Voting Closed
Thank you for your interest in our 2026-27 election cycle. Voting closed on Friday, July 24, 2026.
Thank you for your interest in our 2026-27 election cycle. Voting closed on Friday, July 24, 2026.
I want to serve on the National Society of Accountants Board of Directors in light of my concern for the future of the accounting profession, particularly the future of independent practitioners. There is no greater burden carried by fewer public eyes than the accountants, tax preparers, bookkeepers, and small firm owners who assist families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations in making informed financial decisions; assisting clients with compliance issues; planning for changes; and staying stable during times of economic hardship.
The mission to protect practice rights, ethics, education, and professional excellence, aligns with the type of work I value. When an organization defends these priorities, it does so for both its members and the clients they serve. I am eager to assist in continuing this work with the same level of clarity, practicality, and respect for individuals practicing in small firms each day.
As a doctoral researcher, I am studying the cause of the decreasing numbers of college students interested in pursuing careers within the accounting profession. This issue is not abstract to me. I have seen it from three perspectives. As a Ph.D. student researching business and entrepreneurship, I see it. As a sole proprietor of an accounting firm, I see it. When a small business owner needs reliable guidance or a community organization needs sound fiscal support, I see it. The profession does not just need a recruitment message, it needs clear paths forward, visible role models, and genuine conversations regarding the value of this work.
I will contribute four assets to the Board:
If appointed to this position, I will prioritize tangible objectives. I will advocate for enhanced outreach efforts toward students and emerging professionals. I will promote tools to aid independent practitioners in navigating change. I will facilitate an environment where NSA communicates the value proposition associated with membership using simple terms. I will support advocacy efforts to protect the right of certified accountants and tax professionals to represent clients with competence and professionalism. I believe that the NSA can play a significant role in shaping the next phase of the profession. The tasks that lie ahead will necessitate objective visionaries and steady hands. I would be honored to serve in this effort.
Cynthia Knapp is the founder of Precisely Right Accounting, a Washington-based accounting practice that serves small businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations. She holds a master’s degree in taxation and is currently a PhD candidate in Business Administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship. Her doctoral research examines the declining number of students entering the accounting profession, with particular attention to the future of small and independent accounting practices.
Cynthia brings a practical view of the profession. She works directly with business owners who need clear financial records, timely tax guidance, and steady advice they can use. Her work has strengthened her belief that independent accountants play a vital role in local economies. They help clients comply with tax law, understand their numbers, and make sound decisions in seasons of growth, pressure, and change.
Cynthia also has a strong record of community leadership. She serves on the Lacey Chamber of Commerce board of directors and is a member of the Kidwiler Dolan Scholarship Committee. She was recognized as Business of the Month by the Lacey Chamber of Commerce. These roles have deepened her experience in governance, member service, local advocacy, and responsible stewardship.
Her interest in the National Society of Accountants is rooted in both professional service and doctoral inquiry. She believes NSA has an important role to play in strengthening the next generation of accounting professionals, supporting independent practitioners, and protecting the practice rights of accountants and tax professionals. She is especially interested in helping NSA connect with students, emerging professionals, educators, and small firm owners who need a clear path into the profession.
Cynthia is known for plainspoken communication, careful analysis, and a steady commitment to doing work the right way. She would bring to the NSA Board of Directors the perspective of a practicing accountant, a small business owner, a doctoral researcher, and a community board member who understands both the promise and pressure of independent practice.
I have been a member of NSA for 7 years. I have 47 years of experience in income tax preparation and IRS representation, as well as being a former IRS employee. This experience allows me to bring a unique view to our members. For an organization such as NSA I feel that it is important to have a board – and membership - that has diversified expertise and credentials. As a CPA I can bring a CPA viewpoint to the members of our society as well as having access to information provided by the AICPA that may not otherwise be available to our members. I have been a frequent contributor on Tax Talk. I have always made myself available to other members of the society for one on on phone calls, zoom meetings, etc. when it is necessary to help resolve an issue or question. I learn something new every day. It is critical that I, as a board member, understand that I need to listen to the membership. Why? Because there is always someone who knows more than I do or has a better idea than I do.
