Our Leadership

John Whybrew’s experience as a Certified Fraud Examiner is a key benefit for his governmental audit and construction clients. His in-depth experience helps him identify areas of weakness and make timely recommendations for improvement to stop fraud before it starts. John’s involvement in industry-specific organizations also helps him stay informed about crucial issues, which gives him an advantage in providing the most timely, accurate guidance to his clients.

Education
Master of Accountancy
University of Tennessee, Martin, Tennessee
Bachelor of Business Administration
Major: Accounting
Lambuth University, Jackson, Tennessee

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
– Board of Directors
– Silver Associate of the Educational and Memorial Foundation
– Past President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer – West Tennessee Chapter American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
Tennessee Government Finance Officers Association Associate Member
Association of Government Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Areas of Specialization
Governmental Audit
Construction Audit
Tax

Community Involvement
Leadership Jackson, Class of 2007
Leadership University Board Member, 2011-Present
Fellowship Bible Church
Jackson Rotary Club
Relay for Life
– Accounting Chairperson, Madison County 2004-2009
– Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC Team Member
University School of Jackson Board of Trustees

Hobbies/Interests
Golf
Snow skiing
Water sports

Experience
For the twenty years he’s served as a public accountant, Craig Atwill’s practice has focused on accounting, auditing and tax issues that effect the public and governmental organizations. His clients know that he examines financial information with a fresh perspective and provides expert advice for each unique situation. Craig knows that personalized service is the key to a quality experience.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, Tennessee

Professional Affiliations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Area of Specialization
Accounting and Auditing
Tax

Community Involvement
Obion County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Union City Rotary Club
-Past Board Member
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Union City, TN
-Parish Council Member
-Finance Council Member
Union City Schools Foundation
– Past Board of Directors
Union City Cal Ripkin Baseball Board of Directors
-Coached Community Teams in basketball, baseball and soccer.

Experience

Brian Crafton specializes in all areas of audit and assurance services, tax preparation, financial planning, non-profit accounting, small and family business consulting related to tax services.  He has a vast knowledge and experience of estate and trust planning with a strong background in marketing and business development. As an active member in his community, Brian recently presented on topics such as Tax Updates, 1031 Exchange, and Year End Tax Planning for local BNI groups, the KYCPA, and was also asked to introduce former Governor of KY, Martha Lane Collins at the annual Henderson County Chamber of Commerce Dinner. Crafton comes to ATA as a partner from Myriad CPA Group where he has over 20 years of experience. A former athlete and avid sports fan, Crafton devotes countless hours to local youth sports teams and organization and continues his passion by coaching his children. 

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

4 year letterman, Men’s Soccer

University of Kentucky

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions:

• Kentucky Society of CPA’s – Small Business Committee
• American Institute of Public Accountants
• Chartered Global Management Accountant

Areas of Specialization:

• Tax Planning
• School Audits
• Non-Profit Audits
• Small Business Planning and Advisory
• Business Development

Community Involvement:

• BNI- President/Vice President/Treasurer
• Rotary Club of Henderson
• Pennyrile Youth Soccer Association – Treasurer

Hobbies/Interests:

Coaching youth soccer, boating and water sports, and riding ATV’s

Experience
Phillip Creswell joined the firm in 2004 and has devoted his career to business and personal income tax preparation, governmental auditing and financial statement preparation. Due to these primary focuses, he is able to understand the challenges facing businesses and make a timely, pertinent recommendations for improvements. He serves as a member of the firm’s executive committee and is chairman of the information technology committee

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin

Professional Organizations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Areas of Specialization
Financial Statement Preparation
Governmental Auditing
IT
Strategic Planning
Executive
Tax
Investment

Community Involvement
Union City Athletic Booster Club
Union City Rotary Club
First United Methodist Church, Union City
-Finance Committee Chairman 2013-Present
-Administrative Board Member 2013-Present
University of Tennessee at Martin Skyhawk Club Board Member
Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, Board of Trustees Financial Advisor
Union City Youth Athletic Alliance Treasurer
Obion County UT Alumni Association Past President
Union City Jaycees
Union City School Foundation, Treasurer

Hobbies
Phillip enjoys spending time with his wife, Katie and his two children, Preston and Emma Claire. He also coaches his son’s youth baseball and soccer teams.

