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Updates

Congratulations to Nick Lee, CPA, CCIFP, on His Appointment as Treasurer of Helping Hounds Dog Rescue

January 27, 2026

We’re thrilled to recognize Nick Lee, CPA, CCIFP, for his recent appointment as Treasurer of Helping Hounds Dog Rescue of Syracuse—a role that reflects both his professional excellence and his deep commitment to community service.
Helping Hounds Dog Rescue is a vital organization in Central New York, dedicated to connecting homeless dogs with loving families. Nick’s decision to share his time and financial expertise with such a meaningful cause speaks directly to the values we strive to uphold as a company: leadership, stewardship, and compassion.
Nick brings more than seven years of construction-focused accounting experience, spanning both public and private roles. He earned his BS in Accounting from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY, and holds the prestigious Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) credential—an industry-recognized certification rooted in the financial competencies needed to guide construction businesses through today’s competitive environment.
At Bowers, Nick serves as an Audit Manager, partnering with clients to strengthen financial operations so they can focus on what they do best: building. His work helps construction businesses effectively manage their finances, allocate resources thoughtfully, and make confident, informed decisions.
Nick’s technical knowledge, paired with his practical understanding of the construction industry, makes him an invaluable asset to our team—and now, to Helping Hounds Dog Rescue as well.
Nick’s volunteer work reflects his belief that strong communities are built not only through business, but through service. As Treasurer, he will help ensure Helping Hounds has the financial stewardship needed to continue its lifesaving mission.
We’re proud to celebrate this achievement with you and grateful for the way you represent our values every day.

About Bowers

Founded in 1977, Bowers has grown into a leading accounting and advisory firm with offices in Syracuse, Rochester, and Watertown. The firm has also recently expanded its presence to Ithaca. Bowers serves clients across New York State and throughout the United States. Exceptional client service is the foundation of Bowers’ culture. The firm is defined by its people, whose dedication, expertise, and collaborative approach shape every client relationship and drive the value the firm delivers.

Bowers provides proactive guidance and tailored solutions across Tax Services, Audit and Assurance, and Client Accounting and Advisory Services. The firm’s mission is to build strong, collaborative relationships that create genuine value. Bowers develops strategic tax plans, conducts reliable audits, and provides ongoing advisory support. In every engagement, the firm customizes its approach to help businesses grow, adapt, and thrive.

"Bowers" is the brand name under which Bowers & Company CPAs PLLC Bowers CPAs, LLC and Bowers Advisors, LLC provide professional services. Bowers & Company CPAs PLLC Bowers CPAs, LLC and Bowers Advisors, LLC practice as an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards. Bowers & Company CPAs PLLC Bowers CPAs, LLC is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to its clients, and Bowers Advisors, LLC provides tax and business consulting services to their clients. Bowers Advisors, LLC is not a licensed CPA firm. The entities falling under the Bowers brand name are independently owned and are not liable for the services provided by any other entity providing services under Bowers brand. Our use of the terms “our firm” and “we” and “us” and terms of similar import, denote the alternative practice structure conducted by Bowers & Company CPAs PLLC and Bowers Advisors, LLC.

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About Andy Adler

Originally from Syracuse, NY, Andy graduated from Le Moyne College with a B.S. in Accounting. Andy has been with Bowers since 1987 and specializes in tax compliance, planning and consulting, as well as IRS and NYS problem resolution.

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About Carl Austin

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Carl graduated from Le Moyne College with a B.S. in Accounting. Carl joined Bowers in 1988, was named a Partner-in-Charge of the Auditing Department in 1998 and then Co-Managing Partner in 1999.

Carl has directed the growth of the Bowers Auditing Department into one of the strongest in Upstate New York. During this time, Carl’s experience in a wide variety of industries has been a key to the growth of the firm. Carl has provided a wide variety of consulting services as well, including assisting in mergers and acquisitions in both the buy and sell side.

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About David Ayoub

David A. Ayoub, CPA, serves as a Tax Partner and has been with the Firm since 1992. David consults on corporate mergers and acquisitions as well as assisting start-up businesses. He is involved in the Firm’s tax compliance, technical research, planning and consulting. Over the last 4 years, he has helped clients maximize their Employee Retention Credits and PPP and PPP2 loans under the Cares Act.

