What a Ride!

I never would have dreamed when I arrived in Washington, DC, in 2008 to attend the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) Fly-In Day, that I would someday be the NAEA’s president. It was my first NAEA event. The first of many NAEA experiences that I look back on fondly as I write my last president’s column.

The organization has had its challenges, but I believe we’ve grown stronger and wiser. We are ready for new challenges and opportunities in the future. Most leaders strive to leave a place better than how they found it. This is not accomplished by just one individual, but a group of dedicated members who also strive towards that goal.

To quote part of NAEA’s strategic plan, “NAEA is a home to a vibrant community of tax professionals who want to thrive and make a difference in their client’s lives. NAEA provides a collaborative space where members come together to help each other succeed and grow wherever they are in their professional journey.”

While there have been many changes, there is one thing that remained a constant throughout my NAEA leadership journey – the members. Their enthusiasm and their support have been unwavering. I have never asked another member for advice or help and been turned down. Their mentorships have been invaluable to me as a leader, as a tax professional, and as a business owner. And their friendships have been priceless.

I have grown both professionally and personally since becoming a member of the NAEA, not only from the volunteering opportunities I’ve experienced, but also by meeting so many amazing enrolled agents (EAs) along the way who generously offer a hand whenever I’ve asked. The members that I have met along the way have helped mold the person I am today. NAEA’s membership community is like no other. We are members, volunteers, leaders, coaches, and most importantly, friends.