Our Job Is to Ask and Listen

It is an honor to be serving as the president for the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) this year. I have been involved with the NAEA in many ways over the years, having served on various committees and the board of directors. I have watched the organization adapt and change, but one thing has remained constant and that is the dedication that we have to our members. The past few years have seen lots of challenges; however, they have also presented opportunities to demonstrate our resilience and the dedication to the enrolled agent (EA) community.

When I was running for president of the NAEA, my main goals were to ask (questions), include (all), listen (to all), and listen closer (to confirm). I stand by these goals as important ways to ensure that the NAEA is keeping pace with member needs and wants, thereby creating member value for all enrolled agents.

A little bit about me: After starting my career at one of the largest certified public accountant (CPA) firms in Kentucky, I opened my own firm and never looked back. I have owned my own practice for more than 30 years. I am like that old song, “I’ve been everywhere, man.” My client base and services are very diverse. That has also given me such a broad view of the profession and all it can offer.

I became an enrolled agent in 2004 and am very proud of the designation and all it stands for. High ethical standards, continued learning, client service, and expertise are the cornerstones of the enrolled agent credential. I am thrilled to be able to lead the NAEA in providing the services and connections our members need so they can also thrive as professionals.

The past year was a year of transition. Coming out of the pandemic (sort of), the NAEA had to redefine itself and shift into the post-COVID world. We have been offering more ways for members to connect virtually through monthly roundtables, solutions rooms on hot topics, Ask the Expert webinars, and the interactive Schuldiner/Smollan Leadership Academy (SSLA) webinar series. We were also able to host a few in-person events and celebrate the most recent class of National Tax Practice Institute™ (NTPI®) graduates. We also started hosting quarterly EA career panels for people who are in the process of or considering becoming an enrolled agent. Under the leadership of NAEA’s Immediate Past President Dave Tolleth, we did a comprehensive member satisfaction survey and created a new strategic plan. That plan focuses on driving member value through educational programs and strategic partnerships, creating meaningful professional connections, strengthening our advocacy, and improving the member
experience.

I am really looking forward to seeing old friends and new faces in Las Vegas as we celebrate the NAEA’s 50^th anniversary at the annual conference. It may look a little different than past years, but it will still be filled with top-notch education, access to vendors, and the opportunity to build your professional network, which is one of my favorite things about being part of NAEA.