News & Blog

Q. What qualities make a good accountant? 

A. There are the obvious answers like attention to detail, being able to stay current on the ever-changing accounting rules and tax regulations.  Although these are crucial, I don’t think that is what separates accountants as consultants and service providers.

I believe the best way to provide value is to take a genuine interest in clients’ businesses.  You have to examine the clients’ challenges and attempt to equip them with the tools they need to be successful.  Sometimes, clients are not aware of what they need and what we can do to help.  The task is listening to their problem and providing a suitable solution.  

Q. What areas of the business do you focus on?

A. Everyone in our firm is essentially a general practitioner.  However, we have a large enough staff to be able to have some areas of emphasis.  I oversee our accounting and financial reporting services and the quality control system for issuing financial statements that have been compiled and reviewed.

We also perform what are known in the accounting field as “agreed upon procedures.”  For many organizations, especially some not-for-profits, these serve as “cash audits.”  Although these types of services are not truly “audits” in the technical sense, they can provide what the organization needs without the cost of a complete financial statement audit.     

I also complete many of our not-for-profit clients’ federal form 990s to comply with their IRS requirements. In addition, I oversee and perform the monthly accounting and year-end tax returns for individuals, corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies.   

Q. When and why did you decide to go into accounting?

A. I really just fell into it.  In high school, I took a one-half credit accounting class because I was leaning toward pursuing a college degree in business. A funny thing happened - I was hooked. I liked the way the whole accounting process came together. The rest is history.

Q. What has been the greatest moment in your career?

A. I honestly cannot name a particular moment.  I love the feeling of completing a project for the client and knowing that it was valuable to them.  I also take pride when I have worked with a client for a period of time, and they think enough of what I have done for them to call me “just to bounce a question” or get my opinion on a business decision they are considering.  

Q. What do you do outside the office for fun?

A. I am very involved with a local Boy Scout troop. I enjoy golf, camping and backpacking when in my free time.