Edward I. Guttenplan, CPA, MBA, CGMA

Managing Shareholder Emeritus at WilkinGuttenplan

Few individuals can claim a legacy of stewardship to the accounting profession than Ed Guttenplan. For over four decades, he has given unwavering service, mentored leaders and students, strengthened governance at the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and other nonprofits and championed university pipeline partnerships. As a co-founder of WilkinGuttenplan, a past NJCPA president, an AICPA Council/Foundation trustee, a Community Associations Institute (CAI) Hall of Fame member and a vice chair at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Foundation, Ed is truly a lifetime leader.

Matthew G. Charne, CPA

Audit Director at CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

Always putting the interests of others before his own, Matt is a sought-after audit director at CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA). His dedication to the NJCPA Essex Chapter is well known. After several years of service, Matt rose to vice president and worked with a team to facilitate its merger with the Morris/Sussex Chapter to create the North Jersey Tri-County Chapter. Matt is the host of the A&A Update episodes of the NJCPA IssuesWatch Podcast. As a graduate of the NJCPA’s first Speaker Academy, Matt continues to make his mark on the accounting profession.

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Patrick Cleaver, CPA

Audit Senior Associate at Crowe LLP

Patrick works tirelessly to speak with students about the CPA profession, helping to inspire the next generation. As a dedicated member of the NJCPA Emerging Leaders Council, Patrick has actively supported initiatives like the Society’s Food Drive and consistently brings enthusiasm to everything he’s involved in. He successfully led an event that brought together volunteers from M&T Bank, the NJCPA Emerging Leaders Council and NJCPA staff to support the Interfaith Food Pantry.

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Andrew Coombs, CPA, MBA, MST

Partner at Coombs CPA PC

Andrew has taken the role of leader to new heights. After growing his Newark-based accounting firm from seven clients to over 1,000 clients since 2018, Andrew established a scholarship program for underprivileged accounting students. Every year he distributes $10,000 in scholarships through Loyola University of Chicago, his alma mater. In addition, his firm hosts seminars for the Newark community to teach financial literacy. He sits on the boards of Caldwell University, Loyola University Chicago Business School, BAMS Fest, Leaders of the 21st Century and Newark Arts.

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Jay Maslow, CPA

Tax Associate at Alvarez and Marsal

Jay exemplifies the spirit of an emerging leader — bringing relentless energy, a strong work ethic and a passion for mentorship to everything he does. He is actively involved with the NJCPA as an appointed member of its Emerging Leaders Council. As a dedicated mentor to junior staff at Alvarez & Marsal, Jay is shaping the next generation of accountants while leading by example. He has led internal training, contributed to process improvements at his firm and is recognized by peers for his leadership, reliability and commitment to advancing the accounting profession.

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Guy A. Schaeffler, CPA, MAccy

Manager - Assurance Services at Ernst & Young LLP

Guy is a Lean Six Sigma certified leader who drives innovation by modernizing audit workflows and ensuring AI tools are being actively deployed in audit engagements. He actively mentors new interns and staff, sharing expertise in leveraging technology and in achieving excellence in audit engagements. He is passionate about mentoring future CPAs and participates in firm-sponsored Connect Days as well as NJCPA’s Accelerating Scholars in Accounting event. Guy has served as a representative on his firm’s U.S. East Region People Advisory Forum and has been a champion of office wellbeing.

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Bridget D. Uribe, CPA, MS

Tax Manager at WilkinGuttenplan

Bridget exemplifies leadership through her rapid technical growth, exceptional client management and dedication to team development. She consistently elevates those around her while taking ownership of complex responsibilities. Her tax legislation analysis and provision work make her an indispensable and inspiring emerging leader at WilkinGuttenplan. Bridget mentors junior staff, masters new technical areas and delegates effectively to make her a trusted resource for partners and a catalyst for team growth.

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Brandon M. Ventura, CPA

Financial Reporting Manager at AdvanSix Inc

Brandon is actively involved in the NJCPA’s Emerging Leaders events, negotiating prices and working to ensure their success. As a believer in growing the CPA pipeline, Brandon strives to spread the word about the NJCPA, the Emerging Leaders Council and the opportunities that are available to CPAs. Brandon is credited with launching the Emerging Leaders Book Club and has been a great facilitator of it. He regularly posts to social media, making others aware of the accounting profession and the resources at the NJCPA. He also volunteers at the Salvation Army.