With over 30 years of accounting and taxation experience, David has successfully represented many clients in federal and state audits in such areas as income tax, sales tax, and excise tax. David currently represents clients in a wide variety of industries including construction, real estate, railroad transportation, manufacturing, and service industries.

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About Jon Bates

Jon brings more than 20 years of experience across professional services, high-tech, manufacturing, sporting goods, and wholesale industries. As Chief Operating Officer, he focuses on strengthening Bowers’ operational performance and supporting scalable, sustainable growth.
In his role, Jon leads initiatives that improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and build a strong foundation for long-term expansion. He works closely with teams across the organization to refine processes, elevate accountability, and advance the use of technology and data in daily operations.
Jon’s leadership and industry-wide experience play a key part in positioning Bowers for continued growth through both organic expansion and strategic partnerships.

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About Stephanie Berry-Chouinard

Originally from Brownville, New York, Stephanie graduated from SUNY Oswego in 2014 with a MBA in Public Accounting. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has been practicing in public accounting since 2014 at Bowers.

She specializes in payroll preparation and payroll law compliance, ensuring clients stay current with regulatory requirements. She also specializes in conducting worker’s compensation audits, providing thorough and accurate reviews for a wide range of businesses. Additionally, she specializes in preparation engagements, QuickBooks set‑up and training, and comprehensive accounting cleanups.

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About Tiffany Brown

Tiffany is a Tax Manager with over a decade of public accounting experience, specializing in serving small businesses and closely held companies. She works closely with clients to provide practical tax planning and compliance solutions that support their day-to-day operations as well as their long-term goals.

Tiffany has extensive experience advising business owners on complex tax matters, including partnership taxation, entity structuring, and strategic planning opportunities designed to improve tax efficiency and support growth. In addition to her tax expertise, she has significant experience preparing and analyzing financial statements in accordance with GAAP, as well as providing bookkeeping support and guidance, helping clients maintain accurate records and make informed financial decisions.

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About Liz Bush

Liz graduated from Le Moyne College, Syracuse, New York with a Bachelor of Science in accounting. She has been practicing in public accounting for thirty-three years and began her career with Price Waterhouse in Syracuse, New York. 

Liz has 33 years of Governmental and not-for-profit audit experience and was named Partner at Bowers in March 2014. 

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About Nate Carroll

Bio coming soon!

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About Ed Cronk

Ed graduated from Clarkson University with a degree in Accounting & Law. Over 30 years working in senior executive-level roles serving multiple industries including construction, real estate, and health care.

Ed’s practice ranges from new company start-ups to company succession and exit planning.

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About Eric Cruz

Originally from Queens, NY, Eric earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from SUNY Brockport. Eric has over 10 years of experience in public accounting, having worked with a wide range of clients across various industries prior to joining Bowers in May 2025.

Currently serving as an Audit Manager, Eric specializes in providing audit and assurance services under AICPA standards. Eric’s background includes helping organizations enhance their internal controls and streamline financial processes to improve efficiency and reduce operational risk. Eric brings a strong track record of technical expertise, client service, and leadership within the audit profession.

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About Michael DAvirro

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Mike graduated from Syracuse University with a M.S. in Accounting in 1990 and from Suny Oswego with a B.S. in Accounting in 1982. Joining Bowers in 1991, he was named Co-Managing Partner in 1999.

Mike has been a respected advisor and consultant for privately held businesses for over 40 years, providing clients with guidance in mergers and acquisitions, shareholder disputes, buy/sell and shareholder agreements, estate taxation and planning, gift taxation and planning, tax representation before IRS and state taxing authorities.

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About Michael Dinan

Bio coming soon!

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About Francine Emmi

Originally from Syracuse, Fran is a strategic corporate recruiting professional and Talent Manager with extensive experience supporting both U.S. and global organizations. She specializes in building and executing talent acquisition strategies within high‑growth and rapidly evolving environments. Her expertise includes leading competitive searches, developing strong and diverse talent pipelines, and partnering with leadership teams to attract top Accounting talent. Fran is a graduate of SUNY Oswego, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications.

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About Richard Farley

Originally from Syracuse, NY, Rich graduated from SUNY Oswego with a B.S. in Accounting. He became a NYS Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in 2009. At Bowers, Rich is a Tax Partner and leader of the Cannabis services team. Rich is also a member of the Construction Services and Not-For-Profit teams.

