Montreal Moments: A Standout Year at Leaders Conference

Written By Guest User

More than 30 advisors from CFG attended this year’s Leaders Conference – MassMutual’s largest recognition event – held in Montreal, Canada. Leaders brings together top performers from across the country to learn, connect, and celebrate with their peers and families.

Several standout moments made this year’s conference especially meaningful for our team.

  • Dakota Brizendine took the main stage to share her journey – from building a successful planning practice to stepping into a leadership role that’s reshaping the future of the profession. Through her work with the firm’s Financial Planning Mastery Program, she’s championing the development of the “Modern Advisor,” blending structured growth with a culture defined by courage, collaboration, and grit.

  • Patrick O’Brien was honored a Freshman Five Award* recipient, one of only five professionals nationwide to be recognized for career excellence, including prior calendar year production. He accepted the award on stage with his family, an inspiring moment that highlighted the personal impact and professional possibility this career can offer.

  • Jim Bolton also took the spotlight as the newly elected president of the Advisors Association (AAX). As a voice for thousands of financial professionals across the country, he is committed to building community, advocating for advisor needs, and ensuring that those shaping the future of the profession are supported every step of the way.

  • Anastasia Surmava participated in the “Women at MassMutual” panel, sharing personal experiences and offering insight into what it means to thrive as a woman in financial services.

To cap off the conference, CFG hosted an unforgettable agency dinner atop Montreal’s tallest building. Surrounded by panoramic views, a curated menu, and even a surprise rainbow, the evening celebrated not only the success of our advisors but the community, camaraderie, and momentum that continue to move us forward.

*Recognized by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) based on prior calendar year sales. Recipients are agents of MassMutual. 
Local firms are sales offices of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111-0001 and are not subsidiaries of MassMutual or its affiliated companies.  Securities offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. Supervisory office: 280 Congress Street, Suite 1300, Boston, MA 02210 Tel: 617-439-4389. CRN202807-9054101
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Patrick O’Brien Named Freshman Five Award Recipient