I have been a practicing CPA since July of 1988. My work experience includes 9 years working for the Internal Revenue Service as a tax technician, revenue agent, on the job instructor and interim group manager. I also worked numerous cases in conjunction with IRS Criminal Investigation Division. After leaving the Internal Revenue Service I have been in private practice, as a sole practitioner and also in several partnerships. Due to my prior experience with IRS I have also testified on several occasions, testifying as a witness for the government against fraudulent preparers, as an expert witness on IRS practice and procedure, and for the defense in tax fraud cases. I currently work very closely with two tax attorneys, under Kovell, assisting in defending individuals in potential tax fraud cases.
I have been active in NSA since my IRS departure; first as a member, then on the Board. I have served on boards for credit unions, churches, and other non-profits. I have also recently served on the IRS Advisory Council and currently on the Taxpayer Advocate Panel. These have common themes of providing oversight and guidance to something bigger than ourselves that furthers the organization mission.
The tax profession has numerous complexities and with each session of Congress and State legislatures the complexity grows. I believe NSA provides a quality voice both upward and outward. The upward component is engagement with tax administration. This includes speaking into IRS legislation and operations for the membership to provide influence and practical input to tax administrators. My 30+ year career with the IRS provides me with valuable insights into how the IRS functions and how to best influence the system. I have supported this in recent years by serving on the Federal Tax Committee of NSA, serving on IRSAC, and engaging with the National Public Liaison. The outward voice is the information and education provided to the members. This includes newsletters, legislative highlights, and the various forums / communities where members exchange information and ideas. I consistently share my experience and expertise through the discussion boards and supporting webinars and townhall meetings. I also teach numerous CE events both live and via webinars for groups across the country.
As a Board member I would strive to support the NSA staff and membership that provides enhanced tax administration by working both upward and outward. In a collaborative effort, we can continue to make NSA a formidable industry force.
Kelly H. Myers – Mr. Myers is a tax consultant with Myers Consulting Group, LLC, based in Huntsville, Alabama. Kelly provides tax seminars, advisory, and controversy services to clients which include individuals, businesses, and accounting firms. He spent over 30 years with the Internal Revenue Service (retired 2017) with the last 20 years working for the Washington, DC Headquarters as a Senior Technical Advisor.His IRS experience included official guidance projects, examiner and litigation technical support, and implementing new legislation. He leverages his decades of IRS and public accounting experience to strategically add value to a varied client base. He has developed efficient tax strategies in both preparation and controversy arenas. He has been a guest speaker for numerous CPA and EA continuing education events, IRS Nationwide Tax Forums, national tax associations, and others in both live settings and webinars. Kelly currently serves as a Director for the National Society of Accountants (NSA) for 2023-2025 (Federal Tax and Executive Committees), an alternate member of IRS Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP; 2023-2025) and past member of the Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council (IRSAC; 2020-2022). Kelly and his wife, Sarah, enjoy time with their daughter and three grandchildren. As a family they enjoy serving and supporting local non-profits that enrich the community.
It gives me great pleasure to announce my candidacy for the National Society of Accountants' (NSA) Secretary/Treasurer position. As an entrepreneur, enrolled agent, and independent accountant/tax preparer since 1991, I have gained substantial business skills that will assist the organization in the pursuit of its mission and the execution of its strategic plan.
NSA has played an important role in my professional growth and development over the past nine years. Since joining NSA and serving on the NSA Foundation Board I have developed a professional network group and advanced in my profession from the vast amount of knowledge and education this organization provides. It would be a privilege and honor to serve this organization as its Secretary / Treasurer as well as assist other members as they engage with the organization in pursuit of their career objectives.
I appreciate your consideration of my candidacy.
