My Neurodiversity Journey

The November 2023 Neurodivergent Planners Knowledge Circle will be held on Wednesday, November 29th at 12 pm ET.

We will be joined by Chet Bennetts Chet will be sharing insights about his journey as a neuro-diverse individual and how it has influenced his career as a financial and education professional.

Chet Bennetts, an Assistant Professor of Financial Planning, serves as the Program Director for the CFP®/ChFC® programs at The American College of Financial Services. His journey of service began with an honorable 8.5-year tenure in the Marine Corps, both active and reserve, culminating in a medical discharge after a tour in Iraq in 2005.

Transitioning into the financial services industry, he has amassed over two decades of experience, demonstrating versatility in roles from 401(k) customer service to financial planning, to managing a team of 80 advisors across five states. His credentials include CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, RICP®, CLF®, and an M.S. in Family Financial Planning.

Currently, he is in the final stages of earning his Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning at Kansas State University while also imparting his knowledge on financial planning to undergraduate students as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. His research, primarily centered on behavioral finance, explores the intersection of financial, physical, and psychological well-being.

Bennetts' scholarly contributions span a diverse range of topics, including the application of AI in financial planning, the influence of behavior on investment allocations during volatile markets, and the positive impact of bequest intentions on retirement satisfaction.

His influential work on the necessity of financial planning/counseling in PTSD treatment for Veterans has been recognized and utilized by Congress and White House staff. During a legislative fellowship he was awarded, this advocacy led to his involvement in Congressional hearings and assisting in the drafting of legislation. 

His commitment to his field and his passion for advocacy underscore his dedication to the financial well-being of individuals and communities.