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AWARDS

Recognition for achievement benefits everyone. The IARFC seeks out those leaders whose dedication and commitment have made their Association great. Members are publicly appreciated for their long-time membership and their importance to the financial community. These awards are presented on an annual basis.
 

LOREN DUNTON LIFETIME
ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

In commemoration of Loren Dunton’s achievements and influence on the Financial Services industry, the IARFC honors dedicated and committed leaders who have made significant contributions to supporting Dunton’s vision.

FOUNDER’S AWARD

In honor of the IARFC Founder John J. Gargan, this tribute is presented to financial professionals who have delivered significant service to the operations and growth of the Financial Services Industry.

CHAPTER AMBASSADOR AWARD

Presented to IARFC members (both US and Internationally) who have selflessly supported the IARFC mission through extraordinary efforts of time, service, and dedication.



MEMBER AWARD

Presented annually in appreciation to top IARFC members who have referred the most newly qualified professional consultants who join the ranks of the Association.

 

LOREN DUNTON LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Generally regarded as the “Father of Financial Planning”, Loren Dunton organized financial professionals in the late sixties and with their help created the financial planning movement. Dunton developed associations, magazines, colleges, university programs, and foundations. He used his experiences to frankly explain what all financial advisors now recognize - that the ethical sales of financial products and the delivery of competent advice is a noble calling. Loren Dunton was a man of vision who cared deeply about both financial consultants and consumers. The Loren Dunton Lifetime Achievement Award was first conferred in 2000 at the IARFC Financial Advisors Forum. The selection committee has strived to honor consultants who have demonstrated effectiveness in carrying the message of responsible financial stewardship to the public and have high ethical and professional standards.

Loren Dunton Lifetime Achievement Award Criteria

Those who are considered for the Award must currently meet or have met the following criteria:

  • Hold a professional designation or credential (i.e. RFC®, MRFC®, ChFC®, CFP®, CLU®, CPA/PFS, CEBS, MSFM, MSFS, or Doctoral degree, etc.)
  • Published articles, journals, books, etc. on financial topics
  • Provided outstanding service or leadership in the financial services industry
  • Promoted or participated in financial education, either to the public or to members of the profession
  • Demonstrated effectiveness in carrying the message of responsible financial stewardship to the public
  • Adhered to the IARFC’s Code of Ethics and have a sound record of business integrity with no suspension or revocation of any professional license

Loren Dunton Award Committee

The Dunton Award Committee is comprised of past recipients.

Nominating Task Force:
Chair: Barry L. Dayley, CFP®, MRFC® (2020 recipient)
Denis Walsh, RFC® (2025 recipient)
Michael E. Kitces, CFP® (2024 recipient)
Alan C. Kifer, MRFC® (2023 recipient) 
Monroe Diefendorf, Jr., RFC® (2021 recipient)

Staff Liaison: Charlotte Isbell

  

2026 Loren Dunton Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient 
Aidil Akbar Madjid, RFC®

The International Association of Registered Financial Consultants (IARFC) proudly recognizes Aidil Akbar Madjid, MBA, RFC®, RIFA, CFP, CFE, CH, CHt, as the recipient of the prestigious Loren E. Dunton Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring more than twenty-five years of dedication to advancing financial planning, financial literacy, and ethical professional standards in Indonesia. Aidil Akbar Madjid exemplifies these ideals through a career defined by leadership, innovation, public service, and education.

For more than two decades, Aidil has been a pioneering force in the development of financial planning in Indonesia. Beginning his professional journey in 1997, he quickly recognized the importance of structured financial education and professional standards in a rapidly evolving financial marketplace. At a time when financial planning was still emerging as a profession in Indonesia, Aidil became one of its most visible advocates and architects.

As President and Chairman of the IARFC Indonesia Chapter, Aidil has played a central role in establishing professional standards, expanding the reach of the Registered Financial Consultant (RFC®) designation, and strengthening the ethical framework that guides financial professionals throughout the country. Under his leadership, the chapter has grown into an influential platform promoting education, professional development, and public trust in financial advisory services.

