Firm's History
Connell Financial Group
Established in 1965 by James V. Connell Sr. as James V. Connell Associates, the firm was founded with a vision to provide personalized insurance services to local families. Jim Sr.'s dedication to his clients and his community laid a strong foundation for the firm's enduring presence in Central New York.
In 1985, Jim Sr. purchased property on West Genessee Street in Camillus. That same year, his daughter Karen joined the team to provide administrative support as the firm continued to grow.
Jim's son, James V. Connell Jr., joined the firm in 1991. He built upon his father’s legacy by founding Connell Financial Group, LLC, in 2000, offering a comprehensive suite of financial planning solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of their clients.
Jim Sr. continued to meet with clients, providing well-earned wisdom and solid advice until his retirement at 85. His dedication to wellness and his passion for remaining engaged with his work and community, made him a role model for people who want to stay active and feel good for a lifetime.
Throughout its history, Connell Financial Group has remained steadfast in its philosophy of delivering solid, personalized service.
Today, Jim Jr. and his sister Karen lead the company as partners. They are dedicated to understanding each client's unique financial goals, crafting strategies that reflect their individual aspirations. Their client-centric approach has fostered long-term relationships built on mutual respect and trust.
James V. Connell, Sr. – A Legacy of Service, Family, and Community
James V. Connell, Sr. was a proud native of Newark, New Jersey. He attended St. Benedict’s Preparatory School alongside his brother, Joseph, before enrolling at St. Vincent’s College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He later transferred to Penn State University, where he earned a degree in Commerce and Finance. While at Penn State, he played one season of football and became a lifelong, devoted fan of the Nittany Lions — rarely missing a game.
After marrying Patricia Meehan in 1954, Jim Sr. and Pat settled in Syracuse, where he began working at Sylvania. In addition to his corporate role, he owned and operated a popular Mister Softee franchise, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
In 1961, Jim Sr. launched a long and successful career in financial services. He discovered a deep passion for helping families protect their assets and plan for the future, which led him to establish his own firm: James V. Connell and Associates. The firm offered clients access to a wide range of personal insurance and investment options. From the beginning, it was a true family business — with Pat and all of their children contributing to its growth over the years. Today, the legacy continues with his son Jim and daughter Karen leading the company as partners.
Jim Sr. was deeply committed to community service. He was a founding member of the Camillus Rotary Club, played a key role in fundraising efforts to build Holy Family School, and supported capital campaigns for Holy Family Church. Together with Pat, he hosted Bible studies, mentored engaged couples, and served as a Eucharistic Minister — always seeking ways to give back.
A lifelong learner and personal growth enthusiast, Jim Sr. was an avid reader of authors like Norman Vincent Peale and Earl Nightingale. He frequently shared their wisdom and philosophy with family, friends, and colleagues.
Throughout his professional life, Jim Sr. earned the designations of Certified Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), and was a proud member of the Million Dollar Round Table. His achievements were honored with the Society of Financial Service Professionals’ Distinguished Service Award and recognition as Camillus Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year.