His experience includes all areas of income tax preparation and planning with a focus on the complex taxation issues related to the Cannabis and Construction Industries, as well as years of experience helping our clients in the Not-for-Profit sector. Rich enjoys working with his clients to help them achieve their financial goals and save them tax dollars whenever possible.

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About Mike Fralix

Originally from Syracuse, Mike graduated Summa Cum Laude from SUNY Oswego with a B.S. in Accounting and was licensed as a New York State Certified Public Accountant (CPA), in 2008.

Mike brings a broad range of industry experience including partnership, corporate and multi-state tax services. Mike’s experience also includes a specialized expertise in the area of sales & use tax. Mike is a member of the firm’s tax technical committee and a key component in the firm’s short line railroad niche.

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About Mark Gastin

Originally from Utica, New York, Mark T. Gastin, CPA graduated from Oswego State University with a B.S. in Accounting and a Minor in Economics. He is a Tax Partner with Bowers, has been with the Firm since 2003, and has over 23 years of experience in public accounting. Mark has specific experience with taxation issues relating to the Convenience Store and Energy Distribution industries.

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About Scott Gerken

Scott became a Partner at Bowers following the successful merger with Kasperski, Dinan & Rink CPAs in Rochester, NY. Scott is an alumnus of Rochester Institute of Technology and served eleven years as the Treasurer for the Walker Fire District.

He specializes in working with small to medium-sized enterprises and is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor, QuickBooks trainer, and member of RAN ONE Master Group; an organization that enhances the business value through business development and consulting. Scott believes that "What you can measure, you can manage, and what you manage, you can improve."

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About Leslie Gordon

With over 40 years of tax and audit experience, Leslie is a Partner in our Rochester office working closely held businesses and their related owners. Leslie provides tax, audit, and consulting services for clients in array of industries, including the automotive industry and human services field. Prior to merging her firm with Bowers, Leslie was a Partner in Rochester firm of Robinson & Gordon, CPAs, PC.

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About Dave Herring

CPA/CGMA,CVA,CDFA,CFF

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About Lyndi Hill

Lyndi obtained her Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Corporate Finance at St. John Fisher College and her Master of Business Administration with concentration in Public Accounting at the State University of New York at Oswego. Lyndi has nine years of Government audit experience. She joined the firm after a successful merger in 2012 and was named Partner in 2026.

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About Judy Hulpiau

Originally from North Syracuse, NY, Judy graduated from SUNY Oswego with a B.S. in Accounting. At Bowers, Judy is an Outsourced Controller for the Cannabis services team. Judy has over 25 years working in the public and private sectors. Judy has extensive experience as a accounting department liaison with operating departments rolling out new company initiatives including new lines of business, software conversions/upgrades and company restructurings.

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About Gregory Jarvis

Greg received his Master’s in Accounting from Syracuse University in 2012. Greg joined Bowers in 2020, was promoted to Partner in 2023, and serves as the leader of Bowers’ Tax Technical Committee. He has over 12 years of public accounting experience, including 10 years providing tax accounting services. His client service experience includes manufacturers, construction contractors, wholesalers & retailers, and professional and business services.

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About Rick Kasperski

Bio coming soon!

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About Steve Kelley

Originally from Syracuse, NY, Steven obtained his undergraduate degree from St. John Fisher College and his Master of Business Administration from SUNY Oswego. Steven has more than 10 years of experience in public accounting and joined Bowers in October 2020.

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About Ryan Kretchmer

Ryan is a Rochester native with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from SUNY Geneseo. Ryan brings more than 25 years of experience and expertise as a tax professional working with businesses in many different industries as well as high-net-worth individuals. Ryan joined Bowers in January 2024 through a merger with Kasperski Dinan & Rink CPAs.

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About Daniel Krol

Dan obtained his Master’s in Public Accounting from SUNY Oswego. Dan joined Bowers in 2014, was named Partner in 2022 and is the Chairman of the Audit Technical and Procedural Committee. Dan strives to provide clients with a deliverable that contributes to better business decision and administrative practices while maintaining close and constructive relationships year-round. Dan Specializes in auding for-profit companies, not-for-profit and governmental agencies, specifically focusing on School Districts, Manufacturers and Railroads.

