WSCPA Annual Meeting 2025 WEBCAST
Overview
This year’s event isn’t just about learning—it’s about storytelling, connection, and celebrating the voices that shape our profession. We’re bringing Arel Moodie to the stage as our keynote speaker, where he’ll introduce the transformative Core Four Stages of Adult Development Theory, helping you understand what truly drives people and how to unlock your team’s full potential. His session will set the stage for a deeper exploration of leadership, engagement, and how we build thriving workplace cultures.
But we’re not stopping there. We’re turning the spotlight on YOU. John Garrett’s What’s Your And? session will ignite a storytelling movement—showing how your passions outside of work make you a stronger, more innovative professional. You’ll have the opportunity to capture and share your unique “And,” celebrating the multidimensional talents that fuel our profession’s future.
This summit is more than a conference—it’s a dynamic hub where we tackle the pressing issues shaping accounting today that rarely make the agenda elsewhere.
This year members can get 4.5 hours of free education and development at this event virtually. Consider joining us live for 8 hours of immersive professional development at the Membership Summit IN PERSON, where we’ll explore how to build stronger organization and staff retention strategies with Accounting Leadership Panels, showcase the latest technology with our Tech Talk Showcase.
Highlights
- Understand what truly drives people.
- Unlock your team’s full potential.
- How your passions outside of work make you a stronger, more innovative professional.
- How to build stronger organization.
- And more!
Prerequisites
None.
Designed For
WSCPA members at every career stage, whether current or aspiring CPAs, will enjoy this event’s educational content. This event is ideal for future CPAs; CPAs working in public accounting, industry, government, not-for-profit organizations, education; and retired CPAs who want to stay connected to the profession.
Objectives
Learn about the pressing issues shaping accounting today.
Preparation
None.
This event is part of the following bundles:
Premier Sponsor
Partner Sponsor
Thursday, June 12
General Session
- Registration, Sign-in, and Breakfast
General Session
- Member Summit Kickoff
Start the day with the official kickoff of the WSCPA Annual Member Summit.
General Session
- The Power of the CPA Community
Raquel Nelson, Managing Principal, Baker Tilly LLPRaquel Nelson
Kelly Nelson, CPA, is the Managing Principal of the Seattle Business Unit of Baker Tilly Advisory Group. Her role in leading is to elevate, empower, celebrate and provide opportunities to the members of her team. She is passionate about creating a culture of inclusion and belonging and thoroughly embracing the diversity of thought that comes with professionals being their authentic selves in the workplace. Additionally, Kelly serves ultra-high-net worth individuals, family businesses and family offices. She demonstrates a rare ability to develop and maintain an overall plan for the family while preserving harmony among family members and across the generations.
Sarah Funk
Sarah Funk, CPA, CGMA, has more than 20 years of multi-national financial, operations, technology and telecommunication experience spanning accounting, budgeting and finance, compliance, audit, system implementations, transaction activities, money transfer services and public accounting. She was the Chief Financial Officer at Ben Franklin Transit. Sarah is an active member of various civic and community revitalization efforts. In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.
Joel Williams
Joel Williams, CPA, is an Associate Director in KPMG’s Global Mobility Practice in Seattle. He has more than 20 years of experience in the global mobility industry. Joel has had the benefit of living and working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; London; and Houston during his career and has served clients primarily in the energy, financial and technology sectors. Joel is a leader within KPMG’s Global Mobility Services Innovation team, an interdisciplinary group of professionals that develops and delivers emerging technologies and creative solutions to help solve his clients’ challenges. His focus is on identifying ways clients can leverage AI to make their mobility programs more efficient and effective.
Kimberly Scott
Kimberly Scott, CAE, brings over two decades of dedicated leadership to her role of President & CEO of the WSCPA, a position she has held since 2017. Her commitment to advancing the CPA profession is evident in her extensive advocacy work at both state and national levels.
