PODCAST
A podcast hosted by NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. speaking to the top accounting and finance professionals about tech, education, and more.
The New York State Society of CPAs is excited to bring you a podcast, hosted by CEO Calvin Harris Jr. The Trusted Professional Podcast will be an important source of information covering what’s going on right now in the accounting profession and within the Society. Calvin will interview prominent Society members, influential CPAs and other leaders who impact the profession. A new episode of the podcast will be released on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month and can be delivered straight to your smartphone when you hit subscribe or follow. More details can be found below.
We hope you tune in regularly from wherever you get your podcasts!
How to follow or subscribe to a podcast
While you can always listen to The Trusted Professional Podcast in the player embedded on each episode’s landing page, podcasts are portable. You can conveniently listen each episode on your smartphone, tablet, and through various smart home devices.
Following a podcast (sometimes called “subscribing”) means connecting to the platform of your choice, where you can access each new episode when it’s published.
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To follow/subscribe to the Trusted Professional Podcast, you can click on one of the links on the right for the podcast platform that you prefer. This will take you to your chosen platform, where you can then log in and follow/subscribe to the podcast. You can also open the podcast app of your choice on your smartphone or tablet, and search for The Trusted Professional Podcast. You’ll be able to listen and follow/subscribe there as well. Thank you for listening.
If you have questions, comments or suggestions for a possible interviewee, please email us at podcast@nysspca.org.
And remember to tune in on the second and fourth Thursday of each month—or at your leisure!
Lexi Weber
Lexi Weber is a CPA and senior manager for emerging professionals initiatives at AICPA & CIMA. She graduated summa cum laude from the University at Buffalo, earning both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Accounting. She has previously worked at Tronconi Segarra & Associates, LLP, where she held the roles of audit manager and Chair of the firm's Leadership Academy. She was appointed to the SUNY University at Buffalo School of Management's Accounting Advisory Council in 2024. She has been named as a 2025 CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 Honoree, a 2025 Buffalo Business First's 30 Under 30 Honoree, a 2024 Nominee for Ignition’s Top 50 Women in Accounting, and an Emerging Leader in 2023 by the New York State Society of CPAs.
Lexi Weber is a CPA and senior manager for emerging professionals initiatives at AICPA & CIMA. She graduated summa cum laude from the University at Buffalo, earning both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Accounting. She has previously worked at Tronconi Segarra & Associates, LLP, where she held the roles of audit manager and Chair of the firm's Leadership Academy. She was appointed to the SUNY University at Buffalo School of Management's Accounting Advisory Council in 2024. She has been named as a 2025 CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 Honoree, a 2025 Buffalo Business First's 30 Under 30 Honoree, a 2024 Nominee for Ignition’s Top 50 Women in Accounting, and an Emerging Leader in 2023 by the New York State Society of CPAs.
Julienne Gutierrez
Julienne Gutierrez is a CPA and senior finance leader with more than two decades of experience at WPP, FGS Global, MSG, and IPG. As a global controller, she’s guided teams through technical accounting, complex consolidations, and M&A integrations, overseeing entities with revenues up to $14 billion. Her passion is modernizing accounting teams — moving them beyond reporting the numbers to delivering the insights leaders need to drive growth and adapt in a fast-changing world. She’s also a champion of building high-performing, people-first teams, believing that the future of finance isn’t just about compliance, but about creativity, strategy, and influence at the leadership table.
Julienne Gutierrez is a CPA and senior finance leader with more than two decades of experience at WPP, FGS Global, MSG, and IPG. As a global controller, she’s guided teams through technical accounting, complex consolidations, and M&A integrations, overseeing entities with revenues up to $14 billion. Her passion is modernizing accounting teams — moving them beyond reporting the numbers to delivering the insights leaders need to drive growth and adapt in a fast-changing world. She’s also a champion of building high-performing, people-first teams, believing that the future of finance isn’t just about compliance, but about creativity, strategy, and influence at the leadership table.
Byron Patrick
Byron K. Patrick, CPA, is the co-founder of TB Academy, an education company that empowers accountants to harness the power of generative AI. He also serves as CEO of VERIFYiQ, which delivers automated quality control solutions for accounting professionals. Over his career, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs, and played a key role at Botkeeper in advancing AI-driven bookkeeping. A respected national speaker and writer, he is known for translating complex accounting technology into clear, practical guidance.
Byron K. Patrick, CPA, is the co-founder of TB Academy, an education company that empowers accountants to harness the power of generative AI. He also serves as CEO of VERIFYiQ, which delivers automated quality control solutions for accounting professionals. Over his career, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs, and played a key role at Botkeeper in advancing AI-driven bookkeeping. A respected national speaker and writer, he is known for translating complex accounting technology into clear, practical guidance.
Stacey Ryan-Cornelius
Stacey Ryan-Cornelius is Burson’s global chief financial officer. She pairs considerable experience managing brands through transformation with a unique blend of creative thinking, sharp financial acumen and genuine passion for people and culture. She worked previously at Ogilvy as global chief financial officer shaping financial strategy and operations during a period of transformation and growth, and has also held positions at Geometry Global, WPP Health & Wellness and PwC. She is a Certified Public Accountant and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Baruch College.
Stacey Ryan-Cornelius is Burson’s global chief financial officer. She pairs considerable experience managing brands through transformation with a unique blend of creative thinking, sharp financial acumen and genuine passion for people and culture. She worked previously at Ogilvy as global chief financial officer shaping financial strategy and operations during a period of transformation and growth, and has also held positions at Geometry Global, WPP Health & Wellness and PwC. She is a Certified Public Accountant and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Baruch College.
Michael Quinn
Michael Quinn, CPA, CGMA, is the CFO of Catholic Charities of Buffalo. He has more than 25 years of experience as a senior health care administrator with expertise in health system, medical practice and business leadership. He's worked at the Catholic Health System of Buffalo, UBMD Physicians Group, University at Buffalo New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Life Sciences, among other organizations. He is responsible for financial planning, oversight analysis and controls, fiscal relationships, strategic planning, and budgeting along with other related responsibilities. He graduated from LeMoyne College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
Michael Quinn, CPA, CGMA, is the CFO of Catholic Charities of Buffalo. He has more than 25 years of experience as a senior health care administrator with expertise in health system, medical practice and business leadership. He's worked at the Catholic Health System of Buffalo, UBMD Physicians Group, University at Buffalo New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Life Sciences, among other organizations. He is responsible for financial planning, oversight analysis and controls, fiscal relationships, strategic planning, and budgeting along with other related responsibilities. He graduated from LeMoyne College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
Kevin Matz
Kevin Matz, Esq., CPA, LL.M. (Taxation) is a partner at ArentFox Schiff LLP. He has been a active member of the Society since 1993 and is the current NYCPA president. He has served on numerous NYCPA boards and committees including the Foundation for Accounting Education (FAE) Board of Trustees, FAE Curriculum Committee, Trust and Estate Administration Community, Finance and Nominating Committee and many more. He is the chair of the NYCPA Private Wealth Conference. He is a regular author and lecturer on estate and tax planning topics, and co-author of the estate planning treatises, "Manning on Estate Planning" and "Estate Planning for Professionals".
Kevin Matz, Esq., CPA, LL.M. (Taxation) is a partner at ArentFox Schiff LLP. He has been a active member of the Society since 1993 and is the current NYCPA president. He has served on numerous NYCPA boards and committees including the Foundation for Accounting Education (FAE) Board of Trustees, FAE Curriculum Committee, Trust and Estate Administration Community, Finance and Nominating Committee and many more. He is the chair of the NYCPA Private Wealth Conference. He is a regular author and lecturer on estate and tax planning topics, and co-author of the estate planning treatises, "Manning on Estate Planning" and "Estate Planning for Professionals".
Calvin Harris Jr.
In this episode NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. answers questions submitted by peers and colleagues about the state of the profession, what's going on at the Society, and even the story behind those famous accounting t-shirts he wears. Some of the questions he covers include the biggest existential threats to accounting, the role of state societies in shaping national policy, his proudest moment as CEO so far, and much more.
In this episode NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. answers questions submitted by peers and colleagues about the state of the profession, what's going on at the Society, and even the story behind those famous accounting t-shirts he wears. Some of the questions he covers include the biggest existential threats to accounting, the role of state societies in shaping national policy, his proudest moment as CEO so far, and much more.
Jack Castonguay
Dr. Jack Castonguay is from Yorktown, Virginia. He received his PhD in accounting from the University of Tennessee, holds a bachelor of business administration in accounting and a master of science in accounting from James Madison University. He is an associate professor of accounting at Hofstra University where he teaches financial accounting, auditing theory, and more. He is also the vice president of strategic content development at Surgent.
Dr. Jack Castonguay is from Yorktown, Virginia. He received his PhD in accounting from the University of Tennessee, holds a bachelor of business administration in accounting and a master of science in accounting from James Madison University. He is an associate professor of accounting at Hofstra University where he teaches financial accounting, auditing theory, and more. He is also the vice president of strategic content development at Surgent.
David Samayoa
David Alejandro Samayoa Alvarado is a senior associate in the assurance practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. He attended Ramapo College of New Jersey and graduated with a BS in Accounting and a BS in Finance. He was born in Guatemala and moved to the US in 2012. He won the 2025 Elijah Watt Sells award, given to CPA candidates who obtain a cumulative average score above 95.50 across four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination, pass the four sections on their first attempt and have completed testing in 2024
David Alejandro Samayoa Alvarado is a senior associate in the assurance practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. He attended Ramapo College of New Jersey and graduated with a BS in Accounting and a BS in Finance. He was born in Guatemala and moved to the US in 2012. He won the 2025 Elijah Watt Sells award, given to CPA candidates who obtain a cumulative average score above 95.50 across four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination, pass the four sections on their first attempt and have completed testing in 2024
Scott Krug
Scott Krug is the senior vice president and CFO of the New York Yankees. He leads financial strategy and operations for the organization and is responsible for the budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning, while also helping shape broader business strategy across both baseball and non-baseball ventures. He helped lead the planning and development of the new Yankee Stadium as well as the creation of Legends Hospitality. He has been with the New York Yankees since 2004. He previously worked at PwC from 1996 to 2004 in the audit department, and graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
Scott Krug is the senior vice president and CFO of the New York Yankees. He leads financial strategy and operations for the organization and is responsible for the budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning, while also helping shape broader business strategy across both baseball and non-baseball ventures. He helped lead the planning and development of the new Yankee Stadium as well as the creation of Legends Hospitality. He has been with the New York Yankees since 2004. He previously worked at PwC from 1996 to 2004 in the audit department, and graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
2025 AICPA Spring Council
In this episode, NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with a variety of guests at the 2025 AICPA Spring Council Meeting in Washington D.C. Topics covered in this episode include advocacy at the state and federal level, the accounting pipeline, collaboration between state societies, how the profession has evolved over recent years and much more. The guests in this episode are:
In this episode, NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with a variety of guests at the 2025 AICPA Spring Council Meeting in Washington D.C. Topics covered in this episode include advocacy at the state and federal level, the accounting pipeline, collaboration between state societies, how the profession has evolved over recent years and much more. The guests in this episode are:
Robert J. Huether
Robert Huether is a New York State CPA with over a decade of Big Four Public Accounting and Fortune 500 industry experience, working in various accounting, auditing and financial reporting roles. Currently, Robert is the executive director of SEC Reporting for The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. where he is responsible for leading the company’s regulatory and external financial reporting processes, including ensuring that all new and updated accounting and regulatory requirements are properly applied. Prior to The Estee Lauder Companies Inc., Robert held various other accounting and financial reporting roles, including most recently as the manager of global technical accounting and reporting at the Bountiful Company (Formerly "the Nature's Bounty Company") and spent more than five years at KPMG, where he served as an audit manager and was responsible for leading the audits of large publicly-traded entities, with a specific focus on the power and utilities, as well as technology and media industries. Robert began his career as a plant accounting analyst at National Grid, where he was responsible for the accounting of the company's property, plant & equipment asset portfolio, and has also worked as a staff accountant in the SEC Reporting and Corporate SOX group at Arrow Electronics, inc.
