Recognizing Our Rising Stars

By TXCPA Chairman Jason Freeman, JD, CPA-Dallas

Jason Freeman, CPA-DallasYour November/December issue of Today’s CPA has arrived! Whether you’re reading the print copy from your mailbox or clicking through this digital version, we know you’ll enjoy this issue. You won’t want to miss the cover story on our 2021 Rising Stars – the future of our profession.

When reading their profiles beginning, we know you’ll see the many reasons these 19 members were recognized as up and comers in TXCPA, the accounting profession and their communities. We send our heartfelt congratulations to each of these young CPAs and can’t wait to watch them continue to soar.

We’re seeking nominations for our 2022 Rising Stars and welcome your input. Submit a nomination through our simple online process. The deadline is December 31, 2021.

Also coming up is our annual TXCPA Month of Service. This is an exciting time to be involved as we mobilize our 28,000 members to give back in December with financial literacy education and service. Contact your chapter to find out how you can be involved in planned outreach near you or visit the website to find resources in The CPA Advantage toolkit to prepare for outreach on your own.

We wish you the best this holiday season! We are very grateful for your membership and trust in TXCPA!

Let’s Chat!

I’d love to hear your feedback and answer your questions. Send me a note at chairman@tx.cpa.

  • Young CPAs

    TXCPA’s 2026 Rising Stars

    TXCPA’s Rising Stars Program celebrates the next generation of accounting leaders — CPA members age 40 and under who are already making their mark on the profession and their communities. Through innovative thinking, professional leadership and a commitment to service, these individuals are helping shape the future of the profession.
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  • CPE: Small Business Retirement Plans - A Decision Framework for CPAs and Advisors

    Choosing the right retirement plan can help small business owners maximize tax savings, build wealth and attract and retain employees. This practical guide compares five common options, from SEP and SIMPLE IRAs to 401(k) and cash balance plans, highlighting 2026 contribution limits, eligibility requirements, deadlines and compliance considerations to help CPAs tailor recommendations to each client’s needs.
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  • tax planning

    AI in Tax Practice: Navigating Client Service in the Digital Age

    AI can help tax professionals improve efficiency, personalize tax planning and deliver proactive client service, but successful adoption requires balancing technological capabilities with human expertise. This article explores client attitudes toward AI, implementation challenges and cybersecurity concerns.
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  • What’s Happening Around Texas - November-December 2026

    This issue’s chapter highlights showcase TXCPA members connecting, giving back and having fun across Texas. From networking events and behind-the-scenes experiences to pickleball and school supply drives, members strengthened professional relationships while supporting students and their local communities.
    View Article
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  • TXCPA Rising Stars

    Shaping What’s Next for Our Profession

    TXCPA Chair Angela Ragan highlights the 2026 Rising Stars, the impact of artificial intelligence on accounting, information security guidance for tax professionals, and plans for the 2027 Texas Legislative Session. She encourages members to stay engaged, support one another and help shape the future of the profession.
    View Article
  • CPAs Looking to Get a Ph.D.: How to Prepare for An Increasingly Competitive Academic Job Market from the Start

    Learn how CPAs can prepare for competitive accounting Ph.D. programs and academic careers by strategically selecting doctoral programs, publishing in practitioner and academic journals, and gaining diverse teaching experience. Other key considerations include developing research and data analytics skills, doctoral program funding, and the importance of finding the right fit when pursuing a faculty position.
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    teaching
  • TXCPA Advocacy

    Texas Legislative Session Preview – The 90th Session is Around the Corner

    The 90th Texas Legislative Session will address key issues, including state budget priorities, property tax reform, school finance and data center regulation. The session also presents important challenges for the accounting profession. Learn how TXCPA is preparing its 2027 legislative agenda to protect the profession and keep members informed of developments.
    View Article
  • Take Note

    In this edition of Take Note: Accounting Opportunities Month and TXCPA Month of Service; TXCPA’s Advocacy Day and Midyear Leadership Council Meeting; Member Insurance Program; Accountants Confidential Assistance Network (ACAN); CGMA® Designation; New: Career Compass - Five Competencies That Keep You Indispensable in the Age of AI
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    volunteer advocacy
  • Virtual Accounting Practice

    Classifieds

    The Classifieds section of Today's CPA magazine provides a one-stop destination to find practices for sale, connect with buyers, and access services that support growth, transition and market expansion.
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  • Download Full November-December 2026 Issue (PDF)

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CHAIR
Angela Ragan, CPA

PRESIDENT/CEO
Jodi Ann Ray, CAE, CCE, IOM

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Melinda Bentley, CAE

EDITORIAL BOARD CHAIR
Derrick Bonyuet-Lee CPA, CGMA

MANAGER, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Peggy Foley
pfoley@tx.cpa

MANAGING EDITOR
DeLynn Deakins
ddeakins@tx.cpa

CLASSIFIEDS
DeLynn Deakins
ddeakins@tx.cpa

Texas Society of CPAs
14131 Midway Rd., Suite 850
Addison, TX 75001
972-687-8550

 

 

EDITORIAL BOARD
Derrick Bonyuet-Lee, CPA-Austin;
Drew Chumley, CPA-Fort Worth;
Adam Dimmick, CPA-Houston;
Julia Frink, CPA-Fort Worth;
Baria Jaroudi, CPA-Houston;
Jeffrey Johanns, CPA-Austin;
Brian Johnson, CPA-Central Texas;
Michael Kraten, CPA-Houston;
Lucas LaChance, CPA-Dallas;
Shilpa Boggram Sathyamurthy, CPA-Houston.

CONTRIBUTORS
Melinda Bentley; Kenneth Besserman; Holly McCauley; Shicoyia Morgan; Craig Nauta; Triniti Patterson




 

10:00 Acting as Manage