Since joining the WSCPA in 2000, she has served in various senior leadership roles throughout the organization. From 2009 to 2022, she also served as Executive Director of the Washington CPA Foundation. In the role of WSCPA’s Vice President of Government and Member Relations, Kimberly spearheaded the organization’s advocacy efforts, successfully driving the drafting and passage of multiple bills through the Washington State legislature, including a bill that secured $3.3 million for the Washington CPA Foundation. The Foundation now provides over $500,000 in accounting scholarships annually.
Beyond her role at WSCPA, Kimberly is involved in shaping the future of the accounting profession. She currently serves on the AICPA National Pipeline Advisory Group and recently served on the AICPA Women’s Initiatives Executive Committee.
A Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential holder, Kimberly is passionate about continuous learning. She has graduated from programs with Heroic Speaking, Leadership Eastside, and earned her certificate for DEI in the Workplace from the University of South Florida.
She has volunteered her time and expertise on various boards, including recently serving on the Washington Society for Association Excellence (WSAE) DEI Task Force, the Homeward Pet Board of Directors, and the Human Services Commission for her city.
As we celebrate a century of leadership and impact, this session invites us to reflect on the legacy that brought us here and explore the opportunities that will shape our future. Guided by insights from the board, we’ll discuss the evolving needs of our members, the challenges ahead, and how we can continue to lead with purpose and innovation. Together, let’s honor our past while envisioning bold strategies for the next 100 years.
General Session
- Break
General Session
- Unlock the Power of Your People: The "Core Four" Stages of Adult Development Theory
Arel Moodie, Reed OakArel Moodie
Arel Moodie is a dynamic professional speaker, best-selling author, and entrepreneur, known for his captivating insights on personal and organizational development. With a passion for understanding human dynamics, Arel has made it his mission to uncover what makes people tick, sharing universal truths that drive personal growth and organizational success.
SPEAKER:As a professional speaker, he has spoken to over 750,000 people in 48 states and 5 countries. His engaging energy, impactful delivery, and relatable insights have earned him a remarkably strong repeat client base, with organizations regularly inviting him back year after year at the request of both leadership and staff. Arel’s speaking engagements include multiple appearances at the White House and three TEDx talks, and he has been acknowledged by President Obama for his contributions.
ENTREPRENEUR:Arel has built multiple 7-figure businesses. Inc. Magazine called him a “High-Energy, Motivator” and named him to their “30 Under 30 list” of America’s top entrepreneurs and he has been also named to the 40 Under 40 list in Central New York
MEDIA PERSONALITY: He has been quoted in The New York Times, USA Today, Essence, Forbes, Black Enterprise, and the Huffington Post. He has also contributed to television shows like The Doctors and previously hosted “Family Reboot” on Disney+, a show helping families reconnect and strengthen their bonds. His podcast, which explored career and personal development, reached millions of listeners in 178 countries and topped Apple’s charts as the #1 career podcast.
FUN FACTS: In addition to his speaking and media work, Arel is an accomplished hobbyist dancer, having performed at Madison Square Garden. He’s had two viral videos with millions of views. Beyoncé even used a picture of Arel during her Super Bowl Halftime Show—though it was very quick!
FAMILY MAN:Arel’s greatest joy comes from his role as a family man. He is a devoted husband, having met his wife at age 18, and a proud father of two sons.
RESEARCH JUNKIE: Arel is known as a “human development investigator” who has extensively studied the intricacies of what makes people tick. In a fun, a-ha inducing way he shares the 60+ years of research called “Adult Development Theory” that can dramatically change how we understand ourselves and those around us to better drive organizational results.
In a world where retaining and maximizing talent has never been more challenging, understanding why people do what they do is the key to unlocking your team’s full potential. This keynote explores the groundbreaking research behind Adult Development Theory, which reveals how adults progress through predictable stages—not by age, but by maturity—and how this impacts every decision they make. By learning to navigate these stages, teams and organizations can create a culture of transparency, deeper relationships, and higher collaboration within their organizations. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your leadership approach, avoid common workplace pitfalls, and build a roadmap to both personal and organizational growth.