Robert has been an active member of the NYCPA for over the last decade, holding various roles at both the local and statewide level. Currently, he is a director-at-large on the statewide Board of Directors, the vice chair of the NYCPA Statewide NextGen Committee and the president of the Suffolk County Chapter. Robert also serves as an Accounting Advisory Board Member for Post University, located in Waterbury, CT, where he works closely with various industry professionals and University leadership to help bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and the needs of the workforce.
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Robert Huether is a New York State CPA with over a decade of Big Four Public Accounting and Fortune 500 industry experience, working in various accounting, auditing and financial reporting roles. Currently, Robert is the executive director of SEC Reporting for The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. where he is responsible for leading the company’s regulatory and external financial reporting processes, including ensuring that all new and updated accounting and regulatory requirements are properly applied. Prior to The Estee Lauder Companies Inc., Robert held various other accounting and financial reporting roles, including most recently as the manager of global technical accounting and reporting at the Bountiful Company (Formerly "the Nature's Bounty Company") and spent more than five years at KPMG, where he served as an audit manager and was responsible for leading the audits of large publicly-traded entities, with a specific focus on the power and utilities, as well as technology and media industries. Robert began his career as a plant accounting analyst at National Grid, where he was responsible for the accounting of the company's property, plant & equipment asset portfolio, and has also worked as a staff accountant in the SEC Reporting and Corporate SOX group at Arrow Electronics, inc.
Robert has been an active member of the NYCPA for over the last decade, holding various roles at both the local and statewide level. Currently, he is a director-at-large on the statewide Board of Directors, the vice chair of the NYCPA Statewide NextGen Committee and the president of the Suffolk County Chapter. Robert also serves as an Accounting Advisory Board Member for Post University, located in Waterbury, CT, where he works closely with various industry professionals and University leadership to help bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and the needs of the workforce.
Andrew (Andy) Mintzer
With over four decades of experience in accounting, forensic consulting, and ethics leadership, Andrew (Andy) Mintzer is widely recognized for his impact on the profession — not just applying standards, but helping to shape them. Originally from New York, Andy now serves on the Board of Directors of the New York State Society of CPAs and is a principal at Hemming Morse, LLC, where he leads complex forensic investigations and testifies in high-stakes litigation involving accounting, auditing, and financial reporting issues. He has served on the AICPA’s Auditing Standards Board, Accounting Standards Executive Committee, and Professional Ethics Executive Committee, and was appointed to the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants for the maximum six-year term. A past chair of the California Society of CPAs and a former AICPA board member, Andy is known as a thoughtful leader and mentor committed to public service.
Outside the courtroom and boardroom, he was a contestant on Netflix’s The Mole (Season 2) and has played nearly 700 escape rooms around the world — which he reviews on his website, Fun Factor Escape Room Reviews. Whether navigating corporate fraud or cracking escape room puzzles, Andy brings curiosity, clarity, and integrity to every challenge.
With over four decades of experience in accounting, forensic consulting, and ethics leadership, Andrew (Andy) Mintzer is widely recognized for his impact on the profession — not just applying standards, but helping to shape them. Originally from New York, Andy now serves on the Board of Directors of the New York State Society of CPAs and is a principal at Hemming Morse, LLC, where he leads complex forensic investigations and testifies in high-stakes litigation involving accounting, auditing, and financial reporting issues. He has served on the AICPA’s Auditing Standards Board, Accounting Standards Executive Committee, and Professional Ethics Executive Committee, and was appointed to the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants for the maximum six-year term. A past chair of the California Society of CPAs and a former AICPA board member, Andy is known as a thoughtful leader and mentor committed to public service.
Outside the courtroom and boardroom, he was a contestant on Netflix’s The Mole (Season 2) and has played nearly 700 escape rooms around the world — which he reviews on his website, Fun Factor Escape Room Reviews. Whether navigating corporate fraud or cracking escape room puzzles, Andy brings curiosity, clarity, and integrity to every challenge.
William Huether
William Huether is a Partner at Sheehan & Company, CPA, P.C., which has two offices on Long Island. William joined Sheehan & Company, C.P.A., P.C. in 2013. William is a CPA in New York State and is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of CPAs. Over the years, William has been awarded several honors on Long Island including the Long Island Business News Top 40 Under Forty award in December 2023, “Long Island's Top 30 under 30 Young Professionals Award” by the Huntington Chamber of Commerce in May 2012, and Briarcliffe College’s Alumni of the Year award in May 2014.
At Sheehan & Company, William is a member of the assurance, accounting, and tax practice providing a variety of assurance and accounting services to clients in the retail, wholesale, distribution, solar, restaurant/hospitality, not-for-profit, manufacturing, investment company, and real estate industries in accordance with both U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and International Financial Reporting Standards. William also provides tax compliance and tax planning services for individuals, corporations, and flow-through entities. At Sheehan & Company, William is the chair of the firm's recruiting committee, a mentor in the firm’s career advisor program, and serves on the firm's Quality Control Committee. At the firm, William spearheads the firm’s annual Toys for Tots Drive, which is now in its 31st year, and is one of the largest pick-ups on Long Island and benefits underprivileged families across Long Island.
William Huether is a Partner at Sheehan & Company, CPA, P.C., which has two offices on Long Island. William joined Sheehan & Company, C.P.A., P.C. in 2013. William is a CPA in New York State and is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of CPAs. Over the years, William has been awarded several honors on Long Island including the Long Island Business News Top 40 Under Forty award in December 2023, “Long Island's Top 30 under 30 Young Professionals Award” by the Huntington Chamber of Commerce in May 2012, and Briarcliffe College’s Alumni of the Year award in May 2014.
At Sheehan & Company, William is a member of the assurance, accounting, and tax practice providing a variety of assurance and accounting services to clients in the retail, wholesale, distribution, solar, restaurant/hospitality, not-for-profit, manufacturing, investment company, and real estate industries in accordance with both U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and International Financial Reporting Standards. William also provides tax compliance and tax planning services for individuals, corporations, and flow-through entities. At Sheehan & Company, William is the chair of the firm's recruiting committee, a mentor in the firm’s career advisor program, and serves on the firm's Quality Control Committee. At the firm, William spearheads the firm’s annual Toys for Tots Drive, which is now in its 31st year, and is one of the largest pick-ups on Long Island and benefits underprivileged families across Long Island.
Kirthi Mani
Kirthi is CLA’s first chief people officer, driving people solutions, internal communications and PR, learning and development, and connections to ensure talent, culture, and innovation fuel CLA’s success. As a member of CLA’s board of directors, she shapes the firm’s long-term strategy and governance.
Previously, as managing principal of CLA New York, Kirthi led a transformative expansion, tripling the practice in 2.5 years and launching The Gateway, CLA’s cutting-edge Manhattan hub for global business. She also help built CLA’s Global Advisory Practice, helping businesses navigate international expansion and regulatory challenges.
A recognized thought leader, Kirthi speaks at global conferences and contributes to the US Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA Investment Guide and the World Bank’s “Doing Business in the United States” guide. Kirthi serves as a board member of BCT, a trust in India dedicated to combating hunger, illiteracy, and ill health. She is also a mentor for the SelectUSA Women in Tech Cohort, an initiative by the US Department of Commerce that supports female founders from around the world in achieving success in the United States.
Kirthi is CLA’s first chief people officer, driving people solutions, internal communications and PR, learning and development, and connections to ensure talent, culture, and innovation fuel CLA’s success. As a member of CLA’s board of directors, she shapes the firm’s long-term strategy and governance.
Previously, as managing principal of CLA New York, Kirthi led a transformative expansion, tripling the practice in 2.5 years and launching The Gateway, CLA’s cutting-edge Manhattan hub for global business. She also help built CLA’s Global Advisory Practice, helping businesses navigate international expansion and regulatory challenges.
A recognized thought leader, Kirthi speaks at global conferences and contributes to the US Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA Investment Guide and the World Bank’s “Doing Business in the United States” guide. Kirthi serves as a board member of BCT, a trust in India dedicated to combating hunger, illiteracy, and ill health. She is also a mentor for the SelectUSA Women in Tech Cohort, an initiative by the US Department of Commerce that supports female founders from around the world in achieving success in the United States.
Taylor Van Slyck
Taylor Van Slyck is a highly accomplished Manager in the CFO Advisory Practice at Wiss, where she blends over seven years of public accounting experience with a forward-thinking approach to solving her clients’ financial challenges. Known for her innovative mindset, Taylor has been instrumental in leveraging artificial intelligence, including Basis AI, to enhance efficiency and deliver cutting-edge solutions.
She specializes in CFO services and outsourced accounting, providing strategic financial guidance, supporting management with Business Process Reviews (BPRs), serving as an interim controller, and streamlining billing cycles for enhanced efficiency.
Her expertise extends to navigating complex government programs like the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and PPP Loan Funding/Forgiveness, where her guidance has helped numerous businesses not only weather difficult times but emerge stronger.
Her proficiency in accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks Online (QBO), Deltek Vision, and Deltek Vantagepoint, as well as her extensive experience with Bill.com, Wise, Ramp, and Fathom, ensures streamlined and efficient client support.
Taylor focuses on building strong, lasting relationships with her clients so she can continue to provide them with advisory services in the future. Her commitment to excellence, both professionally and personally, reflects her focus on fostering meaningful, ongoing partnerships throughout her career.
Taylor Van Slyck is a highly accomplished Manager in the CFO Advisory Practice at Wiss, where she blends over seven years of public accounting experience with a forward-thinking approach to solving her clients’ financial challenges. Known for her innovative mindset, Taylor has been instrumental in leveraging artificial intelligence, including Basis AI, to enhance efficiency and deliver cutting-edge solutions.
She specializes in CFO services and outsourced accounting, providing strategic financial guidance, supporting management with Business Process Reviews (BPRs), serving as an interim controller, and streamlining billing cycles for enhanced efficiency.
Her expertise extends to navigating complex government programs like the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and PPP Loan Funding/Forgiveness, where her guidance has helped numerous businesses not only weather difficult times but emerge stronger.
Her proficiency in accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks Online (QBO), Deltek Vision, and Deltek Vantagepoint, as well as her extensive experience with Bill.com, Wise, Ramp, and Fathom, ensures streamlined and efficient client support.
Taylor focuses on building strong, lasting relationships with her clients so she can continue to provide them with advisory services in the future. Her commitment to excellence, both professionally and personally, reflects her focus on fostering meaningful, ongoing partnerships throughout her career.
Okorie Ramsey & Kimberly Ellison-Taylor
Okorie L. Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, PMP, NACD.DC
Okorie Ramsey is the Vice President, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. In this role, he has responsibility and oversight for the SOX Program, including strategy, testing, and evaluating internal controls and assessing business risk to assist in building an effective internal control over financial reporting for the integrated health care enterprise.
Okorie currently serves as the Immediate Past Chairman of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association), which represents the largest and most influential body of accounting and finance professionals in the world. Okorie also serves on the San Francisco State University Foundation Board of Trustees. Previously, Okorie has served on various boards as Chairman and board committees including Audit and Finance, Compensation, Nominations and Governance and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the fields of accounting and finance including the California Society of CPAs Education Foundation, the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA, Inc.), the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP), and LIFE Courses. Okorie has also been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting by Accounting Today.
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA, CITP, CGMA, CIA, CISA
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor is a Global Technology and Finance leader with over 30 years of career achievements. She is the Chief Executive Officer of KET Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm focused on business growth, innovation, strategy, transformation and inclusive leadership. Ellison-Taylor is a sought-after keynote speaker and has received many awards and recognitions for her expertise and leadership including Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor's 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting and Forbes Top 200 CPAs in America.
