Get to Know Riley Manwaring

Growing up, both of my parents instilled a sense of curiosity in me about the world and how it works. As I got older, this encouragement moved toward exploring any and every field I was interested in, whether it was architecture, the culinary arts, or a myriad of other disciplines. As I explored, I found I continued to return to a desire to teach. It filled me with joy to imagine I could make a real difference in others’ lives through education and build meaningful relationships along the way.

Throughout middle school, I ran a small paracord accessories business, selling through a local toy store, craft shows, and our Facebook page. This experience served as a foundation for my interest in business, and especially finance.

During my time in high school, I completed an Associate of Arts in finance from Jackson College through the newly-formed middle college program at my high school. Through a course in everyday personal finance, I found many of my adult peers were being introduced to finance concepts that were completely foreign to them, but that I could not imagine going without. Seeing this systemic lack of financial education in both our primary and secondary education systems ignited a desire to teach others about their finances so that they could feel confident pursuing the life they dreamed of.

During the summer of my junior year at the University of Michigan, I had the opportunity to join the Verde team for the summer internship program. During my time with the team, I got to see my dream of educating and empowering others through finance carried out on a day-to-day basis. This cemented my desire to enter the industry and at the end of my internship, I was invited to join the Verde team as a Service Advisor after graduation. Every day, I get to wake up and live my dream of serving and educating clients with a team that encourages me to be the best I can be.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me caring for my houseplants, playing the guitar, and skating around new and unfamiliar places. I currently live in Ann Arbor with my wonderful wife Emily, though I am excited to move closer to the area soon!