News Releases

Ed Duarte becomes 97th Chair of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

133345 — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 13:29:18 +0000

Ed Duarte becomes 97th Chair of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

133345 Fri, 06/28/2024 - 09:29

July 1, 2024

Duarte is the FICPA’s first Chair from business and industry in 10 years

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is proud to announce that Ed Duarte, CPA, CGMA, began his tenure as the 97th Chair of the FICPA on July 1, 2024.

“It is truly an honor to lead this historic institution and to give back to my friends and colleagues across the state,” Duarte said. “The CPA profession is at an inflection point, and I am proud to serve our membership at this unique and impactful moment. I look forward to working alongside President & CEO Shelly Weir, my fellow Board and Council members, and the FICPA staff to ensure that Florida CPAs are protected in Tallahassee, respected in other states, and represented at the national level. Together, we can be part of the positive change that pushes our profession forward.”

The Chief Financial Officer of Foreign Parts Distributors, Inc., (FPD) in Miami, Florida, Duarte spent the first 15 years of his career working in public accounting in New York City, South Florida and Puerto Rico as part of Weinick Sanders Leventhal & Co. (1999-2004), Berkowitz Pollack Brant (2004-2006), BDO USA (2006-2010) and Mallah Furman (2011-2015). Now the CFO at FPD, he is the FICPA’s first Chair from business and industry in the last decade, leveraging his experience from both the public and private sectors to connect with accountants, financial professionals and business leaders across the state and across practice areas.

In the next year, Duarte will work closely with Weir to ensure the FICPA is well-positioned to lead its membership through a period of transition and transformation in the profession.

“Ed’s experience in both public accounting and private practice make him an ideal leader for this moment in our history,” Weir said. “As the FICPA continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of accounting, we’re also focused on strengthening and expanding the relationships we’ve worked to cultivate across the business landscape here in Florida. I am excited to partner with Ed, our Board of Directors and the Council to advocate for our priorities, expand our reach and elevate the CPA profession.”

As a member of the FICPA, Duarte previously served as President of the Miami-Downtown Chapter, as a Regional Representative on the FICPA Council (2008-2015), and as Chair of the Chapter Operations, Corporate Finance and Finance & Office Advisory committees, amongst other volunteer leadership positions. He rejoined the FICPA Council in 2017, became a member of the Board of Directors in 2022, and served as Chair-Elect during the 2023-24 fiscal year. He is also a current member of the AICPA Council, a past President of the Cuban-American CPAs Association and an active board member with the Centro Campensino Farmworker Center and Live Like Bella Childhood Cancer Foundation.

“As I pass the torch to the 97th Chair of the FICPA, I do so with the utmost confidence he will lead with integrity, passion, and a deep commitment to our vision and mission,” Immediate Past Chair Key O’Keefe, CPA, said. “I look forward to supporting Ed in any way I can and witnessing the incredible impact the Institute will continue to make under his leadership.”

As Chair, Duarte will be supported by the prestigious FICPA Board of Directors and Council members listed below.

2024-25 Board of Directors: Karen Lake (Berkowitz Pollack Brant) (Chair-Elect), Key O’Keefe (O’Keefe, Somerville & Associates) (Immediate Past Chair), Kathryn Horton (Kathryn K. Horton CPA), Jennifer Keller (Crowe), Amy Kistka (Deloitte & Touche), Chris Oatis (Grant Thornton), Mindy Rankin (Warren Averett), Brion Sharpe (PwC), Jesus Socorro (Socorro Partners), Alex Sueiro (PAAST), and Kyle Gosiewski (Crowe) (Young CPA Committee Chair; non-voting)

2024-25 Council members: Kristin Bivona (GellerRagans) (Past Chair), Jessica Bormey (Nicklaus Children’s Health System), Yvonne Clayborne (Carr, Riggs & Ingram), Adam Daniels (SBF), Ashley Fagan (KPMG), Carlos Grosmann (Kaufman, Rossin & Co.), Genevieve Hancock (G Hancock Advisory), Anne Marie Hicks (Capital Edge Consulting), Tarsha Jacobs (Jacobs & Associates), Robbie Maya (Kaufman, Rossin & Co.), Graeme Mellet (RSM US), Evaristo Palmer (Cherry Bekaert), Heber Rojas (Tapia, Rojas & Associates), Christopher Stemley (Disney Financial Services), Guy Strum (Gladstone, Strum & Company), Cheri Swain (Carr, Riggs & Ingram), Alex Welsh (A-LIGN), Aharon Yoki (University of South Florida), and Dana Zukierski (EY)

“The FICPA is guided by the volunteer leaders who give of themselves to give back to the CPA profession,” Duarte said. “I am grateful to the FICPA Board and Council members listed above and look forward to working with them in the coming year to support our members across Florida.”