Kimberly has volunteered in the profession for over 20 years including past leadership positions as Chairman of the American Institute of CPAs, Chairman of the Association of Certified Professional Accountants, and Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs. Kimberly is also the Immediate Past Chair for the AICPA’s National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion and a Past President for Beta Alpha Psi. Ellison-Taylor is the Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs Education Foundation and serves on the board of trustees for Loyola University Maryland. She is a lifetime member of NABA.
Okorie L. Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, PMP, NACD.DC
Okorie Ramsey is the Vice President, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. In this role, he has responsibility and oversight for the SOX Program, including strategy, testing, and evaluating internal controls and assessing business risk to assist in building an effective internal control over financial reporting for the integrated health care enterprise.
Okorie currently serves as the Immediate Past Chairman of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association), which represents the largest and most influential body of accounting and finance professionals in the world. Okorie also serves on the San Francisco State University Foundation Board of Trustees. Previously, Okorie has served on various boards as Chairman and board committees including Audit and Finance, Compensation, Nominations and Governance and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the fields of accounting and finance including the California Society of CPAs Education Foundation, the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA, Inc.), the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP), and LIFE Courses. Okorie has also been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting by Accounting Today.
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA, CITP, CGMA, CIA, CISA
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor is a Global Technology and Finance leader with over 30 years of career achievements. She is the Chief Executive Officer of KET Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm focused on business growth, innovation, strategy, transformation and inclusive leadership. Ellison-Taylor is a sought-after keynote speaker and has received many awards and recognitions for her expertise and leadership including Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor's 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting and Forbes Top 200 CPAs in America.
Kimberly has volunteered in the profession for over 20 years including past leadership positions as Chairman of the American Institute of CPAs, Chairman of the Association of Certified Professional Accountants, and Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs. Kimberly is also the Immediate Past Chair for the AICPA’s National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion and a Past President for Beta Alpha Psi. Ellison-Taylor is the Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs Education Foundation and serves on the board of trustees for Loyola University Maryland. She is a lifetime member of NABA.
Nadia-Maria Matthie
Nadia Matthie is a partner in the New York City Withum office with more than twenty years of experience. She is a member of the employee benefit plan practice, labor organizations practice, and multiemployer group where she performed assurance services for single-employer and multiemployer organizations. Nadia has deep knowledge in various types of benefit plans, including defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, ESOPs and health and welfare plans. Other assurance services include the implementation and testing of internal controls and reviewing service organization reports.
In addition, Nadia’s experience includes asset management, providing assurance services to investment advisors, broker-dealers, real estate investment trusts, real estate and private equity funds. She focuses on auditing investment products such as fixed income, funds of funds, private equity and real estate funds, common commingled trusts, direct investments in privately held companies and real property, certain insurance products, real estate properties and privately held companies.
Nadia Matthie is a partner in the New York City Withum office with more than twenty years of experience. She is a member of the employee benefit plan practice, labor organizations practice, and multiemployer group where she performed assurance services for single-employer and multiemployer organizations. Nadia has deep knowledge in various types of benefit plans, including defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, ESOPs and health and welfare plans. Other assurance services include the implementation and testing of internal controls and reviewing service organization reports.
In addition, Nadia’s experience includes asset management, providing assurance services to investment advisors, broker-dealers, real estate investment trusts, real estate and private equity funds. She focuses on auditing investment products such as fixed income, funds of funds, private equity and real estate funds, common commingled trusts, direct investments in privately held companies and real property, certain insurance products, real estate properties and privately held companies.
Brittany Bartula
Brittany Bartula is a CPA and Clinical Assistant Professor of Accounting at the University at Buffalo School of Management. Brittany is a proud alum of the University at Buffalo School of Management as well and earned her BS and MS in Accounting in 2016 and 2017, respectively.
Brittany began her career as a Postgraduate Technical Assistant at the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Assisting in the standard setting process during her one-year assistantship fueled her passion to continue to pursue a specialty in technical accounting and accounting research. She has also held roles in EY’s Technical Accounting Advisory Group, and on ACV Auctions’ Accounting Policy and Special Projects team. Brittany has always had a passion for teaching and academic settings and was thrilled to start her new journey as a professor in 2022.
In 2024, Brittany was a recipient of the NYCPA Emerging Leader Award. She is also very passionate about promoting financial literacy and published a children’s book in August 2024. The book is for children ages 0-5 and seamlessly introduces financial literacy concepts in an entertaining and accessible manner. Since its publication, Brittany has visited classrooms in her community for story time, financial literacy activities, and book giveaways.
Brittany Bartula is a CPA and Clinical Assistant Professor of Accounting at the University at Buffalo School of Management. Brittany is a proud alum of the University at Buffalo School of Management as well and earned her BS and MS in Accounting in 2016 and 2017, respectively.
Brittany began her career as a Postgraduate Technical Assistant at the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Assisting in the standard setting process during her one-year assistantship fueled her passion to continue to pursue a specialty in technical accounting and accounting research. She has also held roles in EY’s Technical Accounting Advisory Group, and on ACV Auctions’ Accounting Policy and Special Projects team. Brittany has always had a passion for teaching and academic settings and was thrilled to start her new journey as a professor in 2022.
In 2024, Brittany was a recipient of the NYCPA Emerging Leader Award. She is also very passionate about promoting financial literacy and published a children’s book in August 2024. The book is for children ages 0-5 and seamlessly introduces financial literacy concepts in an entertaining and accessible manner. Since its publication, Brittany has visited classrooms in her community for story time, financial literacy activities, and book giveaways.
Nicole DeRosa
Nicole DeRosa is a Director of Tax at SKC & Co CPAs LLC in Boonton Township, New Jersey and has more than 15 years of public accounting experience, specializing in taxation for closely held businesses and individuals. In addition to working with clients in various industries, she is a Brand Ambassador for UWorld Accounting, helping to promote the profession and CPA designation to college students; she also speaks at various accounting conferences across the nation. In 2024, Nicole was named by Forbes as a Top 200 CPA in America and was a recipient of the AICPA Outstanding Young CPA Award. Nicole currently serves on the NJCPA Board of Trustees and is very active with various other accounting-related initiatives. Above all, Nicole enjoys being a Zumba instructor, spending quality time with family and friends, and relaxing at the beach.
Nicole DeRosa is a Director of Tax at SKC & Co CPAs LLC in Boonton Township, New Jersey and has more than 15 years of public accounting experience, specializing in taxation for closely held businesses and individuals. In addition to working with clients in various industries, she is a Brand Ambassador for UWorld Accounting, helping to promote the profession and CPA designation to college students; she also speaks at various accounting conferences across the nation. In 2024, Nicole was named by Forbes as a Top 200 CPA in America and was a recipient of the AICPA Outstanding Young CPA Award. Nicole currently serves on the NJCPA Board of Trustees and is very active with various other accounting-related initiatives. Above all, Nicole enjoys being a Zumba instructor, spending quality time with family and friends, and relaxing at the beach.
Beth van Bladel
With over three decades of technical and operational accounting experience, Beth van Bladel serves as a director and outsourced CFO/financial advisor with CFO for Hire, a division of BST & Co. CPAs, LLP, where she provides financial, management, and accounting advisory services to support her clients’ missions and financial goals.
Dedicated to the CPA profession, Beth served a three-year term on the Private Company Council, the primary advisory body to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) on private company matters.
Beth is an active member of the AICPA and the NYCPA. She is also the recipient of the NYCPA Distinguished Service Award and NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Industry Award. She co-chairs the NYCPA Annual Business & Industry Conference and serves on the NYCPA Political Action Committee, as well as the Northeast Chapter CFO Committee and reprised the role of Northeast chapter president to engage members and develop chapter leadership.
In her spare time, Beth is a volunteer patient advocate dedicated to teaching healthcare literacy and navigation skills. She also enjoys discovering backroads on her Can-Am Spyder.
With over three decades of technical and operational accounting experience, Beth van Bladel serves as a director and outsourced CFO/financial advisor with CFO for Hire, a division of BST & Co. CPAs, LLP, where she provides financial, management, and accounting advisory services to support her clients’ missions and financial goals.
Dedicated to the CPA profession, Beth served a three-year term on the Private Company Council, the primary advisory body to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) on private company matters.
Beth is an active member of the AICPA and the NYCPA. She is also the recipient of the NYCPA Distinguished Service Award and NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Industry Award. She co-chairs the NYCPA Annual Business & Industry Conference and serves on the NYCPA Political Action Committee, as well as the Northeast Chapter CFO Committee and reprised the role of Northeast chapter president to engage members and develop chapter leadership.
In her spare time, Beth is a volunteer patient advocate dedicated to teaching healthcare literacy and navigation skills. She also enjoys discovering backroads on her Can-Am Spyder.
Sean Stein Smith
Sean is an associate professor at the City University of New York – Lehman College. He serves on the advisory board of the Wall Street Blockchain Alliance, where he chairs the Accounting Working Group. Sean also serves as an advisor to Crescent City Capital, a cryptoasset investment fund, and to Hyperion, a crypto accounting startup. An award-winning researcher, Sean has been recognized in both the United States and European Union for his contributions to the accounting field. He is a Certified Cryptocurrency Auditor and has completed an Executive Education program in Artificial Intelligence at MIT. Sean is currently enrolled at the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute in the Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist program.
Sean is an associate professor at the City University of New York – Lehman College. He serves on the advisory board of the Wall Street Blockchain Alliance, where he chairs the Accounting Working Group. Sean also serves as an advisor to Crescent City Capital, a cryptoasset investment fund, and to Hyperion, a crypto accounting startup. An award-winning researcher, Sean has been recognized in both the United States and European Union for his contributions to the accounting field. He is a Certified Cryptocurrency Auditor and has completed an Executive Education program in Artificial Intelligence at MIT. Sean is currently enrolled at the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute in the Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist program.
Renata Serban
Renata Serban, CPA, CMA, has over 15 years of experience across various industries, including cannabis. She emphasizes the need for qualified cannabis accounting expertise and is dedicated to improving the financial literacy of cannabis operators in New York and New Jersey.
Renata chairs of the Cannabis Committee for the NYCPAs and serves as an instructor for cannabis compliance and training programs with the New York Office of Cannabis Management and New Jersey Business Action Center.
She co-authored the comment letter to the Proposed Adult-Use Regulations in NYS and has published articles in Trusted Professional, Strategic Finance, and NY Cannabis Insider.
Renata Serban, CPA, CMA, has over 15 years of experience across various industries, including cannabis. She emphasizes the need for qualified cannabis accounting expertise and is dedicated to improving the financial literacy of cannabis operators in New York and New Jersey.
Renata chairs of the Cannabis Committee for the NYCPAs and serves as an instructor for cannabis compliance and training programs with the New York Office of Cannabis Management and New Jersey Business Action Center.
She co-authored the comment letter to the Proposed Adult-Use Regulations in NYS and has published articles in Trusted Professional, Strategic Finance, and NY Cannabis Insider.
Marc Mallare
Marc is a CPA and an audit manager with seven years of experience across multiple industries. He earned his MBA from Canisius College (now University) in Buffalo where he was born, raised, and continues to reside.
Marc began his career at a local firm in Buffalo before joining Frazier & Deeter in 2021, a top 50 accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with offices in the U.S., UK and India. When Marc was hired, he was the department’s second fully remote senior. He currently specializes in SaaS companies and emerging companies at various lifecycles.
An active member of the Buffalo Chapter of NYCPA, Marc has served as membership chair, NextGen chair, and most recently president elect. Additionally, Marc was nominated/elected chair of NYCPA’s NextGen Committee in 2023 where his focus is re-energizing the emerging CPA profession and bringing back the sense of community.
Marc is a CPA and an audit manager with seven years of experience across multiple industries. He earned his MBA from Canisius College (now University) in Buffalo where he was born, raised, and continues to reside.