Experience

Al Creswell was the chief manager for Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC for 27 years. As a past member of the State Board of Accountancy, he is a leader in the accounting industry. Al has dedicated his practice to taxation issues. His practice encompasses individual, corporate, partnership and other taxation areas. As a partner he is dedicated to the highest level of customer service and quality standards.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, Tennessee

Professional Affiliations

• Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
  American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
  Tennessee State Board of Accountancy, 2005-2011
  • Licensing Committee, Chairman
  • Law and Rules Committee

Area of Specialization

Tax

Community Involvement

• Pride of Obion County, 2010
• Discovery Park of America, Secretary
• Union City Rotary Club
  • Past President
  • Past Secretary/Treasurer
  • Paul Harris Fellow
• Obion County Distinguished Speakers Foundation, Treasurer
• Union City High School Booster Club, Treasurer
• University of Tennessee at Martin Athletics Past Board Member
• Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity UT Martin, Trustee
• Union City Shrine Club, Member
• Poplar Meadows Country Club, Member
• Union City First Methodist Church, Member

Hobbies/Interests

• Sports Enthusiast
• Travel
• Grandchildren

Experience

Jay has been a member of our governmental audit practice since 2007. His work focuses on municipalities, utility systems and school systems. By focusing his practice, he is able to provide better service to our clients, because he better understands their needs and challenges. Jay’s clients appreciate his attention to detail and customer relationship skills.

Education

Bachelor of Science
Major: Finance
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee

Professional Organizations

• Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
  • Young CPA Workgroup Committee Member, 2015-2016
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Areas of Specialization

• Governmental Audit
• Utility Audit
• Tax

Community Involvement

• Union City Rotary Club
• Obion County Leadership, Class of 2009
• First United Methodist Church, Union City
• First Friends Preschool Board Member
• Union City Cal Ripken Baseball Board of Directors
• Union City Athletic Booster Club

Hobbies

• Hunting
• Coaching youth baseball and football
• University of Tennessee Volunteers Football

Experience
Mark Downing has been with the firm since 1984. He is one of the leaders in the firm on establishing and maintaining high accounting and auditing (A & A) standards. As a member of the firm’s assurance committee, he helps monitor the ever-changing environment of A & A standards. He works with a variety of financial institutions and other clients to understand the challenges faced by the clients and auditors alike. This enables him to study industry trends and monitor our firm’s A & A procedures, so ATA is proactive in meeting our clients’ needs.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
Murray State University, Murray, Kentucky

Professional Organizations, Certifications & Special Recognitions
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Bankers Association Associate Member

Areas of Specialization
Audit
Financial Institutions
Compilation and Review
Taxation

Community Involvement
Member of Dyersburg Kiwanis Club
Leadership Dyer County Graduate
Member of Dyersburg Country Club at The Farms
Member of First Christian Church

Hobbies
Playing Golf
Walking
Spending time with Family

Experience

Whether the client is a privately held healthcare entity or a publicly owned utility system, Stephen provides consistent financial directives with a special attention to meeting client needs. He also enjoys working with family owned businesses with a focus on succession planning and growth. Additionally, he is a member of the firm’s Information Technology, Strategic Planning and Investment committees.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Finance
Major: Accounting
Union University, Jackson TN

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions

• Tennessee State Board of Accountancy 2012 – Present
• Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA)
  • Legislative Committee Member
  • Past President, Vice President, and Secretary/ Treasurer-West Tennessee Chapter
  • Life Associate of the Educational and Memorial Foundation
  • Former Council Member
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
• Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – Licensed in Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Illinois.
• Certified Information System Auditor (CISA)
• Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP)
• Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
• Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
• Tennessee Government Finance Officers Association Associate Member
• Tennessee Valley Public Power Association Associate Member
• BDO Alliance Emerging Leaders Roundtable

