Meet the Meridian Team: Hello, Dan
Financial Advisor Dan Fortunato came to Meridian in 2024 with a desire to help people solve their financial puzzles and put together efficient ways to plan for their goals. Coming to Meridian was purposeful – after six years leading youth as a Pastor in California and Virginia, and discussions with his mentor – he prepared for almost a year to enter this industry. He specifically knew he wanted to work for a fee-only fiduciary and he found that in Meridian. He reached out to the partners, and what was effectively a cold call turned into a coffee chat, an interview, and eventually, a new job with the team at Meridian.
As an Advisor, Dan works directly with clients supporting them with their financial plans, helping them to navigate life’s twists and turns, setting and mapping out goals, and directly supports the senior advisors as part of our ensemble team. Earlier this year, Dan successfully completed the Series 65 certification and is actively preparing for the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP ®) exam.
Adrenaline, Community, and Relationships
Originally from Warrenton, Dan and his wife, Hannah, now live in Culpeper with their two young children. Together, they are on a mission to visit all of the national parks – having just recently visited their 29th when they went to Great Smoky Mountains. The hands-down favorite for Dan is Yellowstone – it’s as beautiful as it you’ve heard – and he was awe-struck by Old Faithful and seeing the majestic bison. Coming in at a close second, is Yosemite and seeing the sheer size of Half Dome.
As a self-described adrenaline-junkie, Dan’s adventures have also included motorcycle riding, scuba diving, white water rafting, and skydiving.
Community impact is important to Dan, who recently graduated from Leadership Fauquier, and is looking forward to serving on the Board next year. In addition to that, Dan also serves as a board member for Hope Sleeves.
Helping people, growing relationships, and watching them succeed is a passion of his and Meridian allows him to experience that passion every day. To him, Meridian is like family and he’s grateful to be able to work with a team and Partners that are approachable and are supportive of growth.
5 Things About Dan
Without further ado, here’s the “tea” on Dan – 5 fun things to know.
What are your favorite hobbies? Spending time with friends and family, hiking, visiting new coffee shops, and playing sports
What is your favorite book/movie? Ready Player One
What was your first job? Carousel Frozen Treats in Warrenton
What are your bucket list vacation spots? Alaska, Thailand, New Zealand, and visiting all 7 continents
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? “Don’t let the sun go down on your anger.” A quote from his grandparents when they were asked about marriage advice. They are approaching 70 years together, so it seems to have been a sound strategy!
I had the pleasure of working with Dan for a number of years and he is, hands down, one of the finest people I know. We also traveled to Haiti to perform outreach services to the people of a community and Dan paid his own way to be there and serve. What a great member of the Meridian team!
Thank you for your kind words! We are lucky to have Dan as part of our team!