Marc began his career at a local firm in Buffalo before joining Frazier & Deeter in 2021, a top 50 accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with offices in the U.S., UK and India. When Marc was hired, he was the department’s second fully remote senior. He currently specializes in SaaS companies and emerging companies at various lifecycles.
An active member of the Buffalo Chapter of NYCPA, Marc has served as membership chair, NextGen chair, and most recently president elect. Additionally, Marc was nominated/elected chair of NYCPA’s NextGen Committee in 2023 where his focus is re-energizing the emerging CPA profession and bringing back the sense of community.
Tim Hammond
Tim is a CPA and a partner in The Bonadio Group’s Assurance Service Line and Healthcare and Human Services Industry Practices and is based in Syracuse, New York. Bonadio is a Top 50 public accounting firm with 10 offices located in New York, Vermont and Texas. He has over 15 years of experience serving healthcare, human services and other not-for-profit organizations, with a particular specialty serving hospitals, clinics and home care agencies.
Tim serves on the New York State Board for Public Accountancy, advising the New York State Board of Regents and New York State Education Department on matters of professional regulation. He is formerly the secretary/treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of NYCPA and still serves on NYCPA’s Exempt Organization and Not-for-Profit Committees. He is a member of the AICPA, NYCPA and Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Tim holds a B.S. in accounting and economics (magna cum laude) as well as an MBA from Le Moyne College.
Tim is also a current member of Le Moyne College’s Board of Regents and a past member of the Board of Directors of Nascentia Health. Central New York Business Journal just recognized Tim as a 40 under Forty Award recipient, and he’s a past recipient of NYCPA’s Emerging Leaders Award.
Tim is a CPA and a partner in The Bonadio Group’s Assurance Service Line and Healthcare and Human Services Industry Practices and is based in Syracuse, New York. Bonadio is a Top 50 public accounting firm with 10 offices located in New York, Vermont and Texas. He has over 15 years of experience serving healthcare, human services and other not-for-profit organizations, with a particular specialty serving hospitals, clinics and home care agencies.
Tim serves on the New York State Board for Public Accountancy, advising the New York State Board of Regents and New York State Education Department on matters of professional regulation. He is formerly the secretary/treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of NYCPA and still serves on NYCPA’s Exempt Organization and Not-for-Profit Committees. He is a member of the AICPA, NYCPA and Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Tim holds a B.S. in accounting and economics (magna cum laude) as well as an MBA from Le Moyne College.
Tim is also a current member of Le Moyne College’s Board of Regents and a past member of the Board of Directors of Nascentia Health. Central New York Business Journal just recognized Tim as a 40 under Forty Award recipient, and he’s a past recipient of NYCPA’s Emerging Leaders Award.
Mark Stone
Mark Stone, CPA, has been the managing partner of Sales Tax Defense LLC since 2006, a firm specializing in sales and use taxes. With over 30 years of experience as a New York State tax auditor and as a tax manager/principal at several prominent accounting firms, Mark has earned a reputation as one of the top professionals for multi-state sales and use taxes. He frequently speaks on sales and use tax issues at various organizations and serves as an expert witness in tax court on behalf of clients. Mark holds a master’s degree in taxation and has also served as an adjunct tax professor at Long Island University C.W. Post.
Mark Stone, CPA, has been the managing partner of Sales Tax Defense LLC since 2006, a firm specializing in sales and use taxes. With over 30 years of experience as a New York State tax auditor and as a tax manager/principal at several prominent accounting firms, Mark has earned a reputation as one of the top professionals for multi-state sales and use taxes. He frequently speaks on sales and use tax issues at various organizations and serves as an expert witness in tax court on behalf of clients. Mark holds a master’s degree in taxation and has also served as an adjunct tax professor at Long Island University C.W. Post.
Carla McCall
Carla is the managing partner of AAFCPAs, a preeminent, 350-person CPA and consulting firm based in New England. She is also chair of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Carla was named one of the Most Powerful Women in the Accounting Profession every year from 2020-2024 by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor Magazine. Her dynamic executive leadership, bold practicality, and enthusiasm to embrace change set the standard for mission-driven, growth organizations.
Carla is the managing partner of AAFCPAs, a preeminent, 350-person CPA and consulting firm based in New England. She is also chair of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Carla was named one of the Most Powerful Women in the Accounting Profession every year from 2020-2024 by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor Magazine. Her dynamic executive leadership, bold practicality, and enthusiasm to embrace change set the standard for mission-driven, growth organizations.
Liren Wei
Liren is the managing partner, Wei, Wei & Co., LLP in Flushing, NY, which is the largest Chinese-American owned accounting firm in the U.S. Liren is the immediate past president of the Society and has been a member since 1994. He is a current member of The Moynihan Scholarship Fund Board of Trustees and the Political Action Committee Board of Trustees.
Liren began his accounting career 29 years ago as a staff accountant at Wei, Wei & Co. Today, as a managing partner, he oversees management and administration of the firm, including directing the activities of managerial, professional and support staff, and coordinating manpower needs and other resources.
Liren is the managing partner, Wei, Wei & Co., LLP in Flushing, NY, which is the largest Chinese-American owned accounting firm in the U.S. Liren is the immediate past president of the Society and has been a member since 1994. He is a current member of The Moynihan Scholarship Fund Board of Trustees and the Political Action Committee Board of Trustees.
Liren began his accounting career 29 years ago as a staff accountant at Wei, Wei & Co. Today, as a managing partner, he oversees management and administration of the firm, including directing the activities of managerial, professional and support staff, and coordinating manpower needs and other resources.
Zach Gordon
Zach Gordon is a CPA with over sixteen years of professional experience across multiple industries and functions. He is the founder of Red Five, which serves as fractional CFO, strategic and tax advisor for a portfolio of crypto, cannabis, tech and other clients.
Zach focuses on tax planning and optimization, financial modeling and advisory services, business structuring and transaction support. He previously was a Principal in the Accounting Services group at a Top 50 CPA Firm, and a leader of the firm’s Cannabis Advisory and Digital Assets practices.
Zach has served in various leadership roles, including Co-Leader of the Cannabis and Digital Assets practices at a regional public accounting firm and Founder and CFO for multiple startups. He was a founding member and managing partner of a cannabis-focused technology incubator and investment group based out of New York.
Zach Gordon is a CPA with over sixteen years of professional experience across multiple industries and functions. He is the founder of Red Five, which serves as fractional CFO, strategic and tax advisor for a portfolio of crypto, cannabis, tech and other clients.
Zach focuses on tax planning and optimization, financial modeling and advisory services, business structuring and transaction support. He previously was a Principal in the Accounting Services group at a Top 50 CPA Firm, and a leader of the firm’s Cannabis Advisory and Digital Assets practices.
Zach has served in various leadership roles, including Co-Leader of the Cannabis and Digital Assets practices at a regional public accounting firm and Founder and CFO for multiple startups. He was a founding member and managing partner of a cannabis-focused technology incubator and investment group based out of New York.
John Spatola
John Spatola is the Partner of the Emerging Business (Tax), Business Valuation, Forensic Accounting and Dispute Resolution Services (BVFDR) practice at Nawrocki Smith LLP. He has diversified experience in income tax planning and preparation, business valuations, insurance loss consulting, economic damages, agreed-upon procedure engagements and various other complex matters. Besides having made numerous training presentations before clients, attorneys, accountants, and other groups on various topics, John provides assistance to counsel in all aspects of litigation-related matters. In his capacity as a director, he works with high-net-worth individuals and their businesses, in terms of tax preparation and planning, in addition to being in charge of various business valuation, insurance consulting, forensic accounting, and litigation support engagements. John was elected to the NYSSCPA Board as Vice President in June 2024.
John Spatola is the Partner of the Emerging Business (Tax), Business Valuation, Forensic Accounting and Dispute Resolution Services (BVFDR) practice at Nawrocki Smith LLP. He has diversified experience in income tax planning and preparation, business valuations, insurance loss consulting, economic damages, agreed-upon procedure engagements and various other complex matters. Besides having made numerous training presentations before clients, attorneys, accountants, and other groups on various topics, John provides assistance to counsel in all aspects of litigation-related matters. In his capacity as a director, he works with high-net-worth individuals and their businesses, in terms of tax preparation and planning, in addition to being in charge of various business valuation, insurance consulting, forensic accounting, and litigation support engagements. John was elected to the NYSSCPA Board as Vice President in June 2024.
Orumé Hays, CPA, CGMA, MST, is the Founder and CEO of Hays CPA LLC, a boutique accounting firm focused on client advisory and outsourced CFO services. Hays has been named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor for three consecutive years, and has been recognized as a Top 50 Woman in Accounting by Ignition, as well as a Notable Leader in Accounting, Tax & Audit by Crain's New York Business.
In 2024, Hays was awarded the prestigious NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Public Practice Award and was named one of Forbes’ America's Top 200 CPAs. An active leader in the accounting profession, Hays serves on and chairs the AICPA’s PCPS Executive Committee. She is also an adjunct lecturer and graduate advisor at two CUNY colleges, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of accounting professionals.
Hays has been a member of the NYCPA since 2007 and has served in numerous capacities within the State Society, including as a current statewide Director-at-Large, as a member of the Society’s Executive Committee, and as chair of NYSSCPA's Relations with the Internal Revenue Service Committee.
Orumé Hays, CPA, CGMA, MST, is the Founder and CEO of Hays CPA LLC, a boutique accounting firm focused on client advisory and outsourced CFO services. Hays has been named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor for three consecutive years, and has been recognized as a Top 50 Woman in Accounting by Ignition, as well as a Notable Leader in Accounting, Tax & Audit by Crain's New York Business.
In 2024, Hays was awarded the prestigious NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Public Practice Award and was named one of Forbes’ America's Top 200 CPAs. An active leader in the accounting profession, Hays serves on and chairs the AICPA’s PCPS Executive Committee. She is also an adjunct lecturer and graduate advisor at two CUNY colleges, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of accounting professionals.
Hays has been a member of the NYCPA since 2007 and has served in numerous capacities within the State Society, including as a current statewide Director-at-Large, as a member of the Society’s Executive Committee, and as chair of NYSSCPA's Relations with the Internal Revenue Service Committee.
Michael Durant
Kevin O'Leary
Kevin O’Leary became Managing Partner of MMB + CO’s Albany office in 2019. On June 1, 2024, Kevin was elected President of the NYSSCPA. Previously, he had been President, President-elect, Secretary and Treasurer of the Northeast Chapter. Because of his role with the NYSSCPA, he is also now a council member of the AICPA.
Kevin graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, where he played four years of college football and received his BS in Accounting. During his downtime, he enjoys coaching basketball and flag football at St. Gregory’s School, as well as playing golf with the kids. His wife, Tara, is also a CPA, and they are the proud parents of two awesome boys (and future CPAs—they just don’t know it yet), Mason and Nick.
Kevin O’Leary became Managing Partner of MMB + CO’s Albany office in 2019. On June 1, 2024, Kevin was elected President of the NYSSCPA. Previously, he had been President, President-elect, Secretary and Treasurer of the Northeast Chapter. Because of his role with the NYSSCPA, he is also now a council member of the AICPA.
Kevin graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, where he played four years of college football and received his BS in Accounting. During his downtime, he enjoys coaching basketball and flag football at St. Gregory’s School, as well as playing golf with the kids. His wife, Tara, is also a CPA, and they are the proud parents of two awesome boys (and future CPAs—they just don’t know it yet), Mason and Nick.
Rumbi Bwerinofa-Petrozzello
Michael Durant is an experienced CPA with a JD, specializing in estates and trusts. His dedication to empowering his clients through education is mirrored by his passion for advancing financial literacy throughout the state. By serving as a member of the Board of the NYSSCPA, as a trustee for The Moynihan Scholarship Fund, and as a member of the Society’s Legislative Task Force, Michael has been able to merge his career and passion to further the empowerment of the community.
