Washington Society of CPAs Annual Awards

2022-2023

WSCPA AWARD WINNERS

Elaine Myers

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Posthumous Award

For an exemplary career of leadership in the accounting profession and the community

Elaine Myers was one of the first women to graduate with an accounting degree from Gonzaga University. Soon after graduating in 1956, she started working for LeMaster & Daniels in Spokane. She obtained her CPA license in 1994 and started her own firm in 2003. She joined McDirmid, Mikkelsen & Secrest, now Eide Bailly, in 2006 and stayed until her retirement as a tax senior manager in 2018.

"With a passion for numbers and people, Elaine worked tirelessly as an accountant for over 50 years, spearheading a path for women while helping many individuals, families, businesses and charitable organizations. She loved advising her clients and took great satisfaction assisting them with financial decisions. Elaine worked with many clients over generations, and she held a special place in her heart for farmers and nonprofit organizations. Elaine was an influential, dedicated and brilliant woman." —excerpt from Elaine's 2022 obituary

"Elaine was such a personal motivator for me to pass the CPA exam. She always checked up on my studying and I kept studying and ended up passing partially because I didn’t want to disappoint Elaine. She was also very invested in her clients and helping them beyond just tax compliance. She was a friend and confidant to many clients," says Jillian Robison, CPA, OMS Senior Manager, Eide Bailly LLP.

Every year, the WSCPA honors individuals (and one company or firm) that have demonstrated their commitment to supporting the Society and maintaining the CPA's trusted and respected place in Washington State's professional community.

Elaine (center) when she began her career at LeMaster & Daniels.

Elaine's granddaughter, best friend and coworkers accept her award.

Greenwood Ohlund, PS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

For many years of active support of the WSCPA and the profession

Greenwood Ohlund, PS (GO), aims to change the field of accounting by providing traditional CPA services in innovative ways. This five-partner firm, situated just north of downtown Seattle, boasts a team of approximately 30 professionals who operate from remote home offices across the country. Established in 1971 by Dick Greenwood, the firm has remained relevant for 52 years by adapting and flexing to meet the evolving needs of its clients and team.

"Greenwood Ohlund sets a remarkable example of a firm with a strong culture, characterized by engaged staff and leadership," remarks Monette Anderson, CAE, Vice President of Member Services & Education at WSCPA. “As a WSCPA Peak Firm, they actively participate in numerous committee and volunteer roles, demonstrating their deep commitment to our student members through their recruitment and internship programs.”

Moreover, the firm actively takes part in WSCPA educational initiatives and engages with fellow professionals at local events. By participating in forum discussions and strategic planning, Greenwood Ohlund effectively advocates for the professional needs of small firms and contributes to shaping the future of the accounting profession.

Zenaida Fletcher, CPA, MBA, CFP

VOLUNTEER LEADER AWARD

For active leadership and dedicated service to the WSCPA Foundation

Zenaida "Zeny" Fletcher, CPA, CFP, MBA, retired in 2021 as the Controller of the Washington Education Association after overseeing its accounting operations, financial reporting, investments, audit, agency fee, and local treasurer's training for 45 years.

After migrating to the United States in 1974 as a CPA with two bachelor's degrees, Zeny pursued evening classes for a master's degree and took a sabbatical leave for three busy seasons with Deloitte to fulfill the certification requirements to practice as a CPA in the state of Washington.

"Zeny has been an active volunteer with the WSCPA and a dedicated advocate for the profession throughout my 23-year tenure,” said Kimberly Scott, CAE, WSCPA President & CEO. “Her enthusiasm and graciousness are genuine, and she has consistently added value through her involvement with the WSCPA.”

Since 2005, Zeny has served on the WSCPA Not-For-Profit Resource Group. Additionally, she has been a scholarship reviewer since 2018 and joined the Washington CPA Foundation Board in 2019, where she currently serves as a second-term trustee. Zeny’s passion is to participate in campus and student outreach programs and share her professional knowledge with aspiring accounting students.

Zeny has also been an engaged member of the Filipino American Association of CPAs, facilitating relationships and collaboration opportunities between the two organizations.

