About Ashland Advisors

About Luke

Minnesota native Gen-Xer. Grew up listening to Classic Rock and Hair Bands, lifting weights, and competing in the artillery division on the track and field team (no javelin). Married to Tona with 4 kids, 2 dogs, and a cat. Hobbies include kids' year-round activities, grilling, fishing, comedy movies, and coaching track (artillery division) at Van Meter. 

Luke's Credentials: 

- President, Chief Compliance Officer, and Investment Adviser Representative of Ashland Advisors

- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

- Bachelor's & Master's in Accounting (tax emphasis) Auburn University

- Master's in Finance & Economics West Texas A&M University

- MBA in Finance University of Iowa

- Bachelor's in International Management & Spanish Gustavus Adolphus College (MN)

History of Ashland Advisors PLLC

I wasn't always an accounting guy. In fact I actually changed majors at Gustavus to avoid taking more that one accounting course. Spent some time in business and saw the value of accounting so went back to school about ten years ago for a second bachelor's degree. Graduated, passed the CPA and CMA exams, and started Ashland Advisors as an income tax focused business in 2018. 

Tax clients began asking about additional financial planning services, so in 2023 the firm became a Registered Investment Adviser in the State of Iowa. Ashland Advisors now offers both income tax services and fee-only, fiduciary financial planning. 

What's with the name? 

When I went back to school for accounting, we lived on Ashland Parkway and I liked the double vowels. I'd always planned to add financial advisory services so wanted a name that fit the plan. The colors and font match Auburn University, and the initials match Auburn Accounting. The double diamonds come from a process model of exploring an issue in detail and then taking focused action, which is how I approach taxes and finances. The stacked diamond design is simple and symmetrical, and in true accountant fashion I designed it myself in Excel.