Michael Durant is an experienced CPA with a JD, specializing in estates and trusts. His dedication to empowering his clients through education is mirrored by his passion for advancing financial literacy throughout the state. By serving as a member of the Board of the NYSSCPA, as a trustee for The Moynihan Scholarship Fund, and as a member of the Society’s Legislative Task Force, Michael has been able to merge his career and passion to further the empowerment of the community.
Lexi Weber is a CPA and senior manager for emerging professionals initiatives at AICPA & CIMA. She graduated summa cum laude from the University at Buffalo, earning both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Accounting. She has previously worked at Tronconi Segarra & Associates, LLP, where she held the roles of audit manager and Chair of the firm's Leadership Academy. She was appointed to the SUNY University at Buffalo School of Management's Accounting Advisory Council in 2024. She has been named as a 2025 CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 Honoree, a 2025 Buffalo Business First's 30 Under 30 Honoree, a 2024 Nominee for Ignition’s Top 50 Women in Accounting, and an Emerging Leader in 2023 by the New York State Society of CPAs.
Lexi Weber is a CPA and senior manager for emerging professionals initiatives at AICPA & CIMA. She graduated summa cum laude from the University at Buffalo, earning both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Accounting. She has previously worked at Tronconi Segarra & Associates, LLP, where she held the roles of audit manager and Chair of the firm's Leadership Academy. She was appointed to the SUNY University at Buffalo School of Management's Accounting Advisory Council in 2024. She has been named as a 2025 CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 Honoree, a 2025 Buffalo Business First's 30 Under 30 Honoree, a 2024 Nominee for Ignition’s Top 50 Women in Accounting, and an Emerging Leader in 2023 by the New York State Society of CPAs.
Julienne Gutierrez is a CPA and senior finance leader with more than two decades of experience at WPP, FGS Global, MSG, and IPG. As a global controller, she’s guided teams through technical accounting, complex consolidations, and M&A integrations, overseeing entities with revenues up to $14 billion. Her passion is modernizing accounting teams — moving them beyond reporting the numbers to delivering the insights leaders need to drive growth and adapt in a fast-changing world. She’s also a champion of building high-performing, people-first teams, believing that the future of finance isn’t just about compliance, but about creativity, strategy, and influence at the leadership table.
Julienne Gutierrez is a CPA and senior finance leader with more than two decades of experience at WPP, FGS Global, MSG, and IPG. As a global controller, she’s guided teams through technical accounting, complex consolidations, and M&A integrations, overseeing entities with revenues up to $14 billion. Her passion is modernizing accounting teams — moving them beyond reporting the numbers to delivering the insights leaders need to drive growth and adapt in a fast-changing world. She’s also a champion of building high-performing, people-first teams, believing that the future of finance isn’t just about compliance, but about creativity, strategy, and influence at the leadership table.
Byron K. Patrick, CPA, is the co-founder of TB Academy, an education company that empowers accountants to harness the power of generative AI. He also serves as CEO of VERIFYiQ, which delivers automated quality control solutions for accounting professionals. Over his career, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs, and played a key role at Botkeeper in advancing AI-driven bookkeeping. A respected national speaker and writer, he is known for translating complex accounting technology into clear, practical guidance.
Byron K. Patrick, CPA, is the co-founder of TB Academy, an education company that empowers accountants to harness the power of generative AI. He also serves as CEO of VERIFYiQ, which delivers automated quality control solutions for accounting professionals. Over his career, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs, and played a key role at Botkeeper in advancing AI-driven bookkeeping. A respected national speaker and writer, he is known for translating complex accounting technology into clear, practical guidance.
Stacey Ryan-Cornelius is Burson’s global chief financial officer. She pairs considerable experience managing brands through transformation with a unique blend of creative thinking, sharp financial acumen and genuine passion for people and culture. She worked previously at Ogilvy as global chief financial officer shaping financial strategy and operations during a period of transformation and growth, and has also held positions at Geometry Global, WPP Health & Wellness and PwC. She is a Certified Public Accountant and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Baruch College.
Stacey Ryan-Cornelius is Burson’s global chief financial officer. She pairs considerable experience managing brands through transformation with a unique blend of creative thinking, sharp financial acumen and genuine passion for people and culture. She worked previously at Ogilvy as global chief financial officer shaping financial strategy and operations during a period of transformation and growth, and has also held positions at Geometry Global, WPP Health & Wellness and PwC. She is a Certified Public Accountant and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Baruch College.
Michael Quinn, CPA, CGMA, is the CFO of Catholic Charities of Buffalo. He has more than 25 years of experience as a senior health care administrator with expertise in health system, medical practice and business leadership. He's worked at the Catholic Health System of Buffalo, UBMD Physicians Group, University at Buffalo New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Life Sciences, among other organizations. He is responsible for financial planning, oversight analysis and controls, fiscal relationships, strategic planning, and budgeting along with other related responsibilities. He graduated from LeMoyne College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
Michael Quinn, CPA, CGMA, is the CFO of Catholic Charities of Buffalo. He has more than 25 years of experience as a senior health care administrator with expertise in health system, medical practice and business leadership. He's worked at the Catholic Health System of Buffalo, UBMD Physicians Group, University at Buffalo New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Life Sciences, among other organizations. He is responsible for financial planning, oversight analysis and controls, fiscal relationships, strategic planning, and budgeting along with other related responsibilities. He graduated from LeMoyne College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
Kevin Matz, Esq., CPA, LL.M. (Taxation) is a partner at ArentFox Schiff LLP. He has been a active member of the Society since 1993 and is the current NYCPA president. He has served on numerous NYCPA boards and committees including the Foundation for Accounting Education (FAE) Board of Trustees, FAE Curriculum Committee, Trust and Estate Administration Community, Finance and Nominating Committee and many more. He is the chair of the NYCPA Private Wealth Conference. He is a regular author and lecturer on estate and tax planning topics, and co-author of the estate planning treatises, "Manning on Estate Planning" and "Estate Planning for Professionals".
Kevin Matz, Esq., CPA, LL.M. (Taxation) is a partner at ArentFox Schiff LLP. He has been a active member of the Society since 1993 and is the current NYCPA president. He has served on numerous NYCPA boards and committees including the Foundation for Accounting Education (FAE) Board of Trustees, FAE Curriculum Committee, Trust and Estate Administration Community, Finance and Nominating Committee and many more. He is the chair of the NYCPA Private Wealth Conference. He is a regular author and lecturer on estate and tax planning topics, and co-author of the estate planning treatises, "Manning on Estate Planning" and "Estate Planning for Professionals".
In this episode NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. answers questions submitted by peers and colleagues about the state of the profession, what's going on at the Society, and even the story behind those famous accounting t-shirts he wears. Some of the questions he covers include the biggest existential threats to accounting, the role of state societies in shaping national policy, his proudest moment as CEO so far, and much more.
In this episode NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. answers questions submitted by peers and colleagues about the state of the profession, what's going on at the Society, and even the story behind those famous accounting t-shirts he wears. Some of the questions he covers include the biggest existential threats to accounting, the role of state societies in shaping national policy, his proudest moment as CEO so far, and much more.
Dr. Jack Castonguay is from Yorktown, Virginia. He received his PhD in accounting from the University of Tennessee, holds a bachelor of business administration in accounting and a master of science in accounting from James Madison University. He is an associate professor of accounting at Hofstra University where he teaches financial accounting, auditing theory, and more. He is also the vice president of strategic content development at Surgent.
Dr. Jack Castonguay is from Yorktown, Virginia. He received his PhD in accounting from the University of Tennessee, holds a bachelor of business administration in accounting and a master of science in accounting from James Madison University. He is an associate professor of accounting at Hofstra University where he teaches financial accounting, auditing theory, and more. He is also the vice president of strategic content development at Surgent.
David Alejandro Samayoa Alvarado is a senior associate in the assurance practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. He attended Ramapo College of New Jersey and graduated with a BS in Accounting and a BS in Finance. He was born in Guatemala and moved to the US in 2012. He won the 2025 Elijah Watt Sells award, given to CPA candidates who obtain a cumulative average score above 95.50 across four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination, pass the four sections on their first attempt and have completed testing in 2024
David Alejandro Samayoa Alvarado is a senior associate in the assurance practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. He attended Ramapo College of New Jersey and graduated with a BS in Accounting and a BS in Finance. He was born in Guatemala and moved to the US in 2012. He won the 2025 Elijah Watt Sells award, given to CPA candidates who obtain a cumulative average score above 95.50 across four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination, pass the four sections on their first attempt and have completed testing in 2024
Scott Krug is the senior vice president and CFO of the New York Yankees. He leads financial strategy and operations for the organization and is responsible for the budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning, while also helping shape broader business strategy across both baseball and non-baseball ventures. He helped lead the planning and development of the new Yankee Stadium as well as the creation of Legends Hospitality. He has been with the New York Yankees since 2004. He previously worked at PwC from 1996 to 2004 in the audit department, and graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
Scott Krug is the senior vice president and CFO of the New York Yankees. He leads financial strategy and operations for the organization and is responsible for the budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning, while also helping shape broader business strategy across both baseball and non-baseball ventures. He helped lead the planning and development of the new Yankee Stadium as well as the creation of Legends Hospitality. He has been with the New York Yankees since 2004. He previously worked at PwC from 1996 to 2004 in the audit department, and graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
In this episode, NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with a variety of guests at the 2025 AICPA Spring Council Meeting in Washington D.C. Topics covered in this episode include advocacy at the state and federal level, the accounting pipeline, collaboration between state societies, how the profession has evolved over recent years and much more. The guests in this episode are:
In this episode, NYCPA CEO Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with a variety of guests at the 2025 AICPA Spring Council Meeting in Washington D.C. Topics covered in this episode include advocacy at the state and federal level, the accounting pipeline, collaboration between state societies, how the profession has evolved over recent years and much more. The guests in this episode are:
Robert Huether is a New York State CPA with over a decade of Big Four Public Accounting and Fortune 500 industry experience, working in various accounting, auditing and financial reporting roles. Currently, Robert is the executive director of SEC Reporting for The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. where he is responsible for leading the company’s regulatory and external financial reporting processes, including ensuring that all new and updated accounting and regulatory requirements are properly applied. Prior to The Estee Lauder Companies Inc., Robert held various other accounting and financial reporting roles, including most recently as the manager of global technical accounting and reporting at the Bountiful Company (Formerly "the Nature's Bounty Company") and spent more than five years at KPMG, where he served as an audit manager and was responsible for leading the audits of large publicly-traded entities, with a specific focus on the power and utilities, as well as technology and media industries. Robert began his career as a plant accounting analyst at National Grid, where he was responsible for the accounting of the company's property, plant & equipment asset portfolio, and has also worked as a staff accountant in the SEC Reporting and Corporate SOX group at Arrow Electronics, inc.
Robert has been an active member of the NYCPA for over the last decade, holding various roles at both the local and statewide level. Currently, he is a director-at-large on the statewide Board of Directors, the vice chair of the NYCPA Statewide NextGen Committee and the president of the Suffolk County Chapter. Robert also serves as an Accounting Advisory Board Member for Post University, located in Waterbury, CT, where he works closely with various industry professionals and University leadership to help bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and the needs of the workforce.
Robert Huether is a New York State CPA with over a decade of Big Four Public Accounting and Fortune 500 industry experience, working in various accounting, auditing and financial reporting roles. Currently, Robert is the executive director of SEC Reporting for The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. where he is responsible for leading the company’s regulatory and external financial reporting processes, including ensuring that all new and updated accounting and regulatory requirements are properly applied. Prior to The Estee Lauder Companies Inc., Robert held various other accounting and financial reporting roles, including most recently as the manager of global technical accounting and reporting at the Bountiful Company (Formerly "the Nature's Bounty Company") and spent more than five years at KPMG, where he served as an audit manager and was responsible for leading the audits of large publicly-traded entities, with a specific focus on the power and utilities, as well as technology and media industries. Robert began his career as a plant accounting analyst at National Grid, where he was responsible for the accounting of the company's property, plant & equipment asset portfolio, and has also worked as a staff accountant in the SEC Reporting and Corporate SOX group at Arrow Electronics, inc.
