The Excellence in Exit Planning Awards honor Certified Exit Planning Advisors (CEPAs) making a lasting impact on the exit planning profession. Presented annually, these awards recognize advisors who help business owners secure long-term success and grow a resilient future.
What Are the Excellence in Exit Planning Awards?
The Exit Planning Institute honors three advisors each year, who make a lasting impact and advance the field of exit planning. Think about an advisor whose contributions have left a mark on your business or the exit planning community.
They are made up of three awards: The Member of the Year, Thought Leader of the Year, and the Peter Christman Exit Planner of the Year.
Member of the Year
Recognizes a CEPA who significantly enhances the EPI community and exit planning profession, exemplifying leadership within their region and advancing education and awareness, making them a valued member of the community.
Thought Leader of the Year
Honors a CEPA who has successfully trailblazed a first-of-its-kind project, initiative, or practice which has made a significant contribution to the exit planning profession and the overall community. This advisor is a thought leader, known for expertise in a specific niche, and demonstrates innovation, influence, and a spirit of collaboration.
Peter Christman Exit Planner of the Year
Named after EPI co-founder Peter Christman, this award represents the highest honor in exit planning. It is given to a CEPA whose work transforms industry practices, significantly benefiting business owners and the advisory community both locally and internationally.
Past Award Winners
Past recipients include EPI Chapter Presidents, respected educators, and innovators.
Here are some recent honorees:
2022 Winners:
- Exit Planner of the Year: Justin Goodbread
- Thought Leader of the Year: Julie Keyes
- Member of the Year: Shina Culberson
2023 Winners:
- Exit Planner of the Year: Joe Strazzeri
- Thought Leader of the Year: James Jack
- Member of the Year: Joe Seetoo
2024 Winners:
- Exit Planner of the Year: Amy Wirtz
- Thought leader of the Year: Joe Seetoo
- Member of the Year: Mike Garrison
Nominate a CEPA for the 2025 Awards
Nominate an advisor you believe exhibits the characteristics of a strong leader and asset of the CEPA community - now is the time to recognize their achievements!
To submit your nomination, follow these steps:
1. Access the 2025 nomination form here.
2. Complete the form with the nominee’s details and explain why they deserve the award.
3. Submit by January 31, 2025.
When Are The Winners Announced?
We will announce the winners during the Exit Planning Summit, taking place May 4-6 in Charlotte Harbor, Florida.
The Summit brings together top CEPAs, business owners, and industry leaders for collaborative learning and networking, providing advisors with the tools and insights to enhance their practices.
Be Part of a Lasting Legacy
The Excellence in Exit Planning Awards highlight advisors who are dedicated to leaving a legacy for businesses and communities they serve. Nominate a deserving advisor, by doing so, you are helping strengthen the future of exit planning!
Learn more and reserve your spot at the 2025 Exit Planning Summit at exitplanningsummit.com!
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