Topics

FICPA Leadership

News Releases

Lauren Henderson joins FICPA as Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs

133345 — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 12:52:21 +0000

Lauren Henderson joins FICPA as Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs

FICPA Governmental Affairs Team

133345 Mon, 10/16/2023 - 08:52

October 16, 2023

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is pleased to announce that Lauren Henderson will join the FICPA as its Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs, effective Oct. 16, 2023.

Henderson will be stationed at the FICPA Governmental Affairs office in Tallahassee, assisting Chief External Affairs Officer Jason Harrell in the execution of the Institute’s strategic advocacy goals. Alongside Harrell, she will serve as part of the FICPA’s in-house lobby team and will assist in all aspects of promoting and advancing FICPA’s legislative priorities and further strengthening the Institute’s relationships with legislators and their staff.

In addition to her work at the Florida Capitol, Henderson will generate timely legislative and political communications assets, support the development and growth of the Florida CPA/PAC, and enhance the FICPA’s connections with key stakeholders and state agencies.

“It’s an honor to join the FICPA and to play a key role in representing members throughout the state,” Henderson said. “I look forward to bringing my experience to an impressive and respected institution and to working alongside Jason Harrell as we protect and promote the CPA profession in Florida.”

Henderson brings nearly a decade of legislative experience to this role. Prior to joining the FIPCA, she was the Legislative Director for Cynergy, LLC, a political consulting firm in Tallahassee assisting individuals and organizations in conducting business with governmental agencies. She has previously worked on political campaigns for high-profile candidates – including Jeb Bush, Mitt Romney, Rick Scott, Mary Thomas, Steve Southerland and Jim Messer – and was previously named to Florida Politics’ 30-under-30 list of rising stars.

Henderson is a graduate of Florida State University, with a bachelor’s degree in political science and english.

“Lauren has spent her career deftly navigating the legislative process,” Harrell said. “She arrives at the FICPA with a wide variety of relationships, extensive political experience, and a depth of legislative knowledge that will keep our members’ interests at the forefront during Florida’s Legislative Session.”

Topics

FICPA Government Affairs

News Releases

Advocacy Update: FICPA names Jason Harrell its new Chief External Affairs Officer

133345 — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 12:16:59 +0000

Advocacy Update: FICPA names Jason Harrell its new Chief External Affairs Officer

By FICPA Staff

133345 Thu, 07/13/2023 - 08:16

July 14, 2023

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is pleased to announce that Jason Harrell will join the FICPA as Chief External Affairs Officer, effective July 17, 2023.

Harrell will be stationed at the FICPA Governmental Affairs office in Tallahassee and will direct all aspects of the FICPA’s public policy, advocacy, governmental affairs and regulatory efforts. He will serve as the liaison to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and Florida Board of Accountancy and will be responsible for all advocacy-related external communications and campaigns aimed at increasing the value of the CPA license. Alongside FICPA’s longtime external public affairs agency, Liberty Partners of Tallahassee, Harrell will establish and implement the FICPA’s lobbying strategy.

“I’m extremely honored to join the FICPA as its new Chief External Affairs Officer,” Harrell said. “I understand the important role CPAs play in our economy, and I welcome this incredible opportunity to represent the organization and the profession in Tallahassee. I look forward to working with the FICPA leadership team and accounting professionals across the state to promote the profession and further grow our legislative advocacy program.”

As a member of the executive team, Harrell will work alongside FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir, Chief Growth & Innovation Officer Carrie Summerlin, and Chief Financial Officer Kristin High to lead and execute the strategic direction of the FICPA.

“Advocacy is at the core of what we do at FICPA. Jason’s rich experience in public policy and governmental affairs make him a perfect fit for the FICPA,” Weir said. “After our extensive search to fill this role, it was Jason’s expertise, professionalism and enthusiasm that truly stood out. I am excited to work alongside him as we continue our efforts to protect and promote the CPA profession in Florida.”

