For Advisors

Enhancing Client Choice

Cypress Bank & Trust is committed to helping Financial Advisors, Attorneys, Tax professionals and other advisors service their clients with our commitment to independent professional trustee services and administration.

By offering independent trustee services, Cypress Bank & Trust services are available to complement and provide the ultimate flexibility for you and your clients to work with the advisor(s) of their choice. Our collaborative approach ensures our shared clients receive the estate planning, tax advice, and financial services that meet their unique needs.

Cypress Bank & Trust leads with the “client choice” approach and would never seek to replace the trusted relationships our clients have with their existing advisors. We respect the value everyone on the advisory team brings to the client relationship.

The following are examples of how some of the partners with Cypress Bank & Trust have benefited from our independent trustee services:

  • Financial advisors have been able to maintain and/or increase their AUM of trust assets and not lose valued client relationships to larger institutional fiduciaries.
  • Flexibility of both a delegated and directed option for naming a trustee in an estate planning document.
  • Experienced fiduciary to serve when your clients do not have a qualified alternative for successor trustee, personal representative, and other fiduciary capacities.
  • A partner that understands the probate & trust administration process allowing the administration & funding of trusts to conclude more efficiently & easily.
  • A trusted resource to help clients understand how the estate plan that has been created for them will be implemented seamlessly.
  • A resource for conflict resolution for families in need of an independent trustee because of legal disputes and/or mediation.

Contact a Cypress trust administrator should you be an advisor seeking independent professional trustee services and administration from a trusted partner and resource.

Investment Products are:
• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency
• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate
• Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

Trust Contacts

Stacie Draper | Trust Officer, Vice President

Stacie Draper has over 15 years of experience in banking with 10 of those years in Trust Administration and Wealth Management. She has worked with individuals in all walks of life including high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals. Previously, she worked at Northern Trust in North Palm Beach as a Wealth Strategist Associate, then later she was an Estate Planning Paralegal at a well-known Jupiter, Florida law firm advising on planning and limiting taxation on estates.

Stacie Draper is a Winter Haven native whose roots run deep in the Polk County community. She is a graduate of Winter Haven High School and received her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Warner University. She currently resides in Lakeland with her husband, toddler, and dog. She volunteers for Husky Haven of Florida and enjoys ballroom dancing, camping, and spending time with family.

Direct 863-295-9607

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Edie Murphy | Senior Trust Officer, Vice President

Edie Murphy, Senior Trust Officer, Vice President. Edie is a seasoned trust professional with over 20 years’ experience in wealth management. She has worked with both high net worth, and ultra-high net worth families to integrate fiduciary and investment knowledge into each client’s custom wealth plan. Her experience began with Northern Trust and over the years included Wells Fargo, Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan. She received her BS from Florida International University and is a trust school graduate of the American Bankers Association at Northwestern University.

Direct 904-310-1727

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

SCOTT BUTTON | Trust Officer | Assistant Vice President

Scott Button, Trust Officer and Assistant Vice President, joined Cypress Bank & Trust in 2012. Scott has over 23 years of experience in the trust industry including both trust administration and trust operations. He is a graduate of the Florida Bankers Association Graduate Trust School and a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a business certificate from Indiana University.

Direct 772-492-1931

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

ANITA CALABRO | Senior Trust Officer | Vice President

Anita D. Calabro, Senior Trust Officer and Vice President, joined Cypress Bank & Trust in 2012. She previously spent 15 years in the legal and financial services industry with roles at Regions Trust, where she managed trust relationships for high-net-worth families, and at Wachovia Wealth Management where she administered personal trusts. Anita holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Capella University, an Associates of Arts degree in General Studies and an Associates of Science degree from Eastern Florida State College. She has also completed course programs at Cannon Trust School and Graduate Trust School.

Direct 772-492-1923

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

MARK FORE | Senior Fiduciary Officer | Senior Vice President

Headshot of Mark

Mark Fore, Senior Fiduciary Officer and Senior Vice President, has 25 years of experience in the private practice of law, the last 18 of which with Gray Robinson, P.A., in its Lakeland office. Prior to joining Cypress, Mark’s practice focused on the preparation and implementation of estate planning documents, including wills and trusts, probate, trust and guardianship administration, as well as dispute resolution and litigation matters in these practice areas.  He is admitted to the Florida and Georgia Bars, and is a member of the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law section, and the Elder Law section of the Florida Bar. Mark has previously served as volunteer guardian ad litem for the 10th Judicial Circuit Court. He is also an active member and former president of both the Lakeland Rotary Club and the Lakeland Bar Association. Mark has an undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia and earned his Juris Doctor from Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law.