Areas of Specialization

• Healthcare
• Utility Systems
• Family owned businesses
• Tax

Community Involvement

• Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
• Leadership Jackson, Class of 2004
• City of Jackson Industrial Development Board, 2011 – Present
• Union University’s McAfee School of Business Administration Advisory Board, 2011 – present
• First Horizon Bank Advisory Board Member, 2011 – Present
• Jackson Rotary Club
  • Past Board Member
  • Paul Harris Fellow
  • Interact Club Committee – Director, Membership Committee Chairman
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon
  • Past President, Treasurer – Jackson, TN Area Alumni Association and House Corporation
• Relay for Life Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC Team Member
  • Past Team Captain
  • Past Board Member
• Youth Town of Tennessee
  • Past Board Member – Chairman of the Board
  • Past Treasurer
  • Past Executive Committee Member
  • Past Finance Committee Chairman
• Young Life
  • Past Board of Directors
• Fellowship Bible Church – Member
• University School of Jackson – Legacy Society

Hobbies/Interests

Golf, Fishing, and Boating

Experience

David Hart, CPA, CGMA, CVA, CFF leads the firm’s business valuation practice and holds the most prestigious credentials for that specialty. During the past 24 years, his business valuation experience has included bankruptcy matters, family law, business valuations and contract/shareholder disputes. David’s business valuation experience compliments his tax practice and gives him a unique insight when serving his tax clients.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, TN

Professional Organizations, Certifications, and Special Recognitions

• Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
• Kentucky Society of Certified Public Accountants
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
• Certified Financial Forensics (CFF)
• Certified Valuation Analysts (CVA)
• Certified Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
• National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA)
• Tennessee Government Finance Officer’s Association Associate Member

Areas of Specialization

• Business Valuation
• Individual and Corporate Tax

Community Involvement

• University of Tennessee at Martin – Past Skyhawk Club Board Member
• First United Methodist Church, Martin, TN Member
• Finance Committee Chairman (2006-2012)
• UT Martin Women’s Basketball – Assistant Coach
• Westview High School, Girls Volunteer Assistant Basketball Coach
• 4 State Tournament Appearances (2001, 2003, 2006, and 2009)

Experience
Mike Hewitt has more than thirty years experience and understands how critical accountability standards are for governments and not-for-profit organizations. That’s why he’s active professionally on the state and national levels. He was appointed to the AICPA’s Government Audit Quality Center’s Executive Committee, which means he’s helping shape policy and procedures for governments and nonprofits in the national arena. He also serves on the Tennessee Society of CPAs Governmental Committee, which he led for five years.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, TN
Magna Cum Laude

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
Governmental Committee, 1992-Present (Chairman 5 years)
Life Associate of the Educational and Memorial Foundation
Scholarship Committee, 1981-1983
Past President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer, West Tennessee Chapter
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Government Audit Quality Center Executive Committee, 2010 – Present
PCPS Technical Issues Committee, 2004-2008
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
Government Finance Officers Association
Tennessee Government Finance Officer’s Association Associate Member
Tennessee Municipal League Associate Member
Kentucky League of Cities Cornerstone Partner
Thomson Reuters Accounting and Auditing Advisory Board Member

Areas of Expertise
Governmental
Not-for-Profit
Assurance
Tax

Community Involvement
2012 Jackson Award Recipient for Community Service
Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce
Executive Committee Member and Treasurer, 1999-2004
STAR Center
Board and executive committee member, 1999 – Present
President, 2005-2007, 2011 – Present
Treasurer, 2007-2011
Vice President, 2009 – 2011
Salvation Army – Jackson, TN
Advisory Board Member, 2000 – Present
Chairman of Advisory Board, 2006 – 2008
Entrepreneur Development Center of Southwest Tennessee
Executive Committee, 2012 – Present
Board of Directors, 2012 – Present
Volunteer Mentor, 2012 – Present
Trinity Christian Academy
Board of Directors, 1992 – 1997
Finance committee member, 1992-2012
Leadership Jackson, Class of 1997
Jackson Rotary Club
Paul Harris Fellow
Rotary Foundation committee member
ATA Relay for Life Team Member