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About Brian Kuraszewicz

Brian is a certified public accountant with over 18 years of experience in the public and private sectors of accounting for the real estate, manufacturing and distribution industries. Brian has managed and supervised client attest engagements for small to midsize companies, including audits, reviews and compilations of financial statements. During Brian’s career in public accounting, he maintained a book of business and relationships that included local, national and international businesses.

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About Alicia LaMere

Bio coming soon!

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About Courtney Lee

Bio coming soon!

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About Nicholas Lee

Nick Lee has over seven years of construction-focused accounting experience in both public and private roles. Nick earned his BS in Accounting from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY, and is a Certified Public Accountant in NYS. He also holds a CCIFP Certification which is based on the current construction landscape, focusing on the competencies and knowledge of construction that financial professionals need to lead in today's competitive construction industry. Nick is currently an Accounting Manager & Construction Consultant at Bowers. Nick’s goal is to allow construction businesses to focus on their core competencies and activities, rather than spending time and resources on accounting functions.

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About Michael Martinsky

Michael Martinsky is an accomplished Audit Manager with extensive experience in financial statement audits and compliance audits within private industries. With a background as an Audit Senior Associate and Manager, Michael is a collaborative team player who has successfully led multiple engagements simultaneously. Michael’s areas of expertise include audit, compilations, reviews, manufacturing, client accounting, not-for-profits, and employee benefit plans. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kutztown University and is a Certified Public Accountant, accredited by the Pennsylvania State Board of Accountancy.

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About Matthew Meagher

Matthew has been in Public Accounting for 21 years and brings a broad range of industry experience in manufacturing, retail, construction, medical, and service-based industry. He now specializes in business taxation and compliance. He has experience in medical facility and nonprofit auditing. He believes in focusing on business analytics, management advisory, and tax planning.

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About Patricia Mills

Originally from Camden, New York, Patty graduated from Keuka College in 1999 with a dual major in Accounting and Business Management. Patty has been practicing in public accounting since 2002 and was the key player in establishing the Client Accounting & Advisory Services Department at Bowers. Patty currently manages our Client Accounting & Advisory Services Department which has been our fastest growing service.

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About Joe Mocciaro

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Joe graduated from Ithaca College in 1990 with a B.S. in Finance. Joe started with Bowers in 1995, and in 2007 was a "40 Under 40" award recipient, which recognizes 40 people under the age of 40 who have excelled in the workplace and in the community. Joe was named Managing Partner in 2026. Joe is a member of Bower’s Short Line Rail Group, and has expertise in the areas of auditing, outsourced accounting and CFO services, buy and sell side diligence, Quality of Earnings analysis, internal controls, fraud examination and general financial consulting. He is the audit partner on many of the Firm’s largest rail and manufacturing clients. Joe manages the rail accounting services department, which provides monthly accounting services and railroad retirement reporting to numerous short lines and ports. Joe is a frequent speaker at the national and regional rail association conferences. Joe also brings over 30 years of manufacturing accounting experience to the Firm’s Manufacturing Practice Group. He achieved the designation of Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and obtained extensive cost accounting experience while employed for a large international manufacturing entity before joining Bowers. Joe is active in speaking engagements, often presenting on Understanding Financial Statements, Costing Decisions and Benchmarking to various audiences.

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About Beatriz Murray

Bea received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and continued schooling to receive a Master of Science in Accounting. She has been servicing the Land Banks/Not-For- Profits with their accounting needs for over six years, and as a Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor, Bea assists clients with QuickBooks training.

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About Sara Grace Nickle

Bio coming soon!

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About Ryan Noone

Originally from Rome, NY, Ryan obtained his Bachelor of Science in Accounting & MBA at Le Moyne College in 2018. Upon graduation, Ryan remained in the Syracuse area and began his career in public accounting at Bowers. Ryan has over 6 years’ experience in auditing for-profit companies primarily in the shot-line railroad industry & manufacturing as well as not-for-profit, organizations with a focus on State University of New York (SUNY) Auxiliaries and Foundations. Ryan is a 2022 graduate of Leadership of Greater Syracuse (LGS) and is an active member in the community.

