Meet Andra
Andra is a Partner based in Ames, Iowa. She joined Mercer Advisors in 2021 through the acquisition of Marrs Wealth Management, where she provided financial planning for clients as well as tax and estate planning advice. Andra began her career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in 1999 and worked in global and regional accounting firms for fifteen years. She earned a B.A. degree in accounting from the University of Northern Iowa. Andra is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and a CPA.
Andra’s specialties
At Mercer Advisors, all of our wealth advisors provide a highly personalized approach, backed by a team of specialists that ensure every part of your financial list is addressed. Additionally, Andra has focused experience in these areas:
- Planning for retirement, from high-earning years to long-term income strategies
- Multi-generational planning that aligns with your values and minimizes tax impact
- Support for business owners, from growth and succession to liquidity events and legacy planning
- Life changes after the loss of a spouse, from estate transitions to long-term planning
- Guiding higher education professionals in maximizing benefits and preparing for retirement
Her working style
Andra believes her professional calling is to help shape and improve the financial lives of her clients through meaningful collaboration. She uses data to inform decisions. If you are ready to have a clearer vision of your financial future, Andra is ready to help.
Andra in real life
What keeps you busy outside of work?
My husband and I enjoy trying new foods and new restaurants. We recently caught the travel bug and enjoy planning our next trip.
Why do you like working at Mercer Advisors?
The culture. Every coworker I interact with across the nation is someone with whom I would choose to spend time.
Any words you try to live by?
Optimism and vulnerability. My interactions with people turn to friendship with a healthy dose of both.
Andra’s snapshots
Meet Andra’s Teammates
Chelsy Nikolish
Sr. Client Service Specialist
What Andra Says
Chelsy has a permanent smile and positive attitude. Her patience and attention to detail are second to none.
Stacie Hostetler
Sr. Client Service Specialist
What Andra Says
Stacie lives to serve clients well. Her experience and care for people and getting things done for them is inspiring.
Kaz Woodward
Regional Vice President
What Andra Says
Kaz takes time to make sure new clients understand our process and are comfortable with next steps. But his real gift is in teaching. He has taught me to organize better in order to find and build relationships that last.
Articles by Andra
How To Optimize 403(b) and 457(b) Retirement Benefits
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Investing in Horses: Risks, Returns, and How to Integrate Equine Assets Into Your Wealth Plan
April 13, 2026