Experience

Kevin Howell, CPA is a member/partner in ATA’s financial institutions team. With nearly 23 years of experience, he works with more than 30 financial institution clients of all sizes. His practice encompasses all aspects of the industry’s needs including tax, internal and external audit, loan review, interest rate risk, Bank Secrecy Act, IT audits and compliance reviews. As an engagement partner, he is dedicated to the highest level of customer service and quality standards.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, Tennessee
Summa Cum Laude

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions

Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
– Life Associate of the Educational and Memorial Foundation
– Peer Review Committee
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Bankers Association Associate Member
BDO Seidman Financial Institutions Industry Group Member
Kentucky Bankers Association Associate Member

Areas of Expertise

Financial Institutions
Peer Review Services
Governmental Auditing

Community Involvement

Dyersburg Noon Rotary
– Treasurer
– Board of Directors
Leadership Dyer County Graduate
Life Choices Board Member

Hobbies and Interests

Golf
Travel with family

Experience:

Kris Kemp specializes in all areas of tax preparation, financial planning, non-profit accounting, small and family business consulting related to tax services.  He also has vast knowledge in estate and trust planning with a strong background in multi-state and international processing and compliance for S & C Corporations, charitable trusts, and non-profit organizations. Kemp comes to ATA as a partner from Myriad CPA Group where he has over 20 years of experience. A college athlete, Kris played basketball all four years that he attended KY Wesleyan and continues to pursue his passion for sports by coaching his children and volunteering his time with several local organizations and teams to support youth athletics.

Education:

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration

4 year letterman, Men’s Basketball

Kentucky Wesleyan University

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions:

• KY Society of CPA’s – Current Board of Directors, Educational Foundation Board Member, Tax Committee Member

Areas of Specialization:

• Tax Advisory and Planning
• Compliance
• Budget Forecasting
• Estate and Trust Planning

Community Involvement:

• Henderson Breakfast Lions Club – Treasurer

Hobbies/Interests:

Coaching youth basketball and softball, playing golf and basketball, and reading history books

Experience
Gabrielle Lorbiecki is a partner in ATA’s employee benefit practice. Since 2008, she has been dedicated to the design, implementation, administration, and reporting of employee benefit plans and to providing the highest quality service and attention to her clients. Gabrielle’s devotion to retirement and employee benefit plans keeps her informed on the most recent IRS and DOL legislations and helps her to address the specific needs of her clients. In addition to being a licensed CPA in the state of Tennessee, she is also a Certified Pension Consultant (CPC), Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA), and Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA) and is a member of the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries.   

Employee Benefits Plan Experience
Preparation of defined contribution pension plan allocations, compliance testing, and Form 5500 and its supporting schedules
Preparation of audited financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and ERISA requirements
Defined contribution pension plan design and administration
Analysis of employee benefits and plan types
Retirement planning

Education
Master of Business Administration

University of Tennessee, Martin, Tennessee

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, Tennessee

Magna Cum Laude

Professional Organizations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountant
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries

Areas of Specialization
Employee Benefit Plan Design and Administration

Employee Benefit Plan Audits and Allocations

Community Involvement
Employee Benefit Plan Conference Committee

Experience

Jack Matthis is a member/partner in ATA’s financial institutions practice. With more than thirty financial institution clients, he has experience with financial institutions of all sizes. His practice encompasses all aspects of that industry’s needs including: tax, internal and external audit, loan review, interest rate risk, Bank Secrecy Act, IT audits and compliance reviews. As an engagement partner, he is dedicated to the highest level of customer service and quality standards.