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About Michele Northrop

Michele received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Rochester Institute of Technology in May of 1984. She has been part of Bowers & Company’s tax department for over three years, where she focuses on cross‑border individual taxation, expatriate and repatriate filings, and complex tax matters for high‑net‑worth individuals. Her extensive experience allows her to manage multi‑jurisdictional tax issues with precision and a client‑centered approach. Her career began in public accounting in 1984, and in 1995, she joined the tax department at Robinson & Gordon CPAs, PC, which later merged into Bowers. She has remained with the firm through that transition and continues to be an integral part of the tax team today.

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About Jarod Ormsby

After completion of his service in the United State Marine Corps, Jarod obtained an Associate degree from SUNY Jefferson in Watertown, NY before transferring to Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY to earn his Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees. Jarod began working as an intern for Bowers before being hired full time after graduation and was licensed as a New York State Certified Public Accountant in 2018.

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About Kathryn Piddock

Originally from New Hartford, New York, Kathy graduated from Le Moyne College, Syracuse, New York with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Kathy is a member of the Firm’s tax department and has over 17 years of experience in public accounting.

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About Laurie Podvin

Originally from Watertown, New York, Laurie graduated from Nazareth College with a B.S. in accounting in 1987. Laurie received her CPA designation in 1990, has been in public practice for 38 years, specializing in Not-for-Profit and Governmental auditing, specifically School Districts. Laurie is our Watertown Office Partner-In-Charge and currently resides in Watertown with her family.

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About Tracey Rink

Tracey is a native of Rochester, New York graduating from St. John Fisher University in 2002 with a B.B.S in Accounting. Tracey has more than 20 years of experience in public accounting. Tracey joined Bowers in 2024 through a merger with Kasperski Dinan & Rink CPAs and is currently the Rochester Office Partner-In-Charge. Tracey has expertise in audit, review and compilation areas as well as specializing in client accounting and advisory services.

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About Joe Rocco

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Joe graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hartwick College with a B.S. in Accounting while also minoring in Finance and Economics. Joe is an Audit Partner with over 15 years of experience in public accounting, beginning his career and earning multiple promotions with a Big 4 accounting firm before joining Bowers in the fall of 2019. Joe has extensive auditing experience with clients’ subject to both PCAOB and AICPA auditing standards. In addition to provide audit and attest services, Joe has proven success working with organizations in proposing and overseeing the implementation of internal controls and process/system improvements to help improve efficiency and reduce operational risk.

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About Mark Robinson

Bio coming soon!

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About Rich Smith

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Rich received both his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and his Master of Business Administration from SUNY Oswego. With more than 22 years of experience in public accounting, including 10 years working with Big 4 accounting firms, Rich brings a broad range of industry experience including partnership, corporate and multistate tax services for public and privately held companies, as well as small business consulting and compliance. His experience also includes a specialized expertise in the area of multistate tax consulting for large and small businesses.

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About Chelsea Sweet

Originally from Baldwinsville, New York, Chelsea graduated Summa Cum Laude, from Columbia College in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting. She previously received a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Russell Sage College in 2008 and Master of Arts in Teaching with a Concentration in Mathematics for Secondary Education from Sage Graduate School in 2009. Besides her formal education, Chelsea is a Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor in both Desktop and Online. Chelsea has been active in the rail industry for the past 13 years, familiarizing herself with the day-to-day operations of railroad accounting including Railroad Retirement and Railroad Payroll. Additionally, she assists with 45G track maintenance agreements, and is very active in the American Short line and Regional Railroad Association, currently servings as the Chair of the Young Professionals committee.

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About John Taylor

Originally from Syracuse, New York, John received his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from St. John Fisher University.  With more than 18 years of experience in public accounting, John brings a broad range of industry experience including partnership, corporate and multistate tax services, as well as small business consulting and compliance. His experience also includes a specialized expertise in the construction and manufacturing industries.

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About Rick Tidd

Rick’s areas of expertise include business valuation and appraisals for buy/sell agreements, estate planning, gift tax, C Corporation and S Corporation tax planning and compliance with a concentration in manufacturing and construction, reorganizations and mergers, marital dispute advisory services, representation before the IRS and state taxing authorities, Partnership/LLC taxation, and individual tax planning for high net-worth individuals.