Direct 863-295-9605

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

M. LISA AMOROSO, CTFA | Senior Trust Officer | Senior Vice President

M. Lisa Amoroso, CTFA, Senior Trust Officer and Senior Vice President, is a key fiduciary resource with an in-depth knowledge of fiduciary principals and applicable laws to assist clients in achieving their goals and help them manage, preserve, and transition their wealth. Prior to joining Cypress and for more than 30 years, Lisa has served as a Trust Advisor at large regional institutions. She has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s degree in International Business from Rollins College. She is also a graduate of Florida Trust School and National Graduate Trust School and is a Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA). Lisa serves as a Board Member for Central Florida Estate Planning Council and is a member of the Orlando Estate Planning Discussion Group.

Direct 407-961-6035

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Alina Mitroi | Junior Trust Officer | Vice President

Alina Mitroi, Jr. Trust Officer and Vice President joined Cypress Bank & Trust in 2022. Prior to joining Cypress, Alina managed trust relationships for Ultra-High Net worth clients for Bank of America Private Bank for 6 years. Her career includes 11 years with Wachovia Bank Wealth Management where she administered trusts and estates. She graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a major B.S. in International Business and a Certificate of Corporate Financial Management. Additionally, she completed the Certified Financial Planner Program from Barry University. Alina has lived in Florida most of her life and is married to her husband Adrian. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, hiking and is also an avid beekeeper.

Direct 561-296-6297

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

KEN R. THOMPSON, JR, CTFA | Senior Trust Executive | Senior Vice President

Kenneth “Ken” R. Thompson, Jr. is a 38-year veteran of the trust and investment management business. He began his career in Atlanta, Georgia working with SunTrust Bank and later transferred to Southeast Georgia working in Waycross and Brunswick markets. In 2000, he moved to Jacksonville, FL to work for First Union which became Wachovia and Wells Fargo through mergers. During his time there, he managed the fiduciary teams in North and Central Florida as well as the teams in Alabama, Tennessee, Texas and California during the transition to Wells Fargo.

In August 2021, Ken joined Cypress Bank & Trust as the Senior Trust Executive for the Jacksonville, Florida region with a goal of growing and managing relationships for this boutique, community bank firm.

Ken has a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation. He attended the Southern Trust School in Birmingham, Alabama as well as Cannon Trust School. He received his BS in Management from Georgia Tech.

Ken is the longest serving member of the Board of the Planned Giving Council of NE Florida and acts as Treasurer. He is also a member of the Estate Planning Council of NE Florida. He is a registered member of the University of Florida Advisors Network. Ken is active in his church and serves on several committees within the Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine, FL.

Ken has been married to his wife, Cindy, for 36 years and they have two children. Their oldest, Mary Rose, is a Florida Gator with an Undergraduate and Master’s degree in Special Education. Their son, Trey, is finishing his studies at UNF with a degree in Sports Management and a minor in Business Administration.

Direct 904-301-2224

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

GINA RALL, CPA | Senior Trust Officer | Vice President

Gina H. Rall CPA, Senior Trust Officer and Vice President with over 30 years of specialized expertise in individual estate & trust taxation, fiduciary accounting and administration for trusts and estates with a special interest in eldercare & special needs trusts. She has been court appointed in many counties to serve as an independent trustee, curator, personal representative and/or guardian of property.

Gina earned her B.S. in Accounting from the University of Central Florida and is a Registered and Licensed Certified Public Accountant in Florida. She is a valued member of prestigious professional organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA). Additionally, Gina actively contributes to the Brevard County Estate Planning Council, further showcasing her commitment to professional growth and collaboration within her field.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gina is deeply involved in her community. She currently serves as a Board Member and Treasurer of Bridges (Space Coast ARC) and CATCH (Space Coast Early Steps) as well as having volunteered for Brevard’s Special Olympics as a track & field coach for more than a decade . Her dedication to these organizations highlights her passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.

Direct 321-306-4105

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

ELIZABETH WAGNER | Senior Trust Officer | Senior Vice President

Elizabeth Wagner, Senior Trust Officer and Senior Vice President, has over 40 years of experience in banking, trust, and investments in the Palm Beach market. She began her banking career with Bank of Palm Beach & Trust Company, which was acquired by First Union/Wells Fargo. Elizabeth held a private banking position with Harris Bank prior to joining Cypress Bank & Trust in 2004. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Cypress Bank & Trust New Accounts Committee. She is a graduate of Towson University, the Florida School of Banking, and the Florida Graduate Trust School. Elizabeth is a member of the Rehabilitation Center for Adults and Children Professional Endowment Committee.

Direct 561-820-2921

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Portfolio Manager Contacts

SASCHA RIZZO, CFA, CFP | Senior Portfolio Manager/Market Executive | Senior Vice President

Sascha Rizzo, CFA, CFP, Senior Portfolio Manager/Market Executive and Senior Vice President, works with clients to create asset allocation strategies and construct portfolios to help meet clients’ investment objectives while managing portfolio risk. Sascha’s career in financial services spans 30+ years. Prior to joining Cypress, he worked in the Private Bank offices at Wells Fargo, bank of America, and SunTrust. He graduated Cum Laude from Rutgers University with a degree in Economics and earned a Master of Business Administration from the Roy E. Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College. He holds both the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations. Sascha has served his community through roles on the Maitland City Council, including former Mayor of the City of Maitland, Board member of the South Seminole North Orange County Waste Water Authority, Board member and former Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Authority, Board Trustee for local public radio station 90.7 WMFE, and Board member of Orlando Shakes, an acclaimed professional theater.

