring all clients are well taken care of, no matter the complexity of their financial situation. Her greatest professional enjoyment comes from knowing she is directly helping people realize their aspirations.
Tara holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification, which she earned in December 2018. This credential signifies her expertise across a wide range of financial topics, including retirement planning, tax strategies, and estate planning. Her professional qualifications also include:
- Series 7 License (June 2011)
- Series 63 License (July 2011)
- Health and Life Insurance Licenses (July 2011)
- Property and Casualty Licenses (June 2016)
Personal Background
A native of Winterset, IA, Tara is deeply committed to her community and her family. She is married to Jared and they are the proud parents of two children, Sawyer and Charla.
Tara dedicates her personal time to several pursuits, including crafting and, most importantly, cheering on her kids in all their activities, which span dance, band, soccer, cross country, and 4-H. Her home life is a bustling one, shared with some lively pets: two Beagles (Cooper and Clover), three cats (Harley, Dewey, and Dutch), and a rabbit (Bean).
Tara is actively involved in her church, where she volunteers on the Church Council and assists with planning women’s events, social media, and financial matters. Her commitment to service extends to various other community roles, including:
- 4-H Club Leader
- Previous Low Income Housing Board Chair
- Previous Girl Scouts Leader
- Local RAGBRAI PR & Communications Committee (2019 & 2024)