Our Team

Ralph A. Smith, LUTCF, LUTCF

Financial Consultant, Partner

Ralph brings over 40 years of extensive experience in the Financial Services Field, excelling as both a Financial Consultant and a supervisor. With a solid academic background in business administration and management from Dutchess Community College and Monmouth College, Ralph has cultivated a lifelong dedication to guiding clients toward financial success.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ralph has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to community involvement. He has served on the board of the Dutchess County Association of Life Underwriters and the Vestry of his church. Active in local initiatives, Ralph is a member and past President of the Highland Rotary Club, a former participant in the Relay for Life American Cancer Association and currently supports the Highland Youth Recreation League.

Ralph also holds Life, Health, and Property and Casualty insurance licenses, equipping him with the expertise to provide a comprehensive range of financial and insurance solutions. His passion for service and dedication to his field make Ralph a trusted and respected professional in his community.

Lawrence R. Ratick, LUTCF

Financial Consultant, Partner

Larry has over 40 years of experience in the financial services industry, serving as both a Financial Consultant and a Supervisor. He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education, earned from Orange County Community College and SUNY Buffalo. A dedicated educator, Larry has also taught courses for the Life Underwriter Training Council.

Larry’s leadership extends beyond his professional roles. He has served as a board member and past president of the Dutchess County Association of Life Underwriters and held the position of president and finance/insurance chair of the Southern Ulster County Chamber of Commerce.

An active member of his community, Larry has managed a travel soccer team for the Highland United Soccer Club and currently supports the Highland Music Boosters Association. He holds licenses in Life, Health, and Property and Casualty insurance, underscoring his expertise in the field.

Larry’s commitment to excellence and community involvement makes him a trusted professional in financial services and a valued member of his local area.

Caitlin Velazquez

CSR, Notary Public

Caitlin is a dedicated and experienced professional with a strong background in customer service and public relations. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she holds a degree in Business Communication and Management from UMass Boston. Caitlin leverages her education and communication expertise to assist clients in navigating complex insurance challenges efficiently. Passionate about fostering meaningful partnerships, she actively engages with both clients and the local community. Caitlin also enjoys exploring new outdoor adventures and sampling diverse cuisines. As a Certified Notary Public and a licensed property and casualty agent, her skills and qualifications further enhance the services she provides.

Gazel Flores, CSR

Gazel brings a wealth of experience in customer service, honed through her previous roles in a dental office and as a patient coordinator at a large animal hospital. She has also excelled as a registration associate for a major local hospital, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments.

Gazel’s passion for connecting with people and her commitment to providing exceptional service make her an invaluable member of our team. Born and raised in the Hudson Valley, she has a deep appreciation for the region and currently resides in Highland. Outside of work, Gazel enjoys exploring the great outdoors and is an avid kayaker.

With her extensive background and dedication to excellence, Gazel is a vital part of our commitment to delivering outstanding service and care to our clients.