Professional Affiliations

Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
– Life Associate of the Educational and Memorial Foundation
– Financial Institutions Committee – 2006 to present
– Scholarship Committee – 2005 to 2008, 2011 to present
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Community Banking Advisor National Editorial Board
BDO Seidman Financial Institutions Industry Group Member
Associate Member Tennessee Bankers Association
Associate Member Kentucky Bankers Association
Associate Member Mississippi Bankers Association

Education

Master of Accountancy
University of Tennessee, Martin, Tennessee
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major:  Accounting
University of Tennessee, Martin, Tennessee
Summa Cum Laude

Areas of Specialization

Financial Institutions
External & Internal Audits
Tax Compliance
External Loan Reviews
ALTA Best Practices

Community Involvement

Leadership Jackson
– Graduate, Class of 2003
– Co-Chair 2004, Chair 2005
Leadership Jackson Alumni Association Board of Directors,
– 2004 – 2013, 2015 – Present
– President 2008, Treasurer 2015 – Present
American Red Cross Board of Directors, 2006-2009
– Chairman, Audit Committee – 2006-2007
– Treasurer / Executive Committee – 2008-2009
Jackson Exchange Club – 2003 to Present
Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Month
Leadership Jackson Alumni Association Star Performer Award Recipient, 2007
Salvation Army Bell Ringer
Madison County Parks & Recreation
– Pee Wee Football Coach – 2009 to 2011
– Upward Soccer Coach – 2006 to 2011
– Upward Basketball Coach – 2008 to 2013
– Medina Baseball Association Coach – 2011 to 2012
– Medina Football Association Coach – 2011 to 2012
South Gibson County High School Advisory Committee – 2013 to Present
Union University
– Adjunct Professor – 2010, 2012
Hands Up! Preschool Board of Directors, 2012 to Present (Treasurer)
WestStar
– Graduate, Class of 2013
– Alumni Council, 2014 to Present
– Board of Trustees, 2015 to Present
Tennessee Association of Community Leadership
– Conference Attendee, 2004 to Present
– Servant Leadership Award Recipient, 2012
– Board of Directors, 2016
Certified COPE Instructor, Camp Mack Morris

Experience
With over three decades of experience, Charles has developed extensive proficiency in a variety of service offerings including tax, audit, and accounting system design. Charles is seasoned in providing these services to areas like construction, professional services, retail, manufacturing, and not for profit organizations. Owning and managing his own office for over twenty years provided Charles with refined entrepreneurial skills and has gained first-hand knowledge of the many challenges that business owners face. The merger of his office with ATA in 2017 allowed him to continue providing quality service and expanding his practice with access to the resources and talents of a larger firm.

Education
Bachelor of Science
Major: Accounting
Missouri State University Springfield, Missouri
Master of Business Administration
Concentration in Finance
University of Memphis Memphis, TN

Certifications
Certified Public Accountant
Certified Management Accountant
Certified Internal Auditor
Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor

Professional Affiliations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Area of Specialization
Tax planning and compliance for individuals, corporations, partnerships and exempt organizations.
Financial reporting including audits, reviews and compilations for commercial, not for profit, and governmental entities
Designing accounting systems for optimal management information purposes

Community Involvement
Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce
Rotary Club of Northeast Shelby County (Treasurer 2008-Present)
Leadership Bartlett alumnus
Rotary District 6800 (Board Member and Treasurer)
Bartlett Education Foundation (Treasurer)

Hobbies/Interests
Fitness activities such as CrossFit, yoga, running, rowing and bicycling.
Playing guitar
Reading

Experience:

With over 24 years of experience in public accounting, Cathy Messerly has worked extensively as an auditor in a variety of industries. Her specialties include service organizations and not for profits among others. Messerly has been heavily involved as a technical reviewer and staff trainer throughout her career. Messerly was promoted to partner with ATA through its merge with Cannon & Co. where she gained ample experience in public accounting. Messerly is extremely devoted to serving Memphis and its surrounding communities through her personal and professional endeavors.

Education:

Bachelor of Business Administration (Accounting and Spanish)

Western Michigan University

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions:

• TSCPA
• AICPA

Areas of Specialization:

• Financial reporting (audits, reviews, and compilations)
• Bookkeeping services for commercial and governmental entities

Community Involvement:

• Collierville Chamber of Commerce- ex-officio board member, past treasurer
• Collierville Schools- board member
• Collierville Education Foundation- past president, H.C. Harrell award recipient
• Leadership Collierville- past vice-president of alumni, past treasurer, graduate class of 2005
• Leader Dogs for the Blind- volunteer puppy raiser

Hobbies/Interests:

Travel, cooking, reading, Shotokan karate, aikido, watersports, and spending time with family and friends

