Retirement Planning Fundamentals | St. Cloud State University

couple looking at finances with a laptop in front of them.

Over three weeks, this course will introduce you to concepts and strategies that may help you handle your day-to-day finances, potentially reduce your taxes, and manage your investments. What’s more, it will discuss how you can assess your current financial situation and develop a personalized plan that may help you achieve your retirement goals. Learn the strategies to help you benefit from a wealth of real-world information and strategies for retirement success.

Objective Education, Real-World Information

Unlike many free, one to two hour workshops that promote specific financial products, Retirement Planning Fundamentals is completely educational. The information you receive is objective and factual, without any references to specific financial products. This course introduces concepts and strategies that may help you make informed financial decisions.

After the last class session, you will have the opportunity to meet privately with one of your instructors. During the lab, you can ask specific questions regarding your personal financial needs and objectives and review your retirement strategy.

COURSE DETAILS:

September 10, 17, 24 - 2025

Section meets virtually (live online), three Wednesdays from 6-8:30 p.m

$99 per individual or couple

Who Should Attend

Whether you are nearing retirement, already retired, or beginning to develop a retirement plan, you can benefit from a wealth of real-world information and strategies for retirement success. These strategies can help make the appropriate choices for anyone who would like to educate themselves on sound retirement planning concepts– regardless of income, occupation, or age.

Course Workbook

When you attend, you will receive a comprehensive workbook focusing on money, investing, retirement, and finance that will help you apply and retain the information discussed during the course. The workbook is packed with exercises, practical examples, and charts to help you apply what you learn to your own situation. The workbook is yours to keep, and you will be able to use it as a reference tool for years to come.

Format & Topics

The course is presented via Webex (live online) in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where your participation and questions are encouraged! The material is taught using real-life examples that may be applied to your situation. Course topics include: Financial Basics; Retirement Income; Investments; Risk Management; and Estate Planning.

Download Course Outline

Featured Instructors

Alexandra Spangler, CFP®, CDFA®

Financial Advisor

Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc.

Alexandra believes in a holistic approach to financial planning and enjoys customizing portfolios specific to the clients’ needs and goals that are uncovered and constantly evolving throughout the relationship. She has a specific interest in family, legacy, and estate planning and helping other women with their financial goals. As a former Division I athlete, Alex’s dedication, work ethic, and energy brings a unique element to her teaching.

Michael Ratkovitch

Financial Advisor

Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc.

Michael attended the University of Kansas where he earned his bachelor’s degree in finance. He has been teaching retirement classes since 2020 and his primary focus is strategic financial planning to identify goals and investment opportunities. He is involved in his community as a member of the ‘Development committee’ for The First Tee of Southeastern Wisconsin and former board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Ryan Antkowiak, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc.

Ryan joined Baird in 2007 and brings a versatile skillset to the team, shaped by a range of roles over the years. Based in Minnesota, he leads the team’s financial planning efforts, using real-time modeling to align clients’ goals with their values, while integrating tax strategies, estate planning, and philanthropy.

A graduate of Marquette University with a degree in Finance and Marketing, Ryan earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification in 2009. He is active in several organizations, having served as President of the Financial Planning Association of Minnesota, a board member for the Hennepin Healthcare Foundation, and a committee member for Cristo Rey – Twin Cities. Passionate about financial literacy, he also teaches financial education classes locally.

Join us!

Next Course: September 10, 17, 24 - 2025

Section meets virtually (live online), three Wednesdays from 6-8:30 p.m.

$99 per individual or couple