Melissa McNaughton
Chief Operations Officer
I have a wide range of responsibilities, all of which have the same purpose — to maximize and align our resources so our advisors can focus on you. I continuously evaluate our structure and processes to ensure we bring you the best service possible now and in the future.
Mike and I live in Penfield, NY. I enjoy golf, reading, and working on projects around the house. I look forward to cooking family dinners and having everyone around the kitchen table when the “kids” are in town.
Allen Vitale
Associate Investment Analyst, FINRA Series 7 & 66 Securities Registrations
In my role, I focus on our investment process, which encompasses research, portfolio construction, and ongoing monitoring of existing investments. I am also responsible for assisting advisors with the execution of your investment strategies, which often means identifying customized solutions for unique situations and applying them to meet your specific needs.
I currently reside in North Winton Village with my girlfriend, Sarah, and our (her) flourishing collection of plants. I love spending time outdoors, whether it's playing golf, running or walking, or dining al fresco. Indoors, I enjoy watching my favorite sports teams – the Bills, Sabres, Yankees, and Knicks – on TV. Making regular trips to Buffalo allows me to fully experience the excitement of game days.
Christina Doody
Client Services Manager, Notary Public
I’m responsible for ensuring our clients receive the best service possible and do this by overseeing existing processes and the implementation of fresh initiatives. When new clients join us, I make sure the advisors have all the resources and support needed for a seamless transition.
I live in Fairport, NY with my husband, Bryan. Most of our free time is spent trying to keep up with our two young boys. We enjoy attending Buffalo Sabres games and family trips to Boston and Florida when we can get away. My mother and I get our quality time in with season tickets to the Rochester Broadway Theatre League.
Erica Cook
Client Service Specialist, Notary Public
I am happy to provide answers to questions concerning your accounts and handle any service requests you may have. I assist in the implementation of your financial plans, which often involves helping to find creative solutions to unique situations. Making sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process and ensuring that all the T’s have been crossed and I’s dotted is extremely important to me. I am also a NYS Notary Public and offer this complimentary service to our clients.
I spend my time away from the office mostly outdoors with my two Rhodesian Ridgebacks. When I’m not trailing behind them, you can find me kayaking or boating with family and friends. When weather doesn’t permit such activities, I’m perfectly comfortable being a homebody and welcome the opportunity to binge a good show.
Whitney Benton
Client Service Associate
I’m available as a resource to answer any account questions you may have. Effectively meeting your servicing needs is a top priority of mine and I do this by gathering the information needed to create and maintain your financial profile, compiling reports for your reviews, and keeping current on all your accounts.
I live in Rochester and enjoy diving into the history and culture of the city. For fun on weekends, you can catch me watching stand-up at a comedy club or online. I’m known as the “honorary auntie” amongst my friends and their kids, and they keep me on my toes. In my down time, I like cooking and knitting while listening to Etta James, BB King, and Jethro Tull.
Samantha Watt
Client Service Associate
I am happy to provide answers to questions concerning your accounts and handle any requests you may have. I ensure everything is in good order and keep you informed every step of the way. My goal is to make sure the process is seamless, which is why I think communication is crucial.
I live in Greece, NY with my husband, two kids, and our Boxer. When we find the time, we love swimming, concerts, and checking out local festivals. We try to schedule weekly family dance parties as well as a night for crafts or games. As our children grow, we find ourselves spending more time in gyms and on athletic fields while they try new sports and activities.
Emily Schmitt
Client Concierge
I will be the voice you hear when you give us a call and the first smile to greet you when you arrive at our Linden Oaks office. Expect to hear from me when it is time to schedule your review. I look forward to helping meet your needs and getting to know you.
I live in Henrietta, NY with my husband, Justin, and our two Boston Terrier puppies, Rocco and Koda. I enjoy my free time with family and friends hosting weekly game nights, exploring local craft breweries, playing kickball, golfing, and cheering my husband on at his hockey games. Quieter moments are spent planning our next adventure — whether it's traveling, finding tickets for different events, or organizing a themed party, we're all about creating new memories.
Julie Mersdorf
Director of Client Experience
With more than 15 years at OakWood, I take pride in putting you first and making sure we are doing everything possible to create an environment where you feel informed and at ease. I look forward to seeing you at the varied client education and appreciation events we hold throughout the year. If you have feedback or suggestions on topics you would like to learn more about, please let me know.
I make my home in Webster with my husband, Jay, and two great, energetic kids. Most evenings and weekends you can find me cheering the kids on at soccer, basketball, and lacrosse games. My spare time is spent outdoors in the pool and boating with friends and family. On quiet evenings, I enjoy scrapbooking to preserve our family memories.
Chris Cahill
Operations Manager
I am responsible for the day-to-day logistics and use my organizational and problem-solving skills to keep both offices running smoothly so the OakWood team can focus on meeting your needs.
I live in Irondequoit, NY with my wife, Carrie, and our dog, Callie. During the summer months, I enjoy spending time outside on our boat, golfing, or playing kickball. When not outdoors, I can be heard cheering on the Buffalo Bills and Sabres and will occasionally make the trip to Buffalo to catch a game in person.