Beyond organizational leadership, Aidil is widely recognized as one of Indonesia’s most influential voices in financial literacy. Through his books, seminars, and media appearances, he has helped millions of Indonesians better understand financial planning, investment discipline, and responsible wealth management. His bestselling books, including Rich Game: Cara Kaya Dengan Investasi, Dasar-Dasar Merencanakan Keuangan Keluarga Secara Syariah, Easy Planning, and Shocking Unitlink, have become important resources for individuals and families seeking practical financial guidance.

Aidil’s contributions extend into national policy and public advocacy. As a member of the Financial Services Authority of Indonesia (OJK) Working Group on Sharia Financial Literacy and Inclusion, he has actively supported government initiatives aimed at expanding financial education and inclusion across the country. His expertise has helped shape programs that bring responsible financial practices to communities that previously had limited access to professional financial guidance.

Equally significant is Aidil’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the profession. He has been an outspoken advocate against fraudulent financial practices and unethical advisors, taking concrete action to defend consumers and uphold professional accountability. His willingness to challenge misconduct and support victims demonstrates his deep commitment to safeguarding both the public and the reputation of the financial planning profession.

Today, Aidil Akbar Madjid stands as a respected educator, author, advisor, and industry leader whose influence continues to shape the future of financial planning in Indonesia. His work reflects the same pioneering spirit that defined Loren E. Dunton, the founder of the modern financial planning movement.

By honoring Aidil Akbar Madjid with the Loren E. Dunton Lifetime Achievement Award, the IARFC recognizes a lifetime devoted to building a stronger profession, empowering individuals through financial knowledge, and advancing the principles of ethical financial stewardship for generations to come.

  

Past Recipients

2025   Denis Walsh, RFC®
2024   Michael E. Kitces, CFP®
2023    Alan C. Kifer, MRFC® 

2021    Monroe Diefendorf, Jr., RFC®
2020    Barry L. Dayley, MRFC®    
2019    Rosilyn Overton, Ph.D., MRFC®
2018    A. William Gustafson, Ph.D.
2017    Ric Edelman, RFC®
2016    Jerry W. Mason, Ph.D.
2015    Jon Rogers, Ph.D., MRFC®
2014    Lester Anderson
2014    Kai Yuan Tu, RFC®
2012    Grace De Vera Escobar, RFC®
2010    H. Stephen Bailey, Ph.D., MRFC® 
2010    Richard Wu
2009    Jack Gargan 
2009    Teresa So, Ph.D., RFC®
2008    Siak Leong Choo
2008    Mehdi Fakarzadeh
2007    Ralph Liew
2007    John P. Walsh
2006    Bill E. Carter
2006    Samuel Yung, RFC®
2005    Jeffrey Chiew, RFC®
2005    Edwin P. Morrow, II
2004    Vernon D. Gwynne
2004    Liang Tien Lung, RFC®
2003    Alexandra Armstrong
2002    John B. Keeble
2001    Donald Ray Haas
2000    Ben Baldwin 
     

Download The Dunton Award Nomination Form and Criteria

FOUNDER'S AWARD

This award is made in honor of the founder of the IARFC, John J. Gargan. It is presented to persons who have delivered significant service to the operation and growth of the International Association of Registered Financial Consultants.

  • Past or present Board Director, Officer, or Committee Member
  • Professional designation or credential holder awarded by the IARFC
  • Clean regulatory record
  • Member of good standing for a minimum of 5 years
  • Adhere to the IARFC Code of Ethics
  • Most importantly, they must have contributed to the growth of the IARFC membership by referring members and by holding or attending events that additionally help expand (above and beyond) the visibility of the Association.