Experience:

Malcolm “Mac” Neel, III, has over 30 years’ experience related to community banks that includes internal and external audit services, regulatory compliance, operational consulting, interest rate risk model back testing (shock analysis) strategic planning as well as electronic data processing reviews as per FFIEC.  He specializes in municipalities, utilities, and retirement plan audits; is experienced in performing loan review services; and an expert in small business fraud as a Certified Fraud Examiner. Mac is a graduate of the AICPA National Banking School at the University of Virginia Level I and Level II. Mac comes to ATA as a partner from Myriad CPA Group where he has over 30 years of experience. A native of Henderson, Mac has devoted countless hours to the development and betterment of the community through his personal and civic endeavors

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

University of Kentucky

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions:

• Kentucky Society of CPA’s – Political Action, Financial Institutions, and Forensic Accounting Committees
• American Institute of Public Accountants
• Certified Fraud Examiners member

Areas of Specialization:

• Certified Fraud Examiner
• Small Business Development
• Expert Witness – Litigation Services
• Tax Planning and Compliance
• Regulatory/Governmental Auditing
• Bank Audits
• School and Non-Profits Audits
• Municipality Audits

Community Involvement:

• Rotary Club of Henderson
• Founder – Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival
• Founder/Treasurer – Henderson War Memorial
• President – Henderson Jaycees
• President – Holy Name Men’s Club
• KY Wesleyan College All American Club
• American Legion Post 40-Sons of Legion

Hobbies/Interests:

Songwriting, Basketball, and Traveling with his wife

Experience

With over 40 years’ experience in public accounting, Mark Puckett comes to ATA with ample understanding of how to serve clients well. Puckett spent the last 36 years working for BDO USA, LLP in their Memphis office where he held many top leadership positions including Office Managing Partner (Tax), Regional Managing Partner (Tax), and Managing Director (Tax). Additionally, Puckett recruited, led and nurtured young partners and professionals within the offices he managed during his time at BDO. Puckett has spent the majority of his career serving as a key tax and business advisor to growing large and medium-sized, closely-held and family-owned business and high income, high net worth individuals and families. Puckett also taught for ten years as an adjunct tax professor at Rhodes College, two years at the University of Memphis, and currently presents at tax conferences and educational venues in the southeastern U.S.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration- Accounting

University of Tennessee at Martin

Master of Science Accounting (Taxation)

University of Memphis

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions:

• American Institute of CPAs
• Tennessee Society of CPAs
• Association of Corporate Growth – Past President
• Tax Watch Group – Past President and Treasurer
• Irvin Lansky Foundation – Board of Trustees
• Outstanding Alumnus Award –Beta Alpha Psi University of Memphis, 1993

Areas of Specialization:

• Business and individual tax planning and compliance
• Tax controversy
• Mergers, acquisitions and business combinations
• Estate, gift and trust planning
• Business strategic planning
• Business succession planning

Community Involvement:

• Weekly volunteer at Hope Presbyterian Church as a facilitator in the Divorce Recovery Program

Hobbies/Interests
Public speaking, weight lifting, cycling, running, swimming, hiking, golf, wine collecting, taekwondo, reading and spending time with family and friends

Experience

Clients rely on Cathy Sanborn to supervise audits, review engagements, and consult with them regarding asset purchases, financing options, and tax planning. Cathy enjoys presenting seminars to the business community on various topics of interest to small businesses and those involved in serving the non-profit and construction industries.

Education

Bachelor of Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee
Magna Cum Laude

Professional Organizations, Certifications

Member, Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Certified Public Accountant licensed in Tennessee
Chartered Global Management Accountant

Areas of Specialization

Construction Audit
Nonprofit Audit
Tax

Community Involvement

Member, First Evangelical Church
– Three year term on Mission Board
– Board member, Firefly Station Family Ranch
– Teaching and mentoring young ladies in Cherkassy, Ukraine

Experience:

J. L. Schifani has over 30 years’ experience in all realms of public accounting. Presently, Schifani’s emphasis is on auditing, review and compilation services.  He has supervised the audits for a number of medium sized companies in the heavy metals, construction, manufacturing, not-for-profit, retail, pension and profit sharing plans, and life care industries. Schifani comes to ATA as a partner from Cannon & Co. where he has 36 years of experience. As a long-standing Memphis resident, Schifani serves his clients well and is an active member of the community in which he serves.