DEBORAH WATSON, EA, GR
111 W. JACKSON BLVD, STE 1700
1463 Ring Road Calumet City, IL 60409
Office (312) 675-6270 • Office (708) 730-1040 • Fax (708) 730-0148
deborahwatson@ddcandassociates.net
May 30, 2024
To: Nominating Committee
The National Society of Accountants
It gives me great pleasure to announce my candidacy for the National Society of Accountants' (NSA) Secretary/Treasurer position. As an entrepreneur, enrolled agent, and independent accountant/tax preparer since 1991, I have gained substantial business skills that will assist the organization in the pursuit of its mission and the execution of its strategic plan.
NSA has played an important role in my professional growth and development over the past nine years. Since joining NSA and serving on the NSA Foundation Board I have developed a professional network group and advanced in my profession from the vast amount of knowledge and education this organization provides. It would be a privilege and honor to serve this organization as its Secretary / Treasurer as well as assist other members as they engage with the organization in pursuit of their career objectives.
I appreciate your consideration of my candidacy.
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND EDUCATION
MEMBERSHIPS
COMMITTEES
103 Scotland Street
Black Mountain, North Carolina 28711
Telephone (828)669-8784 Fax (828)669-7417
Helgreenanddalton@gmail.com
Jan Helgreen. AllisonH Allison
The National Society of Accountants has always been near and dear to me. For as long as I can remember, I traveled with my parents to National conventions. I was only 12 years old when we traveled to Spain with National, and I felt like I was already a member. My father, James N.E. Helgreen, and sister, Susan Gale H Champie were both my inspirations to follow their steps in becoming an accountant.
I have been a member of National for 30 years, and have served on Credentials for years. I learned the people and made many contacts.
When National “separated” with the states I was saddened. I served as State Director for years, and felt the connection between National and North Carolina Society of Accountants. If we are to grow, we need each other.
I would like to serve on the Foundation to get back into “the swing of things”.
Jense Creighton is going to serve National well, and I want to be there to support her as well.
Jan Ellen Helgreen was born in Asheville, NC and lives in the same house she grew up in. She graduated from Charles D. Owen High School, then attended UNC-Asheville, A-B Technical Community College, Lees McRae, Western Academy of Hair Design, and Montreat College, where she and her father earned their degrees in Accounting. She has been employed at Helgreen and Dalton Accountants since October 1983. She is now President of Helgreen and Dalton.
She joined the North Carolina Society of Accountants in May of 1988. She has chaired many of the NCSA committees and served on the Board of Directors many times. She served as Treasurer, Secretary, Vice President 2 times, and President 2 times of NCSA from 2000-2024. She is accredited in Taxation by the ACAT. Jan joined the National Society of Public Accountants in May 1994. She has served on the Western Chapter of NCSA line many times. Jan’s father and sister, James N.E. Helgreen, and Gale H. Champie both served as President of NCSA as well. Her father served as District Four Governor of NSA.
Jan has one brother left, James N.E. Helgreen Jr. who is a Doctor of Anesthesia, married to Karen and have two children in Columbus Ohio. Jan married Ricky Allison in 1983. They have two children Jason and Mandy. Jason has two children, Riley and Kasey. Mandy and Jamie Dunham have one son, Mason. Her children and grandchildren are the color to Jan’s world. Jan enjoys traveling, kayaking, and spoiling her grandchildren. She and Ricky enjoy spending time with their family at Lake James where they have a camper.
I am an experienced financial advisor and tax preparer; I am also a former securities compliance manager. I believe that my career experience can help the board to better serve its membership, especially in projects associated with advocacy, practice management, and professional networking.
I believe it is critical to be active in professional organizations. I have pursued many credentials in my career and have been involved with several Board of Directors.
I have been a member of the Board for one year and have served on the taxation committee for two years. As a Board Member, I have been on both the Audit Committee and the Membership Committee. During the 2024-2025 term period, I look forward to helping with the IRS advocacy issues associated with professional credentials and PTIN registration.
The NSA needs to grow its membership, attract younger professionals, and provide members with development and networking opportunities. We further need to assert our commitment to improving the relationship with the IRS as we share ideas with the IRS to improve its efficiency and effectiveness.
My professional resume is available at www.billschretter.com.