January 2023 at Skogafoss, one of Iceland's biggest and most beautiful waterfalls.

Greenwood Ohlund received the award at the WSCPA Membership Summit.

photo: © Shelly Oberman Photography

Kelly Nelson, CPA

VOLUNTEER LEADER AWARD

For active leadership and service to the WSCPA

Kelly Nelson, CPA, is the Managing Partner of the Seattle Business Unit at Baker Tilly LLP. Kelly is driven by her passion for fostering an inclusive and supportive work culture that embraces diversity of thought, allowing professionals to be their authentic selves.

During her college years, Kelly received a Washington CPA Foundation scholarship, which enabled her to successfully complete her BA in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting from the University of Washington. While volunteering has provided her with a platform to give back, it is the connections with people and the opportunity for thought leadership that she finds most rewarding.

Kelly actively serves on the WSCPA Board of Directors and holds the position of Chair of the WSCPA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, where she passionately advocates for the profession.

Kimberly Scott, CAE, WSCPA President & CEO, shared, "Kelly has a leadership style that envelops and values individuals, making them feel valued and excited. Her dedication is evident through her active involvement in volunteering, speaking engagements, and mentoring aspiring CPAs."

Kelly's commitment to both current and future colleagues extends beyond simply keeping doors open; she strives to hold them wide, eliminating barriers and enabling others to achieve remarkable success.

Kairi Roberts, CPA

NEW PROFESSIONAL AWARD

For passion, commitment, and service to the WSCPA

Kairi Roberts, CPA, graduated from Gonzaga University in 2013. She began working for a local Spokane firm where she was an associate for several years. Kairi has been a partner of Anderson Lampe, P.S., since 2020 and specializes in S corporation and partnership taxation. A CPA and WSCPA member since 2018, Kairi is the newly-elected chair of the Spokane Chapter Board and previously served as the Spokane Chapter Events Committee Chair and on the Society's Emerging Leaders Committee.

“Kairi’s commitment to the WSCPA as Chair of the Spokane Chapter Board and past Chair of the Events Committee extends beyond the logistics of event planning. She personally invests herself in fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported,” said Daniel Fleming, WSCPA Manager of Membership. “Her genuine passion for the success of others shines through in every interaction, as she goes the extra mile to ensure that participants leave with not only new connections, but also a sense of belonging to a larger professional community.”

When Kairi is not working on expanding her tax practice and business development skills, she enjoys spending time with her family and pets.

Kelly with her Bernedoodle, Sasha, who is referred to as the “Managing Pawtner” by some.

Kairi hiking Mt. Spokane with her dog Lana.

Joseph Smith

SPECIAL AWARD

For commitment and support of students and the CPA profession

Joseph (Joe) Smith is an educator at North Seattle Community College. He started his teaching career as a Seattle University adjunct faculty and primarily teaches the principles of financial and managerial accounting series. Prior to teaching, Joe worked in industry and non-profits in positions ranging from staff accountant to controller.

Joe has given countless hours of dedication and leadership to the WSCPA and the Washington CPA Foundation. As an educator, he has worked for years inspiring students and encouraging them to pursue the CPA profession and accounting careers, and encouraging students to apply for Washington CPA Foundation scholarships.

In 2020, Joe joined the Board of the Washington CPA Foundation, where he currently serves as vice president. "He has been an important advisor in helping develop our new associate scholarship program and helping award grants to organizations looking to improve the pipeline of the profession," said Benjamin Warren, WSCPA Manager of Pipeline Initiatives.

Joe is a graduate of both the University of Washington and Seattle University. He lives in North Seattle with his wife Debbie, and they enjoy frequent walks with their dog Luna.

Hanna Fleming

RISING STAR AWARD

For passion, commitment, and service to the WSCPA

Hanna Fleming is an experienced audit associate at Clark Nuber PS in Bellevue, Washington. Hanna serves a variety of not-for-profit and commercial clients and enjoys working on employee benefit plans. Her prior work experience included private industry sales management, and before that she was usually found working with animals.

