Partner
Saunders & Saunders, PC, Virginia Beach
National Association of State Boards of Accountancy Board of Directors chair (and various previous positions), former chair and member of the Virginia Board of Accountancy, 2002–2003 VSCPA chair
Early into her career,Stephanie was a tax manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers (now PwC), where few women were becoming partners. As she prepared for the arrival of her second daughter, her mentor Bob Glisson, CPA (a now-deceased VSCPA Life member), encouraged her to strike out on her own and begin her own practice.
That proved to be a fruitful decision. PwC had just merged with a local firm and couldn’t handle many of the smaller business and individual clients, so Stephanie received many of PwC’s work. With more to do (and ultimately three daughters), she needed help. Her husband Tim, also a CPA and VSCPA member, joined her to create Saunders & Saunders. The firm provides essential accounting and tax services and helps clients make informed decisions regarding their financial and tax problems.
CPAs can make a real difference in clients’ lives, Stephanie believes. “I frequently assist clients who are navigating probate proceedings while coping with the loss of a loved one. By offering compassion and guiding them through the filing process, including the preparation of essential final and estate tax returns, we alleviate some of the burdens they face during this challenging period.”
After growing up in New Jersey, Stephanie attended Old Dominion University to study math. She quickly realized she did not want to be a teacher and switched to accounting — where she was one of only three women in the major.
Challenges Stephanie faced in her childhood prepared her for the high-level leadership roles she excels in today. “As a child, I was on the smaller side and had a terrible speech impediment, which led to ridicule from my classmates. I received speech lessons and learned that being small didn’t mean I could not be heard. This experience helped me throughout my entire life. Although I have not grown much in height over the years, when I speak, I believe the passion in my voice is heard.”
“I have always had the mindset to give back to the profession that has given so much to me,” Stephanie said. Her positions on the VSCPA Board of Directors, and ultimately as chair, lead her to nomination to the VBOA and ultimately NASBA’s mid-Atlantic regional director and at-large director. She began her service as NASBA chair in 2023.
Stephanie witnesses the entire profession, including firms, businesses and the government, struggling with hiring and retaining staff. At her small firm, she faces keeping up with technology and AI. “The world is changing rapidly with various technologies and CPAs must meet the needs of the marketplace. The generations of today and the future are unlike those in the past and the CPA licensure model must evolve to stay relevant and provide these future CPAs with the tools needed to protect the public, while servicing their employers and clients.”
The CEO Selection Advisory Committee and the NASBA Board of Directors will be hiring a new CEO to continue NASBA’s culture and ensure the organization remains relevant nationally and internationally. Pipeline issues area also top-of-mind, with the Professional Licensure Task Force and the National Pipeline Advisory Group considering new concepts for CPA licensure to possibly include in the UAA as an update to the current licensure model.
“I implore you to tell your story to middle school and/or high school students. Let them know how and why you are a CPA, the opportunities it provides, and why you continue to be involved in this great profession as a trusted advisor on financial matters. We follow a professional code of conduct that protects the public we serve. We must promote the profession as we know all are competing for the best and brightest.”
Stephanie also recognizes the other nuance of the pipeline issue: retaining newer CPAs amidst the retirement of our senior CPAs. “Public accounting firms can no longer use business models that many in my generation grew up with; rather, they must adapt to the work-life balances demanded by our younger generations.” She advises leaders to communicate with newer hires, continue to increase salaries and benefits, and also discuss growth and expectations. “Many firms have been successful in retaining staff by changing their business model.”
“Dedicate yourself to diligent studying to swiftly pass the CPA Exam ASAP. Familiarize yourself with the regulations of your state board of accountancy to maintain a valid license throughout your professional journey. Seek guidance from a mentor to navigate your career effectively. Continuously engage in reading and research, as lifelong learning is indispensable. Contribute to your community and profession through volunteering, reaping numerous rewards in return!”
Stephanie believes women in accounting do not have to sacrifice their personal lives; she’s living proof. “Don't feel pressured to juggle household chores and childcare on top of a thriving career. With the support of colleagues, family and hired assistance, you can strike a balance. Remember to prioritize self-care too — maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercising, and carving out ‘me’ time are essential for your well-being.”