Summary
An experienced Wealth Advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ dedicated to helping clients achieve their life, financial, and legacy goals through efficient and effective use of financial products, tax strategies, and properly documented estate plans. Experienced in production analysis, accounting, and succession planning.
Experience
Allworth Financial, Cincinnati OH - Financial & Tax Advisor May 2022 to Present
Life-Legacy Services / Life Legacy Financial Counsel, Inc.- Advisor Aug 2018 to May 2022
A comprehensive fee-only concierge organization serving clients throughout the United States. Using a team structure, we provide financial planning, investment management, elder-care, and legacy planning.
Key Private Bank- Southwest Ohio - Senior Financial Planner 2014 to Aug 2018
Raymond James Financial Services, Dayton Ohio- Financial Advisor 2012 to 2014
A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Ohio Life Insurance Agent serving 200 families throughout the United States. Ensemble practice managing $130 million in assets under management and offering life, health, disability, and long-term care insurance products.
Capital Analysts Incorporated, Western Southern Financial Group 2007 to 2012
Compliance Manager, Cincinnati, OH
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network: The Marker Group, Dayton, Ohio 2003 to 2007
Director of Network Office Supervision, Brokerage Operations Manager, Contracting Coordinator
AIG-Pinnacle Taxx Advisors, Florence KY 2002 to 2003
Tax & Financial Consultant, OSJ Compliance Principal
Fidelity Brokerage Services, Blue Ash, Ohio 1999 to 2002
Equity Trader and Retirement Products Specialist
Internal Revenue Service, Clerk, Florence, KY 1999
Education
MBA, Finance, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH; BS, Marketing, Miami University, Oxford, OH
LSSBB, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification, BPG Certification; OH Life & Health Insurance License
Professional Activities
The National Society of Accountants has provided me with many benefits throughout the 15 or so years I have been a member. I am now in a position, timewise, to “give back” by using my management, accounting and tax experience over the years to contribute to the organization’s growth and appeal to all members of the accounting profession. I also have the advantage of having held leadership positions in other organizations where we have been able to accomplish growth and a cohesiveness during my time in office as well as provide excellent education for the members. I would like to be a part of helping to grow NSA’s future through working with the Board of Directors and Membership to advance common interests.
110 Vista Way
Kennewick, WA 99336
(509) 736-2400 – FAX (509) 736-2411 – Office
(509) 294-6285 Mobile
1994-Present Tax Center Plus (Proprietor)
110 Vista Way
Kennewick, Washington 99336
(509) 736-2400 – (509) 736-2411 FAX
Prior to 1994 Home Capital Funding – Branch Manager, Loan Officer
Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation - Controller/Administrator
R.A. McDonald CPA & Company - Accountant, Office Manager
Micro Business World – Accountant/Office Manager
Western Hyway Distributing Company – Accountant/Office Manager
Enrolled Agent – August 16, 2001
Accredited Tax Advisor – January 2002
Accredited Tax Preparer – January 2002
Certified Tax Professional – October 1992
Rapid City High School, Rapid City, South Dakota – Cum Laude
Fort Worth Christian College, Fort Worth, Texas
NAEA Schuldiner Smollan Leadership Academy 2011
NAEA National Tax Practitioner Institute Graduate 2016
NAEA National Tax Practitioner Institute Graduate Level 2017
50-100 hours annually in subjects relating to income taxation and representation issues
National Society of Accountants (NSA)
Washington Association of Accounting and Tax Professionals (WAATP)
Washington State Society of Enrolled Agents (WSSEA)
Various officer and director positions 2006-2010
Vice President 2010-2011
President Elect 2011-2012
President 2012-2013
Immediate Past President 2013-2016 and continued on board through June 2021
Washington State Tax Consultants (WSTC)
South King County Chapter President 2003-2005
National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP)
Former Washington State Chairperson
Institute of Management Accountants – formerly National Society of Accountants
Alaskan Chapter President 1991-1992
National Director 1995-1997
Tri Cities Chapter President 2016-2018