Dave Bunge, Navigator

Dave’s extensive training, varied professional experience and passion for client care are key distinctives of Alliant Advisors (formerly Bunge + Associates), the company he founded in 1986 after a decade as a corporate accountant and controller. "I’ve faced the issues our clients face," he says, "and I experience a real thrill when I can help them identify their true needs and play a part in satisfying those."

After earning an accounting degree from Northern Illinois University, Dave served as staff accountant, income tax manager, internal audit manager, controller and member of the executive committee for a major international firm. His commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth are reflected in his four certifications: Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Management Accountant, and Certified Financial Planner. Dave and his family live in Barrington.

Steven J. Douglas, Tax Partner

Steve’s work with hundreds of tax clients over nearly two decades has benefited business owners, individuals, estate executors and trust beneficiaries who rely on his expertise. "Whether someone is selling a business or settling an estate, I try to help clients analyze their situation and produce the desired tax results by offering proactive advice" says Steve.

With degrees from Illinois State University (Bachelor of Science in Finance) and Northern Illinois University (Master of Science in Taxation), Steve provides clients with comprehensive knowledge of complex tax issues. He is licensed to practice by the Internal Revenue Service as an Enrolled Agent, and is a member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents. Steve is an active member in LeTip International, a nationwide networking organization, and serves as the Treasurer of the Crystal Lake Area LeTip chapter. Steve and his family live in Algonquin.

Wade Runge, Goal Tender

Wade’s extensive training, his nearly 20 years experience in accounting and advising, and his ability to translate technical jargon into everyday English make him a valuable and trusted consultant for clients seeking his help on everything from taxes, to business valuations, to long-term business planning. "I want to see our clients succeed by understanding and applying what we do for them," says Wade, who knows that tending to goals is as important for business leaders as it is for hockey players (which he once dreamed he would become).

A Certified Public Accountant and Certified Valuation Analyst, Wade earned an accounting degree from Northern Illinois University. A partner with Alliant Advisors since 1991, Wade keeps current through training offered by professional organizations like the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts. Wade lives with his family in Huntley, where he has served as the president of the Chamber of Commerce. He has also served other civic groups and is active in the leadership of his church.

Barb Wekony, Alliant Administrator

Barb’s vast experience in management, human relations and administrative systems makes her a valuable asset to both Alliant Advisors and its clients. "My mission is to make sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently so we can take care of our clients," she says. "We call my team The Customer Care and Feeding Team."

Barb, who has been with Alliant Advisors since 1988, is a member of the Association for Accounting Administrators and has served as Secretary and President for the Illinois chapter. She has also held various offices for community and church committees. She and her husband reside in Elk Grove Village.

Ken Brannan

Ken joined Bunge + Associates in 2003, bringing seven years of experience in tax preparation and public accounting. He has extensive experience in accounting for quick service restaurants, as well as full service restaurants. Ken’s experience in the restaurant industry has helped clients manage their business through identification of key areas of control, and has developed Incentive / Bonus programs that emphasize those control areas.

Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Northeastern Illinois University, Ken is working toward his certification as a Certified Public Accountant. He is a member of the Huntley Jaycees and resides in Huntley, Illinois with his wife Amy and their two sons Matthew and Nicholas.

Dawn Boehmer , CPA

Dawn joined the Alliant Advisors Team in November 2004 and works out of the Wauconda office. Her responsibilities include business and individual tax preparation, monthly accounting and write-up services, and QuickBooks accounting.

She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Menomonie, took continuing education classes at College of Lake County, and the CPA review at Northern Illinois University, becoming a CPA in 1998. Dawn is a member of the Illinois CPA Society, has 15 years of experience in public accounting, and in 1999 was listed in the International Who’s Who of Professional Management.

Dawn lives in Cary with her husband, Steve, and enjoys racquetball, running, and gourmet cooking .

Terry Sawatski

Terry has been working part-time for Alliant Advisors for 14 years. She does basic accounting and data entry for the company during the busier times of the year.

She has been married to Steve for 37 years and they have 3 daughters and 2 grand daughters. They recently moved to Sun City in Huntley and even though her husband still works full time, they are planning on enjoying this community and its activities both now and even more in the future!

Marian Gustafson

Marian is beginning her 6th year as a part time employee of Alliant Advisors. She has enjoyed the challenges of rejoining the work force after being a stay-at-home mom for 10 years. She says "I have the perfect job working for a company I respect, with people I admire and still be able to make sure that I'm home for our boys."  

Marian & her husband, Grant live in Fox River Grove with their two teenage sons, Nathan & Ryan. They are retired restaurant owners and caterers and have been actively involved in their church leading small groups and mentoring some of those members. They have developed a heart for a missions project in Costa Rica and hope to have a more active role there some day. In Marian's "free" time, she enjoys handcrafts which varies from folk art painting, scrap booking, and small furniture refinishing to selling her creations at annual home sales.  "Life is good", says Marian, "and there are just not enough hours in the day to experience it all!"

Laura Sprague

Laura Sprague is completing her first year as marketing assistant/ administrative assistant for Alliant Advisors. She holds a Communication degree from Trinity International University in Deerfield, IL and enjoys using her writing skills to help draw in new business.

Laura and her husband reside in Fox Lake, Illinois. She enjoys cooking, playing piano for church, and spending time with friends in her spare time.