Education:

Bachelor of Business Administration (Accounting)

University of Memphis

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions:

• TSCPA
  • Past President, Memphis Chapter
  • Past Chairman Nominating Committee
  • Member of State Council
• AICPA Member

Areas of Specialization:

• Audit
• Review
• Compilation Services

Community Involvement:

• Member of the Board of Directors of Ave Maria Home (Treasurer)

Hobbies/Interests:

Golfing, Spending time with family and friends

Education
Master of Business Administration Concentrated in Finance
Indiana University
Bachelor of Business Administration
Major: Accounting
Indiana University

Professional Organizations, Certifications and Special Recognitions
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Certified Value Growth Advisor (CVGA)
Certified Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional (M&AP)

Areas of Specialization

Value Creation
Digital Transformation
M&A
IPOs
Manufacturing

Community Involvement

Memphis Economic Club – Board Member
Memphis Chamber of Commerce – Board Member
Tennessee Chamber of Commerce – Ex Board Member
Tennessee Manufacturer’s Association – Ex Board Member
National Association of Manufacturers – Ex Board Member
Grace Evangelical Church – Sunday School Teacher

Hobbies/Interests

Family time
Landscaping
Golfing
Ministry
Public speaking

Experience
In addition to helping people and businesses with tax issues, Jerry Smith’s primary focus is on employee benefit plans. His employee benefit plan experience includes thirty years in all areas of employee benefits and retirement plan work. Approximately one-half of billable hours are devoted to the employee benefits and retirement plan services.

Employee Benefits Plan Experience
Defined contribution pension plan allocations, compliance testing and preparation of Summary Annual Report and Form 5500 and supporting schedules.
Preparation of audited financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and ERISA requirements.
Defined contribution pension plan design and maintenance.
Executive pay and benefits
Analysis of employee benefits
Retirement planning

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, Tennessee

Professional Organizations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountant
Employee Benefits Plan Conference Committee
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries

Areas of Specialization
Employee Benefits Plans Audit and Administration
Tax

Community Involvement
Paris Public Housing Authority Commissioner
Grace Episcopal Church, Treasurer

Experience
In the forty years he’s served as a public accountant, Art has positioned himself as a leader in peer review and quality control issues. He performs peer reviews each year for public accounting firms across the country and consults with numerous smaller firms. His work with peer review enhances the quality of accounting, attestation and auditing services for firms across the nation. His experience also pushes ATA’s professionals to provide higher quality service to its clients.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Accounting
University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, Tennessee
Cum Laude

Professional Affiliations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
-Council
– Chair, 2014-2015
– Chair Elect, 2013-2014
– Treasurer, 2012-2013
-Board of Directors, 2006 – 2016
-Peer Review Committee, 1997 – 2016
-Peer Review Technical Reviewer 2016 – present
-Report Acceptance Board Quality Review Committee
-Accounting and Auditing Past Committee
-Scholarship Committee Past Chairman
-PAC Committee 2012 – Present
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants – Council
-National Peer Review Committee (NPRC) 2011 – 2019
-Peer Review Board, 2005-2008
-Oversight Task Force, 2005 -2011
-Oversight Task Force Chairman, 2006-2008
State Board of Accountancy
-Governor-Appointed Board Member, 1993-1996
-Quality Review Committee
Business TN’s Magazine’s Top 25 Accountants, 2008-2009
West Tennessee Chapter of the Tennessee Society of CPA’s
-President, 1983-1984
-Vice President, 1982-1983
Secretary/Treasurer, 1981-1982

Areas of Specialization
Quality Control
Peer Review
Accounting and Auditing

Community Involvement
Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame – Board Member, 2010 – 2019
Community Foundation of Obion County Board, 2000 – Present
-Vice Chair
-Vice President, 2005 – 2008