 2026 Recipient – Alan Kifer, MRFC® - member since 2008.

Alan is a distinguished leader within the International Association of Registered Financial Consultants and has been a dedicated member since 2008. Throughout his tenure, he has exemplified professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the financial services profession. His contributions reflect not only deep industry expertise, but also a passion for supporting fellow consultants and strengthening the Association’s global community. Alan’s long-standing service to the IARFC perfectly aligns with the criteria required of a Founder’s Award recipient. His influence extends well beyond titles, as he has played a key role in advancing the Association’s mission, supporting chapter development, and helping expand its global reach. His unwavering adherence to the IARFC Code of Ethics and his commitment to professional integrity further underscore why he is so deserving of this honor.


As the 2023 Dunton Lifetime Achievement Recipient, member of the MRFC Certification Board, and now serving as Trustee Chair, Alan actively engages with the Association’s global community, helping position the IARFC as a truly worldwide presence.

 

He is also a consistent contributor to IARFC publications, sharing insights that support professional growth and thought leadership across the membership. His ongoing efforts continue to drive Association goals forward, making a lasting impact on both the Association and the financial professionals it serves.

Past Recipients

2025   Michelle Blair, RFC®
2024    Nicholas A. Royer, MRFC®
2023    Barry L. Dayley, MRFC®
2022    Robert Laraia, RFC®
2021    Jon M. Rogers, Ph.D., MRFC®
2020    Burnett Marus, RFC® Retired
2019    H. Stephen Bailey, Ph.D., MRFC®
2018    James B. Moss, RFC®
2017    Rosilyn H. Overton, Ph.D., MRFC®
2007    Roy M. Henry
2006    John E. Gable
1984    Jack Gargan

Download The Founder's Award Nomination Form

CHAPTER AMBASSADOR AWARD


The Chapter Ambassador Award is bestowed to those persons who endeavor to represent their Chapter in carrying out the mission of the International Association of Registered Financial Consultants. Each IARFC Chapter may award up to 3 Awards annually.

Chapter Ambassador Award Criteria
Those who are considered for the Award must currently meet or have met the following criteria:
  • IARFC Member with more than 3 years of membership
  • Adherence to the IARFC’s Code of Ethics, and have a sound record of business integrity with no suspension or revocation of any professional license
  • Successfully supported the goals of the Association and has served with extraordinary efforts of time, service, and dedication

Chapter Ambassador Award Committee
Chair: Jon M. Rogers, Ph.D., MRFC®

2026 Recipients

USA
Alan Kifer, MRFC® 
Indonesia
Bareyn Mochaddin, RFC®
Greater China - Hong Kong / Macau 
Alex Kei Hoi Shum, RFC®, MRFS
 Greater China - Hong Kong / Macau
Eugene Tsz Ki Lam, RFC®, MRFS

Greater China - Hong Kong / Macau
Man Pong Chan, RFC®, MRFS
 

2025 Recipients

Philippines - Marissa Francisco, RFC®
Philippines - Antonio Francisco, RFC®
USA - Greg Kurinec, RFC® 
 

2024 Recipients

Philippines - Klinyd Tribajo, RFC®
Philippines - Marvin James, RFC®
Philippines - Alwen Jimemez, RFC®
USA - Paul Wharf, RFC®


2023 Recipients

Philippines - Glenda Miro Antonio, RFC®
Philippines - Nicasio C. Cabaneiro, RFC®
Philippines - Stella Solero Bernabe, RFC®
USA - Lisa Ford, MRFC®
USA - Gregory Kurinec, MRFC®

2022 Recipients

Philippines - Vilma Alcaraz, RFC®
Philippines - Andre Obierez, RFC®
Philippines - Olga Olis, RFC®

USA - Lemuel Kornegay, RFC®
USA - Brad Maples, MRFC®
USA - Gilbert Mercado, MRFC®


2021 Recipients

Philippines - Maria Arlene M. Baguyo, RFC®
Philippines - Joseph Adrian Daez, RFC®
Philippines - Grace de Vera Escobar, RFC®
USA - Peter J. DArruda, MRFC®
USA - Michael J. Markey, MRFC®
USA - Rick B. Stanzione, RFC®