Prior to joining the FIPCA, Harrell was the Director of Government Relations for the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) since 2018, leading five successful legislative sessions for the FCCC’s in-house advocacy program. He also previously served as budget and communications director of the Clerks of Court Operations Corporation (CCOC).

Harrell previously served in the Florida House of Representatives Majority Office as deputy staff director under former speakers Will Weatherford and Steve Crisafulli. He also served in the Governor’s Office of Policy and Budget and in the Office of the Chief Inspector General.

Harrell holds a master’s in public administration (MPA) and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Florida State University.

The FICPA engaged Korn Ferry, the world’s largest executive search firm, to conduct the search for its new Chief External Affairs Officer. A national search was conducted by the project team led by Audra Cross, Trenholm Boggs, and Jeremy Gold.

Latest News

IRS Sends Special Mailing to Taxpayers in Certain Disaster Areas

The IRS is sending a special follow-up mailing to taxpayers in several states affected by disasters to let them know they have additional time to pay their taxes.

The IRS is taking this special step to help reassure taxpayers affected by disasters that they do have extra time to file and pay their taxes. This new mailing is going to residents in California and seven other states in designated disaster areas that received a CP14 notice from the IRS in late May and June. The earlier mailings are for taxpayers who have a balance due, and they are sent out as a legal requirement. While the notice received by taxpayers says they need to pay in 21 days, these taxpayers actually have until later this year to timely pay under the disaster declaration.

Given the large reach of these disaster declarations and partner feedback, the IRS took an additional step to do a follow-up mailing to let these taxpayers know they have more time. The mailing, known as a CP14CL, will occur during the next few weeks. The letters are in English and Spanish.

Read the full IRS news release here.

Auditor General Publishes FY 2022-23 Draft Rules

Pursuant to 11.45(8), Florida Statutes, the Auditor General, in consultation with the Board of Accountancy, adopts rules for the form and conduct of all financial audits performed by independent certified public accountants pursuant to Sections 215.981, 218.39, 1001.453, 1002.395, 1004.28, and 1004.70, Florida Statutes.

The Auditor General draft rules for the 2022-23 Fiscal Year audits are now available. Comments regarding the draft rules may be sent to [email protected] by July 30.

Review the FY 2022-23 draft rules here.

IRS Offers Free Employee Retention Credit Webinar

The IRS is presenting a free webinar on July 25, 2023. Attendees will gain from-the-source insights on the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), including key areas of compliance, characteristics of potential ERC fraud, and ways to report potential fraud and steer your clients away from it. There will also be a live Q&A to answer all your ERC questions. Earn 2 Federal Tax CPE when you attend.

Learn more and register here.

DOR TIPs

Since the last issue of Advocacy Update, the Florida Department of Revenue has published these helpful Tax Information Publications (TIPS). For the full list of 2023 TIPs, click here.

Administration

Strong Families Tax Credit Cap Will Increase

June 19, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, an additional $10 million in credit allocations will be available for the Strong Families Tax Credit.

Read the full TIP here.

Communications Services Tax

Communications Services Tax Rates: Local Rate Increases Prohibited January 1, 2023 Through December 31, 2025

June 15, 2023

Section 202.19(1), Florida Statutes (F.S.), is amended to specify that the local communications services tax rates in effect as of January 1, 2023, may not be increased prior to January 1, 2026.

Read the full TIP here.

Corporate Income Tax

Florida Corporate Income/Franchise Tax Internship Tax Credit Program Renamed Experiential Learning Tax Credit Program; Program Availability Expanded

July 7, 2023

For taxable years beginning during calendar years 2022 through 2025, the Florida Experiential Learning Tax Credit Program allows a tax credit against the Florida corporate income/franchise tax for up to five apprentices, pre-apprentices, or student interns per taxable year, per corporation.

Read the full TIP here.

Estate Tax

Changes to Decedent’s Estate Information Requirements

June 19, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, the following changes affect decedent estates.

Read the full TIP here.

Prepaid Wireless Fee

Prepaid Wireless E911 Fee Renamed to Prepaid Wireless Public Safety Emergency Communications Systems Fee

June 15, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, the Florida Prepaid Wireless E911 Fee is renamed the Prepaid Wireless Public Safety Emergency Communications Systems Fee.

Read the full TIP here.

Reemployment Tax

2023 Legislative Changes: E-Verify System Requirements and Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Name Change

June 27, 2023

E-Verify System Requirements – Effective July 1, 2023, Florida public agencies and private employers with 25 or more employees are required to use E-Verify.