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About Teryl Tidd

Originally from the Baldwinsville, NY area, Teryl graduated Magna Cum Laude from Oswego State University with an MBA in Accounting; she is licensed as a New York State Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and is also a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA). Teryl is a member of Bower’s Short Line Rail Group as well as the firm’s Valuation Group, and also has significant tax experience in the real estate industry.

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About Edwin Veltz

Originally from Rochester, New York, Ed graduated from SUNY Geneseo with a B.S. in Accounting. Ed began his public accounting career in 1992 with a large regional CPA firm in Rochester, New York and became a partner with that firm in 2013 and joined Bowers when the firms merged in 2024. Ed brings over 30 years of experience in public accounting, concentrating his services with privately held business in a variety of industries.

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About Loren Wahl

Originally from Oswego, NY, Loren graduated Magna Cum Laude from SUNY Oswego with a B. S. in Accounting and a B.A. in Computer Science. Loren has been with the firm since 2008 and has over 17 years of experience in public accounting, with 2 years in Audit and over 15 years in Tax. Loren has specific experience in the manufacturing, financial service, real estate, and restaurant industries.

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About Patricia Wright

Patricia has been with the firm since 1996 and has over 38 years of experience in public accounting. She has worked with many taxation issues involving high net worth individuals, large and small C and S-Corporations, partnerships and LLCs, sole proprietorships, railroads, and ESOPs. She has a focus in the railroad area where she has aided in income tax planning and review, payroll returns and 45G sales agreements. She also has experience guiding a company thru the full life cycle of a brownfield agreement.

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About Renata Dabrowska

Professional Experience

Renata is the head of the Outsourced Accounting department at Sciarabba Walker and a member of the firm’s High Technology and International Tax groups. She joined the firm in 2007 and was promoted to Partner in 2019. Her major emphasis is on small to medium-sized businesses, in tax, audit, outsourced accounting, and business consulting. Renata has years of experience assisting companies in the high-tech, manufacturing, and health care industries, as well as working with start-up businesses and companies funded with federal grants or contracts. Renata assists non-profits with audit and outsourced accounting services. Renata previously worked as a controller at Vybion Inc.

Practice Specialties

Recent Presentations

  • “Rev Content Session: Sciarabba Walker SBIR/STTR Accounting 101,” Rev Ithaca Startup Works, Ithaca, NY (May 9, 2025)
  • “Navigating Taxes and Policies During COVID-19,” Center for Regional Economic Advancement at Cornell University and Rev Ithaca Startup Works, Ithaca, NY (May 21, 2020)
  • “Accounting Compliance for SBRI/STTR Grants,” Praxis Center for Venture Development at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (August 15, 2019)
  • “Hiring Employees vs. Independent Contractors: Tax and Legal Considerations,” Rev Ithaca Startup Works, Ithaca, NY (November 12, 2018)
  • “Tax Issues Associated with High-Tech and Startups,” Rev Ithaca Startup Works, Ithaca, NY (September 16, 2016)

Educational and Professional Designations

  • MA in Accounting, Cracow University of Economics, Poland
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • WSKG, Board of Trustees
  • Hospicare & Palliative Care Services, Past Treasurer
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About Jeff Gorsky

Professional Experience

Jeff Gorsky joined the firm in 1992 and has been a partner since 2001. He is the head of the Consulting department, leading the High Technology/Startup group and driving the firm’s mergers and acquisitions work.

His main emphasis is on high technology/startup companies, manufacturing, real estate, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals.

Practice Specialties

Educational and Professional Designations

  • BS in Accounting, Villanova University
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • Ithaca Area Economic Development, Treasurer and Executive Committee Member
  • Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency Board Member and Vice Chair
  • Tompkins County Development Corporation Board Member
  • Tompkins County Area Development Foundation Board Member
  • Family & Children’s Service, Former Board Chairperson
  • Coach and Coordinator of area youth sports teams, including formerly serving as the Assistant Varsity Boys Lacrosse Coach and Varsity Girls Basketball Coach
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About Chris Hart

Professional Experience

Chris joined the firm in 2008, was promoted to Partner in 2021, and Co-Managing Partner in 2025. Chris heads the firm’s Tax department and provides taxation services to individuals and businesses, emphasizing new business startups and high-technology companies.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BBA, Niagara University
  • MBA, Niagara University
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • Ithaca Youth Hockey Association, Board Member
  • Ithaca Lacrosse Club, Board Member
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About Amy Ilies

Professional Experience

Amy joined the firm in January 2006 and was promoted to Partner in 2017. Amy provides taxation and consulting services to individuals and businesses, and is a member of the firm’s State and Local Taxation (SALT) committee. She has assisted clients with all phases of business, including setup, bookkeeping improvements, mergers, sales and acquisitions, and dissolution.

