Derek Dierks is a Financial Consultant with Northwest Ohio Area Associates at Thrivent. Since 2004, he has focused on tax efficiency, wealth transfer, retirement planning, and investments, helping people clarify what matters most and turn it into practical, easy to follow strategies.

His path began in high school while shadowing his parents’ financial planner; raised Lutheran, he was drawn to Thrivent’s mission and has a family connection through his mother’s service with the organization’s parent groups.

Derek listens first and stays alongside clients as life evolves—adjusting plans, so they continue to fit. He also breaks down day-to-day financial decisions, so the next step feels clear, manageable, and sustainable.

Away from work, he’s often golfing, at the lake, or outdoors with his long‑haired dachshund, Frank, and spending time with his mom and three nephews. He serves clients across Northwest Ohio and values straightforward, collaborative relationships.

Derek Cipiti is a Financial Associate with Northwest Ohio Associates at Thrivent. He began his career in 2003 and focuses on retirement planning and investment strategies that allow him to blend his interest in investing with his passion for helping people. He was drawn to Thrivent for its unique mission of supporting Christians and giving back to the community, a mission that closely aligns with his own values.

Derek’s favorite part of his work is building long-lasting relationships and supporting clients as they pursue their financial goals. He is known for taking the time to understand what matters to each person and offering guidance with both care and clarity.

Outside the office, Derek enjoys reading, birdwatching, and building Legos or playing outside with his two boys. His wife, their sons, and their dog Pepper are at the center of his life, and he values the family bonds and traditions they share. He is also active in the community through Olivet Church and coaching his sons’ sports teams.

Austin is a Financial Associate with Northwest Ohio Associates at Thrivent and a CFP® professional. He joined Thrivent in August 2020 and specializes in retirement, investment, and tax planning.

He chose this work to help people feel supported on their financial journey—shaped by having had little formal financial education growing up. He was drawn to Thrivent because it allows him to align faith and finances in his daily work.

Austin is committed to forming meaningful connections and offering straightforward, tax efficient strategies to help people make informed financial choices.

Outside the office, he’s usually golfing, fishing, hunting, or riding ATVs with family and close friends.

With roots in rural communities, he appreciates conversations that go beyond the numbers and into the values and experiences people share.

Ken is a Financial Associate with Northwest Ohio Associates. He supports clients and his team with responsive service, clear communication, and thorough follow through. He joined Thrivent in July 2014 and focuses on helping clients understand and maintain their products while documenting each step, so everyone stays on the same page.

Before entering financial services, Ken spent 40 years as a teacher and decided it was time for a new chapter. Already a Thrivent member, he was drawn to the organization’s values and ethics and appreciated how closely they aligned with his own.

Ken takes a patient, solutions-focused approach and clearly communicates the rationale behind every recommendation. He is known for his strong follow through and for documenting his work thoroughly and accurately.

Away from work, Ken enjoys visiting his grandchildren, climbing mountains, bird watching, and reading. He and his wife regularly camp and hike together, and he’s always happy to share stories from the trail. He’s active in his church community through Caring Companions visits with homebound members, service on church council and the stewardship committee, singing in the choir, and a weekly Bible study.

Jennifer Quackenbush serves as an Office Professional and is often the first point of contact for clients, whether in person or over the phone. She focuses on creating a welcoming, supportive experience and enjoys helping clients and team members feel comfortable and cared for throughout their interactions with the practice.

Jennifer has been with Northwest Ohio Associates of Thrivent since 2018 and brings a strong service-oriented mindset to her role. She was drawn to Thrivent not only through her professional work, but also as a longtime client since 1981. She values Thrivent’s commitment to ethical practices and appreciates being part of an organization where helping others is central to the mission. Jennifer is also a commissioned Notary and is known by clients and colleagues for her kindness, empathy, and willingness to help.

Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys singing, playing board and card games, and spending time with family and friends. She and her husband, Roy, have three children and share their home with numerous pets. Jennifer is actively involved in her church, Olivet Lutheran, where she sings in the praise band each week and currently serves on the church council.

Meghan Rayfield serves as an Office Professional, supporting the day-to-day operations of Northwest Ohio Associates with a focus on organization, collaboration, and thoughtful service. She enjoys being part of a team that works together to create a positive, supportive experience for clients. 

Meghan brings a diverse professional background to her role, with experience in human resources across healthcare and education, as well as time spent supporting a small family manufacturing business. She was drawn to Thrivent after being a client for more than a decade and appreciates working for an organization that focuses on purpose in addition to business. Meghan values being part of a team where making a difference for others is central to the work. 

Outside of the office, Meghan enjoys reading, baking sourdough bread, and spending time with her family. She lives with her husband and daughter and enjoys time with their rescue dog, Calli—a black labrador and basset mix who brings plenty of joy to their home.