Robert has been an active member of the NYCPA for over the last decade, holding various roles at both the local and statewide level. Currently, he is a director-at-large on the statewide Board of Directors, the vice chair of the NYCPA Statewide NextGen Committee and the president of the Suffolk County Chapter. Robert also serves as an Accounting Advisory Board Member for Post University, located in Waterbury, CT, where he works closely with various industry professionals and University leadership to help bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and the needs of the workforce.
With over four decades of experience in accounting, forensic consulting, and ethics leadership, Andrew (Andy) Mintzer is widely recognized for his impact on the profession — not just applying standards, but helping to shape them. Originally from New York, Andy now serves on the Board of Directors of the New York State Society of CPAs and is a principal at Hemming Morse, LLC, where he leads complex forensic investigations and testifies in high-stakes litigation involving accounting, auditing, and financial reporting issues. He has served on the AICPA’s Auditing Standards Board, Accounting Standards Executive Committee, and Professional Ethics Executive Committee, and was appointed to the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants for the maximum six-year term. A past chair of the California Society of CPAs and a former AICPA board member, Andy is known as a thoughtful leader and mentor committed to public service.
Outside the courtroom and boardroom, he was a contestant on Netflix’s The Mole (Season 2) and has played nearly 700 escape rooms around the world — which he reviews on his website, Fun Factor Escape Room Reviews. Whether navigating corporate fraud or cracking escape room puzzles, Andy brings curiosity, clarity, and integrity to every challenge.
With over four decades of experience in accounting, forensic consulting, and ethics leadership, Andrew (Andy) Mintzer is widely recognized for his impact on the profession — not just applying standards, but helping to shape them. Originally from New York, Andy now serves on the Board of Directors of the New York State Society of CPAs and is a principal at Hemming Morse, LLC, where he leads complex forensic investigations and testifies in high-stakes litigation involving accounting, auditing, and financial reporting issues. He has served on the AICPA’s Auditing Standards Board, Accounting Standards Executive Committee, and Professional Ethics Executive Committee, and was appointed to the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants for the maximum six-year term. A past chair of the California Society of CPAs and a former AICPA board member, Andy is known as a thoughtful leader and mentor committed to public service.
Outside the courtroom and boardroom, he was a contestant on Netflix’s The Mole (Season 2) and has played nearly 700 escape rooms around the world — which he reviews on his website, Fun Factor Escape Room Reviews. Whether navigating corporate fraud or cracking escape room puzzles, Andy brings curiosity, clarity, and integrity to every challenge.
William Huether is a Partner at Sheehan & Company, CPA, P.C., which has two offices on Long Island. William joined Sheehan & Company, C.P.A., P.C. in 2013. William is a CPA in New York State and is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of CPAs. Over the years, William has been awarded several honors on Long Island including the Long Island Business News Top 40 Under Forty award in December 2023, “Long Island's Top 30 under 30 Young Professionals Award” by the Huntington Chamber of Commerce in May 2012, and Briarcliffe College’s Alumni of the Year award in May 2014.
At Sheehan & Company, William is a member of the assurance, accounting, and tax practice providing a variety of assurance and accounting services to clients in the retail, wholesale, distribution, solar, restaurant/hospitality, not-for-profit, manufacturing, investment company, and real estate industries in accordance with both U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and International Financial Reporting Standards. William also provides tax compliance and tax planning services for individuals, corporations, and flow-through entities. At Sheehan & Company, William is the chair of the firm's recruiting committee, a mentor in the firm’s career advisor program, and serves on the firm's Quality Control Committee. At the firm, William spearheads the firm’s annual Toys for Tots Drive, which is now in its 31st year, and is one of the largest pick-ups on Long Island and benefits underprivileged families across Long Island.
William Huether is a Partner at Sheehan & Company, CPA, P.C., which has two offices on Long Island. William joined Sheehan & Company, C.P.A., P.C. in 2013. William is a CPA in New York State and is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of CPAs. Over the years, William has been awarded several honors on Long Island including the Long Island Business News Top 40 Under Forty award in December 2023, “Long Island's Top 30 under 30 Young Professionals Award” by the Huntington Chamber of Commerce in May 2012, and Briarcliffe College’s Alumni of the Year award in May 2014.
At Sheehan & Company, William is a member of the assurance, accounting, and tax practice providing a variety of assurance and accounting services to clients in the retail, wholesale, distribution, solar, restaurant/hospitality, not-for-profit, manufacturing, investment company, and real estate industries in accordance with both U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and International Financial Reporting Standards. William also provides tax compliance and tax planning services for individuals, corporations, and flow-through entities. At Sheehan & Company, William is the chair of the firm's recruiting committee, a mentor in the firm’s career advisor program, and serves on the firm's Quality Control Committee. At the firm, William spearheads the firm’s annual Toys for Tots Drive, which is now in its 31st year, and is one of the largest pick-ups on Long Island and benefits underprivileged families across Long Island.
Kirthi is CLA’s first chief people officer, driving people solutions, internal communications and PR, learning and development, and connections to ensure talent, culture, and innovation fuel CLA’s success. As a member of CLA’s board of directors, she shapes the firm’s long-term strategy and governance.
Previously, as managing principal of CLA New York, Kirthi led a transformative expansion, tripling the practice in 2.5 years and launching The Gateway, CLA’s cutting-edge Manhattan hub for global business. She also help built CLA’s Global Advisory Practice, helping businesses navigate international expansion and regulatory challenges.
A recognized thought leader, Kirthi speaks at global conferences and contributes to the US Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA Investment Guide and the World Bank’s “Doing Business in the United States” guide. Kirthi serves as a board member of BCT, a trust in India dedicated to combating hunger, illiteracy, and ill health. She is also a mentor for the SelectUSA Women in Tech Cohort, an initiative by the US Department of Commerce that supports female founders from around the world in achieving success in the United States.
Kirthi is CLA’s first chief people officer, driving people solutions, internal communications and PR, learning and development, and connections to ensure talent, culture, and innovation fuel CLA’s success. As a member of CLA’s board of directors, she shapes the firm’s long-term strategy and governance.
Previously, as managing principal of CLA New York, Kirthi led a transformative expansion, tripling the practice in 2.5 years and launching The Gateway, CLA’s cutting-edge Manhattan hub for global business. She also help built CLA’s Global Advisory Practice, helping businesses navigate international expansion and regulatory challenges.
A recognized thought leader, Kirthi speaks at global conferences and contributes to the US Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA Investment Guide and the World Bank’s “Doing Business in the United States” guide. Kirthi serves as a board member of BCT, a trust in India dedicated to combating hunger, illiteracy, and ill health. She is also a mentor for the SelectUSA Women in Tech Cohort, an initiative by the US Department of Commerce that supports female founders from around the world in achieving success in the United States.
Taylor Van Slyck is a highly accomplished Manager in the CFO Advisory Practice at Wiss, where she blends over seven years of public accounting experience with a forward-thinking approach to solving her clients’ financial challenges. Known for her innovative mindset, Taylor has been instrumental in leveraging artificial intelligence, including Basis AI, to enhance efficiency and deliver cutting-edge solutions.
She specializes in CFO services and outsourced accounting, providing strategic financial guidance, supporting management with Business Process Reviews (BPRs), serving as an interim controller, and streamlining billing cycles for enhanced efficiency.
Her expertise extends to navigating complex government programs like the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and PPP Loan Funding/Forgiveness, where her guidance has helped numerous businesses not only weather difficult times but emerge stronger.
Her proficiency in accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks Online (QBO), Deltek Vision, and Deltek Vantagepoint, as well as her extensive experience with Bill.com, Wise, Ramp, and Fathom, ensures streamlined and efficient client support.
Taylor focuses on building strong, lasting relationships with her clients so she can continue to provide them with advisory services in the future. Her commitment to excellence, both professionally and personally, reflects her focus on fostering meaningful, ongoing partnerships throughout her career.
Taylor Van Slyck is a highly accomplished Manager in the CFO Advisory Practice at Wiss, where she blends over seven years of public accounting experience with a forward-thinking approach to solving her clients’ financial challenges. Known for her innovative mindset, Taylor has been instrumental in leveraging artificial intelligence, including Basis AI, to enhance efficiency and deliver cutting-edge solutions.
She specializes in CFO services and outsourced accounting, providing strategic financial guidance, supporting management with Business Process Reviews (BPRs), serving as an interim controller, and streamlining billing cycles for enhanced efficiency.
Her expertise extends to navigating complex government programs like the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and PPP Loan Funding/Forgiveness, where her guidance has helped numerous businesses not only weather difficult times but emerge stronger.
Her proficiency in accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks Online (QBO), Deltek Vision, and Deltek Vantagepoint, as well as her extensive experience with Bill.com, Wise, Ramp, and Fathom, ensures streamlined and efficient client support.
Taylor focuses on building strong, lasting relationships with her clients so she can continue to provide them with advisory services in the future. Her commitment to excellence, both professionally and personally, reflects her focus on fostering meaningful, ongoing partnerships throughout her career.
Okorie L. Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, PMP, NACD.DC
Okorie Ramsey is the Vice President, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. In this role, he has responsibility and oversight for the SOX Program, including strategy, testing, and evaluating internal controls and assessing business risk to assist in building an effective internal control over financial reporting for the integrated health care enterprise.
Okorie currently serves as the Immediate Past Chairman of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association), which represents the largest and most influential body of accounting and finance professionals in the world. Okorie also serves on the San Francisco State University Foundation Board of Trustees. Previously, Okorie has served on various boards as Chairman and board committees including Audit and Finance, Compensation, Nominations and Governance and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the fields of accounting and finance including the California Society of CPAs Education Foundation, the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA, Inc.), the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP), and LIFE Courses. Okorie has also been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting by Accounting Today.
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA, CITP, CGMA, CIA, CISA
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor is a Global Technology and Finance leader with over 30 years of career achievements. She is the Chief Executive Officer of KET Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm focused on business growth, innovation, strategy, transformation and inclusive leadership. Ellison-Taylor is a sought-after keynote speaker and has received many awards and recognitions for her expertise and leadership including Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor's 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting and Forbes Top 200 CPAs in America.
Kimberly has volunteered in the profession for over 20 years including past leadership positions as Chairman of the American Institute of CPAs, Chairman of the Association of Certified Professional Accountants, and Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs. Kimberly is also the Immediate Past Chair for the AICPA’s National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion and a Past President for Beta Alpha Psi. Ellison-Taylor is the Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs Education Foundation and serves on the board of trustees for Loyola University Maryland. She is a lifetime member of NABA.
Okorie L. Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, PMP, NACD.DC
Okorie Ramsey is the Vice President, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. In this role, he has responsibility and oversight for the SOX Program, including strategy, testing, and evaluating internal controls and assessing business risk to assist in building an effective internal control over financial reporting for the integrated health care enterprise.
Okorie currently serves as the Immediate Past Chairman of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association), which represents the largest and most influential body of accounting and finance professionals in the world. Okorie also serves on the San Francisco State University Foundation Board of Trustees. Previously, Okorie has served on various boards as Chairman and board committees including Audit and Finance, Compensation, Nominations and Governance and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the fields of accounting and finance including the California Society of CPAs Education Foundation, the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA, Inc.), the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP), and LIFE Courses. Okorie has also been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting by Accounting Today.
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA, CITP, CGMA, CIA, CISA
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor is a Global Technology and Finance leader with over 30 years of career achievements. She is the Chief Executive Officer of KET Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm focused on business growth, innovation, strategy, transformation and inclusive leadership. Ellison-Taylor is a sought-after keynote speaker and has received many awards and recognitions for her expertise and leadership including Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor's 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting and Forbes Top 200 CPAs in America.