Amy believes in serving as an advisor, taking a genuine interest in her clients and asking the kind of questions that help her learn what is important to them. She also has a special interest in the training, development, and mentoring of staff.

Prior to joining SW, Amy served as operations manager of a local insurance agency and as hospital administrator for a family-owned veterinary practice. Previously, she worked in the audit department at KPMG in Rochester, NY.

Practice Specialties

  • Startup Companies and Small Business
  • Federal and NYS Tax Credits
  • State and Local Taxation (SALT)

Education and Professional Designations

  • BBA in Accounting, The College of William and Mary
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Community Involvement

  • Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, Treasurer
  • Love Living at Home, Treasurer
  • Leadership Tompkins Graduate

Past

  • Ithaca Babe Ruth League, Board of Directors Member and Treasurer
  • SPCA of Tompkins County, Board of Directors Member
  • Beechtree Care Center, Treasurer
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About David E. Ilies

Professional Experience

Dave joined Sciarabba Walker in 1988 and was promoted to Partner in 1996. He has been the managing partner of the firm since 1999. Dave works with individuals, business tax clients, and nonprofit organizations, and he conducts peer reviews for other CPA firms. Prior to joining the firm, Dave worked as a senior auditor with KPMG in Rochester, New York.

Practice Specialties

Educational and Professional Designations

  • Babson College, BS
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • New York State Peer Review Oversight Committee, Member
  • Clinton Central Schools Foundation, Finance Committee Member
  • Legacy Foundation, Board Member

Past

  • Kendal at Ithaca, Board Member and Finance Committee Member
  • Tompkins Cortland Community College Foundation, Investment Committee Member
  • Kendal at Ithaca, Finance Committee Member
  • Tompkins Health Care Corporation, Board Member
  • NYSSCPA Peer Review Committee, Member and Chairperson
  • Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, Chairperson of Board, Vice-Chair, and Treasurer
  • United Way Annual Campaign, Co-Chair
  • United Way of Tompkins County, Board Member
  • Beechtree Care Center, Board Member
  • Tompkins County Chapter of American Red Cross, Board Member
  • Ithaca Babe Ruth Baseball, Chairperson of Board
  • Ithaca Cal Ripken Baseball, Founding Commissioner
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About Evan Ramiza

Professional Experience

Evan joined Sciarabba Walker in 2011 and was promoted to Partner in 2022. Previously he served as an accounting analyst for Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings and for IBM.

Practice Specialties

Recent Presentations

  • “New York State Tax Update,” PrimeGlobal State and Local Tax (SALT) Roundtable, Irvine, CA (July 24, 2017)

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS, Mount Saint Mary College
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • Cortland Area Chamber of Commerce, President
  • United Way of Cortland County, Board Member, Secretary, Finance Committee, Past Campaign Team Member
  • Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties, Past Board Member and Past Treasurer
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About David M. Stinson

Professional Experience

Dave joined the firm in 1997 and was promoted to Partner in 2007. He has experience with a wide range of small businesses and is currently focused on quality assurance within the firm’s tax practice.

Practice Specialties

Educational and Professional Designations

  • BS, Cornell University
  • MS in Accounting, Binghamton University
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • Community School of Music and Arts, Board Member
  • Historic Ithaca, Past Board Member
  • SPCA of Tompkins County, Past Board Member
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About Ethan Chaffee

Professional Experience

Ethan Chaffee was hired in 2013 and has over twelve years of public accounting experience. He works closely with the firm’s nonprofit clients and co-chairs the firm’s Credit Union Committee

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS, Bob Jones University

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • People’s Baptist Church of Newfield, Board Member, Children’s Ministries Director, and Worship Team Leader
  • Trail Life USA, Trail Guide
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About Denise Coyle

