Meet Our Coaches

Why The College Funding Coach?

I am excited to be a College Funding Coach because I am deeply passionate about helping families achieve the dream of higher education without sacrificing their financial future. I know this struggle firsthand. My own family had difficulty affording college, and I joined the Marine Corps to cover the cost of my education. I’ve seen close friends burdened with six-figure student loan debt that feels impossible to escape.

These experiences inspired my commitment to demystify the college funding process—financial aid, scholarships, tax strategies, and smart planning—so that parents can help their children attend the college of their dreams while protecting their long-term financial security.

Area of Focus for Delivering LKS Workshops:

Families nationwide, with a focus on helping students attend their dream colleges regardless of initial financial barriers

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A Little More About Barry

Background:
Barry has over 25 years of experience in investment planning, having worked with respected firms including Bear Stearns, BNP Paribas, Devon Financial Partners, and Lincoln Investment Planning Group. Today, he applies that experience through Cornerstone Advisor Group, where he specializes in helping families prepare for the financial demands of higher education through comprehensive planning strategies.

Professional Accomplishments:

• Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)

• Proud father of three children and grandfather of three

Education:

• B.A. in Psychology, Franciscan University of Steubenville

• CLU designation from The American College of Financial Services

Community Involvement:
Barry is a 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus and an active parishioner at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Morton, PA. He is also a member of Marian Council #3753.

When He’s Not Working:
Barry has been married to his wife, Cecile, since 2003. Cecile is a registered nurse at Riddle Memorial Hospital. They currently live in Morton, Pennsylvania, where they raise their three children and enjoy staying involved in their church and local community. In his spare time, Barry enjoys biking, attending sporting events, and spending quality time with family and friends.

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Barry J. Phillips is an Investment Adviser Representative, and investment advisory services are offered solely by ESI Financial Advisors. Cornerstone Advisor Group LLC is independent of ESI Financial Advisors.
License: Series 65

The College Funding Coach is not affiliated with ESI Financial Advisors.

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Speaker Introduction – Barry Phillips

Tonight’s presenter is Barry Phillips, a College Funding Coach who is passionate about helping families make college affordable without sacrificing their financial future.

Barry’s commitment to this work is personal. His own family struggled to afford college, and he served in the Marine Corps to pay for his education. He’s also seen close friends burdened with overwhelming student loan debt—experiences that led him to help families better understand the college funding process.

With more than 25 years of experience in investment planning, Barry now works through Cornerstone Advisor Group, helping families nationwide plan for college using smart, strategic approaches.

Barry is a proud father and grandfather, active in his church and local community, and enjoys spending time with family, biking, and attending sporting events.