The passion I have for helping people understand complex topics in finance was first sparked during my time as a student at UNC Chapel Hill, where I attained both undergraduate and master’s degrees. My ambition for entrepreneurship drove me to found the tax and advisory firm Chris Arena, CPA, PLLC in 2015, the same year that my first child, Ellie, was born. The love I have for my family is what has continued to drive me and inspire me in my professional career. Clef Financial, at its heart, is all about family: Chris, Laura, Ellie, and Forest make the music of my life.

I believe I have a knack for simply and eloquently communicating complex topics, always with empathy and almost always with humor. I enjoy thinking through difficult scenarios and pride myself on being able to consider both the logical and emotional aspects of personal finance. I care deeply for the people I work with and I see their success as a reflection of my own.

I have the pleasure of working with people from all over the country, and our firm is well equipped to remotely serve individuals no matter where they call home.

Things I believe, ideas that make me, me:

Never turn down an opportunity to learn something new

Be the first person to help when help is needed

Life is not static; always have a plan, but always be ready to adapt and change

Life is short; don’t lose sight of what brings you joy!