Retirement isn’t the end of learning—it’s just a new chapter. Our seminars are free to attend thanks to the generous support of local sponsors who believe in clear, accessible financial education without a sales pitch.
Meet the Experts Behind Retirement Academy
Our instructors come from different corners of the financial, tax, and legal world—but they share one thing: a passion for helping people make sense of retirement. They’re not here to sell you anything. They’re here to teach. With decades of combined experience, they break down complex topics in a way that’s clear, useful, and built around the questions retirees are actually asking.
Our Instructors
Reid Harris, CFP® – Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
Reid Harris brings deep Eastern North Carolina roots and a passion for service to his role as a financial advisor at Edward Jones. Raised in Wilson, NC, by a lawn care business owner and a hospice care coordinator, Reid learned early the values of hard work, compassion, and community. Today, he calls Wilmington home—a place where he enjoys fishing on local waters, grilling out with friends, playing tennis, and giving back through community service.
A proud graduate of NC State University in Raleigh, Reid distinguished himself as class valedictorian while studying business administration with a focus on entrepreneurship and finance. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, he fulfilled his dream of opening his own financial advisory practice in Wilmington, where he has served clients ever since.
At Edward Jones, Reid is dedicated to building lasting relationships with families and business owners, always putting their best interests first. He takes the time to understand what matters most to each client, using an established process to set realistic goals and craft personalized strategies. By fostering accountability and partnership, Reid guides his clients through every stage of life, helping them stay on track to achieve their financial aspirations.
Kathy Suits, EA – Owner, Summit Tax Services, LLC (Enrolled Agent)
With nearly two decades of expertise as an Enrolled Agent, Kathy Suits recently revived her passion-driven tax practice—Summit Tax Services, LLC—in Wilmington, NC. After an initial retirement, she rediscovered her calling when friends and local nonprofits turned to her for help with IRS challenges. These experiences reignited her commitment to serving clients with clarity, care, and community focus.
Kathy has prepared thousands of tax returns and successfully resolved countless IRS issues over her career. Her renewed EA designation underscores her continued commitment to helping retirees feel confident and informed about their tax situations—especially those navigating the complexities of retirement.
She’s particularly passionate about partnering with small nonprofits and local organizations—offering accessible, knowledgeable tax guidance without the hefty fees often charged by large firms. Whether helping someone correct a filing error or demystifying tax implications for retirement income, Kathy brings a fresh, empathetic approach to every client.
Scott Donaldson – Owner & Managing Attorney, Donaldson Law PLLC
Scott Donaldson brings a rare and powerful combination of law enforcement experience and legal acumen to his practice in Wilmington. He began his career with the New York City Sheriff’s Department, rising from deputy to lieutenant—an achievement that laid the foundation for his work ethic, investigative insight, and unwavering integrity In 2020, Scott pivoted toward law, enrolling at Campbell Law School in Raleigh and completing his studies in just two-and-a-half years while still commuting from Wilmington—a strong testament to his dedication and focus.
At Donaldson Law PLLC, Scott specializes in estate planning, probate, elder law, personal injury, family law, and workers’ compensation—all grounded in a straightforward, compassionate client experience Whether drafting wills and trusts, guiding clients through Medicaid or probate, settling workplace injury claims, or helping families navigate elder care complexities, Scott’s goal is to protect your legacy and simplify life’s most sensitive transitions.
Scott’s practice style reflects his personal values—trust, transparency, and mutual respect. He believes legal services should never feel impersonal or intimidating. Instead, Scott emphasizes a client-centered process: understanding individual stories, tailoring strategies that reflect real needs, and guiding each client at every step
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