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Kaitlin N. Vinch, CPA, MST

Senior Tax Analyst at Johnson & Johnson

Kait’s continued support of the CPA profession does not go unnoticed. From student initiatives, to being an appointed member of the NJCPA Emerging Leaders Council to her support for the NJCPA Convention & Expo, Kait is a true champion of the accounting profession. She consistently touts the Society’s Emerging Leaders Interest Group and goes the extra mile to make students feel comfortable at events. She volunteers for many student initiatives and college panels and works to bridge the gap between corporate and public accountants at the Society. She is an emerging leader at the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.

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Joseph W. Zapf, CPA

Manager at CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

Providing many years of service to the NJCPA, Joe is a true professional. He has devoted countless hours to the Society’s Essex Chapter and was integral to the smooth transition of the merger of Essex with the Morris/Sussex Chapter. He is a director in the new North Jersey Tri-County Chapter, ensuring the chapter continues to serve as a great resource for CPE for CPAs.

Natalia Jouan, CMA

Assistant Professor of Professional Practice at Rutgers Business School- New Brunswick

With exceptional passion for teaching, Natalia exemplifies the very best in education. Despite having begun her teaching journey just two years ago, she is a dynamic and passionate accounting professor who is deeply committed to teaching excellence, student mentorship and promoting the value of the CPA designation. She recently passed all parts of the CPA Exam and has received numerous awards, including an NJCPA Scholarship in 2018, Rutgers’ 2024 Dean’s Meritorious Award for Teaching and Service, its Professor of the Year Award in 2025 and its Thomas H. Mott Jr. Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2025.

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Scott McGregor, CPA, CMA, CFA

Associate Professor of Accounting and Department Chair at Fairleigh Dickinson University - Madison

Scott was instrumental in launching the Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) co-op program, enabling students to earn their master’s in accounting (MSA) while gaining valuable work experience and meeting CPA licensure requirements. He actively mentors students, tracks their progress and supports their success throughout the program, demonstrating his deep commitment to student development and academic excellence. He has conducted research in financial reporting, management reporting and non-GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles) information, enriching classroom instruction with real-world relevance and academic insight.

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Yigal M. Rechtman, CPA, CFE, CITP, CISM

Managing Partner at Rechtman Consulting LLC

As a professor, forensic accountant and founder of CPA Publisher, a peer-reviewed journal, Yigal empowers future CPAs and advances industry standards with integrity, technical excellence and a deep commitment to the public interest. In addition, he has served on committees at the NJCPA, the Louisiana State Board of CPAs and the New York State Society of CPAs, developed graduate auditing courses and testified as an expert in high-profile litigation. He regularly mentors students outside the classroom, encourages them to pursue the CPA credential and offers guidance post graduation. He and his certified therapy dog regularly visit nursing homes and schools for children with disabilities. Yigal is a licensed amateur radio operator.

Daniel Barbera, CPA, MBA, CGMA

Chief Financial Officer at Lydia Security Monitoring, Inc.

Often described as the GOAT of relaying the best of the accounting profession to students, Dan continually goes above and beyond. Not only does he provide scholarships for students in the accounting program at Stockton University, his alma mater, and provides financial support for groups of students to attend the NJCPA Convention & Expo, he is also always available to come in and talk to students and tell his story. Dan’s impact truly changes students’ lives.

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Robert J. Dethlefsen, CPA, CGMA, MBA

at Robert Dethlefsen, CPA

Active at the NJCPA for over 40 years, Rob has held a number of leadership positions including president of the Hudson Chapter, leader of the Federal Tax Interest Group and leader of the Nonprofit Interest Group, as well as being a member of the Content Advisory Board and the Accounting and Auditing Standards Interest Group. Rob led the successful introduction of the Nonprofit Interest Group to virtual meetings. He also testified at a New Jersey State Senate Commerce Committee hearing to assist with developing a new law that raised the audit threshold, saving nonprofits valuable dollars. He also runs a small nonprofit that raises money for museums that do not receive federal funding.

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Paula G. Ferreira, CPA

NY Metro Area - Assistant Managing Partner/NJ Market Leader at Forvis Mazars US

Since assuming the role of NJ Market Leader in 2019, Paula has been instrumental in driving the growth, culture and success of Forvis Mazars US. Under her leadership, the firm has been recognized as one of the best places to work in New Jersey for multiple consecutive years. She also fervently advocates for CPAs in her role as chair of the New Jersey CPA Political Action Committee (NJ-CPA-PAC). Recognized by NJBIZ as a leader in finance, Paula’s strategic insight and collaborative spirit continue to elevate the accounting profession. She has raised significant funds for the American Cancer Society, and her contributions to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey highlight her generous spirit.

