Speaker Bios

Noah Antonneau, CPA
Manager | National Office – Accounting and Reporting Services
Deloitte & Touche LLP

Noah is an Audit & Assurance manager at Deloitte & Touche LLP (“Deloitte”) with six years of experience in public accounting. He is currently serving a two-year management development rotation in Deloitte’s National Office – Accounting and Reporting Services group. In this role, Noah focuses on technical accounting and financial reporting consultations, with an emphasis on matters related to revenue, derivatives and hedging, and financial instruments. Prior to his current role in National Office, Noah was in a client-facing role in the Audit & Assurance business, serving companies in the financial services industry. Noah is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the state of Illinois. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Accounting from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Noah started his career in the Milwaukee office in 2019, then transferred to the Chicago office in 2021, where he remains while serving in his National Office role.

Melanie Barthel, CPA, CPCU
Partner
Johnson Lambert LLP, Park Ridge, Illinois

Melanie Barthel, CPA, CPCU, is a Partner with Johnson Lambert, a multi-office, niche-focused firm that provides audit, tax, and consulting services to insurance entities, nonprofits, and employee benefit plans. Melanie oversees planning and directing all aspects of audit fieldwork and financial statement preparation for audits. She has extensive knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Statements of Statutory Accounting Principles (SSAP), as well as experience performing audits under GAAS. Melanie’s involvement in the accounting industry augments her expertise, as she is an active member of the AICPA, the Insurance Accounting and Systems Association, and the Illinois Society of CPAs. Melanie also serves on the AICPA Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) Technical Issues Committee as well as the ASB Audit Evidence/Risk Response/Technology Task Force. She received her Bachelor of Science in accounting from North Carolina State University as well as her Master of Accountancy from the University of Notre Dame.

Stuart Berman

Stuart G. Berman CFE, PSP, CAMS, is the Principal and Co-Founder of RSA Risk Management & Investigations, PLLC. Prior to co-founding RSA, Stuart was an award-winning Special Agent In Charge where he supervised the regional criminal, civil and administrative investigative program, encompassing six Midwestern states and 12 judicial districts. With over 20 years of federal law enforcement and extensive government investigative experience in conducting complex internal and external investigations. Stuart is a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist with more than 25 years of experience conducting and leading audits, quality assurance reviews, examinations, risk assessments, internal controls reviews and testing, and inspections. Stuart possesses strong forensic accounting skills and is highly experienced at implementing proactive data analytics, analyzing records and information, interpreting data, summarizing, and presenting complex financial and commercial-related issues. Prior to Stuart’s federal law enforcement career, he worked with the Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Securities. He investigated several multi-million dollar unregistered investment promissory note Ponzi Schemes, in Illinois. In addition to Ponzi Schemes, Stuart investigated numerous “churn and burn” and conversion of customer assets cases. Among Stuart’s many investigative accomplishments, was a five-year GSA OIG, FBI undercover investigation in which numerous consensual recordings were made of GSA officials and contractors by cooperators. By the conclusion of the investigation, approximately 19 individuals composed of contractor employees, GSA employees, a court security officer, and an FBI typist; were charged with various bribery charges and with disclosure of wire and oral communications and pleaded guilty. In addition to the array of investigative experience, GSA OIG’s oversight of the Federal Protective Service prior to Department of Homeland Security realignment, provided Stuart with expertise in physical, technical and personnel security. This important work resulted in Stuart’s experience in site surveys, physical security assessments, threat assessments, and business continuity plans.

Edwin J.. Brooks, CPA
Principal
DHJJ, Ltd. CPAs and Advisors, St. Charles, Illinois

Ed Brooks is a Principal and Chief Growth Officer for DHJJ, Ltd, a CPA firm headquartered in Naperville, IL. Ed’s passion and focus is working with privatly owned businesses and entreprenuers. He has been with DHJJ for 40 years and enjoys bringing his experience to business owners and families as they navigate an increasingly complicated business world. His Exit planning and M&A expertise was developed over many years of working on transactions with his clients.

Geof Brown, CAE
President & CEO
Illinois CPA Society

Geoffrey ‘Geof’ Brown, CAE, is president and CEO of the Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS), one of the largest state CPA societies in the nation. Brown also serves as president and CEO of CPAs for the Public Interest and ex-officio board member of the CPA Endowment Fund of Illinois. A seasoned certified association executive (CAE), Brown has more than 23 years of experience as an association professional. Before joining ICPAS in 2022, he served as CEO of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), the nation’s leading professional association of fee-only financial advisors, for nine years. Prior to NAPFA, Brown was an account executive with Sentergroup, an association manager at SmithBucklin Corporation, and held multiple positions with North-American Interfraternity Conference. Brown served as the board chair for Association Forum and is an active member. He is also an active member in the American Society of Association Executives and is a board member for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and the Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values. Brown earned his bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the University of Maryland.

Richard Burke, CPA CGMA CM&AA MBA LBB
Outsourced CFO and M&A Advisor
DHJJ, St. Charles, Illinois

Richard Burke, CPA, CGMA, CM&AA, MBA, is a distinguished senior financial executive and strategic advisor with over 30 years of experience in corporate finance, public accounting, and middle-market mergers and acquisitions. Currently a key member of the team at DHJJ Certified Public Accountants and Business Advisors, Richard leverages a rare blend of technical accounting expertise and operational leadership to drive growth and maximize enterprise value. His professional expertise includes high impact roles such as CFO for various companies including both debt funds and equity funds. Twenty five years in M&A adviory as a certified M&A Advisor (CM&AA), where he has closed hundreds of sell-side and buy-side transactions and provides Transaction Advisory Services (TAS) such as Quality of Earnings Analysis, business valuations, due diligence management and post-merger integration. Richard holds a comprehensive suite of professional designations that underscore his mastery of global finance and management: • MBA in Finance from Webster University. • Bachelor of Science in Business (Minor in Law) from Western Michigan University. • Certifications: Licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Global Managerial Accountant (CGMA), and Certified M&A Advisor (CM&AA) and a licensed business broker.

