Vanessa DeHaan
CFP®, CPA, Lead Advisor
Growing up in a small town outside of Chicago, Vanessa demonstrated an early affinity for math and finance. She would pick up odd jobs around the house and carefully save her allowance in an admirable display of youthful frugality. You could say she was fascinated by money from an early age!
After studying accounting, finance, and mathematics at Loyola University Chicago, Vanessa obtained her Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. She started her career as an auditor, first at Deloitte then for a large asset management firm in Chicago. While she enjoyed learning about the investment management industry in these roles, she craved more personal connection and yearned to make an impact in people’s lives.
Life’s twists and turns brought Vanessa and her husband out west to Oregon and California. During that time, she discovered her passion for personal financial planning. She enjoyed managing the family’s investments, optimizing their monthly cash flows, and setting up a college savings plan when their daughter was born. Friends often called for advice on their taxes, retirement accounts, and stock compensation plans. One day, she realized she could turn her passion for finance into a career that would have a meaningful impact on other families’ lives.
After moving back to Oregon, Vanessa obtained the Certified Financial PlannerTM (CFP®) designation. She joined the Vista team in 2020, moving into the role of lead advisor in 2023. What began as a zest for learning quickly evolved into a career she adores. Vanessa loves educating and empowering her clients to take control of their finances, gain confidence, and live meaningful lives. She has even shared her insights in the Oregon Society of CPA’s magazine.
Vanessa spends much of her time serving her community. She is a volunteer youth volleyball coach and is the board secretary for Anthony’s Circle, a nonprofit organization focused on increasing the graduation rate and educational opportunities for students in the foster care system. She also volunteers at her daughter’s school, lending a helping hand with art literacy, class parties, and other events.
Vanessa lives with her husband, daughter, and their “fur baby,” a Cockapoo named Charlie. She enjoys working out and traveling with her family.
Something you may not know about Vanessa: She renovated a 1930s cottage in Napa, California, while taking a career pause to support her family.