Read the full TIP here.

Sales and Use Tax

Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Baby and Toddler Products

June 9, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, the following baby and toddler products are permanently exempt from Florida sales and use tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Diapers and Incontinence Products

June 9, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, diapers, incontinence undergarments, incontinence pads, and incontinence liners for human use are permanently exempt from Florida sales and use tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Renewable Natural Gas Machinery and Equipment

June 12, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, the purchase of machinery and equipment that is used at a fixed location and primarily used in the production, storage, transportation, compression, or blending of renewable natural gas is exempt from Florida sales tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Secondhand Goods Definition Revised

June 12, 2023

“Secondhand goods” means personal property previously owned or used, which is not regulated metals property, and which is purchased, consigned, or traded as used property.

Read the full TIP here.

2023 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday July 24, 2023 Through August 6, 2023

June 15, 2023

The 2023 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins on Monday, July 24, 2023, and ends on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

Read the full TIP here.

Indexed Tax on Asphalt Increases to $1.14 Per Ton for the Period July 1, 2023 Through June 30, 2024

June 19, 2023

The tax rate used by contractors who manufacture and use asphalt during fiscal year July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024, will increase from 98 cents per ton to $1.14 per ton.

Read the full TIP here.

Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Oral Hygiene Products

June 19, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, oral hygiene products are exempt from Florida sales and use tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Firearm Safety Devices

June 19, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, the following firearm safety devices are exempt from Florida sales and use tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Exemption for Fencing Used in Agricultural Operations Expanded

July 5, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, materials used to construct or repair permanent or temporary fencing used to contain, confine, or process cattle, including gates and energized fencing systems, used in agricultural operations on lands classified as agricultural lands under section 193.461, Florida Statutes, are exempt from Florida sales tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Sales Tax Exemption for Sales of Investigation Services by Small Private Investigative Agencies

July 5, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, the sale of private investigation services by a small private investigative agency to a client is exempt from Florida sales tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Exemption for Building Materials Used in Construction of Eligible Residential Units for Affordable Housing

July 5, 2023

Effective July 1, 2023, building materials used to construct eligible residential units for affordable housing are exempt from Florida sales and use tax.

Read the full TIP here.

Contribute

The Florida CPA/PAC supports the politicians who stand up for CPAs. We back the candidates and incumbents who will ensure CPAs and their clients are included in the legislative process. It is your voluntary contributions that help protect the CPA license.

Donate Now

Please note: Contributions are strictly voluntary and are not deductible for federal tax purposes. The Florida CPA/PAC is an entity completely separate from the FICPA. The Florida CPA/PAC is supported solely by the voluntary contributions of members of the FICPA and others.

Topics

FICPA Leadership

News Releases

Legislative Update

Key O'Keefe becomes 96th Chair of the FICPA

133345 — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 16:11:03 +0000

Key O'Keefe becomes 96th Chair of the FICPA

By FICPA Staff

133345 Thu, 06/29/2023 - 12:11

July 1, 2023

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is proud to announce that Key O’Keefe, CPA, began her tenure as the 96th Chair of the FICPA on July 1, 2023.

“I am honored to serve as Chair of this great organization, and I am proud to give back to the profession that has given me so much,” O’Keefe, Managing Partner at O’Keefe, Somerville and Associates, PLLC, said. “I sincerely believe in the mission and vision of the FICPA, and I am passionate about sharing the story of our profession. Together, we can promote the profession, protect the license, and support the next generation of CPAs.”

An FICPA member since 1984, O’Keefe began her volunteer leadership in 2009, when her husband, Brian, retired after 30 years of service to the United States Coast Guard. Now settled in Melbourne, O’Keefe first joined the FICPA’s Brevard Chapter, rising from Treasurer to President. She would go on to participate on numerous FICPA Committees and Task Forces before being named to the FICPA Council in 2017 and its Board of Directors in 2019.

“From the very start, Key has been a staunch advocate for our local Chapters,” said FICPA Past Chair Gary Fracassi (2018-19). “She’s never been afraid to speak her mind and has always acted in the best interests of the Institute throughout every level of volunteer service. I am pleased to welcome her as our 2023-24 Chair and know the FICPA will benefit from her leadership and guidance.”