Randy Crabtree, CPA
Co-Founder
Tri-Merit, Lake Zurich, Illinois

Randy Crabtree, CPA is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and three-time honoree of Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting (2023, 2024, 2025). He is also Co-Founder and Partner of Tri-Merit Specialty Tax Professionals, a firm recognized on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America list for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024). Randy is the host of The Unique CPA podcast and the founder of the Bridging the Gap Conference, one of the fastest-growing accounting community events focused on innovation, leadership, technology, and building firms where people thrive. A dynamic speaker known for blending technical expertise with authentic storytelling, Randy delivers sessions ranging from advanced tax incentives and specialty credits to culture transformation, vulnerable leadership, burnout prevention, and sustainable firm growth. Drawing from his own leadership journey and personal experiences, he challenges firm leaders to build people-first organizations where wellness and results go hand in hand.

Lauren Darwit, JD
Attorney
Moore Tax Law Group, Illinois

Lauren represents individuals and businesses in administrative tax disputes and in tax litigation. Before joining Moore Tax Law Group, Lauren was a Trial Attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice, Tax Division in Washington, DC. While at the DOJ, Lauren litigated tax cases in district courts nationwide involving complex tax shelter promoter penalties and injunctions, return preparer injunctions, summons enforcement, tax refunds, FBAR penalties, and a variety of other issues. Lauren has significant experience with high-stakes tax disputes, having represented the United States in many cases involving issues of first impression. Lauren received multiple awards while at the DOJ, including the Attorney General’s Award for Fraud Prevention and Special Commendation Awards from the Tax Division. Before she worked at the DOJ, Lauren advised businesses on tax planning and compliance at a Big Four accounting firm. Lauren has been recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for her work in tax litigation and controversy. Lauren is actively involved in the American Bar Association Section of Taxation, where she serves on the executive subcommittee of the Women in Tax Forum and the Civil Penalties subcommittee. Lauren is a frequent speaker on topics relevant to federal tax practitioners and has written articles about discovery disputes in tax litigation, expert discovery in tax litigation, and the employee retention credit. Lauren is passionate about pro bono work and has represented clients in disputes involving issues ranging from tax to housing conditions.

Peter Dawson
Tax Attorney & Advisor
831(b) Institute

Peter’s passion is creating, building and helping businesses run successfully. He has spent his career working with business owners and helping them mitigate the numerous risks confronting them in growing and preserving their wealth. After graduating from Creighton University School of Law with a Certificate in Business and Tax Planning, Peter entered the financial services industry and has been in the industry ever since. While in the industry he has been: a partner at a boutique independent RIA and private equity firm in Kansas City, served as a regional VP for a mid-sized life insurance company in the Midwest, received a certificate in Special-Needs Planning from The American College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, and worked with numerous high net worth clients in various industries helping them mitigate tax, financial, and liability risks. Peter has worked with several different private equity groups to secure funding for projects as diverse as a calcium mine in the Dominican Republic, to investing in a cancer protocol, to housing projects. His philosophy is: if we can understand the risks and know how we will make the project work financially then we will invest the time and resources needed to bring the project to fruition. Some of his career highlights: Secured financing for several large multi-family housing projects in the Kansas City Metro. Helped secure funding for an alternative cancer protocol. Facilitated the purchase and sale of numerous businesses and medical practices across the United States. Worked with numerous business owners helping them with asset protection, wealth preservation and growth, avoiding losses and mitigating taxes. Prior to entering law school he graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Political Science and worked for lobbying firms in Washington D.C. and Salt Lake City, Utah.

David Duckwitz
Partner in Charge of Quality
Citrin Cooperman, New York, New York

David Duckwitz is the Partner in Charge of Quality in Citrin Cooperman’s National Assurance Office and has over 30 years of experience in auditing and accounting. David has extensive experience leading the quality function, directing large implementation projects and developing team members. He works collaboratively with all individuals in an organization to solve complex auditing and accounting issues. He has designed operating procedures to ensure compliance with relevant authoritative standards and interpretations, managed firm licensing and peer review processes, and directed assurance department training efforts. Prior to Citrin Cooperman, David led the quality function at a national accounting firm. Preceding his work in quality, David served clients in various industries including real estate, construction, manufacturing and distribution and not-for-profit organizations. He has also worked as an Internal Audit Manager and a Director of Accounting – Revenue at publicly-held companies.

Jessica Egenasi, BBA, CPA
DIRECTOR, TAX
APRIO ADVISORY GROUP, LLC

Kathy A. Enstrom, MBA, EA, CFE
Director of Investigations
Moore Tax Law Group LLC, Illinois

Kathy is the Director of Investigations for the Moore Tax Law Group based in Chicago and New York. She assists clients facing governmental investigations and civil matters involving all manner of alleged tax fraud and white collar fraud. Kathy Enstrom began her career as a Special Agent with IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) in 1995. In this role she investigated numerous complex federal tax and financial crimes cases. She was promoted into management in 2005 and eventually rose to the executive level. Kathy departed CI in 2021, and her time in federal law enforcement concluded with her role as Chicago’s Special Agent in Charge of FDIC-Office of Inspector General.

Rita. Fiumara, CIMA, CRPS
Senior Vice President – Investments and Retirement Plan Advisor
UBS Financial , Chicago, Illinois

Since 1996, Rita has been helping to empower retirement plan sponsors with insight and best practices to meet their fiduciary responsibilities while supporting employees’ retirement planning goals. As a Senior Retirement Plan Consultant, Rita considers herself an educator as well as an advocate. By integrating plan feature consulting with employee education, she has helped sponsors build effective communication programs that have driven overall plan participation. Rita also advises her clients on competitive cost structures, investment committee priorities and decision-making, and organizing key fiduciary documents. Outside of UBS, Rita is an active spokesperson in her professional community. She is often a featured guest speaker on ERISA topics at industry conferences and events, including those of the Chicago Bar Association, Financial Executives International, the SPARK National Conference, the PLANSPONSOR National Conference and the CPA® Society.

Bill Flick

Bill Flick is a Managing Director in the firm’s State and Local Tax (SALT) practice, focusing on indirect (sales and use) tax and leads the firm’s Malvern, PA office. With over 30 years of experience in the sales tax recovery and sales tax audit representation industry, Bill has established himself as an expert in his field. In his current role at EA, Bill leverages his deep expertise to drive the SALT practice forward. Bill’s comprehensive understanding of sales and use tax issues, combined with his strategic approach to client service and relationship management, make him an invaluable asset to his clients. His excellent communication skills and ability to build and maintain strong client relationships have been pivotal in addressing client needs and concerns effectively. Furthermore, Bill is recognized for his strong writing and oral skills, having presented on various sales tax and cost recovery topics to professional organizations and groups. His presentations are known for their clarity, depth of knowledge, and practical insights, which have made him a sought-after speaker in his industry. Before joining the firm, Bill founded FM Cost Containment, a national cost containment firm that provided specialized consulting services in sales and use tax, real estate tax, and cost segregation. His client portfolio ranged from privately held mid-sized companies to Fortune 500 companies, encompassing a variety of sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, financial services, insurance, hospitality, sports entertainment, retail, and gaming. Bill’s career also includes significant roles such as Vice President of a national sales and use tax consulting firm and Director at a Big 4 Accounting Firm.

