Brandon is the Chief Investment Officer and Lead Portfolio Manager for the Ave Maria Rising Dividend Fund and the Ave Maria Bond Fund. The Ave Maria Bond Fund has earned multiple Lipper awards for delivering superior risk-adjusted returns in its peer group. Brandon oversees investment strategies using a value-driven, bottom-up approach and contributes as an analyst specializing in fixed income and equity research. He also manages customized fixed income portfolios for high net worth individuals and previously served as Head Trader, directing trading activities across fixed income and equities. With over two decades of experience in financial services, Brandon provides strategic leadership and extensive expertise. Before joining Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. in 2007, Brandon held positions at Waddell & Reed and Merrill Lynch. His extensive background in wealth management and investment analysis allows him to create personalized investment strategies tailored specifically to client objectives. Brandon holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Master of Business Administration from Walsh College. He also maintains the FINRA Series 65 license.

James is co-manager of the Ave Maria Bond Fund and a research analyst responsible for fixed income research and trading functions. He is also responsible for the equity trading functions of the mutual funds. Before joining Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc. he worked as a consultant at Plante Moran. James holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Statistics from Grand Valley State University. He has also earned the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.