Hanna graduated cum laude from Eastern Washington University in 2020 and began her membership with the WSCPA in 2021. Upon joining, Hanna has represented her firm at numerous WSCPA hosted events, including Meet the Firm, foundation reception, and volunteer leaders training.

"Hanna has been a standout on the Emerging Leaders Committee, bringing in sponsorships to support student events and engaging at a high level. She brings an eagerness to see other young professionals thrive in the accounting world," said Monette Anderson, CAE, WSCPA Vice President of Member Services & Education and Executive Director of the Washington CPA Foundation.

Just one hour before Hanna received her final passing score for the CPA exams.

Joe and his wife Debbie at the Liberty Bell last summer.

Deedee Oblefias

RISING STAR AWARD

For passion, commitment, and service to the WSCPA

Deedee Oblefias is an accountant at Falco Sult, where she assists businesses and individuals with tax preparation, planning and financial reporting.

Deedee’s volunteer leadership with the WSCPA began when she was at UW Bothell as a leader in BAP. She joined the WSCPA in 2018, and has continued in her volunteerism.

"Deedee’s dedication to serving the WSCPA and its members is evident in her enthusiastic approach. She goes above and beyond to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where new professionals can thrive. Currently serving on the Everett Chapter Board as well as the Emerging Leaders Committee, Deedee is making a significant impact on the professional growth of new talent. By creating spaces for networking and socializing, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the accounting community and ensuring its continued success," said Daniel Fleming, WSCPA Manager of Membership.

Jenny Cravens, CPA, MAC

PRESIDENT'S AWARD

For commitment and passion for the CPA profession

Jenny Cravens, CPA, is a dynamic educator, coach, and consultant dedicated to bridging the gap between the professional realm and the practical realities experienced by individuals and organizations. Her 25 years of leadership experience spans public accounting, healthcare, banking and higher education.

An experienced C-suite executive and corporate board member, Jenny’s technical skills include risk management, finance, governance, ethics, auditing, mergers & acquisitions and banking.

Jenny is currently the P.R. O’Shaughnessy Executive Professor of Accounting at Central Washington University. She is also a Board member and chair of the audit and enterprise risk committees of Confluence Health.

"Although I hadn't had the opportunity to meet Jenny in person until last year, her reputation preceded her. I frequently heard about her inspiring impact on students, and the WSCPA staff have consistently expressed their gratitude for her valuable assistance. Over the past few years, Jenny has also shared her passion for teaching with our members. Her continued involvement with our organization is certain to make a positive and lasting impact," said Kimberly Scott, CAE, WSCPA President & CEO.

Deedee received her US citizenship in April 2022. She moved to the US from the Philippines in 2006.

Jenny doing her favorite activityenjoying nature and the outdoors.

Lowel Krueger, CPA, MBA

CHAIR'S AWARD

For service and commitment to the WSCPA

Lowel Krueger, CPA, MBA, is executive director of the Yakima Housing Authority. He became interested in affordable housing while working as an assistant state auditor for the Washington State Auditor’s Office and was the lead auditor on a number of public housing authority audits.

Lowel earned a B.S. in Accounting from Central Washington University, an MBA from Washington State University and completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy’s School of Government. He began his professional career in accounting with Moss Adams, LLP and became a licensed CPA in 1999.

"When I think about Lowel’s volunteerism on the Board and the CPAPAC, the word steadfast comes to mind. Lowel has been constant in his volunteerism for the WSCPA and in his passion for the profession. He has been very involved from a legislative standpoint and has mentored me and many others in doing Hill Day visits with legislators. He is knowledgeable about the issues facing CPAs in the state and takes every opportunity to talk about those issues with others. Lowel is an engaged volunteer and is willing to listen to different perspectives, share his thoughts and collaborate with others while maintaining a great deal of professionalism and curiosity. It has been an honor to serve alongside Lowel on the Board and the PAC, and my great pleasure to recognize him with the Chair’s award for his years of dedicated service to the CPA profession," said Sara Bailey, CPA, outgoing Chair of the Board.

Lowel with his son and a friend after finishing the approximately 200-mile Hood to Coast relay race last year. Lowel's 12-member team “Running for Shelter” raised over $100,000 that was dedicated to affordable housing.