Becky Gabany, MA, CDE, CDP, CPCHE
Owner & Principal Consultant
ChangeBridge Consulting, Springfield, Illinois

Becky Gabany, MA, CDE, CDP, CPCHE, is the owner and principle consultant of ChangeBridge Consulting whose mission is to fill critical gaps… empowering organizations to lead with greater equity, efficiencty, and effectiveness. Becky has dedicated her career to advancing inclusive leadership and positive systems change. With a Master’s degree in Human Services and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, she brings more than a decade of experience in organizational development and expanding equitable access to resources. Her work is grounded in restorative justice and trauma-informed practice. Becky is a Healing Ambassador, Level 1 Trauma-Informed Practitioner, Certified Diversity Professional and Executive, and a Certified Professional in Clinical Health Equity. Through ChangeBridge, she partners with organizations nationwide to strengthen leadership, culture, and impact. Becky is a 2025–2026 Obama Leaders USA cohort member, a 40 Under 40 honoree, and a former member of the Forefront Illinois Racial Equity Cohort and the U.S. Rise to Health Coalition. She serves as co-chair of the DEIJ Committee for the National Association for Community and Restorative Justice and as a board member of NAMI Illinois. She also serves on the Illinois Women in Leadership DEI Committee and is a member of Women Entrepreneurs of Central Illinois. Her work has received multiple awards and recognitions at the local, state, and national level. Her consulting portfolio includes work with RUSH University on the national rollout of the racial health equity progress report and ongoing collaboration with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, among other nonprofit and private-sector clients. A highly sought-after facilitator and keynote speaker, Becky delivers more than 50 engagements annually across local, state, and national platforms. Her research-informed, interactive sessions consistently earn above-average evaluation scores and equip participants with practical tools for measurable, people-centered impact. You can learn more at www.ChangeBridgeConsulting.com.

Mark S. Gallegos, CPA, MST
Partner
Porte Brown LLC, Elgin, Illinois

Mark Gallegos, CPA, MST, is a tax partner on Porte Brown’s tax services team, based in Chicago, Illinois. With over 20 years of experience, Mark has become a trusted advisor in the areas of taxation, specializing in mergers & acquisitions, international tax, and tax credits and incentives. His expertise is anchored in a deep understanding of complex tax legislation and the evolving regulatory landscape. Mark is a prolific speaker and writer, frequently hosting webinars and delivering presentations on tax legislation and related topics. Mark is a frequently sought-after public speaker, known for his insightful commentary and his deep understanding of our complex tax legislation. He has served as an expert contributor to global media outlets such as Wall Street Journal, CNN, USA Today, Washington Post, Bloomberg, FOX News, ABC News, Tax Advisor, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, as well as many local news publications, industry podcasts, and news radio broadcasts. Also, Mark was recently named to Forbes 2025 America’s Top CPAs List.

Stephanie Z.. Gandsey, Masters of Communication
Founder
Leadership Extension Consulting, Bartlett, Illinois

Stephanie Gandsey, Founder of Leadership Extension Consulting, is a strategic consultant who helps professional services organizations build stronger brands, stronger leaders, and stronger client relationships. Through her work, she partners with accounting firms, advisory practices, municipal departments, and other service-based organizations to solve two of their most critical challenges: 1. How to market more effectively in a relationship-driven industry 2. How to empower managers and emerging leaders to drive performance With over 20 years of experience in professional services marketing and leadership development, Stephanie delivers customized, practical solutions that align with the culture and goals of her clients to deliver positive business outcomes. For over 12 years, Stephanie worked with 3 different accounting firms as a Marketing Director, changing and developing processes to solve organizational issues. One of her favorite successes was developing Project 3-2-1 for one of the firms, a Marketing and Business Development campaign to support mid-level CPAs in relationship marketing. In the first round, the group of 7 mid-level CPAs who didn’t have experience with bringing in sales brought in $75,000 of new work during the 3-month time frame. Outside of her professional life, Stephanie is an elected Village of Bartlett Trustee, supporting growth in her community and helping with local events. For fun, she enjoys taking fitness classes and weight lifting. She has a passion for taking family trips to Walt Disney World, as well as any National Parks. Education B.A. in Communication, Double Major in Public Relations and Media Studies, Northern Illinois University M.A. in Communication, Northern Illinois University.

Delante Greer, ChFEBC, CFP Candidate
Financial Planner
Opulentia LLC, River Forest, Illinois

Delante Greer is a financial planner and Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant℠ (ChFEBC℠) with Opulentia. Based in Chicago and frequently working from the firm’s Hunt Valley office, he serves clients nationwide—specializing in retirement planning, income protection, and tax-efficient wealth strategies for high-earning professionals and federal employees. Delante’s path to financial planning began as a client of Opulentia. That personal experience, coupled with his background in law enforcement, shaped his appreciation for intentional planning and the importance of expert guidance during life’s pivotal transitions. While serving as a police officer, Delante founded a nonprofit focused on financial literacy, igniting his passion for education and equitable access. Today, he channels that passion through initiatives like Modern Matrimoney, where he helps couples align their financial goals, and the Alternative Career in Sports Academy, supporting athletes and their families as they navigate career transitions and long-term planning. Beyond his advisory role, Delante serves as Committee Chair for the Lake County Estate Planning Council and is a board member of AWK & Associates, a firm that strengthens the financial operations and strategic planning of medical professionals. His financial insights have been featured in Entrepreneur, TEDx, the Illinois CPA Society, and the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management. In 2024, he was named a ThinkAdvisor Luminaries Winner and received the Men of Excellence Award from the Black Professionals Network. Delante earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and is currently pursuing his Certified Financial Planner™ designation through Northwestern University. He is dedicated to helping clients live with confidence, give with purpose, and build a legacy that reflects what matters most.

