Broker Check
Thomas H. Cates | President

Thomas H. Cates | President


Tom Cates is a financial services industry veteran with over 35 years experience. After spending seventeen years as an investment representative with Mass Mutual, Tom determined he could help his clients better their life circumstances as an independent advisor. He founded Cornerstone Financial Advisors in 2001, offering families objective advice through a proactive and highly responsive approach. He has built the practice through trusted relationships for over two decades; the firm serving as a testament to his professional assets, extensive experience, and industry insights.

As the president of the firm, Tom remains hands-on in all operations, taking the time to build personal relationships with each of his clients and truly, truly understanding their unique goals and circumstances.

In addition to his role as a Registered Representative with Kestra Investment Services, LLC and an Investment Advisor Representative with Kestra Advisory Services, LLC, Tom is also a member of the Society of Financial Professionals. He spends a great deal of time mentoring others, sharing the wisdom and knowledge he has gained throughout his career.  

Outside of the office you’ll find Tom spending time with his wife Lisa of more than 30 years, his adult children, and grandchildren. He and his family are deeply involved in their church where they serve. Tom is currently serving as an Elder and in the past served on the church’s board as both a member and president for eight years. 


P | 317-805-2345

E | tcates@CFAclient.com

Blake Granson, MBA | Financial Advisor

Blake Granson, MBA | Financial Advisor


Blake found the perfect career fit for him when he joined the financial services industry in 2015. He was hooked after seeing the significant impact sound financial advice could make in the lives of others. After joining a large firm, he realized clients would be better served by working independently to offer advice free from any bias. Blake founded Honest Advising in 2016, later joining Tom Cates in a shared vision to provide service based on integrity and honesty. 

Proactive and responsive, Blake stands out as a financial advisor because of the great strides he’ll take to help his clients feel secure for the future. A confidante, friend, and advocate for Cornerstone clients, he believes setting a consistent course empowered through knowledge leads to wise financial decisions and ultimately, client success. Financial planning is a passion of Blake’s, as he enjoys diving into investment research, models, and plan design. He takes a hands-on approach, educating Cornerstone clients on the thought process behind each recommendation he makes, and is constantly looking for new opportunities to help propel others forward. 

As a man of faith and father of three, Blake is familiar with the challenges young families face as they balance career, raising children, and navigate the increasing amount of information available on the internet about the latest investment opportunities and managing financial affairs. He adds value with his experience and knowledge to help clients set a positive trajectory for the long-term.

Like many of Cornerstone clients, Blake believes life has a lot to offer and he doesn’t want to miss a moment. He loves his community of Cicero, Indiana, and enjoys living near the lake. Blake enjoys putting his analytical skills to good use on family game night by attempting to outsmart his opponents as he calculates probabilities and outcomes. 

Outside of the office you’ll find Blake coaching his kids in youth sports, watching Notre Dame football, or enjoying a bonfire in his backyard on a quiet Friday night. 


P | 317-805-2345

E | bgranson@CFAclient.com

Monique E. Myers | Administrative Assistant

Monique E. Myers | Administrative Assistant


Monique is a valuable member of the Cornerstone Financial team, keeping the office organized and running smoothly. An adept communicator with more than 25 years of experience, Monique embodies the firm’s values of trust and integrity throughout each client interaction, answering questions, efficiently managing requests, and routing various client needs to both Tom and Blake. Monique is held in high esteem as one of the area’s most competent assistants.

As a Scottish born immigrant to the United States, few can relate to the diversities that life can bring as well as Monique.  She transitioned from AUL Case Administrator to Administrative Support for Tom Cates over twenty years ago.

Monique enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her husband of more than 25 years and her two adult children. 


P | 317-805-2345

E | mmyers@CFAclient.com

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