In addition to her service to the FICPA, O’Keefe has also spent the last 20 years working with Junior Achievement, a nonprofit focused on providing financial literacy, career education and entrepreneurship education to students. Each year, she leads multi-session courses with as many as 20 classes of elementary and high school students, introducing them to accounting and championing the CPA profession. She has been named JA’s Volunteer of the Year in three different locations: the San Francisco Bay Area, Greater Hampton Roads/Tidewater, and Melbourne.

In the next year, O’Keefe will work alongside FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir to engage FICPA members and help recruit and retain the next generation of CPAs in Florida.

“Key truly cares about the FICPA and the CPA profession,” Weir said. “She has an intuitive understanding of the value of advocacy and member engagement at the grassroots level. Her dedication to our members and chapters exemplifies leadership through volunteer service. Simply put: She has one of the biggest hearts in accounting. I am eager to work alongside her and for the Institute to benefit from her expertise and example.”

O’Keefe will be joined in 2023-24 by five new prestigious additions to the 12-member FICPA Board of Directors:

Amy Kistka, Audit Managing Director, Deloitte
Karen Lake, Director of Tax Services, Berkowitz Pollack Brant
Chris Oatis, Partner-State & Local Tax, Grant Thornton
Jesus Socorro, Managing Partner-Advisory, South Florida, BDO
Elizabeth Jackson, Manager, RSM (Young CPA Committee Chair; non-voting)

“Service is at the heart of our organization, and I am grateful to my fellow volunteer leaders for their dedication and commitment,” O’Keefe said. “I welcome our new members to the Board and encourage all CPAs to consider how they can share their time and talents with their colleagues, fellow FICPA members, and the profession at large.”

Topics

FICPA Leadership

News Releases

FICPA opens new headquarters; Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer participates in ribbon cutting

133345 — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 20:28:40 +0000

FICPA opens new headquarters; Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer participates in ribbon cutting

By FICPA Staff

133345 Thu, 02/09/2023 - 15:28

February 8, 2023

The FICPA on Feb. 8 officially opened its new headquarters in the Park Building at 250 S. Orange Ave. in Downtown Orlando.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer joined FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir, Board Chair Julian Dozier, professional staff and volunteer leaders in a ceremonial ribbon cutting to mark the occasion.

"I'm thrilled that the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants has selected downtown Orlando as the site of its new headquarters," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "As we continue our work to create a downtown for everyone, attracting headquarters is a big part of our efforts. With our community's high-quality of life and diverse and talented workforce, I know that FICPA will thrive from its new location."

The ceremony marked the completion of the FICPA’s multi-year relocation to Orlando from Tallahassee, where it retains an office for its legislative and regulatory affairs teams.

“More than seven years ago, FICPA leadership identified Central Florida as the ideal location to establish our new home,” Dozier said. “Operating from Orlando while still maintaining a full-time presence in Tallahassee allows us to best serve our statewide membership and remain close to policymakers at the Capitol. I am honored to represent all current and prior FICPA volunteer leaders who have helped guide us to this moment.”

The 11,000-square-foot office will house more than 30 FICPA staff members. The space was chosen specifically for its proximity to FICPA member firms and organizations likewise located in the downtown area.

The FICPA has spent the last two years establishing its local presence, as Orlando staff occupied a temporary residence in the Fairwinds Tower on Central Ave. from April 2021 through December 2022.

“I am immensely grateful to the FICPA staff members and volunteer leaders who worked so diligently to navigate this transition and execute our relocation,” Weir said. “We are excited to hit the ground running in our new home and to write the next chapter in the proud history of the FICPA. From our headquarters in Orlando, we will continue to provide CPAs and other financial professionals across the state, from the Panhandle to South Florida, with exceptional member value.”

Topics

News Releases

FICPA Leadership

FICPA honors the graduates of its 2022-23 Leadership Academy

133345 — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 19:08:47 +0000

FICPA honors the graduates of its 2022-23 Leadership Academy

By FICPA Staff

133345 Thu, 01/26/2023 - 14:08

January 26, 2023

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants is proud to announce the graduates of its 2022-23 Leadership Academy.

These 23 Young CPAs comprise the academy’s second-annual class.

