Our Team

   Sharon Almeida
CEO
Financial Advisor

 After graduating from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Financial Services in 1987, Sharon began her career specializing in pension plans for educators. While Sharon continues to work extensively with teaching professionals, she also assists business owners and individuals alike with various aspects of financial planning and benefits including retirement plans, insurance, investments, and estate planning. Sharon is an Investment Advisory Representative and a Registered Representative with VSR Financial Services, Inc. She is a member of the American Business Women's Association (ABWA), National Tax Shelter Accounts Association (NTSAA) and the Financial Planning Association (FPA).  Sharon also volunteers as the VP at R.E.A.C.H. for Special Adults of the Tri-Valley. Sharon lives in Livermore with her two children, Jacqueline and Garrett and their French bulldog, Brooklyn & pug, Montgomery.  She enjoys reading and traveling. 

Laurie Rea
Operations Manager & Controller
 

Laurie began her business career in 1983, after graduating from California State University Hayward with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. Prior to coming to Cents & Sensibility, Laurie was a general ledger manager for a Fortune 500 company in Silicon Valley. She keeps the office running smoothly with her amazing organizational skills. Laurie's hobbies include cooking, reading and traveling. Laurie lives in Livermore with her cats, Casey and Abby. 

Lisa Antone
Client Relationship Specialist

Lisa graduated from California State University, Hayward with a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration.  She previously worked for a financial planning firm as a Client Services Administrator and has brought her knowledge and experience to serve our clients.   She lives in Dublin with her husband and two teenage daughters.   In her spare time, she loves to read, paint, and sew.  Her favorite thing is to spend time with her family.
 

Kristy Lopes

Administrative & Communication Coordinator

Kristy joined our team in June 2010.  In recent years Kristy worked as an Executive Assistant where she oversaw all customer related interactions and Marketing.  Kristy studied Business and Marketing at California State University, East Bay.  She is unquestionably a people-person who goes out of her way to provide excellent service.  Kristy lives in Livermore with her husband and two young children.  When not working she enjoys photography, baking, and spending time with her family.

Robyn Balent

Administrative Assistant

Robyn Balent joined our team in November 2011. Robyn began her career in 2000 after graduating from Concordia University Ann Arbor with a degree in English/Journalism. She has spent that time working in many different business fields including office administration, insurance and service industries. Her hobbies include reading, writing, traveling and indoor cycling. Robyn currently resides in San Ramon with her husband and their cat, Sadie.