Shawn D. Pacanowski

CIMA®

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Tell us about yourself.

“Like so many, my clients are seeking a more predictable future and best possible outcomes for their lives. Guiding people through our custom planning process empowers our clients with confidence in their financial security and frees them to live a more fulfilling life. They gain clarity and knowledge in their quest to get the most out of their finances.”

With CapTrust Since

2004

College / Degrees

Calvin University – B.A. Pre-law, Business and Political Science

Professional Certifications & Equipping

Certified Investment Management Analyst® Professional certification administered by Investments & Wealth Institute™ and taught in conjunction with the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

Fundamentals of Alternative Investments Certificate – Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association

Family Wealth and Business Leadership Transition Planning – Institute for Preparing Heirs

Applied Behavioral Finance Certificate – MIT Laboratory for Financial Engineering

Strategic Acquisitions – Association for Corporate Growth W MI

Experience

CapTrust, Advisor, 2004 – Present

Recognition

40 Under 40 Business Leader Honoree, The Grand Rapids Business Journal, 2014

Hometown

Holland, Michigan

Travel

Our family loves visiting National Parks and downhill skiing in the winter.

What Got You Interested in This Field?

At its core, a desire to serve people is what drew me to this profession. I’ve always been interested in the connection between wealth and the larger purposes people have for their lives.

Over the years, I’ve learned that wealth is rarely complicated because of investments. More often, it’s complicated because life is. A business transition, retirement, a tax decision, an inheritance, a charitable goal, or concern for the next generation can quickly create questions that no investment portfolio can answer on its own.

That is where I believe I can be most helpful.

I work with individuals, families, and business owners to understand the life they want to live, the people and causes they care about, and the impact they hope to make. From there, we bring investments, tax planning, estate planning, risk management, and philanthropy together into one coordinated strategy.

What clients often value most is my ability to see how the pieces affect one another, simplify complex decisions, and identify opportunities well before they become urgent. The goal is not simply to manage wealth. It is to help clients use their wealth more intentionally and make important decisions with greater clarity.

Ultimately, I want clients to feel confident that their financial life is working together to support the future they envision. If your financial decisions have grown more complex, or you’re unsure whether every part of your plan is truly coordinated, I’d welcome the opportunity to offer a fresh perspective.

Family

Family has always been one of life’s greatest blessings. My wife and I have been married for 28 years and are grateful to have raised three incredible children together.

Hobbies and Recreation

I enjoy fly fishing Michigan’s trout streams, downhill skiing, exploring new hiking trails, and spending time with family and friends. Some of my favorite moments involve being outdoors and appreciating the beauty and quiet that nature has to offer.

Community Service

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland, Board Member, 2024 – Present
Community Foundation of Holland/Zeeland Area, Investment Committee Member, 2016 – Present
Grand Rapids Economic Club, Member, 2006 – Present
Investments & Wealth Institute, Member, 2004 – Present
Michigan’s West Coast Chamber of Commerce, Board Chair, 2009 – 2015

Let’s Talk

Every great partnership begins with a conversation. Let’s explore how we can help you grow, preserve, and pass on your wealth with clarity and confidence.

Talk to an Advisor