General Session
- Break
General Session
- Gen AI in Action as a Transformative Tool for Accountants
Byron Patrick, TB AcademyByron Patrick
Byron K. Patrick, CPA, is an innovator who thrives at the intersection of accounting and technology. Rejecting traditional accounting roles early on, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs. He expanded his impact at Botkeeper, leading the charge in adopting AI to revolutionize bookkeeping. Now as CEO of VERIFYiQ, he’s transforming how accounting firms handle quality control through automated technology.
As co-founder of TB Academy, Byron equips accountants with generative AI skills, empowering them to become tech-enabled industry leaders. He frequently shares his insights nationwide, making advanced technology approachable and practical for finance professionals.
Outside the accounting-tech scene, Byron lives on a horse farm, balancing family, dogs, horses, and a passion for helping accountants redefine their profession.
Unlock the potential of generative AI to revolutionize your accounting practice. In this fast-paced, 50-minute session, discover how AI can automate repetitive tasks, deliver powerful insights, and enhance client communication. Through real-world examples tailored for accountants, we’ll explore how to streamline workflows, gain competitive advantage, and navigate the ethical considerations of AI adoption. Get a glimpse of the practical tools and techniques that are reshaping the profession—and find out how to take the next step in mastering AI.
General Session
- Break
General Session
- What's Your And? Telling the Stories Behind the Profession
With his refreshing blend of corporate insight, comedic wit, and people-centric advocacy, John Garrett truly stands at the intersection of professionalism and passion, reshaping the way we perceive organizational culture while championing a new understanding of corporate leadership. Prepare to think differently about your organization’s culture, and the value of the individual within it.
Drawing inspiration from his own experiences and years of research, John explores the ways organizations can prioritize employee well-being, foster open communication, and tap into the hidden talents and diverse interests of their workforce. With humor, anecdotes, and insights, he challenges traditional notions of professionalism, encouraging attendees to embrace their "Ands" – the outside-of-work passions and hobbies that make them human – and to create a work environment where everyone can thrive. His one-of-a-kind keynote invites leaders to consider the power of human connection and personal authenticity in the workplace, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and fulfilling professional culture.
Learning Objectives:
1. Gain a deep understanding of the importance of prioritizing employee wellbeing and fostering open communication in organizational culture.
2. Learn strategies and practices to tap into the hidden talents and diverse interests of your workforce, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
3. Challenge traditional notions of professionalism and embrace the power of personal authenticity and human connection in the workplace, ultimately creating a more inclusive and fulfilling professional culture.
General Session
- Adjourn
Leader(s):
Leader Bios
Arel Moodie, Reed Oak
Arel Moodie is a dynamic professional speaker, best-selling author, and entrepreneur, known for his captivating insights on personal and organizational development. With a passion for understanding human dynamics, Arel has made it his mission to uncover what makes people tick, sharing universal truths that drive personal growth and organizational success.
SPEAKER:As a professional speaker, he has spoken to over 750,000 people in 48 states and 5 countries. His engaging energy, impactful delivery, and relatable insights have earned him a remarkably strong repeat client base, with organizations regularly inviting him back year after year at the request of both leadership and staff. Arel’s speaking engagements include multiple appearances at the White House and three TEDx talks, and he has been acknowledged by President Obama for his contributions.
ENTREPRENEUR:Arel has built multiple 7-figure businesses. Inc. Magazine called him a “High-Energy, Motivator” and named him to their “30 Under 30 list” of America’s top entrepreneurs and he has been also named to the 40 Under 40 list in Central New York
MEDIA PERSONALITY: He has been quoted in The New York Times, USA Today, Essence, Forbes, Black Enterprise, and the Huffington Post. He has also contributed to television shows like The Doctors and previously hosted “Family Reboot” on Disney+, a show helping families reconnect and strengthen their bonds. His podcast, which explored career and personal development, reached millions of listeners in 178 countries and topped Apple’s charts as the #1 career podcast.
FUN FACTS: In addition to his speaking and media work, Arel is an accomplished hobbyist dancer, having performed at Madison Square Garden. He’s had two viral videos with millions of views. Beyoncé even used a picture of Arel during her Super Bowl Halftime Show—though it was very quick!
FAMILY MAN:Arel’s greatest joy comes from his role as a family man. He is a devoted husband, having met his wife at age 18, and a proud father of two sons.
