Charitable Giving: Tools, Trends, and Conversations

Dennis Ladd, Vice President, Fidelity Charitable partners with advisors and families to design charitable strategies that integrate seamlessly with financial and legacy planning. With extensive expertise in donor-advised funds, Dennis helps clients maximize the impact of their giving by aligning philanthropic vision with tax-efficient solutions. He brings deep knowledge of how charitable planning can strengthen wealth transfer, family engagement, and community impact, and has worked with countless families to make giving a central part of their financial lives.

Sheila Baird, Founding Partner, Kimelman & Baird (K&B) is a founding partner of K&B, and has guided the firm since 1966 with a commitment to client care and ethical judgment. Beyond her five decades of investment leadership, she has devoted significant time to nonprofit and philanthropic organizations, serving on boards including Children’s Aid, Outward Bound, and the Financial Women’s Association. Her career reflects both sharp financial expertise and a lifelong dedication to community impact.

Jon Nixon, CPA, Goldcrest Consulting Services, LLC, has over 30 years of experience serving both individuals and businesses in the Tri-State area. He holds the FINRA Series 27 license (since 2012) and acts as a Financial and Operations Principal, advising broker-dealers on regulatory, back-office, tax, and accounting matters. With a BS in Accounting from Bryant University, Jon is also active in the profession via affiliations such as the New York State Society of CPAs and the National Conference of CPA Practitioners.

Denise Rosario Adusei, Executive Director, Bronx Children’s Museum, opened in 2023, as the first children’s museum in the borough. Under Denise's leadership, the Museum has reached more than 150,000 children and families with programs in education, mental health, and professional development for teachers. She has secured major grants, including funding for an electric bus that brings the Museum directly to Bronx communities, and partners with funders to ensure these investments create lasting impact.

Sapan Vyas, Partner & Co-Chief Investment Officer, Kimelman & Baird (K&B), has dedicated over 20 years to serving the firm and its clients. He plays a key role on the investment and executive committees, focusing on portfolio construction, risk management, and asset allocation. A Bronx native, Sapan is also deeply engaged in the community, having served as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York City and as a board member of the Bronx Children’s Museum.

Yasmeen Mock, Partner & Chief Operating Officer, Kimelman & Baird (K&B), has spent over 20 years guiding the firm’s operations and client relationships. She serves on the Investment Committee and leads initiatives to modernize systems, strengthen compliance, and enhance client care. Rooted in New York City, Yasmeen is active in community service, serving on the boards of LifeWay Network, Children’s Aid, and the Governor’s Committee on Scholastic Achievement.