Faces of Philanthropy: Garrett Burke 

Garrett Burke

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church 

PGAC Founding Chair

Garrett is a dedicated Private Wealth Advisor with Merrill Private Wealth Management, specializing in helping business owners and multigenerational families navigate complex financial landscapes to achieve their personal and professional goals. With a degree in finance from the University of Notre Dame, Garrett brings a wealth of knowledge in financial planning, investment strategies, and estate management.

Since joining Merrill Lynch in 2011, Garrett has built a reputation for providing exceptional service and forging long-lasting client relationships. Garrett and The Burke Cox Group are committed to offering personalized financial advice that empowers families to strengthen their financial future from one generation to the next.

He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a BS in Finance from the Mendoza College of Business. He served as a member of The Catholic Foundation Board of Directors from 2022-25 and was the founding chair of the Planned Giving Advisory Council (PGAC) which launched in September 2019. He currently serves as a member of Cristo Rey Orlando High School’s Founding Board of Directors.

Garrett lives in Winter Park with his wife and children. He is especially passionate about causes that combine education, faith formation, and service to others. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and travelling.  

Faces of Philanthropy Q & A with Garrett Burke: 

Q: Why did you choose to join the Planned Giving Advisory Council? 

A: I value opportunities to serve organizations that align faith, stewardship, and long-term impact. 

Q: What advice would you give someone starting to think about estate planning?  

A: Regarding estate planning, start early and focus on clarity rather than complexity. Even a basic plan can provide peace of mind, protect loved ones, and ensure that your values—not just your assets—are carried forward. 

Q: Who taught you about giving or stewardship?  

A: My parents, the readings in the Bible, and Notre Dame taught me about giving and stewardship—through example more than instruction. Seeing generosity practiced quietly and consistently made a lasting impression on how I think about legacy and responsibility. 

Q: How do you hope the PGAC will contribute to the Foundation’s mission? 

A: I hope the PGAC helps demystify planned giving, making it more approachable and mission-centered, while equipping the Foundation to support parishes, schools, and ministries for generations to come. 

Click here to learn more about our Planned Giving Advisory Council.