RESEARCH JUNKIE: Arel is known as a “human development investigator” who has extensively studied the intricacies of what makes people tick. In a fun, a-ha inducing way he shares the 60+ years of research called “Adult Development Theory” that can dramatically change how we understand ourselves and those around us to better drive organizational results.
Byron Patrick, TB Academy
Byron K. Patrick, CPA, is an innovator who thrives at the intersection of accounting and technology. Rejecting traditional accounting roles early on, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs. He expanded his impact at Botkeeper, leading the charge in adopting AI to revolutionize bookkeeping. Now as CEO of VERIFYiQ, he’s transforming how accounting firms handle quality control through automated technology.
As co-founder of TB Academy, Byron equips accountants with generative AI skills, empowering them to become tech-enabled industry leaders. He frequently shares his insights nationwide, making advanced technology approachable and practical for finance professionals.
Outside the accounting-tech scene, Byron lives on a horse farm, balancing family, dogs, horses, and a passion for helping accountants redefine their profession.
Joel Williams, Assoc Dir, Global Mobility Practice, KPMG LLP (Seattle)
Joel Williams, CPA, is an Associate Director in KPMG’s Global Mobility Practice in Seattle. He has more than 20 years of experience in the global mobility industry. Joel has had the benefit of living and working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; London; and Houston during his career and has served clients primarily in the energy, financial and technology sectors. Joel is a leader within KPMG’s Global Mobility Services Innovation team, an interdisciplinary group of professionals that develops and delivers emerging technologies and creative solutions to help solve his clients’ challenges. His focus is on identifying ways clients can leverage AI to make their mobility programs more efficient and effective.
Kimberly Scott, President & CEO, Washington Society of CPAs
Kimberly Scott, CAE, brings over two decades of dedicated leadership to her role of President & CEO of the WSCPA, a position she has held since 2017. Her commitment to advancing the CPA profession is evident in her extensive advocacy work at both state and national levels.
Since joining the WSCPA in 2000, she has served in various senior leadership roles throughout the organization. From 2009 to 2022, she also served as Executive Director of the Washington CPA Foundation. In the role of WSCPA’s Vice President of Government and Member Relations, Kimberly spearheaded the organization’s advocacy efforts, successfully driving the drafting and passage of multiple bills through the Washington State legislature, including a bill that secured $3.3 million for the Washington CPA Foundation. The Foundation now provides over $500,000 in accounting scholarships annually.
Beyond her role at WSCPA, Kimberly is involved in shaping the future of the accounting profession. She currently serves on the AICPA National Pipeline Advisory Group and recently served on the AICPA Women’s Initiatives Executive Committee.
A Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential holder, Kimberly is passionate about continuous learning. She has graduated from programs with Heroic Speaking, Leadership Eastside, and earned her certificate for DEI in the Workplace from the University of South Florida.
She has volunteered her time and expertise on various boards, including recently serving on the Washington Society for Association Excellence (WSAE) DEI Task Force, the Homeward Pet Board of Directors, and the Human Services Commission for her city.
Raquel Nelson, Managing Principal, Baker Tilly LLP
Kelly Nelson, CPA, is the Managing Principal of the Seattle Business Unit of Baker Tilly Advisory Group. Her role in leading is to elevate, empower, celebrate and provide opportunities to the members of her team. She is passionate about creating a culture of inclusion and belonging and thoroughly embracing the diversity of thought that comes with professionals being their authentic selves in the workplace. Additionally, Kelly serves ultra-high-net worth individuals, family businesses and family offices. She demonstrates a rare ability to develop and maintain an overall plan for the family while preserving harmony among family members and across the generations.
Sarah Funk, CFO
Sarah Funk, CPA, CGMA, has more than 20 years of multi-national financial, operations, technology and telecommunication experience spanning accounting, budgeting and finance, compliance, audit, system implementations, transaction activities, money transfer services and public accounting. She was the Chief Financial Officer at Ben Franklin Transit. Sarah is an active member of various civic and community revitalization efforts. In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.
Member Price $0.00