Direct 407-961-6046

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Ted A. Libby | Senior Portfolio Manager | Senior Vice President

Theodore A. Libby, Senior Portfolio Manager and Senior Vice President, has over 40 years of investment experience, having held senior level positions with Casco Bank & Trust Company, Bank of New Hampshire, NBD Bancorp (now part of JP Morgan Chase), and the Vero Beach office of U.S. Trust Company, where he spent 7 years as Senior Investment Officer. He is a graduate of the University of Maine and the Williams College School of Banking.

Direct 772-532-3897

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

JUNE LUNDY | Senior Portfolio Manager | Senior Vice President

June L. Lundy, Senior Portfolio Manager and Vice President, has more than 30 years of experience building customized, diversified portfolios for clients, including 12 years at Wells Fargo Private Bank. June earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Florida and is a graduate of the Florida Trust School at the University of Florida. She is also a member of the Investment and Wealth Institute, the CFA Society of Jacksonville, the Estate Planning Council of Northeast Florida, Planned Giving Council of Northeast Florida, University of Florida Alumnae Association, and additional philanthropic organizations in Northeast Florida.

Direct 904-310-1728

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Raphael Lima, CFA | Junior Investment Officer

Raphael Lima, CFA is a Junior Portfolio Manager in the Winter Park office. His responsibilities include supporting the Portfolio Managers in creating asset allocation strategies and constructing portfolios.

Raphael graduated from the Youngstown State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and with a Master’s of Arts degree in Financial Economics. Raphael has also earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

Raphael started in the investment analysis field at FactSet Research Systems, where for eight years he held roles in portfolio analytics for equity and fixed income and had a key role in the development of RBICS, FactSet’s proprietary industry taxonomy. Raphael also held the role of Portfolio Implementation Specialist in Victory Capital Holdings, assisting in the management of equity and alternatives ETF and Mutual Fund strategies.

Raphael moved to Florida recently and is residing in Lake Mary with his family. He is an active member of the CFA Society Orlando.

Direct 407-794-1813

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

BRIAN SKARBEK | Senior Investment Officer | Senior Vice President

Brian Skarbek, Senior Investment Officer and Senior Vice President has been an invaluable Cypress Bank & Trust team member since 2004. With a wealth of experience in the financial industry, Mr. Skarbek oversees the Cypress investment process and leads the investment team.

Starting his career with Barnett Securities in 1995, Brian quickly established himself as a talented professional. He later joined Harris Bank in Sarasota as a Portfolio Manager and Investment Officer, further honing his skills and expertise. Brian holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, focusing on Finance, from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida.

Beyond his impressive professional achievements, Brian is equally dedicated to positively impacting his community. For over a decade, he has volunteered for local baseball organizations, contributing his time and efforts to support the sport. Additionally, Brian has been a part of the Foundation Board for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties for nearly 25 years, offering his expertise and unwavering support to this worthy cause.

Direct 941-373-1551

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Theo Perry, NMLS 1605469 | Portfolio Manager | Vice President

Theo Perry has a seven year tenure as a Commercial Relationship Manager at SouthState Bank, Theo brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in the financial industry.

Throughout his career, Theo has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his clients’ financial success. His acute understanding of the market and investment landscape makes him a valuable asset for our clientele. With a focus on personalized financial planning and strategic wealth management, Theo is dedicated to guiding you towards your long-term financial goals.

Beyond that, Theo Perry is passionate about giving back to the community. He actively serves on the executive board of several charity organizations including Substance Awareness of the Treasure Coast and St. Francis Manor. Additionally, Theo volunteers in local government committees, most recently The City of Vero Beach Planning and Zoning Board, where he strives to create a stronger and more vibrant community for all.

Theo values his role as a husband to his loving wife, Helena, and as a dedicated father to their two wonderful children, Hunter and Teddy.

While Theo is committed to achieving financial excellence for his clients, he also understands the importance of work-life balance. During his leisure time, you can often find him on the golf course, honing his skills and enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, family and friends hold a special place in Theo‘s heart, and he relishes every moment spent with them, creating cherished memories.

Direct: 772-643-2598

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

THERESA STRICKLAND | Senior Portfolio Manager | Senior Vice President

Theresa Strickland, Senior Portfolio Manager and Senior Vice President, joined Cypress Bank & Trust in 2004. Prior to joining Cypress, Theresa was a Portfolio Manager for the Harris Private Bank and began her financial services career with Bank of Boston. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Florida State University and earned a Master of Business Administration from Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Direct 561-820-2011

Do not include your account number, password, credit card information, Social Security number, or PIN when you contact us through email.

Cypress tree at sunset