Maria Kuiper, CFA

What drives you and what do you enjoy most about being an AIA?
I have always had an interest in understanding the stories of different companies and what is driving the markets. This role allows me to serve clients while working on a team with a research-driven approach.

What was your journey to the investment world and NPF specifically?
I got into the financial services industry through an internship the summer before my senior year of college at a wealth management and investment banking firm. I enjoyed the experience and stayed on after I graduated and worked in a few different roles before becoming a Portfolio Analyst while pursuing the CFA designation. I landed at NPF because I liked the analytical-based approach, and it was a good fit with where I found myself heading in my career.

What are the values that drive you in your professional and personal life?
Doing my best work and serving others are values that I try to maintain in both my professional and personal life. I enjoy learning in-depth about investing and areas that may be detailed or complex and use that knowledge in a way that is actionable for a client’s goals.

Where did you grow up and where do you live today?
I grew up in Zeeland and have stuck around Grand Rapids ever since graduating from Calvin. I have two younger sisters and an older brother and a large extended family in the area. Spending time with family is important to me and I love being close enough to go to family-get togethers regularly. My siblings and I are Detroit Red Wings fans and try to make it to a game or two during their season. We are also a family that likes to hike, so many of our family trips are to National Parks.

What is your favorite (place/restaurant/venue/etc.) in Grand Rapids/West Michigan?
Having grown up in Zeeland, I have always enjoyed going to downtown Holland or to the state park and walking on the pier. I like Hops at 84 East—their salads and the goat cheese and ricotta dip appetizers are so good.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Running is my main hobby; I ran cross country and track from middle school through college and currently train for half marathons and 5Ks. Meeting up for runs with friends and old teammates are often some of the highlights of my week. I’ve gotten more into skiing over the past few years. I try to visit some of the resorts in northern Michigan during the winter, and I’ve also done a few fun ski trips with friends out to Colorado and Washington. Some of my other favorite things are hanging in a hammock with my sisters while reading a good mystery book and getting into on a new TV show.