OUR SERVICE PROMISE
real, accessible guidance
The last thing you want when you need questions answered is an 800 number. Whether you need help with retirement planning, wealth management, or insurance, you always have direct access and one-on-one support with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.
Education and Certifications
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B.A., Economics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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CFP® Designation, Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc.
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CFPA® Designation, Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor
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Series 7, 63, and 66 licenses
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Charles Cooke, CFP®, CPFA®
President
Charlie is a seasoned financial professional and partner at AFGAS, specializing in comprehensive wealth management for a diverse clientele. With a career spanning over two decades, he has honed his skills. He strives to deliver exceptional service to dentists, business owners, entrepreneurs, individuals, and families.
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Before establishing Cooke Capital in 2006, Charlie kickstarted his financial journey in New York as an equity trader at CF Global (formerly known as TIR Securities). Seeking new opportunities, he returned to the Carolinas and gained valuable experience at Wachovia Securities (now Wells Fargo Securities) in Charlotte and Stern Agee in Raleigh.
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At AFGAS, Charlie embraces a consultative approach to wealth management, striving to deeply understand his client’s goals, values, and aspirations. This enables him and his team to provide personalized financial and investment recommendations tailored to each client's unique circumstances.
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Outside of his professional endeavors, Charlie cherishes his time with his wife, Natalie, and their son, Banks, making their home in Wilmington, NC. Drawing on his Eagle Scout background, he nurtures his love for the outdoors, and you'll often find him engaged in activities like golfing, hunting, traveling, paddle boarding, and grilling out. Charlie also maintains a deep-rooted affinity for his beloved Tarheels, keeping his connection to his alma mater alive.
With the Dental 401(k) plan, your administrative and fiduciary responsibilities are handled by knowledgeable professionals. By combining decades of experience, you benefit from a powerful, deep support bench with one central leader.
Buckingham Retirement Solutions
selects the investment options customized to suit each plan.
Newport Group
provides the administration and custody services for each plan.
Allegiance Financial Group Advisory Services
is your direct contact and liaison to these powerful service providers; we work directly with you and your employees to get the most out of the Dental 401(k).
Education and Certifications
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B.B.A., Finance, Grand Valley State University, Honors College
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CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Certification, Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc.
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Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® Certification, National Association of Plan Advisors
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Series 7, 66, and Life and Health Insurance Licenses
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Haley Ellis, CFP®, CPFA®
Director of Operations
After graduating cum laude from Grand Valley State University in Michigan in 2018, Haley fearlessly embraced new horizons by moving to North Carolina to join our firm (formerly Cooke Capital), quickly ascending to a leadership role within our financial planning division. Now, as the head of operations, she focuses on building a strong, collaborative team culture and streamlining processes to ensure everything runs smoothly. She is passionate about creating an environment where our team can thrive and deliver the best possible experience for our clients.
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Haley is dedicated to financial empowerment, with a focus on supporting women and the next generation. Through mentoring, advocating for diversity in the financial planning profession, and serving as the FPA NexGen Community Awareness and Promotion Coordinator, she strives to help others achieve their goals and live their most fulfilled lives.
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When she's not helping clients fulfill their financial goals, Haley can be found enjoying the scenic beauty of Carolina Beach with her husband, Ryan, and their cherished rabbits, Squirt and Ocean, and actively volunteering with Island Women. Haley values the importance of balance and rejuvenation, whether it involves basking in the sun-kissed shores, pushing her limits at the gym, or traveling on exciting journeys to new destinations.
Education and Certifications
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Retirement Industry Trust Association (RITA) Certification
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Qualified Plan Financial Consultant (QPFC) Designation​
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Keisha Franzen, QPFC
Retirement Plan Specialist
Keisha has been in financial services since 2016, specializing in retirement services with a focus on precision, care, and exceptional client support.
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As a full-service point of contact, she is committed to making every client’s path toward retirement as seamless and stress-free as possible, while sharing her knowledge with both 401(k) participants and employers to support informed financial decisions. In addition to her client-facing work, Keisha has developed a strong passion for operations by building structure, streamlining processes, and ensuring the team is well-equipped as it continues to grow.
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The flexibility of working remotely within the firm allows her to relocate alongside her husband, Jet, as he serves in the military. Outside of work, Keisha leads an active and adventurous lifestyle. She enjoys spending time with her family and lovable dogs “Mr. Bebob & Boogie”, staying active through several sports, traveling, exploring new cuisines and cultures, and attending live music and comedy events.
