As my year as Chairman of the Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the people, opportunities, and experiences that have shaped both my career and my involvement in this outstanding organization.

I joined Watkins, Ward and Stafford, PLLC in June 1995 after earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from Mississippi State University. A few years after I joined the firm, Charlie Ward and I had a conversation that changed the direction of my career. Charlie encouraged me to consider returning to Mississippi State to complete the accounting coursework necessary to become a CPA. While working full-time, I began taking the additional accounting classes required to sit for the CPA Exam. The effort was well worth it. I earned my CPA license in January 2006 and was admitted to the partnership of Watkins, Ward and Stafford in 2008. Looking back, that decision opened doors I never anticipated and ultimately led me to opportunities for leadership and service throughout the profession.

Not long afterward, I became involved with the MSCPA. My first opportunity to serve was on the Health Care Services Committee and later the Public Service Award Committee. Over the years, those committee assignments led to new opportunities, including serving as Treasurer of the Society during 2022-2023 and ultimately the honor of serving as your Chairman during the past year.

The profession I entered more than thirty years ago is not the same profession we know today. Technology has transformed how we serve clients. Regulatory requirements continue to evolve. The pipeline of future CPAs remains a significant challenge across the country. Yet, one thing has remained constant throughout my career—the value of professional organizations working together to address challenges and create opportunities.

That reality was evident throughout this year. One of the most significant accomplishments involved the Alternative Pathway to Licensure legislation. The collaboration between the MSCPA, the Mississippi State Board of Public Accountancy, legislators, firms, educators, and volunteers was extraordinary. Countless hours were devoted to studying the issue, discussing alternatives, and advocating for a solution that preserves the integrity of the CPA profession while creating an additional practical path for future CPAs. Seeing that legislation successfully pass both the Senate and House and become effective July 1, 2026, was a proud moment for our profession in Mississippi.

This year also reminded us how quickly changes in tax law can create new questions. The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act became law in July 2025. After the winter ice storm in early 2026, practitioners across the Southern United States found themselves navigating questions regarding the practical application of many of its provisions. Moments like these reinforce the importance of having a strong professional society that can provide education, resources, and a forum for discussion when uncertainty arises.

Another highlight of my year was witnessing the enthusiasm and commitment of our Young CPA Network. Whether attending Meet the Firms events on college campuses, competing in the Days of Service Food Drive, organizing networking events, or participating in a friendly cornhole competition, these young professionals consistently demonstrate their commitment to our profession and our communities. Their energy and leadership give me tremendous confidence in the future of accounting in Mississippi.

I also had the opportunity to attend AICPA Council meetings and observe national discussions about issues affecting the profession. One of the highlights was witnessing Mississippi's own Jan Lewis continue her remarkable leadership journey as she prepares to serve as Chairman of the AICPA. Her achievement reflects not only her dedication but also the leadership tradition that Mississippi CPAs have established at both the state and national levels. Those of us who have had the privilege of working with Jan over the years know how deserving this recognition is, and all Mississippi CPAs can take pride in her accomplishment.

One of the things I have come to appreciate most during my time in leadership is the partnership between our dedicated volunteers and the MSCPA staff. The success of our conferences, CPE programs, convention, scholarships, advocacy efforts, chapter activities, and member services depends on both groups working together toward a common goal. Committee members and volunteer leaders contribute their expertise, ideas, and countless hours of service, while the staff transforms those ideas into successful programs and initiatives that benefit our members throughout the year. Much of this work happens behind the scenes, but it is the foundation of everything the Society accomplishes.

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Karen Moody and the entire MSCPA staff. Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the professionalism, dedication, and genuine commitment they bring to serving our members and advancing our profession. Karen's leadership, vision, and tireless work have been instrumental in the Society's success, and the staff consistently goes above and beyond to support our members, volunteers, and leadership. It has been a privilege to serve alongside them, and I am deeply grateful for all they do for the MSCPA.

A special thank you is also due to Kimberly Williams, our Vice-Chairman and incoming Chairman. Kimberly has been a trusted partner throughout this year, always willing to step in, offer support, and help move the Society forward. I know she will provide outstanding leadership in the year ahead.

Serving as Chairman has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career. I am grateful for the trust placed in me by the members of this Society and proud of what we have accomplished together. While my term is ending, my commitment to the MSCPA is not. I look forward to continuing to support this organization and the CPA profession in Mississippi for many years to come.

Thank you for the privilege of serving as your Chairman. I look forward to continuing to support the MSCPA and its mission in the years ahead.