Alumni Focus - Andrew Tiarks ('13)
For Andrew Tiarks (‘13), going to St. Croix Lutheran Academy is a legacy in his family -- and he couldn’t be prouder. His parents, aunts, and uncles all went to SCLA, as well as his three sisters Chelsey (‘15), Emily (‘17), and Kylee (‘22). Many of his aunts and uncles met their spouses at St. Croix.
Andy believes in giving back and forming relationships, and he applies this value in his career and in his personal life. While in high school, Andy participated in Croixaliers, football, track, student council, and homeroom leadership.
He shared, “Getting involved in extracurricular activities played a part in my success post-high school, and I highly recommend it to current students.”
Andy continued his involvement at SCLA by volunteering as the head throwing coach for the Crusader track and field team, and he has served as an assistant football coach. He took part in 2019 Career Day at SCLA by explaining his role in the finance industry and answering student questions. With a solid Christian foundation passed on by his family, Andy uses his talents to serve at Resurrection Lutheran in Rochester, Minnesota on the outreach committee. He also sings in the worship band.
As an independent financial advisor, Andy has worked the last five years at Tiarks, Becker, and Hackett Financial based out of Pine Island, Minnesota. His father, Nathan Tiarks (‘91), is also a financial advisor who works alongside him. Both focus on helping people with retirement planning, managing investments, and navigating insurance strategies. Their independent status helps them stand out as advisors who get to know clients on a personal level and find better products or strategies to fit their unique financial situations. Andy and Nathan have presented on charitable giving strategies at past SCLA events.
Working from home during COVID-19 has allowed Andy to better enjoy household projects, yard work, and spend more time outdoors playing community softball, golf, and anything outdoors. He even got a double eagle at Troy Burne Golf Club during SCLA’s Golf Classic on July 20. “It was a great day, and a lot of luck,” Andy recalls.
Now married, he and his wife Kristin of two and a half years live in Rochester. Andy keeps his extended family close, and he is grateful to share the legacy of St. Croix with all of them.
Special thanks to Andy for sharing his story. If you have an alumni story, please share it at StCroixLutheran.org/Alumni.