Testimonials

Proof of Going Pro


Winona Dotson, CMI, Member since 2010
Sales Tax School I Instructor
Public Storage
“I was inspired to join IPT early in my career to take advantage of the educational programs and pursue my CMI-Sales Tax designation. I have been a member of IPT for some time now, attending various schools, symposiums, and annual conferences. Networking at these events is a great way to connect with like-minded people and expand your tax knowledge. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the knowledge, support, and friendship of fellow IPT members.”


Emily Gauthier, CMI, Member since 2006
Sales Tax School I Chair
Ernst & Young LLP
“Being a part of IPT has afforded me the opportunity to connect with seasoned and like-minded professionals who are willing to share insights, expand my network, and serve as mentors through the different phases of my career. From being a part of conferences, symposiums, and schools, I have been able to foster meaningful relationships and make connections, not only to expand my network but also to grow in my technical skill set.”


Annette Prehn, CMI, Member since 2003
Overall Chair - Property Tax & Past BOG Member
Marathon Petroleum
“I have been an active IPT member since 2003, and I obtained the CMI designation in Property Tax in 2005. If I had to point to a pivotal reason for my career success, it would be IPT. Some of my previous roles extended across the SALT tax disciplines (property tax, sales/use tax, credits/incentives, and state income tax), and the ability to network and learn from my IPT peers have been highlights in my career journey.”


William J. MConnell, CMI, CPA, Esq., Member since 1989
CMI Committee & Sales Tax School II Instructor
Zayo Group LLC
“My membership with IPT has opened many doors for me in the sales tax profession and has allowed me to develop my professional skills to a higher level. The opportunity to network with other state tax practitioners is unmatched; and has benefited me in seeking guidance on state tax matters and exploring career opportunities. As a member of IPT, I have participated in many different programs as chair, vice chair, instructor, presenter, exam grader, author and committee member, and have found each of these roles professionally rewarding.”


Rameen Inayat, Member since 2023
2023 Annual Conference Scholarship Winner
Altus Group
“I had the honor of attending the IPT Annual Conference as a scholarship recipient! HUGE thank you to the Institute for Professionals in Taxation and the entire scholarship committee for this privilege. I am truly grateful; this was an incredible experience for me. I had the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the industry and connect with so many great people. From educational seminars, to amazing dinners, to a cowboy carnival… this experience was one for the books! Thanks IPT.”


Leslie S. Hahn, CMI, CPA, Member since 1997
Sales Tax School I Instructor
BDO USA
“My association with the Institute for Professionals in Taxation has been one of the highlights of my career. Not only has IPT significantly contributed to my professional growth, it has even allowed me the opportunity to mentor and educate emerging sales tax professionals. It is my honor to give back to my profession through IPT, and to be associated with advancing their purpose. I highly recommend volunteering for a committee with IPT, I promise, you will get back more than you give.”


April M. Nevarez, CMI, Member since 2007
Past IPT President
The Michaels Companies, Inc.
“As a young associate with an Accounting Firm in Northern Virginia, I wanted to expand upon my state and local tax experience and learned that the premier educational organization was the Institute for Professionals in Taxation (IPT). In my early career, not only did I find IPT to be exceptional at educating state and local tax professionals, but it also gave an avenue for those, early in their careers, to grow. The opportunities IPT has afforded me to be part of various planning committees and speaking engagements have helped me tremendously where I am today. It has allowed me to build the confidence to speak to individuals at various levels and demonstrate the level of education IPT has helped me to gain. I have felt fostered by many of IPT’s Past Presidents and thought, would I ever achieve such success? As a member of IPT since 2007, I am proud to be part of an organization that continues to be the premier state and local tax educational organization but also an organization that fosters the careers of state and local tax professionals. I am also proud to say to young tax professionals, that putting in the hard work and learning from IPT will help you to achieve success. I think back to a younger self wondering if I could be President of such an outstanding organization and proud to say now, I served as the IPT President 2022-2023. I am now a Past President who looks forward to meeting young professionals and showing them what IPT can offer, and how they, too, can take on any advanced role they desire and work hard towards it. Yes, even an IPT President.”