John Ellender is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with a passion for creative problem-solving and helping families pursue lives of greater freedom, purpose, and stewardship through holistic financial planning. Born and raised in Mer Rouge, Louisiana, he was the fourth of six children in a family deeply rooted in faith, adventure, and community.
John graduated magna cum laude from Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2021 with a B.A. in Humanities & Catholic Culture and a minor in Spanish. After completing Franciscan’s MBA program in 2023, he joined Abel Hall, where he learned comprehensive financial planning and behavioral advising under Leo and Drew. In 2025, he earned the CFP® designation.
Outside of the office, he serves as an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, writes, records, and performs music with his band Crosby & Ellender, and enjoys spending time with family and friends.