Valeria Gutowski

Valeria is a finance executive with a proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams through transformation and growth. She currently serves as Senior Vice President of Finance and Chief Accounting Officer at Norstella, where she leads cross-functional finance teams spanning Treasury, FP&A, Accounting, and Tax. In this role, she drives strategic initiatives to increase profitability, scale global operations, and integrate multiple legacy businesses into a unified finance organization. She has been instrumental in two successful exits, most recently guiding Enfusion through its sale to Clearwater Analytics. During her three year tenure at Enfusion, she modernized the finance function and built a scalable, investor-ready organization. Earlier in her career, she spent more than a decade at EY advising public companies on IPO readiness, M&A, and regulatory compliance. Recognized for building, upskilling, and right-sizing teams, she incorporates technology into HR strategy to maximize effectiveness and employee satisfaction. She is passionate about developing talent, fostering strong cultures, and enabling organizations to thrive through complex transitions.

Lisa Hanlon, CPA
Senior Managing Director
CBIZ , Deerfield, Illinois

Lisa Hanlon, CPA is a Senior Managing Director and leader of the Business Enterprise Services / Outsourced Accounting Solutions and the Modern Family Practice Groups for the Central Region. She also serves as the Office Managing Director for the Deerfield and Chicago offices at CBIZ. With more than 30 years of experience, Lisa leverages her problem-solving skills, technical expertise and general business acumen to consult with a wide range of across industries, including healthcare, professional services, private equity, technology, physician groups, and nursing homes. She has extensive expertise in consulting with closely-held businesses and start-up companies and assists them through the entire business lifecycle including, determining their needs and advising on business strategies. She also prepares financial statements for clients and financial institutions, and helps them with their tax needs, both corporate and individual. Lisa is passionate and actively involved in the areas of diversity and inclusion, gender equality, women initiatives and corporate social responsibility. She is the co-chair for the Firm’s Women’s Initiative in Illinois, serves as a member on the CBIZ Foundation’s Illinois Board, and is a member of the Firm’s National Diversity & Inclusion Committee. She is also an active member in the accounting industry and committed to helping pave the way for current and future women CPAs. Lisa is a former member of the Illinois CPA Society (ILCPAS) Women’s Executive Board, which is geared toward attracting women to the CPA profession and advising on professional development and mentoring programs. Lisa is a frequent speaker on various industry topics including technical accounting, leadership, and diversity and inclusion. Professional Affiliations * American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) * Illinois CPA Society

James Harmon
AI Consultant
XoSelf AI

James Harmon is the founder of XoSelf AI, an AI consulting and training firm based in the Greater Chicago area. He is the author of Claude Code: The Unofficial Guide and specializes in helping professional services firms integrate AI tools like Claude.ai, ChatGPT, and Claude Code into their daily workflows. With a background in software engineering and a degree in Computer Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, James brings decades of technology experience to his work with accounting firms, engineering organizations, and other professional services businesses across Illinois. He has delivered AI training for various organizations around the country include Microsoft, LinkedIn and State Farm Insurance. James takes a practical, hands-on approach to AI adoption. Rather than abstract theory, his sessions focus on real tools professionals can start using immediately — from automating document review and data analysis to streamlining client communications and internal workflows. He understands the unique concerns of regulated industries, including data privacy, accuracy, and the importance of professional judgment in an AI-assisted environment. As the organizer of the Naperville AI Enthusiast Meetup, James has built a growing community of professionals exploring AI applications across industries. He also created SparkyBot, an open-source suite of AI-powered productivity tools designed for consultants and small businesses. James is passionate about making AI accessible to professionals who may not have a technical background. He believes the firms that thrive in the coming years will be those that embrace AI as a tool to enhance — not replace — the expertise their clients depend on. His goal at Summit 2026 is to give Illinois CPAs the confidence and practical skills to start leveraging AI in their practices right away.

Jerry Irvine, Master’s Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management (GWU), CISSP, CISM, CeH, CISA, CRISC, GICSP, CGEIT, CASP, CBCP, CIPT, ITIL, CNE, MCSE, CCNA, CCNP, CCDA, CCDP
CIO
Prescient Solutions, DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois

Jerry N Irvine CIO Prescient Solutions As CIO for Prescient Solutions, a nationwide IT outsourcer, Irvine provides strategic direction for all clients, overseeing product innovation and implementation aimed at minimizing IT resources and reducing costs. He has been deeply involved with the IT industry since 1987. His experience includes the creation, development, and management of IT, with extensive work in the design, implementation, and security of IT infrastructure and servers, and LAN / WAN / Wireless / VPN network architecture, as well as systems and network security and communications protocol analysis. Since then, Irvine has filled MIS and CIO positions at multiple facilities and has managed hundreds of technicians and thousands of devices. He has led multiple project teams, such as one of the largest Microsoft Directory migration projects ever. From 2008 – 2017, Irvine was a member of the US Chamber of Commerce’s Cybersecurity Working Group. This task force is responsible for advising federal decision-makers on cybersecurity policy and sharing best practices related to this urgent and ongoing need. From June 2015 to 2017, Irvine sat on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Cybersecurity Leadership Council, a group of professionals that had come together to promote cybersecurity policy. Irvine is currently involved in the Chicago Chapters of the US Secret Service’s Electronic Crimes Task Force (ECTF), FBI InfraGard, and IT-ISAC. His expertise on cybersecurity has been featured in several national and industry publications, including ABC News, NBC News, FOX Chicago News, WGN TV/ Radio, WBBM Radio, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, CIO Magazine, Forbes, and Wired magazine. For more information: http://www.prescientsolutions.com/

Varun Jain, CPA, CMA
Founder and CEO
Miles Masterclass

Varun Jain, CPA, CMA, is the Founder and CEO of Miles Masterclass. An alumnus of Harvard Business School with prior experience at Deloitte and Morgan Stanley, Varun has spent over 14 years training 70,000+ accountants globally. He is focused on transforming the profession by making accountants AI-ready through engaging, practitioner-led learning experiences.

