News Release

Michael Bergen

WARSAW — Michael Bergen, CIMA, Investment Strategist at Alderfer Bergen & Co. in Warsaw, recently obtained the Certified Investment Management Analyst certification.

Fewer than two percent of financial services professionals hold CIMA certification, which is delivered by Investments & Wealth Institute and is the only credential designed specifically for financial advisors and investment consultants. Bergen has been a partner at Alderfer Bergen & Co. since 2004 and is responsible for investment management including customized portfolio design, implementation and monitoring. Bergen holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Indiana University. “We are strong proponents of lifetime learning, with the goal of providing our clients with excellent advice and service,” Bergen said.

The CIMA certification identifies individuals who have met extensive experience and ethical requirements and successfully completed advanced investment management consulting coursework provided through one of three top-20 business schools in the United States: The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania or the Yale School of Management. CIMA professionals must pass a certification exam covering a wide range of in-depth investment topics. Additionally, those who earn the certification must agree to meet ongoing continuing education requirements and adhere to the Institute’s Code of Professional Responsibility.

In 2011, the American National Standards Institute recognized CIMA certification as the first financial services credential in the United States to earn accreditation under an international personnel certification standard. ANSI is a private nonprofit organization that provides third-party accreditation services and oversees a broad array of standards development processes in the United States.

“The CIMA certification program represents high standards in each of the ‘Four E’s — experience, education, examination and ethics,” said Sean R. Walters, CAE, the Institute’s executive director and chief executive officer. “As a result, the certification consistently qualifies investment advisors, investment consultants and investment managers as advanced practitioners in their field.”

The Investments & Wealth Institute is a professional association, advanced education provider and standards body for financial advisors, investment consultants and wealth managers who embrace excellence and ethics. Through their events, continuing education courses, and acclaimed certifications — Certified Investment Management Analyst, Certified Private Wealth Advisor and Retirement Management Advisor — the Institute delivers rigorous, highly practical education.
Securities and financial planning offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor.