Meet The Team
Founders of FinanceFirst
President
Carlos Reyes, the president of FinanceFirst and a senior at the School for Advanced Studies, is a visionary leader with a passion for financial literacy and business. Aspiring to major in Business, Carlos has transformed FinanceFirst into a platform that empowers individuals to take control of their financial futures through accessible education on budgeting, investing, debt management, and more. With a keen eye for innovation, he has optimized the organization's social media presence to reach a wider audience, promoting financial empowerment for all. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration and purpose, and he strives to make FinanceFirst an inclusive resource for anyone looking to improve their financial skills. As Carlos looks ahead to his future studies and career in finance, he remains committed to fostering financial independence in others, driven by his belief that understanding personal finance is the key to unlocking greater opportunities.
Vice President
Elyssa Saldana, vice president at FinanceFirst and a student at Barbara Goleman Senior High, plays a crucial role in shaping the organization’s mission of promoting financial literacy. With her innovative ideas and passion for empowering others, she works closely with the leadership team to create programs that simplify personal finance topics such as budgeting, saving, and investing. Elyssa's creativity, leadership skills, and commitment to financial education make her an invaluable part of FinanceFirst, helping to expand the organization's impact and inspire others to take control of their financial futures.
Vice President
William Bello, the vice president of FinanceFirst, plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission of promoting financial literacy. As a senior at the School for Advanced Studies, William collaborates with Carlos Reyes and Lucas Ross to spearhead initiatives that demystify finance, focusing on topics like investing, budgeting, and debt management. Known for his strategic thinking and leadership skills, William is instrumental in ensuring that FinanceFirst reaches its goals, making financial education accessible to a broader audience. His dedication and analytical approach are key to the organization's ongoing success in empowering individuals to achieve financial independence.
Vice President
Lucas Ross, the vice president of FinanceFirst and a fellow senior at the School for Advanced Studies, is a dedicated and strategic leader with a strong commitment to financial education. Working alongside Carlos Reyes, Lucas plays a key role in shaping the direction of FinanceFirst, helping to create and implement programs that teach essential financial skills such as budgeting, saving, and investing. Known for his collaborative approach and problem-solving mindset, Lucas ensures that the organization remains effective in reaching its goals while fostering a supportive environment for its members. His passion for finance, paired with his leadership abilities, makes Lucas an integral part of FinanceFirst’s mission to make financial literacy accessible and impactful for everyone.