David Cordell

David Cordell is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Management at the Naveen Jindal School of Management, University of Texas at Dallas, where he also serves as Director of Finance Programs. He holds a Ph.D. in Financial Management and Investment Theory from the University of Texas at Austin and has over four decades of experience in academia and financial services.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Financial Management and Investment Theory, University of Texas at Austin (1980)
• MBA in Finance, University of Texas at Austin (1976)
• B.A. in Plan II, University of Texas at Austin (1974)

Dr. Cordell's research centers on personal financial planning, behavioral aspects of financial decision-making, retirement strategies, insurance planning, and investment management. His work bridges academic rigor with practical application for financial advisors. He has published extensively in leading practitioner and academic journals such as the Journal of Financial Planning and Journal of Business and Psychology.

The recent publications reflect a strong focus on real-world financial challenges—assessing financial planner competence, understanding risk tolerance consistency, optimizing retirement strategies, and managing life insurance and health care savings accounts. His work emphasizes the integration of psychological factors, financial theory, and practical planning techniques.

Dr. Cordell holds several prestigious professional certifications:

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), 1984–present
• Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®), 1987–present
• Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), 1992–present
• Registered Investment Adviser, 1991–1998

He has played significant roles in academic governance and professional service. At UT Dallas, he has served as Secretary of the Faculty Senate, member of the Academic Council, and Faculty Advisory Council representative to the UT System. He has chaired dissertation committees, advised numerous master’s papers, and contributed to curriculum development across institutions. His grant involvement includes the ING Alliance for Diversity in Financial Planning. He has also consulted with major financial firms including Merrill Lynch, Smith Barney, Vanguard, and State Farm.

Dr. Cordell has been actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Finance Association, Financial Management Association, Academy of Financial Services, and Financial Planning Association. He has held leadership roles in the CFP Board of Examiners, served on award selection committees, and contributed to standard-setting for the CFA exams.