Larry James
Managing Partner
Amundsen Davis, LLC

Larry has been at the heart of the Columbus business, legal, civic, and political scene for the last four decades. He is a respected litigator, as well as an advisor to local and national leaders. Larry’s clients see him as a true advocate and business partner. Larry has served as the NFOP General Counsel since 2001 and serves as general counsel for various entities, working with clients to navigate Ohio’s administrative agencies and their complex rules and regulations. While Larry has gained a wealth of legal experience in his 46 years of practice, his main focus is on business and corporate law, as well as general liability defense and employment matters. Larry’s leadership in arts advocacy and civil rights has led him to be recognized with numerous awards over the years. In 2024 Larry James was honored as a recipient of the James Preston Poindexter Award during the Columbus City Council’s annual Black History Month Celebration. The award recognizes those who have established a legacy in Columbus by improving the city and ultimately enhancing the lives of others. He was also honored with the Steve McClure Service Award in 2024 by the Franklin County Treasurer’s Office and Franklin County Court of Common Pleas General Division in recognition of his many accomplishments in leadership and service.

Randy Johnston, MCS
Exec VP
K2 Enterprises, Hutchinson, Kansas

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, Cofounder randy@k2e.com; randyj@nmgi.com, 620-664-6000 x 112, Web sites: www.randyjohnston.com, www.technologybestpractices.com, www.nmgi.com, or www.k2e.com Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS, has been a leading figure in technology for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, he has remained a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011 through 2024. His continued influence in the profession is highlighted by his recognition in the 2024 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting—his twenty-first consecutive year on that list. In addition, Randy authors a monthly column and hosts a weekly podcast for The CPA Practice Advisor contributes to the Journal of Accountancy, writes for various accounting and technology publications, and has published numerous books. He has founded and still owns multiple ventures, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. (NMGI) in Hutchinson, Kansas. For four decades, NMGI has provided services to CPA firms and has been the largest managed service provider for the CPA profession in North America. Randy’s wife, four children, and seven grandchildren share his passions for theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains. His background as a college instructor, management and technology consultant, and advisor to the accounting community informs today’s presentation. Contact Randy at randy@k2e.com, randyj@nmgi.com, 620-664-6000 x 112, via www.randyjohnston.com, www.technologybestpractices.com, www.nmgi.com, or www.k2e.com.

Ashley Kirchner
Ashley Kirchner is a Director with BMO’s Corporate Advisory practice. She advises privately held businesses on a broad range of corporate finance topics including ESOPs, recapitalizations, mergers & acquisitions, and ownership transitions. Ashley’s commercial banking experience spans over a decade, primarily focused on providing financing solutions to support ownership transitions, particularly through the use of ESOPs. Most recently, Ashley worked at a regional financial institution, where she was a founding member of the bank’s ESOP Finance Group. She previously held roles focused on ESOP advisory, relationship management, credit risk assessment, and underwriting. Ashley earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She is an active member of ESCA, National Center for Employee Ownership, and The ESOP Association.

Ed Kless
Founder
THRESHOLD, Allen, Texas

Ed Kless believes entrepreneurs continue the work of creation and that business exists to promote human flourishing. To advance this vision, he cofounded THRESHOLD, where he guides professional leaders and teams through encapsulating transformations. Previously, Ed served as Sage’s senior director of partner development and strategy, hosted the Sage Thought Leadership Podcast, and designed curricula for Sage Partners and Customers. He also co-hosts The Soul of Enterprise with Ron Baker, his friend and fellow THRESHOLD co-founder.

Jeffrey Korzenik
Chief Economist
Fifth Third Bank, St Petersburg, Florida

Jeff Korzenik is the Chief Economist for Fifth Third Commercial Bank. As Chief Economist, Jeff provides research and analysis that impacts the Bank’s key markets as well as business leaders and policymakers throughout the country. He is an award-winning author whose writings have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the Harvard Business Review, Newsweek, Forbes and many other national and regional publications, and Jeff has appeared regularly on CNBC, Bloomberg and Fox Business News. Jeff’s insights are also featured in the Empowering American Cities initiative, a collaboration with Fifth Third and the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Empowering American Cities delivers local economic information for business leaders looking to grow their companies and their communities. It explores data on why some cities thrive while others fall behind, helping to identify policies and business practices that are working or not working. Policymakers have sought Jeff’s expertise on a variety of topics leading to his testifying before state legislatures and on Capitol Hill. Most recently, Jeff has been recognized as a leading expert on private sector models for hiring people with criminal records and advancing public safety through employment. His book, “Untapped Talent,” published by HarperCollins in 2021, is widely recognized as the authoritative text on the subject. He is a graduate of Princeton University with both a degree in Economics and a Certificate of Proficiency in Near Eastern Studies.

Bruce Lanser, CIMA CSPS CRPC AIF
Senior Retirement Plan Consultant
UBS, Brookfield, Wisconsin

Empowering Retirement Confidence for Over 30 Years Bruce Lanser brings more than three decades of experience helping plan sponsors elevate their employee retirement plans. His business model centers on three pillars of corporate retirement planning: participant success, investment strategy, and fiduciary oversight. Bruce collaborates with retirement committees to deliver a structured, well-documented process that supports fiduciary compliance and help enhance participant outcomes. His approach goes beyond investments and fees—it’s about empowering people and families to feel confident about their financial future. Strategic Capabilities – Clarifies client needs, defines goals, and implements plan changes to drive measurable outcomes. – Evaluates plan design, investment menus, fiduciary liability, fees, service providers, and participant readiness. – Provides actionable insights to help clients understand where they stand today and identify opportunities for improvement. Recognized Excellence – PLANADVISER Top 100 Retirement Plan Advisers (2019 – 2025) The PLANADVISOR rating is awarded in Q1 based on information from Q1 of the award year. Eligibility is based on quantitative factors and is not necessarily related to the quality of the investment advice. For more information on third party rating methodologies, please visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures Life Beyond Finance Bruce is a former Chairman of the Investments Committee for Junior Achievement of Wisconsin. He’s also an avid speed skating enthusiast and one of only 24 individuals globally qualified to serve as an International Starter at the 2016 Olympic Games. Advice. Beyond Investing. In today’s complex financial landscape, Bruce collaborates with retirement plan sponsors to help them understand how every element of their organization can impact fiduciary responsibilities and long-term outcomes. His mission is to empower sponsors with personalized, practical strategies that enhance fiduciary duties while aligning retirement plan management with the broader priorities of their workforce and business.

