Our Team

Mitchell Hassenbein is a Managing Director at Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. (“Oppenheimer”) in the Jericho, NY office. Mitch oversees a wealth management group that provides a hands-on, boutique experience to high-net-worth clients, along with access to the full depth, breadth, and strength of Oppenheimer’s extensive resources.

As an industry veteran since 1992, Mitch is very experienced in equity investments – with areas of focus that include portfolio analysis and mutual fund diversification. His consultative approach includes individual stocks, mutual funds, equity and exchange-traded allocations, and the selection and monitoring of institutional money managers. He also offers bond selection, with the Firm’s short-term cash management instruments. For qualified investors, alternative investments and private equity are part of his practice.

Mitch joined Oppenheimer in 2001 and is registered with the FINRA Series 7 (General Securities Representative), 63 (Uniform Securities Agent State Law) and 65 (Uniform Investment Adviser Law), as well as New York State life and health insurance licenses.

A native of New York, Mitch attended Syracuse University where he earned his B.A. in Communications. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Marc S. Zeplin Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing scholarships for children, and funding to individuals and families financially stricken by the tragedies of 9/11. He participates in charity events annually with Cycle for Survival. Mitch enjoys coaching his kids’ sports teams and is an avid tennis player. He resides in Roslyn, NY with his wife and family.

William “Bill” Forte is a Senior Director – Investments with the The Hassenbein Private Client Group of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., based in the firm’s Jericho, NY office.

With a strong focus on helping families, high net-worth individuals, small- to mid-sized business owners, and professional athletes, Bill specializes in serving consultants across the business, healthcare, and technology sectors. He is particularly attentive to the unique demands of their professions—accommodating complex schedules and time-sensitive needs while helping them navigate industry-specific financial challenges.

Bill’s practice is rooted in building trusted, transparent relationships. He takes a holistic approach to wealth management, beginning with an in-depth understanding of each client’s circumstances, goals, risk tolerance, and long-term vision. Leveraging the firm’s robust platforms, he provides customized strategies that include asset management, insurance solutions, and financial planning services.

Bill began his career at AXA Advisors and joined Oppenheimer in June 2018. He earned his degree from the Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John’s University, and he holds FINRA Series 7, 63, and 65 registrations, as well as Life, Accident, and Health Insurance licenses.

A resident of Mt. Sinai, NY, Bill enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife

Elyse Wels is a Director - Investments with the The Hassenbein Private Client Group of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., based in the firm’s Jericho, NY office. Her clients include high-net-worth individuals, family offices, corporate executives, small- to mid-sized business owners, and professional athletes. Elyse also collaborates closely with a network of professionals—including CPAs, estate planning attorneys, business brokers, and trust officers—to deliver coordinated, client-centric solutions.

Elyse takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to private wealth management, beginning with a deep understanding of each client’s goals, financial situation, and risk profile. Her holistic, goals-based strategy fosters strong client-advisor relationships built on trust, transparency, and purpose-driven investing. She is committed to delivering practical results while acting as a true steward of her clients' capital.

Elyse’s team-based practice integrates thoughtful communication, tailored strategies, and a high standard of service—helping clients navigate evolving financial needs with confidence.

She began her financial career in 1996 with Hambrecht & Quist LLC and has since held roles at Bear Stearns, J.P. Morgan Securities, and Morgan Stanley before joining Oppenheimer in 2024.

Elyse holds a degree in Economics with a minor in Business from Florida State University. She maintains FINRA Series 7, 63, and 66 registrations, along with Life, Accident, and Health Insurance licenses.

A former college athlete, Elyse lives in Roslyn Heights, NY. She is an avid tennis player who especially enjoys playing with her family, and she also loves golf, traveling, and cheering on her favorite sports teams.

Sally Sesa joined the financial services industry in 1986. She has over 30 years of experience, all with Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. During those years she has held a number of positions, from operations associate to a management position overseeing branch sales associates. Her responsibilities have provided her with a unique opportunity to learn many aspects of the industry and are invaluable in helping her bring a level of expertise and professionalism to the client service process. 

As a member of The Hassenbein Private Client Group of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., Sally uses her strong knowledge of operations to provide comprehensive service. She is responsive to client needs and handles functions such as account opening, funds transfers, event registration, etc., while foster strong client relationships. Sally is always your first point of contact for efficient concierge service.

Sally was born in Italy and remains fluent in the language. She spends most of her time with her family, especially with her new grandson. She also enjoys dancing, dining out and going to New York theatre.