Professional Experience

Denise joined Sciarabba Walker in 2011. She assists clients with individual tax services, including those with complex and international tax issues. She is a member of the firm’s International Tax Group, the Health Care Committee, and past member of the State and Local Tax Committee. Before returning to public accounting, Denise worked in the oil industry, high tech industry and higher education in addition to running her own accounting practice.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BA in Business Administration (Accounting Concentration), University of Montana
  • MBA, Northeastern University
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), New York and Maine

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • QuickBooks ProAdvisor

Community Involvement

  • Ithaca Business Women’s Network, Member
  • City Federation of Women’s Organizations Board, Treasurer and Finance Committee Member
  • Bethel Grove Church Music Ministry
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About Tom D’Alessandro

Professional Experience

Tom was hired in 2023 and was promoted to Tax Department Head in 2025. He has over nine years of public accounting experience. Tom provides tax and assurance services to individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS, Cornell University
  • MA, Babson College

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Community Involvement

  • Community Nursery School, Treasurer
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About Michelle Flinn

Professional Experience

David Johnson has over twelve years of public accounting experience. He provides compliance services for individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting and information science from the State University of New York at Oswego. David is the proud father of four, a former board member of Finger Lakes Pregnancy Care and Life Changing Labs.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS in Accounting and Information Science, SUNY Oswego
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), New York

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Community Involvement

  • Woodlands Trail Branch of Trail Life USA, Troop Leader
  • Moravia Youth Soccer League, Coach
  • Past Treasurer of Finger Lakes Pregnancy Care, Ithaca
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About David Johnson

Professional Experience

David Johnson has over twelve years of public accounting experience. He provides compliance services for individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting and information science from the State University of New York at Oswego. David is the proud father of four, a former board member of Finger Lakes Pregnancy Care and Life Changing Labs.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS in Accounting and Information Science, SUNY Oswego
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), New York

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Community Involvement

  • Woodlands Trail Branch of Trail Life USA, Troop Leader
  • Moravia Youth Soccer League, Coach
  • Past Treasurer of Finger Lakes Pregnancy Care, Ithaca
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About Samantha Jordan

Professional Experience

Samantha joined Sciarabba Walker as an intern in 2016 and started full-time in May of 2017. She provides tax services to individuals and businesses. Sam also assists clients with assurance services with a focus on employees benefit plans and credit unions.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS in Accounting and Business Administration with a Finance Concentration
  • MA in Accounting, Ithaca College
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), New York

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
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About Elyse McMillen

Professional Experience

Elyse joined Sciarabba Walker in 2015. She assists clients with assurance services with a focus on employee benefit plans along with individual and entity tax services.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • AS in Accounting, Tompkins Cortland Community College
  • BA in Accounting, Ithaca College
  • MBA in Professional Accountancy, Ithaca College
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), New York

Memberships

  • New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Microsoft Excel Fundamentals + Data Analytics Certificate

Community Involvement

  • Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador’s Committee, Member
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About Chris Mott

Professional Experience

Chris is the head of the Audit department at Sciarabba Walker. He joined Sciarabba Walker in 2011 as a staff accountant and was promoted to manager in 2017. He provides assurance services with a focus on nonprofit organizations and municipalities. He is a member of the firm’s Nonprofit Committee.

Chris takes a genuine interest in the clients he works with, asking thoughtful questions and taking the time to learn about the important aspects of each organization and its goals. In addition, he devotes time to helping newer staff develop their skills, knowledge, and experience in the accounting profession.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BS in Accounting, Ithaca College
  • MBA-PA, Ithaca College
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County, Board Member
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About Kathleen Torello

Professional Experience

Kathleen (Kati) joined the firm in 2014 after a career in private and public accounting and was promoted to Manager in 2024. Kati leads the Fraternities & Sororities Department and provides accounting and bookkeeping services to multiple clients in our Outsourced Accounting Department.

Practice Specialties

Education and Professional Designations

  • BSA, Ithaca College
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Memberships

  • NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)

Community Involvement

  • Ithaca Rotary Club, Treasurer
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About Kyle Justice

Professional Experience

Kyle joined the firm in 2010 and has over 11 years of information technology experience. Kyle manages the implementation and upgrading of hardware and software for SW’s infrastructure. He ensures the security of all hardware and networks and provides IT support to our clients.

Education

  • AS, Tompkins Cortland Community College