Joshua Brucker	Hancock Askew & Co., LLP
Katherine Byrd	Carr, Riggs & Ingram
Frances Cabrera	Garcia, Espinosa, Miyares, Rodriguez, Trueba & Co., LLP
Nicole Cody	Spoor Bunch Franz
David Dreher	RSM US LLP
Katey Exum	A-LIGN
Michael Gonzalez	Kaufman Rossin
Kyle Gosiewski	Crowe LLP
Carlos Grosmann	Kaufman Rossin
Maximilian Halasz	Kaufman Rossin
Torrey Hill	Withum
Lauren Hutt	Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs
Gabriel Ibars	BDO USA LLP
Ahad Jafri	Kaufman Rossin
Jillian Justo	RSM US LLP
Michael Kaczka	Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs
Ryan Kelly	Withum
Joseph Szyller	BDO USA, LLP
Derek Torres	Zomma Group, LLP
Monica Walker	BDO USA, LLP
Chance Wedderburn	Deloitte
Alexandria Welsh	A-LIGN
John Xanthos	Nova Southeastern University

“The FICPA is proud to play a leading role in the development of our state’s young stars,” FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir said. “We celebrate this year’s graduates, and we can’t wait to follow their careers, as they shape the future of the CPA profession.”

The FICPA Leadership Academy is a selective, high-impact program for CPAs age 35 and under who are looking to grow as leaders. Participants took part in Leadership Academy sessions hosted in Orlando (Dec. 19-21) and Tallahassee (Jan. 24-25). They graduated on Jan. 25 while attending FICPA’s Hike the Hill event at the State Capitol, where they had the opportunity to learn from Florida lawmakers and represent the future of the CPA profession.

For the second consecutive year, the FICPA partnered with the Succession Institute to develop the Leadership Academy’s curriculum. A pair of Succession faculty members – former AICPA Chair Bill Reeb and Former AICPA and FICPA Chair Tommye Barie – challenged participants to evolve, create a roadmap for change, and expand their skills.

“The future of CPA profession is in good hands thanks to dedication, drive and determination of these young leaders,” said Reeb. “While Tommye and I share the knowledge and expertise we’ve accumulated throughout out respective careers, we learn just as much from our interactions and group dialogues with this talented cohort.”

Topics

FICPA Leadership

Young CPAs

News Releases

FICPA Scholarship Foundation names Jennifer Allen its new Director

133345 — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 12:36:34 +0000

FICPA Scholarship Foundation names Jennifer Allen its new Director 133345 Fri, 09/02/2022 - 08:36

September 2, 2022

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is pleased to announce that Jennifer Allen has been named the new Director of the FICPA Scholarship Foundation.

“I am thrilled to have this opportunity to take the Foundation to the next level,” Allen said. “I believe my relationships with educators, students, and young CPAs will help the Foundation execute its new mission and vision, as we develop a complete career journey for accounting professionals.”

Allen first joined the FICPA in 2015. In seven years, she has consistently expanded her role working with the FICPA’s student and educator members, progressing from Student Initiatives Manager to Emerging Professionals Manager to the Institute’s Director of Career Development.

Prior to joining the FICPA, Allen worked in the Student Activities and Leadership departments at Jacksonville State University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

"Jennifer is the perfect person to lead the Foundation at this time, given our expanded mission to support current and future CPAs along the entire career pathway,” FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir said. “Her rich expertise in student affairs and career development will help to position the Foundation for the future."

Allen will now help execute the Scholarship Foundation’s vision of “attracting talent and strengthening the accounting profession in Florida” and its mission “to provide support and foster success for current and future CPAs.”

Under her leadership and the guidance of its Board of Trustees, the Foundation aims to provide scholarships to Florida’s accounting students; help create career advancement opportunities for current CPAs; encourage, support and promote diversity to create a more inclusive profession; provide a bridge between students, academia and the business community; and develop students and Young CPAs as future leaders within the profession and their communities.

"We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer Allen as our new Director," said Foundation Chair Carshena Allison. "Jennifer is an innovative, forward-thinking leader who's already forged strong relationships with students, educators and young CPAs throughout the state. We are excited to realize the Foundation's expanded mission and vision with Jennifer guiding us forward."

Since its inception in 1959, the FICPA Scholarship Foundation has disbursed more than $4 million in scholarship funds to help reduce the burden of entry into the CPA profession. The Foundation recently named its Class of 2022, awarding scholarships to 74 accounting students across the state. These future CPAs will be honored in a series of Scholarship Nights hosted this fall in Orlando on Oct. 21, Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 10, and in Tampa on Nov. 16.

Visit ficpascholarshipfoundation.com to find our full schedule of events, make a contribution, and help support and sustain the CPA profession.