-Treasurer, 2008 – Present
University of Tennessee
-Development Committee- UT System
-Former National Alumni Association Board of Governors
-President’s Club Member
-President’s Council
-Benefactor’s Society
University of Tennessee at Martin

-Advisory Board, 2018 – 2021

-Advisory Board Chair, 2018 – 2020
-Distinguished Service Award Recipient, 1998
-Past Alumni Council Member
-Past Development Committee Member
-Skyhawk Club President, 1995-1997, 2001-2002, 2010-2012
-Pacer 100 Club Charter Member
-Mascot/Name Change Committee
-NCAA Compliance Committee
-Women’s Basketball Head Coach Search Committee
-Athletic Study Committee, 1999
-Football Head Coach Search Committee, 1999
Obion County Chamber of Commerce
-President, 1992-1994
-Board Member, 1982-1994
-Leadership Obion County Graduate
First United Methodist Church
-Administrative Council
-Finance Committee Chairman, 2003-2005
Obion County Joint Economic Development Council
-Chair
-Board Member, 1992- Present
-President of the Board, 2011 – Present
Poplar Meadows Country Club
-Board Member, 1983-1985
Rotary Club, Union City, Tennessee
-Paul Harris Fellow
-Board Member, 1994 – 2000
-Sergeant at Arms, 1995-1996
-Secretary, 1996-1997
-President-Elect, 1997-1998
-President, 1998 – 1999

WestStar – Class of 2016
-Board Member, 2016 – Present
Free and Accepted Mason’s Lodge 538, Union City, Tennessee
Al Chymia Shrine Temple, Memphis, Tennessee

Experience

Terryl works with clients in the areas of tax planning, individual, partnership and corporate taxation, multi-state tax compliance, employee benefit issues, and supervising audits and reviews of financial statements. Clients benefit from her hands on approach and attention to problems commonly encountered in privately held businesses.

Education

Bachelor of Accountancy
Major: Accounting
University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS

Professional Organizations, Certifications, and Special Recognitions

Member, Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Certified Public Accountant licensed in Tennessee
Chartered Global Management Accountant

Areas of Specialization

Construction
Employee benefit plans
Tax

Community Involvement

Member of Park Village Christian Church
Sunday School teacher
Board member, CARHA (Christian Action and Relief for Haiti)
Vice-Chairman of Board, Mid-South Christian College

Hobbies and Interests

Cooking
Spending time with her family
Relaxing in the mountains or beach

Marcie is a certified public accountant and has been with ATA for the past 12 years in our Jackson location. She is an assurance partner specializing in internal school funds, school districts, single audits, contractors and other for-profit engagements.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Arkansas State University
Major: Accounting

Professional Organizations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
President of West TN Chapter

Community Involvement
Jackson State Community College Foundation Board of Trustees
Leadership University Board Member

Experience
For the 10+ years he has been in public accounting, Matt Wood has devoted his career to governmental and utility auditing, and fraud prevention assistance. As the Chair of ATA’s governmental committee, he helps monitor the ever-changing environment of governmental accounting. Because that is his primary focus, he is called upon by his clients and other accounting firms to make sound recommendations and decisions based on their needs. Matt is a Henderson county native that graduated from Union University in 2007 with a major in Professional Public Accounting. Upon graduation Matt spent his first 2 years working for Pugh and Co. in Knoxville, TN. He subsequently moved back ‘home’ to ATA and earned the designation of certified public accountant (CPA).

Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major: Professional Public Accounting
Union University in Jackson, TN

Professional Affiliations
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Area of Specialization
Governmental Audit
Utility Audit
Fraud Investigation
HUD Audit
Professional Teaching/Speaking

Community Involvement
Leadership Jackson – Class of 2014
Co-Founder and Co-Chair of Warner’s Warrior Day – Annual Benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Relay for Life – Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC Team Member
Second Baptist Church, Lexington, TN – Member

Hobbies/Interests
Matt enjoys spending time with his wife, Brittany, and their two boys, Warner and Everett. He is an avid golfer and was a four-year member of Union University’s golf team.