Let’s Be Bigger and Better Together

This is my final EA Journal column as president of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). Serving as your president has been a very fulfilling experience in my professional career. I am honored to have had the opportunity to serve such a wonderful community of dedicated professionals.

In addition to the new strategic plan, there are a few accomplishments that I am especially proud of, and they include:

• Financial stability – Our financial position is the best it has been in several years. We are on our way to meeting short- and long-term financial goals. The NAEA is well positioned to support the enrolled agent (EA) community currently and well into the future.
• Member growth – Membership continues to increase each year as we are continually expanding and improving member services, furthering our advocacy efforts and initiating new recruitment campaigns. While recruitment numbers are increasing and new members are important for the future of the NAEA as well as our profession, these efforts also strengthen retention and satisfaction for all members.
• Education – We have made progress in our goal of providing members with quality and affordable education for all stages of their careers, from the new EA to the seasoned EA.The National Tax Practice Institute™ (NTPI®) updates that are underway ensure that our flagship education program continues to be a leader in representation training.
• Public awareness – The Public Awareness Committee was revived this year, and I am excited to announce that they have jumped in, rolled up their sleeves, and started working on various initiatives to promote enrolled agents.
• Advocacy – The annual Fly-In Day and meetings with stakeholder organizations have successfully helped educate decision makers about tax administration issues that are important to enrolled agents. We continue our conversations with congressional leaders regarding our positions and policies in our efforts to protect and promote our profession as enrolled agents.
• Social media – The use of social media has transformed the way we connect, how we share information and expertise, and promote our profession, to name a few of its benefits. When used thoughtfully, it can greatly benefit our profession and community. The NAEA is committed to creating a positive online environment that reflects the values and experience of enrolled agents.

These and so many other activities are made possible by the dedication of our volunteers, the NAEA staff, and you, the members! So, I truly thank you for your ideas, energy, and beliefs in what we can achieve together. And I thank you for your support and friendship while allowing me to serve as your president.

Although my term is ending, I’m not saying goodbye. I look forward to staying involved, cheering on the next group of leaders, and celebrating our continued success together. A role of a past president remains to be an advocate and ambassador of our organization and to that commitment, I will serve proudly.

Here’s to an unforgettable experience, an exciting road ahead, and my final “let’s be bigger and better together.”