Topics

FICPA Scholarship Foundation

FICPA Leadership

News Releases

FICPA Scholarship Foundation names Carshena Allison as Chair

133345 — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 14:00:52 +0000

FICPA Scholarship Foundation names Carshena Allison as Chair 133345 Fri, 07/08/2022 - 10:00

July 8, 2022

The FICPA Scholarship Foundation is proud to introduce Carshena Allison as its 2022-23 Chair.

“As we embark on this new year, I am enthusiastic about the possibilities the Foundation has with its renewed direction,” said Allison, a partner at Watson Rice in Miami.

“In partnership with the Institute, we are working toward providing support to attract and cultivate CPAs along their entire career pathway. The new vision and mission of the organization will allow us to serve a broader audience and really work to enhance the profession overall.  This is an exciting time for the Foundation, and we are looking forward to impacting the lives of current and future generations of CPAs.”

Allison will lead the Foundation in partnership with the members of its Board of Trustees:

Elizabeth Carlson, Silvana Capaldi (Programs Chair & Chair-Elect-Elect), David Cumberland, Jason Chorlins, Lori Gleim, Michael Halfast, Paul Hays, Celina Jozi, Nancy Juron, Jennifer Keller, Jason Klein, Gary Margolis (Finance Chair), Kylan McNemar, Bitnita Mehta, Frank Morera, Steven Morrison (Fundraising Chair & Chair-Elect), Joe Murray, Brandon Perry, Angela Poole, Amanda Porupski, William Quilliam (Governance & Nomination Chair), Sean Robinson, Marie Rosier (Marketing Chair), Maria Rust, Amy Santos, Rick Shapiro, Rick Smith, Paola Suarez, Carey Vasallo, Shelly Weir, and Alan West.

The FICPA Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that annually provides more than 70 scholarships to accounting students at partner colleges and university across Florida. Since its founding in 1959, the Foundation has distributed over $4,000,000 to colleges and accounting students around the state.

To learn more about the Foundation and to help support the next generation of CPAs, visit ficpascholarshipfoundation.org.

Topics

FICPA Scholarship Foundation

News Releases

Julian Dozier becomes 95th Chair of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

133345 — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 14:50:05 +0000

Julian Dozier becomes 95th Chair of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants 133345 Mon, 06/27/2022 - 10:50

July 1, 2022

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is proud to announce that Julian Dozier, CPA, ABV, CFF, CFE, began his tenure as the Chair of the FICPA on July 1, 2022.

“The FICPA has positively impacted every stage of my career, and I appreciate my fellow volunteers for entrusting me with this role,” said Dozier, a shareholder at Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A. CPAs and the director of the firm’s assurance services department. “The FICPA exists to protect the value of the CPA license, promote the accounting profession, educate and enrich its members, and innovate through forward-thinking leadership.

“This is an exciting moment for our profession. As CPAs, we can each design our career to suit our own goals and values; we offer incredible opportunities for students and the newly licensed; and together we ensure CPAs thrive as we power the success of Florida businesses and the communities we serve.”

Dozier joined the FICPA in 2006, started volunteering with the Accounting Principles and Auditing Standards Committee in 2010, and has been a member of its Council since 2016. He is a member of the AICPA’s Council and a graduate of its Leadership Academy. An active member of his local community, Dozier is the Immediate Past Chair of Leadership Tallahassee and has served in leadership roles with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, and LeMoyne Center for the Visual Arts, among others. He was named to CPA Practice Advisor’s “40 Under 40” in 2021 and received the AICPA’s “Standing Ovation” recognition in 2016. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Florida State University.

Dozier has served as the FICPA’s Chair-Elect for the last 12 months and now succeeds outgoing Chair Kristin Bivona, who will remain a member of the FICPA Council.

“Julian has been an invaluable partner and friend in the past year,” said Bivona, Managing Partner at GellerRagans. “He leads with integrity and a sense of gratitude for those around him. His strategic thinking and attention to detail have already proven a benefit to the FICPA and will continue to do so well into the future.”

Dozier will work closely alongside FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir. Together, they will complete the Institute’s ongoing headquarters relocation to its new home in Downtown Orlando and oversee the launch of the FICPA’s new five-year strategic plan focused on growth and innovation.

“Julian is the perfect person to help steward the FICPA into the future,” said Weir. “We are at an exciting time in the organization’s history, and I can think of no better person to lead us through the final stages of our transition.”

Dozier looks forward to advancing the FICPA’s strategic goals in partnership with its staff and his fellow Board and Council members listed below.