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Lauren M. Holman, CPA, PSA, MA

Partner at Holman Frenia Allison, P.C.

Lauren exemplifies the spirit of the Impact Award through her unwavering dedication to community service, leadership and advocacy within and beyond the accounting profession. As the creator of HFA Cares, Lauren established a firm-wide initiative that dedicates an entire day to community service, mobilizing staff at all levels to give back to surrounding communities. It has become a cornerstone of HFA’s culture, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement and collective impact. She also serves on the boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern and Coastal New Jersey, Fulfill NJ and the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore.

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Joseph F. Hunt, CPA, PSA

Assurance Manager at CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

Joe has been a go-to person for the NJCPA for the past several years. His ability to connect with the next generation of CPAs is highly valued. In addition to his nonprofit expertise, he is the chair of the NJCPA Emerging Leaders Council, a member of the Society’s Pipeline Task Force and serves on the boards of the CLA Foundation and the Morristown Salvation Army Corps. He helped create the NJCPA’s book club and remains a pivotal force in engaging with others on the Society’s behalf. Joe was named to the NJBIZ Accounting Power 50 lists in 2023 and 2024.

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Donald E. Jump, CPA

Partner at Jump, Perry and Company, LLP

Don has devoted over five decades to advancing the accounting profession through exceptional leadership, mentorship and community service. As a firm founder, educator and former New Jersey State Board of Accountancy president, his integrity, expertise and lasting impact embody the highest standards. As part of the American Institute of CPA's (AICPA) peer review process, Don not only oversees his firm’s quality control system but also serves as a trained and approved team captain reviewing other firms’ quality control processes. He was an adjunct faculty member at Rider University and Ocean County College.

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James L. Massarelli, CPA, MST

at The Koenig Group, LLC

James’ dedication to the NJCPA Union County Chapter has spanned nearly 10 years, having been president multiple times. He is a highly valued member of the chapter, with many considering him more of a friend than a colleague. James regularly calls vendors for sponsorships and gathers speakers for the chapter. Always one to share his knowledge, he hosts an unpublicized monthly tax group meeting in Union County as a roundtable for small practitioners to come and discuss issues with colleagues. He is also active in the NJCPA Federal Taxation Interest Group.

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Lisa Osofsky, CPA, MST

Partner at Forvis Mazars US

For more than 40 years, Lisa has left her mark on the accounting profession. She was the first female partner and first female executive board member at Forvis Mazars US (formerly Mazars USA). She acted as the executive sponsor for the Mazars USA Philanthropic Fund and Annual Giving Themes; served on the Inclusion and Diversity Council, the WeAreMazars employee culture committee and the Women@ Mazars group; and was Trustee of the Mazars USA Retirement and Savings Plan. Lisa was also the Private Client practice leader for over 20 years and developed the Legacy Vision program for retiring partners. She was named one of the Crain’s New York Business’ Notable Women in Accounting and Consulting and NJBIZ’s Best Fifty Women in Business.

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Cam Pardo, CPA, MBA, CFP

Principal at Pardo & Associates, CPA

Cam has contributed to the NJCPA Hudson Chapter for more than 30 years, having served in various leadership capacities, including past president, secretary, treasurer and currently director. He has been credited with enhancing the development of the chapter, keeping a focus on effective continuing education and helping CPAs connect with the NJCPA. He has been described as dedicated to the current and future development of the profession and always being ready to help his fellow CPAs and clients achieve their utmost goals. Cam was also a New Jersey Law & Ethics instructor.

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Sherise D. Ritter, CPA, CGFM, CGMA, PSA

Principal at Mercadien Group

With more than 35 years of leadership, advisory and consulting services experience (including when her own firm merged with Mercadien), Sherry has become a role model in the profession and in the nonprofit niche. She is committed to developing the next generation of accounting professionals. Sherry has won numerous awards, including NJBIZ’s Best Fifty Women in Business award; NJCPA 50 Over 50 award; Award for Advocacy from Enable Inc; Accounting Hall of Fame from Rider University, her alma mater; Citizen of the Year from MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce; and Business Volunteer of the Year from the Hamilton Township Economic Development Advisory Commission.

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David N. Roth, CPA

Managing Member and CEO at RRBB Advisors, LLC

A true leader, Dave was instrumental in creating successful mergers that brought RRBB new service lines and additional support. In the 17 years that Dave has been managing member at RRBB Advisors, he has brought the firm from 35 to 180 people and tripled its revenue. Passionate about mentorship and encouraging growth from within, Dave has an easy rapport with staff and clients, along with a willingness to spend the time to ensure clients’ businesses blossom to their full financial potential. Dave was named to the NJBIZ 2023 Leaders in Finance and 2024 Accounting Power 50. He was also included in the ROI-NJ Influencers Power List 2024: Accounting.