Doug Lowery
Chief Revenue Officer
Brilliant Staffing LLC

Doug Lowery was one of the original five founders of Brilliant in 2009 and returned to the company in 2023 as Chief Revenue Officer, where he drives business development and customer success. Doug’s career began at Arthur Andersen where he spent five years in the Audit and Advisory practice. His clients included manufacturing, technology, healthcare and power companies. In 2002, he moved to recruiting where he focused on permanent placement offerings for accounting, tax and audit roles at Brilliant.Most recently before rejoining Brilliant, Doug was the lead sales executive for Crowe LLP in the Chicagoland market. Prior to Brilliant, Doug’s career began at Arthur Andersen where he spent five years in the Audit and Advisory practice. His clients included manufacturing, technology, healthcare and power companies. In 2002, he began his career in recruiting where he focused on permanent placement offerings for accounting, tax and audit roles. He joined Jim Wong who is a current board member and co-founder of Brilliant at a Chicago-based search firm in 2004 where he became the Area Managing Director of Perm in Chicagoland. Doug’s previous role at Brilliant was as leader of all permanent placement solutions along with business development responsibilities. Doug was instrumental in driving the explosive growth of Brilliant between 2009 and 2018. Doug believes that growth of a business is based on building deep customer relationships and trust. The most successful business development individuals are those that become a true partner to the client and they are always an honest and thoughtful advisor. Doug has a passion for the people business and views his role as simply finding great people, finding companies that need great people, and making the introduction between the two. Doug is the embodiment of Brilliant’s mission to ‘Make People’s Lives Better’.

Jason Luksis
EA – Tax Director
Aprio

Jason Luksis is a seasoned tax professional with over 15 years of public accounting experience and currently serves as a Tax Director at Aprio in Schaumburg, Illinois. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he also served as a teaching assistant for the College of Business, Jason has widespread tax experience across professional services, private equity, manufacturing, construction, and real estate. Outside of work, Jason enjoys spending time outdoors with his children and watching college football.

Dennis Mellen, M.S.
CEO/Founder
Full Throttle Leadership

A professional speaker, retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, executive coach, best-selling author. Author of “Takes More Than Heart; Changing the Journey’s Challenges into Opportunities”, brings years of business experience in airline industry, military, consulting, teaching and coaching including 28 years at Alaska Airlines flying, building training programs, leading teams and developing people. This experience provides insightful stories to connect his audience to the foundations for building relationships, connecting with people and engaging teams in their vision and purpose. The focus in his sessions is on helping each organization, team and individual build more positive minds, teams and cultures. With worldwide presentations in such places as Kenya, Philippines and Cape Verde, Dennis emphasizes how diverse views can lead to innovation and new ideas. “Positive leaders drive positive cultures.”Dennis is a business leader, motivator, mental performance mentor and passionate athletic coach. Enthusiastic leadership and followership are his trademarks. He brings a high level of energy and passion to every group he engages. Weaving personal anecdotes and experiences with specific calls to action are key elements in his presentations.

Aaron Miles
Chief Investment Officer
Verano Holdings, Illinois

Aaron Miles serves as Chief Investment Officer of Verano Holdings (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX:VRNO), a leading, vertically integrated, U.S. multi-state cannabis company. As one of the largest cannabis companies in the nation, Verano has active operations across 13 states that include 15 cultivation and production facilities and more than 160 dispensaries that operate under the company’s flagship Zen Leaf and MÜV banners. Over the course of his more than 20 years of financial and capital markets experience, Mr. Miles has served in leadership roles across a variety of Fortune 500 companies and industries. His background and expertise spans investor relations, corporate development, treasury and communication roles in large and diversified corporations that include Abbott Laboratories, CME Group, Navigant, Tribune Publishing Company, the New York Stock Exchange, and most recently, Cresco Labs. Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Miles has distinguished himself as a cannabis industryleader in the financial and investor relations space, having notably assisted in taking both Cresco Labs and Verano Holdings public on the Canadian Securities Exchange in 2018 and 2021, respectively. In his current role as Chief Investment Officer, Mr. Miles serves as a member of Verano’s executive leadership team and is active in leading the company’s capital markets and investor relations activities. A native of Michigan, Mr. Miles graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and obtained his Master of Science in Finance from Walsh College. He is based in the company’s Chicago headquarters.

Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST
Midwest Region Tax Lead | Partner
Aprio Advisory Group, LLC, Schaumburg, Illinois

Mark “Coach” Mirsky joined Aprio when his firm, KRD, merged with Aprio in 2025. Mark focuses on partnership, S-corporation, and multi-state taxation as well as counseling start-ups, mergers and acquisition of businesses, and international taxation. While Mark works with manufacturing/distribution, technology, and related industries, he also represents a variety of clients including, healthcare, virtual currency web-based businesses, real estate, construction, retail, and individuals. His background includes working in the international tax group at one of the largest accounting firms in the world and two middle market firms located in the Chicago suburbs, focusing on closely held businesses serving as a firm wide resource for partnership taxation, international taxation, and multi-state taxation. Mark is an Illinois licensed CPA. He also has a master’s in taxation from University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. He’s a member of the AICPA and ILCPAS. Mark is an instructor for both the AICPA and ICPAS and was recently an instructor for many years with TaxSpeaker teaching CPAs and EAs around the country. He was formerly an instructor for the AICPA National Tax Education Program, Western CPE and Vern Hoven Tax Seminars. He teaches partnership, S corporation, C corporation, individual taxation, and tax law updates. He also was a panelist for the first local Public Forum for the National Taxpayer Advocate office. Mark is a community leader and served as Chairman of the Board for Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce and sat on the committee to create a Transit Oriented Development Plan for Village of Bartlett. He’s also a soccer enthusiast having been to one UEFA Euro Cup and five (including 2026) FIFA World Cups. Currently, Mark is assistant varsity boys’ soccer coach at Bartlett High School. Previously, he was assistant varsity boys’ and girls’ soccer coach for Bartlett High School and assistant women’s soccer coach at Aurora University.

Matt Murray, CA, CPA
Owner
Prairie Forge LLC, Evanston, Illinois

Matt built his foundation in public accounting at Ernst & Young, spending years in the trenches of audit deadlines and financial reporting before moving into industry — leading corporate accounting for a multinational manufacturer based in Chicago. He later pivoted back to consulting, building the Accounting Advisory practice at a firm supporting PE-backed, middle-market companies through M&A transitions — formalizing processes, launching new service lines, and running the practice’s strategy and day-to-day operations for nearly three years. Through that work, Matt kept arriving at the same conclusion: the biggest value he could deliver wasn’t technical accounting or interim staffing — it was helping teams fix how they actually operate. Understanding the real challenges finance teams face during periods of change, and giving them practical, actionable solutions to navigate it.

