Towering above many other investment and retirement planning firms, Exton-based Citadel recently proved its lofty standing through accolades won by the institution and five of its top advisors.

National credit union investment broker CUSO Financial Services recognized Citadel with the 2014 Keystone Award as the third-best-producing large credit union in the country as well as five Citadel advisors with 2014 Pacesetter Awards.

“To have five advisors at Citadel receive this designation in a single year demonstrates to our industry that Citadel advisors have established themselves as professionals of the highest caliber with their knowledge, experience and commitment to quality customer service,” Vice President of Investment Services Jim McCrudden said.

The individual honorees were John G. Kane and Kevin J. McDermott, who earned gold designation; silver-level winners David B. Layo and A.J. Hiller; and bronze honoree Joe Mylotte.

“We’re proud and honored to see so many of our advisors recognized for this well-deserved accomplishment,” McCrudden added. “There’s no question that the dedication to providing outstanding service from our advisors to their clients have been the building blocks to their individual success. Each has established himself as a leader at Citadel and an advocate for the financial health and wellbeing of clients.”

Citadel investment advisors grew their assets under management by 31 percent since the beginning of 2014, starting with $408 million and currently at $535 million.