Excelsior Wealth Management Group

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
69 State Street
Albany NY 12207
(518) 462.8357
Learn more about an advisor's background on
Mission Statement
Anchored in the Capital Region and guided by New York State’s enduring principle of “Excelsior—ever upward”, The O’Connor, Hazelton, Coleman, Barnes & Curto Team partners with high-net-worth individuals, families, business leaders, and dedicated professionals who aspire to build a lasting legacy. We advance generational planning with thoughtful strategy, bold vision, and steadfast stewardship—empowering every client to grow, protect, and transfer wealth that continues to rise.
Welcome

With over 100 years of combined experience at Merrill Lynch and more than $1 billion in entrusted client assets (as of 3/1/2026), we’ve helped families navigate milestones—from first homes to retirements and everything in between. Those moments remind us that every client has a story, and every goal matters. As a legacy team of long‑tenured and newly joined high‑achieving advisors, we unite deep experience with fresh perspective and continued growth. Together, we deliver clear guidance and personalized strategies that build confidence today and enduring strength for tomorrow—helping you move forward with clarity and purpose, generation after generation.

About Us
Your Wealth Partners

More than two decades ago, Jim O'Connor, Bill Hazelton, and Kristen Dwyer partnered to form The O'Connor Hazelton Group—a practice built on personal connection, thoughtful guidance, and a deep commitment to the families they served. What began as a three person team has grown into a multigenerational practice designed to support clients today and for decades to come.

As our team expanded with seasoned advisors and rising next‑generation partners, we felt our evolution deserved a name that reflects who we are now and the mission that guides us forward. That's why we proudly became the Excelsior Wealth Management Group—honoring our roots while embracing the upward path we're building together.

What we're most proud of isn't just our collective experience—it's the relationships we've built and the time we invest in understanding what matters most to you. Your goals, concerns, and vision for the people you care about remain at the center of everything we do.

Thank you for your trust. We look forward to growing with you—ever upward—every step of the way.

Meet Our Team
James O'Connor,

CIMA®

Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
518.462.8357
William Hazelton,

CIMA®, CPFA®

Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
518.462.8386
M Burke Coleman,

CIMA®, CPWA®, CRPS™

Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor
518.462.8387
Michael Barnes
First Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor
518.462.8374
Brian O'Connor
Financial Advisor
518.462.8351
Matteo Curto
Financial Advisor
518.462.8350
Kristen S Dwyer
Officer, Wealth Management Client Associate
518.462.8314
Nate Stanley
Officer, Wealth Management Client Associate
518.462.8352
Additional Resources
The following specialists do not make securities recommendations. Please contact your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor if you have questions about how a specialist might be able to assist you.
Elan Schlossberg
Wealth Management Banking Specialist
Merrill
Peter Hekl
Wealth Strategist
Merrill
Randy Drzewicki
Wealth Management Lending Officer
NMLS #117123
Bank of America, N.A.
Expand to see all specialists
About Merrill

Bringing fresh perspectives to your financial life

The financial decisions you make today can help determine the future you build for yourself and your family. Carving a clear path forward starts with connecting your life and finances. A Merrill advisor provides access to the investing insights of Merrill and banking capabilities of Bank of America to help you make informed decisions as you pursue your goals.

Sign Up for Perspectives Monthly E-Newsletter
Get the latest investment insights, tips and strategies to help you live your best financial life
Sign Up
Investments & Wealth Institute™ (The Institute) is the owner of the certification marks CIMA® and Certified Investment Management Analyst®. Use of CIMA®, and/or Certified Investment Management Analyst® signifies that the user has successfully completed the Institute’s initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for investment management professionals.
Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist™, CRPS™, and the CRPS™ logo are certification marks or registered certification marks of The College for Financial Planning Institutes Corp. in the United States.
Investments & Wealth Institute™ (The Institute) is the owner of the certification marks CIMA® and Certified Investment Management Analyst®, CPWA® and Certified Private Wealth Advisor®. Use of CIMA®, and/or Certified Investment Management Analyst®, CPWA® and/or Certified Private Wealth Advisor® signifies that the user has successfully completed the Institute’s initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for certification.