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Debra M. Simon, CPA, MST

Princpal at DMSimon CPA, LLC

Debra exemplifies the best of the accounting profession. Known for having a wealth of knowledge that she is always willing to share, Debra not only speaks for the NJCPA on tax-related topics, but she also speaks all over the country and is asked to present on a continuing basis. She has generously given her time and talent in so many ways — from committee-related work to handling technical inquiries to providing assistance to the Society’s chapters and partaking in special statewide events. She has won many awards from the NJCPA, New York State CPA Society of CPAs and other organizations.

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Caitlin M. Smith, CPA

Partner at SKC & Co. CPAs, LLC

Caitlin exemplifies what it means to make a lasting impact not only within SKC, but across the broader accounting profession and community. Over her 13-year career at SKC, Caitlin has consistently worked to uplift others, drive positive change and advocate for a more inclusive, empowered future. She reinstated SKC’s Future Council committee, which empowers emerging leaders. As a key member of SKC’s Philanthropy Committee, she helps direct efforts that support charitable organizations. She’s also a strong advocate for working parents and is a mentor to several staff members.

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Brian J. Waldron, CPA, PSA

Partner and Director of Quality Control at Holman Frenia Allison, P.C.

Brian’s dedication to mentorship, effective leadership and fostering a positive environment — both within the firm and in the broader community — has enabled him to have a large impact on the accounting profession. At HFA, he uses his insight to encourage open communication and idea-sharing across departments. Outside of the firm, he is committed to community service, serving as treasurer of Habitat for Humanity in Monmouth County and vice president of the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council (MODC), where he collaborates to promote regional prosperity.

Elizabeth E. Bechtel, CPA, MBA

Owner at Bechtel CPA, LLC

Elizabeth is an innovator, leader and changemaker in the accounting world by launching a fully virtual CPA firm — long before remote work became the norm. From secure cloud-based systems and virtual meetings to digital workflows and streamlined processes, she has created an efficient, tech-forward model that makes accounting approachable and stress-free. She regularly participates in community initiatives, such as judging youth entrepreneurship competitions. She was awarded the South New Jersey Business People’s (SNJBP) 40 under 40 award in 2017 and Woman Business Owner of the Year Award in 2021.

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Michael J. Tagariello, CPA

Senior Manager at Giordano, Cohen, Fastiggi, Luciano, Sweeney & Co., P.A.

Michael is actively involved in recruiting and mentoring young professionals. At his current firm, he led efforts to modernize its systems by integrating AI and optical character recognition (OCR) tools, with the goal of fully digitizing tax workflow within the next two years and promoting work-life balance. He also launched an internship program. Previously at KPMG, he authored firmwide guidance on best practices for preparing New Jersey consolidated returns and served as a national resource within KPMG’s Resource Network. He also collaborated with KPMG’s automation team to beta test and implement proprietary tax compliance software, contributing to firmwide efficiency improvements.

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Eric Yuan, CPA

Audit Senior Manager at Ernst & Young LLP

As a high-performing senior manager, exceptional training leader and quality coach, Eric is truly an innovator. He brings the latest technology to his clients. Eric recently hosted a Future of Finance workshop, focusing on how his client can optimize its business processes. He brought a cross-service line team to showcase the power of the firm and his network, sharing insights using the company's general ledger data.

Meggan L. Ciaccia, CPA

President at Ciaccia CPA

A true woman to watch, Meggan has doubled her practice in the last three years. She is credited with not only caring about her clients and representing them but also caring about her employees. She is a national and local leader in the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and has supported women in schools in her community. At the NJCPA, she is an active member of the Student Programs & Scholarship Committee and the Cannabis Interest Group.

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Amanda Dominguez

COO/Partner at Wiss & Company, LLP

Amanda is known for her people-first approach, operational excellence and commitment to uplifting others. She’s dedicated to mentoring women in the profession, creating space for growth and building a culture rooted in trust, accountability and authentic leadership. Rising from tax accountant to chief operating officer, she leads firm-wide operations, supports Wiss’s partnerships and empowers women to embrace non-linear, fulfilling career paths.

