G. Ward Keever, IV Earns His Certified Exit Planning Advisor Designation

Covenant Wealth Strategies is excited to share that G. Ward Keever, IV, CLU, ChFC, RHU, AEP, CFS, AIF, CKA, CEPA®, President & CEO, has earned his Certified Exit Planning Advisor® (CEPA®) designation from the Exit Planning Institute™ (EPI™ ), further enhancing our firm’s commitment to helping business owners and entrepreneurs plan for their future with confidence and clarity.

The CEPA® credential is one of the most respected designations in the field of exit and succession planning. It’s specifically designed for professionals who work closely with business owners to navigate the complexities of business value creation and business transition—whether through a sale, succession, or other strategic outcome. To obtain this credential, Ward completed an intensive study program that integrates business strategy, personal financial planning, and business value acceleration methodologies.

For many entrepreneurs, a business is more than a livelihood—it’s a legacy. Yet exit planning is often delayed or overlooked. The CEPA® framework enables our team to help business owners assess their personal, financial, and business readiness, and develop a plan that is aligned with their goals, values, and timeline—paving the way for a more successful transition.

With this designation, Ward is equipped to help clients:

• Assess and enhance business value prior to a transition.
• Collaborate effectively with legal, tax, and business professionals for a coordinated exit strategy.
• Integrate personal financial goals into a comprehensive succession plan.
• Navigate key issues such as family involvement, business continuity, and tax-efficient wealth transfer.

“Earning the CEPA® designation has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges business owners face when planning for a transition,” said Ward. “I’m grateful to our clients for the trust they place in us. This milestone reflects our continued dedication to helping business owners take intentional steps toward a successful exit and a secure financial future.”

Ward’s achievement also comes at a fitting time—April is National Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to promoting informed financial decision-making. For business owners, understanding how personal and business finances intersect during a transition is a key part of financial literacy. The CEPA® designation strengthens our ability to educate and guide clients through this critical process with clarity and confidence. We’re excited about the expanded value this brings to our clients—and we look forward to walking alongside business owners as they prepare for what’s next.

We welcome you to contact our office for more information about how Ward and the team at Covenant Wealth Strategies can serve your financial well-being.