Kimberly has volunteered in the profession for over 20 years including past leadership positions as Chairman of the American Institute of CPAs, Chairman of the Association of Certified Professional Accountants, and Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs. Kimberly is also the Immediate Past Chair for the AICPA’s National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion and a Past President for Beta Alpha Psi. Ellison-Taylor is the Chairman of the Maryland Association of CPAs Education Foundation and serves on the board of trustees for Loyola University Maryland. She is a lifetime member of NABA.
Nadia Matthie is a partner in the New York City Withum office with more than twenty years of experience. She is a member of the employee benefit plan practice, labor organizations practice, and multiemployer group where she performed assurance services for single-employer and multiemployer organizations. Nadia has deep knowledge in various types of benefit plans, including defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, ESOPs and health and welfare plans. Other assurance services include the implementation and testing of internal controls and reviewing service organization reports.
In addition, Nadia’s experience includes asset management, providing assurance services to investment advisors, broker-dealers, real estate investment trusts, real estate and private equity funds. She focuses on auditing investment products such as fixed income, funds of funds, private equity and real estate funds, common commingled trusts, direct investments in privately held companies and real property, certain insurance products, real estate properties and privately held companies.
Nadia Matthie is a partner in the New York City Withum office with more than twenty years of experience. She is a member of the employee benefit plan practice, labor organizations practice, and multiemployer group where she performed assurance services for single-employer and multiemployer organizations. Nadia has deep knowledge in various types of benefit plans, including defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, ESOPs and health and welfare plans. Other assurance services include the implementation and testing of internal controls and reviewing service organization reports.
In addition, Nadia’s experience includes asset management, providing assurance services to investment advisors, broker-dealers, real estate investment trusts, real estate and private equity funds. She focuses on auditing investment products such as fixed income, funds of funds, private equity and real estate funds, common commingled trusts, direct investments in privately held companies and real property, certain insurance products, real estate properties and privately held companies.
Brittany Bartula is a CPA and Clinical Assistant Professor of Accounting at the University at Buffalo School of Management. Brittany is a proud alum of the University at Buffalo School of Management as well and earned her BS and MS in Accounting in 2016 and 2017, respectively.
Brittany began her career as a Postgraduate Technical Assistant at the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Assisting in the standard setting process during her one-year assistantship fueled her passion to continue to pursue a specialty in technical accounting and accounting research. She has also held roles in EY’s Technical Accounting Advisory Group, and on ACV Auctions’ Accounting Policy and Special Projects team. Brittany has always had a passion for teaching and academic settings and was thrilled to start her new journey as a professor in 2022.
In 2024, Brittany was a recipient of the NYCPA Emerging Leader Award. She is also very passionate about promoting financial literacy and published a children’s book in August 2024. The book is for children ages 0-5 and seamlessly introduces financial literacy concepts in an entertaining and accessible manner. Since its publication, Brittany has visited classrooms in her community for story time, financial literacy activities, and book giveaways.
Brittany Bartula is a CPA and Clinical Assistant Professor of Accounting at the University at Buffalo School of Management. Brittany is a proud alum of the University at Buffalo School of Management as well and earned her BS and MS in Accounting in 2016 and 2017, respectively.
Brittany began her career as a Postgraduate Technical Assistant at the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Assisting in the standard setting process during her one-year assistantship fueled her passion to continue to pursue a specialty in technical accounting and accounting research. She has also held roles in EY’s Technical Accounting Advisory Group, and on ACV Auctions’ Accounting Policy and Special Projects team. Brittany has always had a passion for teaching and academic settings and was thrilled to start her new journey as a professor in 2022.
In 2024, Brittany was a recipient of the NYCPA Emerging Leader Award. She is also very passionate about promoting financial literacy and published a children’s book in August 2024. The book is for children ages 0-5 and seamlessly introduces financial literacy concepts in an entertaining and accessible manner. Since its publication, Brittany has visited classrooms in her community for story time, financial literacy activities, and book giveaways.
Nicole DeRosa is a Director of Tax at SKC & Co CPAs LLC in Boonton Township, New Jersey and has more than 15 years of public accounting experience, specializing in taxation for closely held businesses and individuals. In addition to working with clients in various industries, she is a Brand Ambassador for UWorld Accounting, helping to promote the profession and CPA designation to college students; she also speaks at various accounting conferences across the nation. In 2024, Nicole was named by Forbes as a Top 200 CPA in America and was a recipient of the AICPA Outstanding Young CPA Award. Nicole currently serves on the NJCPA Board of Trustees and is very active with various other accounting-related initiatives. Above all, Nicole enjoys being a Zumba instructor, spending quality time with family and friends, and relaxing at the beach.
Nicole DeRosa is a Director of Tax at SKC & Co CPAs LLC in Boonton Township, New Jersey and has more than 15 years of public accounting experience, specializing in taxation for closely held businesses and individuals. In addition to working with clients in various industries, she is a Brand Ambassador for UWorld Accounting, helping to promote the profession and CPA designation to college students; she also speaks at various accounting conferences across the nation. In 2024, Nicole was named by Forbes as a Top 200 CPA in America and was a recipient of the AICPA Outstanding Young CPA Award. Nicole currently serves on the NJCPA Board of Trustees and is very active with various other accounting-related initiatives. Above all, Nicole enjoys being a Zumba instructor, spending quality time with family and friends, and relaxing at the beach.
With over three decades of technical and operational accounting experience, Beth van Bladel serves as a director and outsourced CFO/financial advisor with CFO for Hire, a division of BST & Co. CPAs, LLP, where she provides financial, management, and accounting advisory services to support her clients’ missions and financial goals.
Dedicated to the CPA profession, Beth served a three-year term on the Private Company Council, the primary advisory body to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) on private company matters.
Beth is an active member of the AICPA and the NYCPA. She is also the recipient of the NYCPA Distinguished Service Award and NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Industry Award. She co-chairs the NYCPA Annual Business & Industry Conference and serves on the NYCPA Political Action Committee, as well as the Northeast Chapter CFO Committee and reprised the role of Northeast chapter president to engage members and develop chapter leadership.
In her spare time, Beth is a volunteer patient advocate dedicated to teaching healthcare literacy and navigation skills. She also enjoys discovering backroads on her Can-Am Spyder.
With over three decades of technical and operational accounting experience, Beth van Bladel serves as a director and outsourced CFO/financial advisor with CFO for Hire, a division of BST & Co. CPAs, LLP, where she provides financial, management, and accounting advisory services to support her clients’ missions and financial goals.
Dedicated to the CPA profession, Beth served a three-year term on the Private Company Council, the primary advisory body to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) on private company matters.
Beth is an active member of the AICPA and the NYCPA. She is also the recipient of the NYCPA Distinguished Service Award and NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Industry Award. She co-chairs the NYCPA Annual Business & Industry Conference and serves on the NYCPA Political Action Committee, as well as the Northeast Chapter CFO Committee and reprised the role of Northeast chapter president to engage members and develop chapter leadership.
In her spare time, Beth is a volunteer patient advocate dedicated to teaching healthcare literacy and navigation skills. She also enjoys discovering backroads on her Can-Am Spyder.
Sean is an associate professor at the City University of New York – Lehman College. He serves on the advisory board of the Wall Street Blockchain Alliance, where he chairs the Accounting Working Group. Sean also serves as an advisor to Crescent City Capital, a cryptoasset investment fund, and to Hyperion, a crypto accounting startup. An award-winning researcher, Sean has been recognized in both the United States and European Union for his contributions to the accounting field. He is a Certified Cryptocurrency Auditor and has completed an Executive Education program in Artificial Intelligence at MIT. Sean is currently enrolled at the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute in the Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist program.
Sean is an associate professor at the City University of New York – Lehman College. He serves on the advisory board of the Wall Street Blockchain Alliance, where he chairs the Accounting Working Group. Sean also serves as an advisor to Crescent City Capital, a cryptoasset investment fund, and to Hyperion, a crypto accounting startup. An award-winning researcher, Sean has been recognized in both the United States and European Union for his contributions to the accounting field. He is a Certified Cryptocurrency Auditor and has completed an Executive Education program in Artificial Intelligence at MIT. Sean is currently enrolled at the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute in the Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist program.
Renata Serban, CPA, CMA, has over 15 years of experience across various industries, including cannabis. She emphasizes the need for qualified cannabis accounting expertise and is dedicated to improving the financial literacy of cannabis operators in New York and New Jersey.
Renata chairs of the Cannabis Committee for the NYCPAs and serves as an instructor for cannabis compliance and training programs with the New York Office of Cannabis Management and New Jersey Business Action Center.
She co-authored the comment letter to the Proposed Adult-Use Regulations in NYS and has published articles in Trusted Professional, Strategic Finance, and NY Cannabis Insider.
Renata Serban, CPA, CMA, has over 15 years of experience across various industries, including cannabis. She emphasizes the need for qualified cannabis accounting expertise and is dedicated to improving the financial literacy of cannabis operators in New York and New Jersey.
Renata chairs of the Cannabis Committee for the NYCPAs and serves as an instructor for cannabis compliance and training programs with the New York Office of Cannabis Management and New Jersey Business Action Center.
She co-authored the comment letter to the Proposed Adult-Use Regulations in NYS and has published articles in Trusted Professional, Strategic Finance, and NY Cannabis Insider.
Marc is a CPA and an audit manager with seven years of experience across multiple industries. He earned his MBA from Canisius College (now University) in Buffalo where he was born, raised, and continues to reside.
Marc began his career at a local firm in Buffalo before joining Frazier & Deeter in 2021, a top 50 accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with offices in the U.S., UK and India. When Marc was hired, he was the department’s second fully remote senior. He currently specializes in SaaS companies and emerging companies at various lifecycles.
An active member of the Buffalo Chapter of NYCPA, Marc has served as membership chair, NextGen chair, and most recently president elect. Additionally, Marc was nominated/elected chair of NYCPA’s NextGen Committee in 2023 where his focus is re-energizing the emerging CPA profession and bringing back the sense of community.
Marc is a CPA and an audit manager with seven years of experience across multiple industries. He earned his MBA from Canisius College (now University) in Buffalo where he was born, raised, and continues to reside.
Marc began his career at a local firm in Buffalo before joining Frazier & Deeter in 2021, a top 50 accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with offices in the U.S., UK and India. When Marc was hired, he was the department’s second fully remote senior. He currently specializes in SaaS companies and emerging companies at various lifecycles.
An active member of the Buffalo Chapter of NYCPA, Marc has served as membership chair, NextGen chair, and most recently president elect. Additionally, Marc was nominated/elected chair of NYCPA’s NextGen Committee in 2023 where his focus is re-energizing the emerging CPA profession and bringing back the sense of community.
Tim is a CPA and a partner in The Bonadio Group’s Assurance Service Line and Healthcare and Human Services Industry Practices and is based in Syracuse, New York. Bonadio is a Top 50 public accounting firm with 10 offices located in New York, Vermont and Texas. He has over 15 years of experience serving healthcare, human services and other not-for-profit organizations, with a particular specialty serving hospitals, clinics and home care agencies.
Tim serves on the New York State Board for Public Accountancy, advising the New York State Board of Regents and New York State Education Department on matters of professional regulation. He is formerly the secretary/treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of NYCPA and still serves on NYCPA’s Exempt Organization and Not-for-Profit Committees. He is a member of the AICPA, NYCPA and Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Tim holds a B.S. in accounting and economics (magna cum laude) as well as an MBA from Le Moyne College.
Tim is also a current member of Le Moyne College’s Board of Regents and a past member of the Board of Directors of Nascentia Health. Central New York Business Journal just recognized Tim as a 40 under Forty Award recipient, and he’s a past recipient of NYCPA’s Emerging Leaders Award.