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Rachel Faith Efthemes, CPA, MST

Partner, Private Client Services at Forvis Mazars US

Rachel is a role model at the NJCPA, having given her time and energy to the Society’s Student Programs & Scholarship Committee, mentorship program, career awareness program and tax season helpline. At Forvis Mazars, she regularly participates in Q&A panel discussions with college students, interns and new hires. She is also an assistant tax quality leader committed to the highest level of quality and integrity, and she is a member of the firm’s Women Forward Steering Committee promoting inclusion and diversity. She is an active member of the Kutztown University Alumni Accounting Advisory Board and is a founding member of the David Wagaman ’80 Scholarship Fund.

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Angela Garofalo, CPA, CFP

Partner at Citrin Cooperman

Angela continues to inspire the next generation of accounting professionals. Her dedication to the future of the profession and the NJCPA is commendable. She has served as president of the Scholarship Fund for the past two years, been a presenter at the NJCPA scholarship ceremonies and assisted with selecting scholarship recipients by reviewing essays and interviewing students. She led the charge at Citrin Cooperman to support the Fund with an in-name award annually and previously at Untracht Early. Prior to that she was the chair of the Student Programs & Scholarship Committee and has been an active participant since 2012.

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Megan T. Kelly, CPA, CFE, CVA

Director at FAZ Forensics

Passionate about helping her team and those around her succeed, Megan is definitely a woman to watch. While she focuses on providing excellent client service and mentors others, she spends a lot of time not only improving and growing her own skillset but also those of her colleagues. Megan is a source that many friends and colleagues go to for assistance. She volunteers for the NJCPA scholarship program, serves on the Society’s Content Advisory Board and is a member of the Emerging Leaders Interest Group. She received the NJCPA 30 Under 30 award in 2015 and the Ovation Award the Emerging Leader category in 2019.

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Patricia M. Linsley, CPA

Audit Manager at Holman Frenia Allison, P.C.

Since early in her career, Patty has shown a commitment to the accounting profession. At HFA, she plays a key role on the Training & Development Committee, shaping programs that promote professional growth. She is a mentor to team members at all levels, creating a collaborative, judgment-free environment. Patty’s leadership was critical in guiding HFA through a strategic merger during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring clients’ needs remained the top priority. She has served as leader and vice leader of the NJCPA Nonprofit Interest Group, having been active since 1996, and is on the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council’s Nonprofit Committee.

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Lori A. Roth, CPA/ABV, CFF

Global Managing Partner at Prager Metis CPAs, LLC

Lori has been a true leader in the profession and in the New Jersey business community for more than 20 years. She is the board chair of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association, serving a two-year term, and has been recognized by numerous business publications for her leadership. A notable woman of influence, Lori was named to the NJBIZ 2025 Leaders in Finance, ROI-NJ 2025 Women Influencer in Business, ROI Influencers Power List in Accounting, ROI-NJ Top 140 Champions of the C-Suite for 2024, and the NJBIZ Accounting Power 50 list in 2023 and 2024. She received the NJCPA Ovation Award in the Woman to Watch category in 2022.

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Debra Simon, CPA

Tax Manager, Estate & Trust at Stephano Slack LLC

A CPA with more than 30 years of experience, Debra is the consummate professional. She routinely steps up to lead when others are not available. Debra is currently serving as president of the NJCPA Southwest Jersey Chapter, which follows long-standing service to the chapter dating back to 2018. She is credited with directing others to be better leaders, particularly with her expertise in tax and accounting services, financial reporting for closely held corporations and fiduciary tax preparation.

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Rachel Suntag, CPA

Associate Director, Financial Controls and Compliance at Novartis Corporation

Rachel is a long-standing member of the NJCPA Emerging Leaders Council. A key player in all emerging leader events, Rachel adds thoughtful insight to every Society endeavor, including networking events, campus visits, community service events, contributing to the NJCPA Food Drive and other recruiting efforts. She has helped plan emerging leaders lunch panel discussions at the NJCPA Convention & Expo and is an active mentor to NJCPA scholarship recipients.

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Katherine E. Zech, CPA

Partner at PKF O'Connor Davies, LLP

Kait puts the needs of others before herself, which is evidenced by her 15 years as a member of the NJCPA and current role as secretary on its Board of Trustees. She embodies the very definition of giving back, whether as a mentor to young professionals at PKF or directing and encouraging their participation with the NJCPA. She is also very civic minded and leads her firm’s involvement with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Throughout her 18 years of public accounting experience, she has been a recipient of the Gateway Chamber of Commerce Generation Now Game Changer award, the NJCPA Ovation Award in the Woman to Watch category and the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey One to Watch award.