Amanda Pictor, CPA, MA
Director
CBIZ Inc, Deerfield , Illinois

Amanda Pictor, CPA is a Director in CBIZ Inc’s Financial Services Division and a shareholder in CBIZ CPAs P.C. Leveraging over fifteen years of experience, Amanda provides a variety of assurance, accounting, and tax services to large and midsize closely held businesses. Amanda specializes in the performance of compilation and review engagements, providing outsourced accounting and interim CFO/Controller services, and advising clients on accounting and financial issues to help them operate more efficiently. Amanda earned a Master of Accountancy and Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Bradley University. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Illinois CPA Society.

Luis V. Plascencia, CPA, MST
CPA Practitioner / Principal
Luis V Plascencia, CPA, North Riverside, Illinois

Luis Plascencia is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed in Illinois. His firm specializes in IRS Representation Services and Financial Statement Services to small businesses to mid-size businesses and non-profit organizations. Mr. Plascencia was a member of the faculty at City Colleges of Chicago for 19 years, where he taught accounting and tax classes. Luis is the current Chairperson of the Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS) Legislators Tax Guide Task Force and previously served as the Chairperson of the ICPAS Tax Practice and Procedures Committee. Mr. Plascencia has served on multiple ICPAS Committees and American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Committees. Mr. Plascencia currently serves on the state board of accountancy, Illinois Board of Examiners. Luis is a frequent speaker at ICPAS and AICPA Continuing Professional Education events. He is also a frequent guest on the Chicago Legal Clinic Immigration Issues Show where he discusses tax issues that affect immigrants. He is an avid distance runner and cyclist. Luis is a charity runner for Organization for Autism Research – Run for Autism and has volunteered his time to Chicago Area Runners Association and local running clubs.

Paul Preziotti, CPA
Partner
Johnson Lambert LLP, San Diego, California

Paul Preziotti, CPA, is a Partner for the multi-office CPA firm, Johnson Lambert LLP. He is responsible for providing audit and consulting services to not-for-profit entities and employee benefit plans. He has significant experience serving as an advisor for organizations on a variety of issues including risk assessment, governance, compliance and internal control considerations. A graduate of the University of Maryland, Paul holds both a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in International Business. He joined Johnson Lambert LLP immediately after graduation. Paul is a frequent speaker on audit and accounting topics at various industry conferences and seminars. He is a distinguished alumnus of the AICPA Leadership Academy, an honor bestowed on fewer than 40 individuals nationally each year. In recognition of his contributions to the growth and enhancement of the accounting profession, he received the GWSCPA’s 2018 Outstanding Member in Public Practice Award. He holds several prominent leadership roles, currently serving as the Chair of the AICPA’s Not-for-Profit Advisory Council and is a past chair of the GWSCPA’s Nonprofit Finance & Accounting Symposium. Additionally, Paul is actively involved in community service, serving as the Treasurer for St. John’s Community Services, Vice President & President Elect for the GWSCPA, a Finance Committee member for United Way of San Diego County, and a member of the governance structure for the Radiation Effects Research Foundation.

Dan Rinaldi, CPA
Account Executive
Workday

Dan Rinaldi is a CPA with a background in accounting and corporate finance who now works at the intersection of finance, technology, and business transformation. He began his career in traditional finance roles before moving into enterprise software, where he partners with organizations to modernize their finance and people operations. Dan has spoken at user conferences and industry events, primarily to finance and HR professionals navigating technology-driven change. His perspective is shaped by hands-on experience on both sides of the table, doing the work and advising teams through transformation. He focuses on practical, people-first insights that help accounting professionals adapt and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving, data-driven world.

Adam J. San Juan
Managing Director of Retirement Plan Services & Financial Advisor
RWS Retirement & Wealth Strategies, Berwyn, Illinois

Adam J. San Juan is a Financial Advisor and Managing Director of Retirement Plan Services with RWS Retirement & Wealth Strategies. He advises business owners and organizations on retirement plan strategy, leadership decision-making, and the human dynamics that shape professional outcomes. Adam is the author of The Human Series, including What Are You Looking At?, What Am I Doing Here?, and What Was I Thinking?, a body of work that explores how people communicate, connect, and make decisions under pressure. His writing and speaking focus on practical frameworks for handling conflict, navigating complex environments, and leading effectively when conditions are less than ideal. Adam regularly speaks to professional and executive audiences on leadership, communication, and collaboration, helping individuals and teams better understand the human factors that influence performance and culture.

Jaideep Singh
Co-Founder CEO
FlyFin AI

Jaideep is the Co-founder & CEO: 20 years of experience in building AI companies, proven track record of creating successful startups that have created over $3 Billion in value. Passionate about combining AI/ML with CPAs to build a game-changing tax solution. BS and MS in Computer Engineering University of Arizona, MBA from the Wharton School.

David Snyder
President and CEO
The Economic Club of Chicago

David Snyder is president and chief executive officer of The Economic Club of Chicago. Founded in 1927, The Economic Club is one of nation’s most influential forums for the dissemination of economic, business and social views, dedicated to fostering the development of leaders within Chicago’s civic and business community. The Economic Club has welcomed many prominent thought leaders as speakers including CEOs of leading Fortune 500 companies, U.S. presidents, prime ministers, and other foreign dignitaries. Before his role at the Economic Club, David Snyder was Chief Operating Officer of Chicago CRED, a pioneeringan anti-gun violence organization focused on interventions with those at the highest risk for being perpetrators or victims of violent crime. Chicago CRED focuses on street-level violence prevention/interruption, intensive trauma-informed counseling, education and workforce development. In his role as COO, Mr. Snyder oversaw CRED’s business operations, strategic planning and grant-making. Prior to joining CRED in early 2017, Snyder spent more than three decades at Crain’s Chicago Business, a leading Chicago business newspaper and website, and served as both Editor and Publisher through the course of his tenure at Crain’s. Mr. Snyder is on the board of directors of the Polk Bros. Foundation and the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. David also serves on the Business Advisory Council of Chicago Pulbic Media and as a Steering Committee member for Press Forward Chicago. A native of Easton, Pa., Mr. Snyder is a graduate of American University in Washington, D.C., where he received his degree in business administration.

