40 Under 40 Alumni Spotlight: Paula Dougherty, 2003

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Then: Financial adviser, American Express Financial Advisors
Now: CFP and private wealth adviser, Achieve Private Wealth, Ameriprise Financial Services LLC

Paula Dougherty was squarely on her professional career path when she was honored as a 40 Under 40 in 2003. She had just completed her MBA and passed the certified financial planner exam.

Two years later, Dougherty says Ameriprise spun off her former employer, American Express Financial Advisors. That was a key moment in her career, as she says Ameriprise had the right culture and the support she needed for success.

Now, after almost 30 years in the financial advising business, she says, “It’s just been the best journey that I could have ever imagined.”

“I never really needed any place else to be able to educate and serve my clients and my team and the Springfield community.”

Today, her office is one of Forbes’ Best-in State Wealth Management Teams and she was named one of Forbes’ 2025 Best-in-State Women Wealth Advisors.

Since her SBJ award, Dougherty, 52, became a mom. Her son, Kyle, is 10.

Advice to young professionals? Seek guidance. Be an active listener and lifelong learner. Guard your reputation, time and health. These things will have a great impact on how you live your life.