Terry Gallagher is one of nine partners at Cornerstone Advisers and is based in the Downers Grove office.
After spending 18 years working his way from bank teller to trust department executive at First Chicago Bank, Terry left the banking industry to become a founding member of Terra Securities (now Cetera Financial Specialists). In his role, he helped thousands of accountants integrate financial services into their practices, providing countless individuals and families across the country with trusted financial advice.
Over time, Terry found that most financial advisors provided clients with only one element of financial planning. As a result, he chose to transition back into the role he loved most and founded the Lombard branch of Cornerstone Advisers. He and his partners built the Cornerstone approach more holistically, making considerations for tax, estate, and wealth accumulation planning strategies as they work with clients to help them reach their financial goals. By drawing connections to all possible outside influences on their clients’ finances, Terry and the rest of the Cornerstone team ensure they help put their clients in the best possible position to succeed.
Terry believes one of the biggest challenges investors face today is the belief that there is a “silver bullet” or a “do it yourself” solution to financial planning. While technology presents a wonderful opportunity, it can also be a seductive lure, having people believe that since they can do something on their own, they should. Terry maintains that the team of professionals at Cornerstone Advisers transcends what technology can offer. Not only does Terry offer financial planning with a personalized approach, but also with extreme intensity, bearing the totality of what his clients need within their financial plans on his shoulders, and leaning on his extraordinary teammates to lend their experience and support.
Along with serving his clients for decades, Terry also served his country as a U.S. Marine, and continues to serve his community. He has been a board member at numerous schools throughout the years, and is actively involved with the Catholic Church and its many charities. Terry recently returned from Casa de Los Angeles in Mexico where he helped lay foundations for the nonprofit organization’s new school buildings.
Terry’s many titles – husband, father, grandfather, colleague, and financial advisor –each mean something extraordinary to him. The joy, thankfulness, and kindheartedness that can’t help but overflow into everything he does truly drive him to provide excellent service and support to his clients and his family. When he isn’t helping his clients or volunteering in the community, Terry enjoys traveling with his wife and spending time with his family.
Downers Grove Office
1431 Opus Place, Suite 200
Downers Grove, IL 60515