Tim is a CPA and a partner in The Bonadio Group’s Assurance Service Line and Healthcare and Human Services Industry Practices and is based in Syracuse, New York. Bonadio is a Top 50 public accounting firm with 10 offices located in New York, Vermont and Texas. He has over 15 years of experience serving healthcare, human services and other not-for-profit organizations, with a particular specialty serving hospitals, clinics and home care agencies.
Tim serves on the New York State Board for Public Accountancy, advising the New York State Board of Regents and New York State Education Department on matters of professional regulation. He is formerly the secretary/treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of NYCPA and still serves on NYCPA’s Exempt Organization and Not-for-Profit Committees. He is a member of the AICPA, NYCPA and Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Tim holds a B.S. in accounting and economics (magna cum laude) as well as an MBA from Le Moyne College.
Tim is also a current member of Le Moyne College’s Board of Regents and a past member of the Board of Directors of Nascentia Health. Central New York Business Journal just recognized Tim as a 40 under Forty Award recipient, and he’s a past recipient of NYCPA’s Emerging Leaders Award.
Mark Stone, CPA, has been the managing partner of Sales Tax Defense LLC since 2006, a firm specializing in sales and use taxes. With over 30 years of experience as a New York State tax auditor and as a tax manager/principal at several prominent accounting firms, Mark has earned a reputation as one of the top professionals for multi-state sales and use taxes. He frequently speaks on sales and use tax issues at various organizations and serves as an expert witness in tax court on behalf of clients. Mark holds a master’s degree in taxation and has also served as an adjunct tax professor at Long Island University C.W. Post.
Mark Stone, CPA, has been the managing partner of Sales Tax Defense LLC since 2006, a firm specializing in sales and use taxes. With over 30 years of experience as a New York State tax auditor and as a tax manager/principal at several prominent accounting firms, Mark has earned a reputation as one of the top professionals for multi-state sales and use taxes. He frequently speaks on sales and use tax issues at various organizations and serves as an expert witness in tax court on behalf of clients. Mark holds a master’s degree in taxation and has also served as an adjunct tax professor at Long Island University C.W. Post.
Carla is the managing partner of AAFCPAs, a preeminent, 350-person CPA and consulting firm based in New England. She is also chair of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Carla was named one of the Most Powerful Women in the Accounting Profession every year from 2020-2024 by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor Magazine. Her dynamic executive leadership, bold practicality, and enthusiasm to embrace change set the standard for mission-driven, growth organizations.
Carla is the managing partner of AAFCPAs, a preeminent, 350-person CPA and consulting firm based in New England. She is also chair of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Carla was named one of the Most Powerful Women in the Accounting Profession every year from 2020-2024 by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor Magazine. Her dynamic executive leadership, bold practicality, and enthusiasm to embrace change set the standard for mission-driven, growth organizations.
Liren is the managing partner, Wei, Wei & Co., LLP in Flushing, NY, which is the largest Chinese-American owned accounting firm in the U.S. Liren is the immediate past president of the Society and has been a member since 1994. He is a current member of The Moynihan Scholarship Fund Board of Trustees and the Political Action Committee Board of Trustees.
Liren began his accounting career 29 years ago as a staff accountant at Wei, Wei & Co. Today, as a managing partner, he oversees management and administration of the firm, including directing the activities of managerial, professional and support staff, and coordinating manpower needs and other resources.
Liren is the managing partner, Wei, Wei & Co., LLP in Flushing, NY, which is the largest Chinese-American owned accounting firm in the U.S. Liren is the immediate past president of the Society and has been a member since 1994. He is a current member of The Moynihan Scholarship Fund Board of Trustees and the Political Action Committee Board of Trustees.
Liren began his accounting career 29 years ago as a staff accountant at Wei, Wei & Co. Today, as a managing partner, he oversees management and administration of the firm, including directing the activities of managerial, professional and support staff, and coordinating manpower needs and other resources.
Zach Gordon is a CPA with over sixteen years of professional experience across multiple industries and functions. He is the founder of Red Five, which serves as fractional CFO, strategic and tax advisor for a portfolio of crypto, cannabis, tech and other clients.
Zach focuses on tax planning and optimization, financial modeling and advisory services, business structuring and transaction support. He previously was a Principal in the Accounting Services group at a Top 50 CPA Firm, and a leader of the firm’s Cannabis Advisory and Digital Assets practices.
Zach has served in various leadership roles, including Co-Leader of the Cannabis and Digital Assets practices at a regional public accounting firm and Founder and CFO for multiple startups. He was a founding member and managing partner of a cannabis-focused technology incubator and investment group based out of New York.
Zach Gordon is a CPA with over sixteen years of professional experience across multiple industries and functions. He is the founder of Red Five, which serves as fractional CFO, strategic and tax advisor for a portfolio of crypto, cannabis, tech and other clients.
Zach focuses on tax planning and optimization, financial modeling and advisory services, business structuring and transaction support. He previously was a Principal in the Accounting Services group at a Top 50 CPA Firm, and a leader of the firm’s Cannabis Advisory and Digital Assets practices.
Zach has served in various leadership roles, including Co-Leader of the Cannabis and Digital Assets practices at a regional public accounting firm and Founder and CFO for multiple startups. He was a founding member and managing partner of a cannabis-focused technology incubator and investment group based out of New York.
John Spatola is the Partner of the Emerging Business (Tax), Business Valuation, Forensic Accounting and Dispute Resolution Services (BVFDR) practice at Nawrocki Smith LLP. He has diversified experience in income tax planning and preparation, business valuations, insurance loss consulting, economic damages, agreed-upon procedure engagements and various other complex matters. Besides having made numerous training presentations before clients, attorneys, accountants, and other groups on various topics, John provides assistance to counsel in all aspects of litigation-related matters. In his capacity as a director, he works with high-net-worth individuals and their businesses, in terms of tax preparation and planning, in addition to being in charge of various business valuation, insurance consulting, forensic accounting, and litigation support engagements. John was elected to the NYSSCPA Board as Vice President in June 2024.
John Spatola is the Partner of the Emerging Business (Tax), Business Valuation, Forensic Accounting and Dispute Resolution Services (BVFDR) practice at Nawrocki Smith LLP. He has diversified experience in income tax planning and preparation, business valuations, insurance loss consulting, economic damages, agreed-upon procedure engagements and various other complex matters. Besides having made numerous training presentations before clients, attorneys, accountants, and other groups on various topics, John provides assistance to counsel in all aspects of litigation-related matters. In his capacity as a director, he works with high-net-worth individuals and their businesses, in terms of tax preparation and planning, in addition to being in charge of various business valuation, insurance consulting, forensic accounting, and litigation support engagements. John was elected to the NYSSCPA Board as Vice President in June 2024.
Orumé Hays, CPA, CGMA, MST, is the Founder and CEO of Hays CPA LLC, a boutique accounting firm focused on client advisory and outsourced CFO services. Hays has been named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor for three consecutive years, and has been recognized as a Top 50 Woman in Accounting by Ignition, as well as a Notable Leader in Accounting, Tax & Audit by Crain's New York Business.
In 2024, Hays was awarded the prestigious NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Public Practice Award and was named one of Forbes’ America's Top 200 CPAs. An active leader in the accounting profession, Hays serves on and chairs the AICPA’s PCPS Executive Committee. She is also an adjunct lecturer and graduate advisor at two CUNY colleges, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of accounting professionals.
Hays has been a member of the NYCPA since 2007 and has served in numerous capacities within the State Society, including as a current statewide Director-at-Large, as a member of the Society’s Executive Committee, and as chair of NYSSCPA's Relations with the Internal Revenue Service Committee.
Orumé Hays, CPA, CGMA, MST, is the Founder and CEO of Hays CPA LLC, a boutique accounting firm focused on client advisory and outsourced CFO services. Hays has been named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor for three consecutive years, and has been recognized as a Top 50 Woman in Accounting by Ignition, as well as a Notable Leader in Accounting, Tax & Audit by Crain's New York Business.
In 2024, Hays was awarded the prestigious NYCPA Outstanding CPA in Public Practice Award and was named one of Forbes’ America's Top 200 CPAs. An active leader in the accounting profession, Hays serves on and chairs the AICPA’s PCPS Executive Committee. She is also an adjunct lecturer and graduate advisor at two CUNY colleges, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of accounting professionals.
Hays has been a member of the NYCPA since 2007 and has served in numerous capacities within the State Society, including as a current statewide Director-at-Large, as a member of the Society’s Executive Committee, and as chair of NYSSCPA's Relations with the Internal Revenue Service Committee.
Kevin O’Leary became Managing Partner of MMB + CO’s Albany office in 2019. On June 1, 2024, Kevin was elected President of the NYSSCPA. Previously, he had been President, President-elect, Secretary and Treasurer of the Northeast Chapter. Because of his role with the NYSSCPA, he is also now a council member of the AICPA.
Kevin graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, where he played four years of college football and received his BS in Accounting. During his downtime, he enjoys coaching basketball and flag football at St. Gregory’s School, as well as playing golf with the kids. His wife, Tara, is also a CPA, and they are the proud parents of two awesome boys (and future CPAs—they just don’t know it yet), Mason and Nick.
Kevin O’Leary became Managing Partner of MMB + CO’s Albany office in 2019. On June 1, 2024, Kevin was elected President of the NYSSCPA. Previously, he had been President, President-elect, Secretary and Treasurer of the Northeast Chapter. Because of his role with the NYSSCPA, he is also now a council member of the AICPA.
Kevin graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, where he played four years of college football and received his BS in Accounting. During his downtime, he enjoys coaching basketball and flag football at St. Gregory’s School, as well as playing golf with the kids. His wife, Tara, is also a CPA, and they are the proud parents of two awesome boys (and future CPAs—they just don’t know it yet), Mason and Nick.
Michael Durant is an experienced CPA with a JD, specializing in estates and trusts. His dedication to empowering his clients through education is mirrored by his passion for advancing financial literacy throughout the state. By serving as a member of the Board of the NYSSCPA, as a trustee for The Moynihan Scholarship Fund, and as a member of the Society’s Legislative Task Force, Michael has been able to merge his career and passion to further the empowerment of the community.
Michael Durant is an experienced CPA with a JD, specializing in estates and trusts. His dedication to empowering his clients through education is mirrored by his passion for advancing financial literacy throughout the state. By serving as a member of the Board of the NYSSCPA, as a trustee for The Moynihan Scholarship Fund, and as a member of the Society’s Legislative Task Force, Michael has been able to merge his career and passion to further the empowerment of the community.
Rumbi Bwerinofa-Petrozzello, CPA/CFF, NACD.DC, CFE, is the Head of Strategy, Consulting, at Seramount, a strategic professional services and research firm dedicated to supporting high-performing, inclusive workplaces. She is a past president of the New York State Society of CPAs and the first woman of color elected to serve in that role in the organization’s 125-year history. She is a member of the board of the AICPA and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, and the president of the NYSSCPA’s Moynihan Scholarship Fund. Rumbi also serves as a Trustee of the Accountants Club of America. She is a member of the AICPA Council, the AICPA National Accreditation Commission (NAC), and the AICPA’s Fraud Task Force. She is a past member of the AICPA’s Forensic and Litigation Services Committee.
Rumbi Bwerinofa-Petrozzello, CPA/CFF, NACD.DC, CFE, is the Head of Strategy, Consulting, at Seramount, a strategic professional services and research firm dedicated to supporting high-performing, inclusive workplaces. She is a past president of the New York State Society of CPAs and the first woman of color elected to serve in that role in the organization’s 125-year history. She is a member of the board of the AICPA and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, and the president of the NYSSCPA’s Moynihan Scholarship Fund. Rumbi also serves as a Trustee of the Accountants Club of America. She is a member of the AICPA Council, the AICPA National Accreditation Commission (NAC), and the AICPA’s Fraud Task Force. She is a past member of the AICPA’s Forensic and Litigation Services Committee.