James Karthaus

James Karthaus, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, MA, serves as an Assistant Professor of Financial Planning at The American College of Financial Services, where he is also an Assistant Program Director for the CFP® Certification Education, CLU®, and ChFC® programs. With over 28 years of experience as a practicing financial planner and a 23-year military career in Marine Corps aviation, he brings a unique blend of expertise in advanced markets, retirement outcomes optimization, and holistic financial wellness coaching.

• Education: BA in Political Science from SUNY Geneseo; MA in American Foreign Affairs from Villanova University; Naval Aviator wings with Commodore’s List honors (top 1% of Naval Aviators).

Karthaus’ research and practice focus on retirement planning, risk management analysis, and evidence-based investing, with a commitment to financial wellness education. His insights have been featured in CNNMoney, Rethinking65, and InsuranceNewsnet Magazine.

Scientific awards include:

• Commodore's List honors (Naval Aviator, top 1%)
• 2025 Lang Dixon Award for Leadership and Excellence in Achieving Diversity (LEAD award)

His industry credentials include Series 26, 7, 6, 63, and 65 licenses, alongside life, accident, and health insurance qualifications. Prior to academia, he served as Managing Director at HartfordLife and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from Marine Corps aviation.