The MICPA is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about the accounting profession and its future. That passion is illustrated by the many volunteers who reflect this commitment through participation in Member Resource Groups, events and, especially, our Board of Directors. Each year, these members bring their skills and unique perspectives to the helm of the association to help steer its initiatives. As we welcome the 2025-26 Board of Directors, it is with deep appreciation that we first recognize outgoing Board Chair Laurie Horvath, CPA, principal, not-for-profit and healthcare practice leader, Baker Tilly, outgoing officer Jamie Lopiccolo, CPA, managing member, Capocore Professional Advisors and outgoing directors Diane DeFrancis, CPA, partner, Deloitte, and Darrin Schultz, CPA, partner, industrial manufacturing automotive audit, KPMG.

“As I wrap up the year as Board Chair of the MICPA, the most significant realization surrounds the people I have met through the opportunity,” Horvath says. “I’ve been in public accounting since graduating from college and know lots of CPAs as colleagues, clients and friends. However, spending time over this year with the MICPA has helped me further understand the similarities all CPAs in Michigan share. Big firm or small firm; industry or public; whether completely new to accounting or ‘seasoned’ – Michigan CPAs are dedicated, and proud of their profession and work. They are optimistic and encouraging problem solvers.” Of her time as chair of the board, Horvath adds, “I’ve loved talking to, and meeting so many, and it’s been an honor to hear the member stories, to realize the details always vary but the themes are the same. We’re vested in our client’s success; we’re dedicated to the stewardship of our industry and encourage future accountants to join our rank. We care about public issues; we’re community volunteers and mentor future generations. When individuals, organizations and companies need help, they call their CPAs – and we are there to help.” Looking toward the future, she expresses encouragement and support for the incoming chair. “I’m leaving this role in great (and funny!) hands with pride and faith in the future. Our association connects us, supports us and advocates for us – the future for CPAs in Michigan is bright!”

Lopiccolo, who exits after serving 12 years on the board, including five as an officer, says that his work with the MICPA has made him a better CPA. “The volunteering I’ve done with the MICPA has made me a better businessperson and helped me to service my clients better.” He adds, “Talking with others I’ve met through the [association] has allowed me to adopt a clearer vision of what I want my firm to be. It’s opened opportunities that I don’t think would have been possible had I not been active within the MICPA.”

Schultz, who has served on the board for six years, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and a sense of accomplishment from the experience. “Looking back, I can confidently say that serving on the [Board] has been one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences of my professional career.” He adds, “During my tenure, I had the privilege of working alongside, and developing relationships with, incredibly bright, dedicated and talented professionals, both on the board and at the MICPA, who share the values of giving back to the profession in a meaningful and thoughtful way. I’ve gained invaluable insights into the accounting profession in Michigan and have come to appreciate the vital role that the MICPA plays in supporting and advancing the profession within the state.”

DeFrancis echoes his sentiments, adding, “Serving on the MICPA board has been a truly rewarding experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a dedicated and dynamic group, and I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished together.” She also underscores key areas where the board has made a significant impact in recent years: “Highlights of our efforts to support Michigan’s accounting professionals include modernizing CPA licensure standards, strengthening the talent pipeline for the future and embracing new technologies.”

Indeed, incoming Board Chair Lisa Fisher, CPA, head of treasury and tax accounting, Daimler Truck North America, expresses her readiness to pick up the torch. “I’m ready to continue our focus on expanding the pipeline in Michigan, including the state’s creation of an addition pathway to licensure,” she says, noting the importance of the MICPA’s role in guiding legislation as advocates for the profession. She also highlights the association’s upcoming birthday in 2026. “I’m looking forward to helping the MICPA celebrate 125 years of serving Michigan CPAs.” Finally, she expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share her experience as a CPA working in industry. “I want to help grow that area of support within our organization and focus on how we can provide more resources and tools for [industry] members.”

Joining MICPA as new directors in 2025-26 are Mary Barton, CPA, president, Equitable Accounting Solutions, Kyle Urek, CPA, managing director, Deloitte and Megan Wietfeld, CPA, audit partner, KPMG. Barton, who has more than 20 years of experience in various accounting fields, says volunteering with the MICPA is a way for her to give back and offer guidance as a mentor to MICPA student members. “Seeing others grow in confidence and capability drives the work I do every day.” As a member of the board, Barton says she has high hopes. “I want to support strategic growth, expand the organization’s impact in the community and contribute a fresh perspective rooted in entrepreneurship and equity.”

Urek, who also brings 20 years of experience to the board, shares Barton’s enthusiasm for the pipeline. “I want to help generate excitement for the profession amongst the younger generation,” he says, “and promote the wide variety of careers available for CPAs.” He also notes the importance of the MICPA as an advocate for all sectors of the industry. “The MICPA has always been an effective sponsor for the profession here in Michigan. As a CPA, it’s comforting to know that there is a strong and effective organization advocating for the well-being of all practicing CPAs in the state. Joining the board is my way of giving value back to the association and the profession.”

Like Urek, Wietfeld desires an opportunity to contribute to the growth of the profession in Michigan. “As a board member, I aim to support initiatives that enhance the education and development of CPAs, advocate for policies that benefit our members and promote the value of the CPA designation to businesses and the public.” She adds, “I also want to drive greater inclusion and diversity within the profession to ensure we are reflecting the diverse communities we serve.” Overall, Wietfeld is focused on making a positive impact. “Seeing the tangible result of collaborative efforts and knowing that I contributed to the success and advancement of others is what drives me, and I’m excited to play a role in shaping the future of our profession.”