Rich Tarapchak, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Verano Holdings, Hawthorn Woods, Illinois

Rich Tarapchak serves as Chief Financial Officer of Verano Holdings (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNO), a leading, vertically integrated, U.S. multi-state cannabis company. As one of the largest cannabis companies in the nation, Verano has active operations across 13 states that include 15 cultivation and production facilities and more than 160 dispensaries. As CFO and a member of Verano’s executive leadership team, Mr. Tarapchak is a seasoned financial executive with over three decades of experience, and oversees all financial and accounting operations, strategic financial planning, and information technology for the Company. He joined Verano in July of 2022 as Executive Vice President, Finance and Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer, and was subsequently promoted to Chief Financial Officer in April of 2025. Under his tenure as Chief Financial Officer, Verano has streamlined and improved its financial reporting capabilities, and completed strategic initiatives in preparation for a potential entry into the U.S. markets, including redomiciling the Company from Canada to the U.S., and delivering ongoing improvements to the Company’s balance sheet and cost of capital. Prior to joining Verano, Mr. Tarapchak held a variety of accounting and finance leadership positions across a diverse set of industries. His extensive experience includes serving as Vice President, Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of II-VI Incorporated; Corporate Controller of Reynolds Group Holdings Limited; Chief Financial Officer of National Material L.P.; and several positions at Navistar International Corporation, including, most recently, Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller. Mr. Tarapchak earned a business administration degree from Wittenberg University in 1987 and an MBA in finance and accounting from Ohio State University in 1992. In addition, he is a certified public accountant, and serves on the board of the Illinois CPA Society and the Governing Council for the AICPA. He is based in the Company’s Chicago headquarters.

Robert Tighe, CPA MST CVA
Partner in Charge – Chicago Northwest
EisnerAmper, Elgin, Illinois

Robert T. Tighe is the Partner-in-Charge of the Firm’s Chicago Northwest office. With more than 25 years of experience in the industry, Bob brings deep expertise in accounting, general business planning, and tax consulting for middle-market and closely held businesses as well as high-net-worth individuals. He primarily specializes in providing services related to tax and business structuring and compliance, succession planning and mergers and acquisitions, and he predominantly serves non-profit, construction, and manufacturing and distribution industries. With extensive knowledge of tax planning and streamlining accounting processes, Bob has consistently helped clients reduce their tax liabilities by structuring new tax entities and handling a wide range of complex tax filings, including C corporations, S corporations, partnerships, trusts, non-profits, and individual returns. Bob has also served as an internal CFO/Controller for numerous clients, leveraging his in-depth knowledge of accounting systems like QuickBooks and his skill in growing companies. His hands-on approach has empowered many businesses to streamline their internal accounting processes, enabling them to manage most financial functions in-house with confidence. Bob is actively involved in his community, using his expertise in non-profit accounting and auditing to support multiple local youth, religious, and patriotic organizations, where he serves on multiple boards. In these roles, and in previous ones, he has played a key part in managing the financial decisions of multi-million-dollar organizations, offering guidance on budgeting and long-term planning. Furthermore, Bob has taught the MBA Financial Accounting course at Concordia University Chicago and the MSA Taxation course at Dominican University. He is also a former member of the Illinois CPA Societies Governmental Report Review Board.

Ruth Udoh
Donor Relations Assistant
Northern Illinois University – NIU Foundation

Alfredo Vitaller Liria, CPA, EA
Senior Tax Manager
Aprio

Alfredo Vitaller Liria is a Senior Tax Manager at Aprio based in New York City, with over 14 years of U.S. and international accounting and tax experience. He is a U.S. Certified Public Accountant, an Enrolled Agent before the IRS, and a licensed attorney in Spain. Alfredo holds a dual master’s degree in Law and International Relations from Universidad Pontificia Comillas and an LL.M. in Tax from IE Law School, and is fluent in Spanish, English, and French. Alfredo began his career at PwC Spain, where he spent four years before transferring to PwC U.S., where he progressed to Manager. He advises clients across all areas of U.S. taxation, with a particular focus on international tax and foreign entity matters. His extensive experience and strong international background enable him to deliver innovative, practical, and effective tax solutions to a diverse global client base.

Jess Wagener, CPA
Senior Manager
EY

Jess Wagener, CPA, is a Senior Manager in EY’s National Exempt Organization Tax Services practice, where she advises tax‑exempt organizations on complex tax compliance and consulting matters. With more than 15 years of public accounting experience, she specializes in serving healthcare organizations, large public charities, pension trusts, and related tax‑exempt and for‑profit entities. Her work includes federal, state, and foreign tax compliance, UBTI and supporting organization issues, audit‑related tax services, and advising institutional investors on the tax implications of alternative investments. Jess holds a B.S. in Business Administration (Accounting) from Marquette University and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Julia Woislaw
Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Regulatory Affairs
CPA Quality Pro

Julia Woislaw is the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Regulatory Affairs at CPA Quality Pro. Woislaw brings over a decade of experience in licensing, advocacy, and communications in the CPA profession. Most recently, she served as Director of State Society Relations at the American Institute of CPAs, where she led engagement strategies with state CPA societies nationwide. Woislaw holds a Master of Jurisprudence degree from the Texas A&M School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Society from American University.

Mark W. Wolfgram, CPA, MST
Tax Director
Bel, Chicago, Illinois

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Jason Wyatt
CEO
1LEAD, Charleston, Illinois

ason Wyatt is a transformational leadership expert, speaker, and the founder of 1LEAD, a leadership development firm focused on helping organizations turn strategy into execution. With more than 20 years of corporate leadership experience, Jason works with leaders who are ready to move beyond ideas and build the systems required for consistent results. Jason is the creator of the Leadership Execution Framework (LEF), a practical approach designed to close the gap between vision and performance. LEF helps executive teams clarify decision ownership, strengthen operating rhythms, and align leadership behaviors with organizational priorities, reducing friction, improving execution, and creating scalable leadership systems. A Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member, 10X Coach, and Working Genius Facilitator, Jason combines proven leadership principles with real-world application. His work equips leaders at every level with tools that drive clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes. His results-focused style has earned the trust of C-suite executives, HR professionals, and growth-oriented organizations across multiple industries. Jason is also the author of Junk Drawer Leadership: 9 Insanely Powerful Tools for Decluttering Team Potential, a book that reflects his belief that effective leadership does not have to be complex—just intentional, structured, and consistently applied. Whether delivering a keynote, facilitating a leadership workshop, or coaching executives one-on-one, Jason’s mission remains constant: help leaders build clarity, execute with confidence, and lead organizations that perform at the level their strategy demands.