2020 Recipients

USA - Nicholas Royer, MRFC®

USA - Craig Lemoine, MRFC®

USA - Frederick Ostermeyer, MRFC®

2019 Recipients

Philippines - Gamalielh Ariel Benavides, RFC®
USA - Barry L. Dayley, MRFC®


2018 Recipients

China - Ben Liang, RFC®

China - JJ Liang, RFC®

China - Liang Tien Lung, RFC®

Hong Kong /Macau - Teresa So, RFC®

Hong Kong /Macau - Allan Wan, RFC®

Hong Kong /Macau - Samuel W.K. Yung, RFC®

Malaysia - Jeffrey Chiew, RFC®

Philippines - Ralph Liew, RFC®

Philippines - Ismael DL Melendres, Jr, RFC®

Taiwan - Kai Tu, RFC®
USA - Michelle Blair, RFC®

USA - Isabel Cooper, RFC®

USA - Ric Edelman, RFC®

Chapter Ambassador Award - Selected by each individual Chapter

MEMBER AWARD

Member Award for Dedication to Association Advancement

Presented annually in appreciation to top IARFC members who have brought the most newly qualified professional consultants that join the ranks of the Association. 
 

2025 Recipients

 
First Place
Matthew Dixon, RFC®

 Second Place
Jeremy B. Nason, RFC®
 

2024 Recipients

1st Place - Jeremy B. Nason, RFC®
2nd Place - David H. Kinder, RFC®
 

2023 Recipients

1st Place - David H. Kinder, RFC®
2nd Place - Jeremy B. Nason, RFC®
3rd Place - David R. Guttery, RFC®
 

2022 Recipients

1st Place - Lisa Ford, MRFC®
2nd Place - Jeremy B. Nason, RFC®
2nd Place - Michael Zaino, RFC®
 


 


 

 

2021 Recipients

1st Place - Kurt Schroeder, RFC®
2nd Place - Ronnie Kaymore, RFC®
2nd Place - Robert Laraia, RFC®
2nd Place - Russel Luce, RFC®


2020 Recipients

1st Place - H. Stephen Bailey, Ph.D., MRFC®
1st Place - Lori P. Crilley, RFC®
1st Place - Jeremy B. Nason, RFC®
 

2019 Recipients

1st Place - Matthew Apodaca, RFC®

2nd Place - Craig A. Bane, RFC®
2nd Place - Kevin Richards, RFC®
3rd Place - Lori P. Crilley, RFC®
3rd Place - Derek K. Moore, RFC®
3rd Place - Roy Strong, RFC®
3rd Place - Dominque Vercaemert, RFC®

2018 Recipients

1st Place - Jeremy B. Nason, RFC®

2nd Place - Michael J. Markey, MRFC®

3rd Place - Christopher J. Dixon, RFC®
3rd Place - Gavin Merwin, RFC®
3rd Place - Brandon Setlock, RFC®
 

2017 Recipients

1st Place - Barry L. Dayley, MRFC®

2nd Place - Patrick Masterson, Sr., RFC®

3rd Place - Christopher J. Dixon, RFC®
3rd Place - Christopher D. Dantin, RFC®
 

2016 Recipients

1st Place - Michael D. Piershale, RFC®

2nd Place - Christopher D. Dantin, RFC®

Download The Member Referral Form

 EDITOR'S CHOICE AWARD

The Editor’s Choice Award recognizes outstanding achievement in contributing to the success of the publications of the IARFC. Whether in creative writing, editing, proofing, research, or editor committee participation, the recipient’s passion, talents, vision, and inspiration in achieving excellence regarding the public persona of the Association are greatly appreciated.

2026 Recipient

Barry Dayley, MRFC®

2025 Recipients

Charlotte Isbell

Jeremy Nason, RFC®

2024 Recipient

Eduardito Adecer Escobar
 

2023 Recipient

Janelle Rettig

2022 Recipient

Mary Ann Redmond, MRFC®
 

2021 Recipients

Michelle Blair, RFC®

Byrce Sanders

Vicki Caplinger


 
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