2022-23 FICPA Board of Directors: Hector Aguililla (Berkowitz Pollack Brant), Valrie Chambers (Stetson University), Ed Duarte (Foreign Parts Distributors, Inc.), Jennifer Gunter (Florida Department of Transportation), Kathryn Horton (Kathryn K. Horton CPA PA), Jennifer Keller (Crowe LLP), Key O’Keefe (O'Keefe, Somerville & Associates PLLC), Mindy Rankin (Warren Averett, LLC), Brion Sharpe (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP), Cheri Swain (Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC), and Alex Welsh (A-LIGN) (Young CPAs Committee advisory member; non-voting)

2022-23 FICPA Council members: Kristin Bivona (GellerRagans), Kathleen Brothers (Carroll and Company, CPAs), Randy Coleman (Merrill Lynch), Adam Daniels (Spoor Bunch Franz), Lydia Desnoyers (DesCPA Business Advisory), Michael Dupree (Warren Averett, LLC), Ashley Fagan (KPMG, LLP), Delia Finnerty (Law, Redd, Crona & Munroe, PA), Andrew Gay (Grimsley and Company CPAs), Mike Jerman (Hollywell Partners, LLC), Bill Kaser (William M. Kaser, CPA PA), Karen Lake (Berkowitz Pollack Brant), Robert Maya (Kaufman, Rossin & Co. P.A.), Kristian Nenov (BDO USA, LLP), Chris Oatis (Grant Thornton LLP), W.G. Spoor (Spoor Bunch Franz), Chris Stemley (Disney Financial Services), and Leslie Welsh (Leslie Welsh CPA, Inc.)

In addition to those listed above, Weir serves as the FICPA Secretary-Treasurer, a non-voting member of the Board of Directors and Council.

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Carrie Summerlin named FICPA’s new Chief Growth & Innovation Officer

133345 — Tue, 10 May 2022 18:15:52 +0000

Carrie Summerlin named FICPA’s new Chief Growth & Innovation Officer 133345 Tue, 05/10/2022 - 14:15

May 11, 2022

The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) announced on Wednesday that Carrie Summerlin has been named the Institute’s new Chief Growth and Innovation Officer.

She will officially join the FICPA on Monday, May 16.

In this newly created role, Summerlin will lead a high-caliber team to create and implement strategies aimed at enhancing member value through a focus on sustainable growth. She will ensure effective and efficient operations of membership sales, service and engagement; learning and professional development programs; conferences; sponsorships and partnerships; and marketing and communications.

Summerlin will report directly to FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir and work closely with the FICPA Council to develop and execute strategies to grow and diversify revenue for the association while ensuring the organization is meeting the inherent needs of the profession it serves.

“The FICPA is entering an exciting time as we launch our five-year strategic plan and open our new headquarters office in Orlando,” Weir said. “The evolution of the FICPA mirrors that of the profession we serve. Carrie’s rich expertise and experience will only further elevate the organization as we step into the future. She is the perfect fit for us at the perfect time.”

Summerlin comes to the FICPA after a 19-year tenure with the Institute of Internal Auditors, where she most recently served as Vice President of Strategy and Innovation. She led various departments, including conferences, education and event operations, membership and chapter relations, marketing, and foundation operations. She oversaw the establishment of the first video production, digital marketing, and market research functions within the IIA and implemented process enhancements that digitized the delivery of conference materials, automated CPE tracking, and elevated the digital delivery of the foundation's retail publications.

Summerlin has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Florida State University and a master’s in nonprofit management from the University of Central Florida. She is a Certified Nonprofit Professional and a member of both the American Society of Association Executives and the Association of Certified Nonprofit Professionals. She resides in the Orlando area with her husband and two children, is an avid theatergoer, and volunteers with Seminole County Public Schools, Second Harvest Food Bank, and the Salvation Army.

“I am honored to begin this next chapter of my career working with Shelly, the FICPA staff, and volunteers to develop and implement innovative programs and approaches that drive growth and add value for FICPA members and the entire CPA community throughout Florida,” Summerlin said. “Serving as Chief Growth and Innovation Officer will enable me to draw on my diverse experience in association management and leverage my passion for strategy execution, innovation, member service, and education. Working with the talented team at FICPA, I am excited to build on the rich 117-year history and drive strategic success as FICPA embarks on this next chapter with its move to downtown Orlando.”

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