
Sam Westers
Client Relationship ManagerSam joined Abbit in 2023. He works as a relationship manager and investment advisor to individuals and businesses.
Before Abbit, Sam worked at two local investment advisory firms as a Financial Planner, Advisor Account Specialist and Paraplanner. Primarily, his work has been a culmination of creating financial plans, making investment recommendations and providing account resolutions for partnering firms and clients. Sam obtained a Bachelor of Finance from GVSU in 2019. While at GVSU, he served as President of the Seidman Investment Portfolio Organization (IPO) – the student run investment club. Sam also holds a Series 65 license.
In his free time, Sam enjoys spending time with his Fiancée Phoebe and two-year-old son Harry. Whether it’s making improvements on their newly acquired historic home, mixing up cocktails or taking walks around East Grand Rapids, there’s always something to be enjoyed.
Noteworthy Quote
” I know that I know nothing”
– Socrates

Alicia Jorgensen
Account AdministratorIn January 2021, Alicia joined the Abbit Management team. With 10 years MDHHS experience, she has extensive knowledge of Michigan long-term care Medicaid policy. Alicia has a Bachelor of Science in Education from Western Michigan University. Her past work experience includes managing a local non-profit that supports local musicians and children. At Abbit, she runs the day-to-day operations serving pre-need clients throughout the State of Michigan.
When not working, Alicia likes spending time with her 3 children: Avery, Lennon, Lucy, and husband, Earl. Born and raised in Grand Haven, she enjoys local live music, volunteering for the community, and spending time with friends and family.

Joseph E. Risselade
PresidentJoe is the second-generation owner operator of Abbit Management. He is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the investment industry. In addition to strategic planning for the firm, he enjoys collaborating with the team to develop peace of mind investment solutions for clients.
Beyond work, Joe has a passion for the outdoors. Hiking, golfing and oddly enough he enjoys yard and house maintenance. A few years back he had the opportunity to backpack for 5 days in the Grand Canyon and one day hopes to do it again. He has been a member of the Spring Lake Country Club for twenty plus years and currently serves on SLCC’s board and is a part of the club’s Greens Committee.
Joe and his wife Paula are members of Second CRC in Grand Haven. With thirty plus years of marriage and their two daughters starting families of their own, they are looking forward to longer hikes and more time up north.
Words of wisdom from my dad, Abbit founding partner. “If this is as bad as it gets for you, you’re in pretty good shape.”

James E. Slater II
Chief Investment OfficerJim joined Abbit Management in 2012 as the firm’s Chief Investment Officer. His role involves the creation and ongoing management of investment strategies for the firm’s clients. Jim holds degrees in both Business Administration and Communications from Andrews University and is a Certified Trust & Financial Advisor.
Jim is happily married with 5 adult children. He and his wife Sarah are both Ironman Triathlon finishers and enjoy staying active and being outdoors, along with spending time with family.

Julie Anderson
Office ManagerJulie joined Abbit in 2002. She oversees all office technology, as well as the day-to-day operations of the office. Julie came to Abbit after spending 14 years in banking, and has a Bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University.

Janice VandenBrink
Account AdministratorJanice joined Abbit Management in 2010 after a distinguished career in banking. Janice is responsible for the day-to-day administration of clients’ accounts. If you have a procedural question about your account, she either has the answer or has the resource to find it.
Outside of work, Janice enjoys gardening, decorating and spending time with her family.

Tori Petterson, NSSA
Client Service AdvisorTori joined Abbit in 2017 and works with clients to achieve their retirement and investment goals. She graduated from Central Michigan University and began her career as a financial analyst with Bank One (Chase) in Chicago, IL. After she relocated to West Michigan, Tori spent three years as the owner of a local business before joining the Abbit team. She is also a certified National Social Security Advisor.
Away from the office, Tori enjoys cooking, attending yoga classes and spending time with her husband and two kids.
Noteworthy Quote
” Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”
– RBG