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A Look Back at the 2025 Annual Members Meeting & Awards Ceremony

June 26, 2025

On June 23, 2025, the OSCPA hosted its 107th Annual Members Meeting at The National Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This event was a success, drawing CPAs from across the state for a winning combination of education, networking, and celebrating the achievements of fellow members and colleagues. 

Education and Connections

This year's Annual Members Meeting dealt out a series of informative and engaging CPE sessions from educators and experts, including AICPA Chair Lexy Kessler, CPA. Attendees expanded their knowledge on various topics relevant to the accounting profession, including:

  • Changes in the U.S. and Global Economies in 2025, presented by Steven C. Agee, Ph.D., with Oklahoma City University
  • AI Technologies Update, presented by Hart Brown
  • The Profession Opportunity Update, presented by AICPA Chair Lexy Kessler, CPA 
  • Ethics in Today's World, presented by Jimmy Williams, CPA

In between sessions, members enjoyed exchanging ideas and building lasting connections. 

OSCPA Chair, Josh Elder, CPA and CEO, Blaine Peterson, CPA strike a pose with AICPA Chair, Lexy Kessler, CPA.

Passing the Baton

A highlight of the meeting was the formal handoff of the OSCPA Board of Directors' chairmanship. Josh Elder, CPA, was officially welcomed as the new chair, taking the reins from the outgoing chair, Ross McKinney, CPA. This transition marks a new chapter for the OSCPA, with Elder set to lead the organization with fresh energy and vision.

OSCPA past chair Ross McKinney, CPA, passing the baton to incoming Chair Josh Elder, CPA, at the OSCPA 107th Annual Members Meeting

The Future is Bright

The OSCPA's Annual Members Meeting was a reminder of the importance of continuous learning and professional development. It also doubled down on the value of strong leadership and the bonds that connect CPAs in our communities across Oklahoma.

With Chair Josh Elder, CPA, leading us forward, the OSCPA is poised to continue its mission of supporting and advancing the accounting profession in the state. The enthusiasm and engagement displayed at this year's event display our vibrant and dedicated membership.

This year's event was a success blending education, networking, and celebration in a way that left attendees feeling excited for the year ahead. As the organization moves forward, it does so with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence in the accounting profession. 

Much like The National Building itself, the OSCPA is poised for an iconic future while also appreciating and celebrating our rich history.

Unbeatable Combination of Support

Thank you to our sponsors—Alliant (formerly 3000 Insurance Group), EMSCO Solutions, Oklahoma State Treasurer, Oklahoma Accountancy Board, IBG/Bluestem, Essential Offices, Ryan Tax, and Senior Resources & Benefits, LLC—whose support made the OSCPA's 107th Annual Members Meeting a resounding success.  

Thank you for your generous contributions and unwavering commitment to the accounting profession. 

We proudly recognized our top members during the 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony, too. 

Honorees were celebrated for their exceptional commitment and dedication to the accounting profession, demonstrating the highest standards of excellence and leadership within the industry and the state of Oklahoma.

The ceremony opened with a warm welcome from OSCPA Chair Josh Elder, CPA, who highlighted the organization’s dedication to celebrating excellence and fostering growth in the accounting profession. The room was filled with camaraderie, creating a vibrant atmosphere of appreciation and inspiration.

OSCPA Chair Josh Elder, CPA, welcomed attendees to the Annual Awards Ceremony.

“Our award recipients reflect the best parts of the accounting profession,” said OSCPA President and CEO Blaine Peterson, CPA, JD. “Their leadership, integrity, and service make a real difference in our field and in the communities they serve. We’re proud to recognize their contributions.”

During this year's event, the OSCPA celebrated the following professionals: 

  • 30-Year Members
  • 40-Year Members
  • 50-Year Members
  • Silver Pen Award
    • Ara Grigorian, CPA
  • Gold Pen Award
    • Haley Legg, CPA
  • Outstanding Member in Business and Industry
    • Lori Ehardt, CPA
  • Outstanding Accounting Educator 
    • Rachel Domnick, CPA
  • Rick Kells Outstanding Tax Professional
    • Steve Milam, CPA
  • Trailblazers
    • Chris Copeland, CPA
    • Jenny Cripps, CPA
    • Ryon Fields, CPA
    • Yamila Pons, CPA
    • Anant Singhal, CPA
  • Pathfinders
    • Paul Hartog, CPA
    • Anita Holloway, CPA
    • Mark Neumeister, CPA
    • Chuck Rahill, CPA
    • Melinda Stinnett, CPA
  • Public Service Award
    • Anita Holloway, CPA
  • Accounting Hall of Fame Inductee
    • Randy Thurman, CPA

(Left) OSCPA Chair Josh Elders, CPA, congratulates award winners.

(Bottom middle) Oklahoma City Chapter strikes a pose with Board Members to celebrate award winners.

(Right) OSCPA Director at Large Ashley Fogle, CPA, recaps Educational Foundation scholarships.

One of the afternoon's most anticipated moments was the announcement and presentation of the OSCPA's 2025 Accounting Hall of Fame inductee. This year's honoree has set a new standard for the profession through his personal and professional achievements, and community involvement. 

Congratulations to Randy Thurman, CPA, on being named this year's 2025 Accounting Hall of Fame Award winner! 

In his acceptance speech, Thurman expressed gratitude for the support received throughout his journey and underscored the importance of appreciating the community of friends and fellow CPAs around you. 

OSCPA Past Chair, Ross McKinney, CPA, presenting the Accounting Hall of Fame Award to Randy Thurman, CPA.


The Annual Awards Ceremony once again underscored the vital role that accountants play in shaping businesses, communities, and economies. The event served as a testament to the remarkable achievements of professionals who continually strive for excellence while inspiring the next generation of accountants to follow suit. 

(Top Left) Gold Pen Award winner, Haley Legg, CPA

(Top Right) Silver Pen Award Winner, Ara Grigorian, CPA

(Lower Left) The 2025 Pathfinders:  Mark Neumeister, CPA; Anita Holloway, CPA; Paul Hartog, CPA; Melinda Stinnett, CPA

(Lower Right) The 2025 Trailblazers: Yamila Pons, CPA, Ryon Fields, CPA, Chris Copeland, CPA, Jenny Cripps, CPA, Anant Singhal, CPA

OSCPA members celebrate during and mingle the 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony.

Thank you to our award sponsor, EMSCO Solutions, and event supporters, Goodytwos Company, Eide Bailly CPAs, CCK Strategies, Arledge CPAs, and Retirement Investment Advisors, for your support of this event! 

Photos of the event can be downloaded for free here. Thank you all for celebrating with us and congratulations again to our 2025 award winners!