Helping Clients Succeed Financially

It’s natural — and wise — to examine your financial outlook. A Financial Advisor can provide the advice and guidance you need to focus on your goals. We can help you start planning now for the future. We are backed by the resources, expertise, and investment selection of one of the nation’s most recognized financial services companies.

Karen L. Richards, CFP, CIMA, MBA

Financial Advisor
Senior Vice President - Investment Officer

I began my career as a Financial Consultant with RBC Wealth Management in 1999 before joining Wells Fargo Advisors in 2007. I hold both a BA and an MBA from the College of Business and Economics at Western Washington University. Additionally, I have earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification and the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) designation.
I am committed to professional excellence and advancing the financial services industry. I currently serve on the Investments & Wealth Institute Professional Review Board, and through the IWI Foundation, I established the Karen Lee Richards Advancing Women in Finance Scholarship to support and inspire the next generation of women in the profession.
Giving back has always been important to me. From 2014 to 2023, I served on the Western Washington University Foundation Board, where I chaired the Investment Committee and contributed to the Finance Committee. I also dedicated time to my local community as a board member of Northwest Youth Services from 2007 to 2015.
Originally from Forks, Washington, I maintain strong ties to my hometown and frequently visit the Olympic Peninsula to connect with family and friends. Recently I helped fund the naming of the Boys & Girls Club of the Olympic Peninsula Port Angeles Gymnasium in honor of my late husband, “Lane Richards Gymnasium.”
CA Insurance License Number: 0H41638. Resident State WA.

Certificates

CFP, CIMA, MBA

Austin D. Belz

Financial Consultant

I earned a BA degree in Accounting with a minor in Business from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh in 2018, providing a strong foundation for my career. I began working at an accounting firm, assisting clients with complex tax matters, before transitioning into investment consulting with Merrill Lynch and the Bank of New York Mellon. These roles allowed me to develop a deep understanding of investment strategies and comprehensive investment planning.
In pursuit of new opportunities and a lifelong dream, my fiancée and I relocated from Long Island, New York, to Anchorage, Alaska. After first visiting in 2017, I was captivated by Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and unique way of life. Outside of work, I embrace everything the Last Frontier has to offer, from golfing under the midnight sun to skiing fresh powder in the winter. I am passionate about building strong, lasting relationships with my clients and helping them navigate their financial futures with confidence.
CA Insurance License Number: 4452901. Resident State: AK.

Tara Parry

Assistant Vice President
Senior Registered Client Associate

Phone Number

(907) 257-0272

Tara entered the finance industry directly out of college in 2006. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations from Syracuse University. In 2007, she joined Wachovia Securities, a predecessor firm of Wells Fargo Advisors. Tara focuses on providing exceptional service to clients. She is an active member of the Anchorage ERISA Forum and maintains her FINRA Series 7 and 66 securities registrations. Tara and her husband grew up in upstate New York but they now call Alaska home where they are enjoying raising their three children. In her free time, she enjoys visiting with friends, traveling, and watching her daughters on the soccer field.

Mariah Wigley

Registered Client Associate

Phone Number

(907) 257-0276

Mariah entered the financial service industry in 2021 when she joined Wells Fargo Advisors. She works closely with all members of our team, helping to ensure our administrative and operational needs flow smoothly. In 2026, she obtained her Series 7 and 66 securities registrations. Mariah is Yup’ik and from Southwest Alaska where she lived before moving to the Anchorage area in 2019. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time outdoors, cooking and baking, and visiting with family and friends.

Jenny Zheng

Client Associate

Phone Number

(360) 527-2127

Jenny entered the financial service industry with Wells Fargo Bank in 2023. She joined our team in 2025, bringing dedication, enthusiasm and attention to detail to our team in serving our clients. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Family Studies from the University of Washington. When she’s not working, you can find her enjoying a good fantasy book or cuddling up with her two beloved cats. Or both! Jenny is a Bellingham, WA native with a passion for hiking, camping, reading, and spending quality time with family, including her husband, Tommy.