Category: Press Releases

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Memphis, TN Press Releases

ATA Names New Partner – Memphis, TN

Memphis, Tenn. – September 15, 2025 – ATA is proud to announce the promotion of Brian Weber, CPA, to Partner. Known for his practical approach to tax strategy and strong expertise, Brian has been a valued team member and trusted resource for clients throughout his career. 

Based in Memphis, Brian works with private clients, family-owned businesses, and corporate clients on a wide range of tax matters. He brings more than nine years of public accounting experience along with time in private industry, where he managed federal and state compliance for a complex business structure. His areas of expertise include multistate & federal income tax planning, and business and individual income tax services with a concentration in real estate and construction.

“Brian is a trusted advisor who brings strong technical skills and a practical approach to client service,” said Partner Terryl Viner. “He’s a natural leader and a great fit for the future of our firm.” 

Brian earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Memphis. He is a Certified Public Accountant and an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants. 

“I’m honored to step into this new role,” said Weber. “I’m grateful for the trust of our team and our clients, and I look forward to continuing to serve both with excellence.” 

To connect with Brian, contact ATA’s Memphis office at 901-684-1170.

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About ATA 

ATA is a regional advisory firm helping clients thrive through services that go far beyond traditional accounting. From financial planning and IT to digital marketing and M&A consulting, ATA brings integrated expertise to every stage of the business journey. 

Recognized as an IPA Top 150 firm, ATA serves clients across the Southeast and beyond. The firm is also an independent alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting network. 

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Press Releases

ATA WINS CLEARLYRATED’S 2024 BEST OF ACCOUNTING AWARD FOR SERVICE EXCELLENCE

Jackson, TN – September 24, 2024 – ATA, a leading accounting firm, announced today that they have won the Best of Accounting Award for providing quality service to their clients. ClearlyRated’s Best of Accounting® Award winners have proven to be industry leaders in service quality based entirely on ratings provided by their clients. On average, clients of 2024 Best of Accounting winners are [1.5 times as likely OR 50% more likely] to be satisfied than those who work with non-winning firms. ATA received satisfaction scores of 9 or 10 out of 10 from 82.9% of their clients, significantly higher than the industry’s average of 56% in 2023.

“Being honored for our commitment to best serve our clients exemplifies our team’s hard work and dedication,” said Managing Partner John Whybrew. “We’re proud to receive ClearlyRated’s Best of Accounting Award.”

“I’m so excited to introduce the 2024 Best of Accounting winners alongside their verified ratings and reviews on ClearlyRated.com,” said ClearlyRated’s CEO, Eric Gregg. “Faced with another challenging year in 2023, these firms proved their commitment to providing outstanding experiences and superior service. They’re raising the bar for excellence and I couldn’t be more proud to celebrate their success – cheers to you all!”

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About ATA

ATA, recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, has provided a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and advisory services for clients primarily located in the Southeast ranging from small family-owned businesses to international corporations. Headquartered in Jackson, Tennessee since 1940, ATA has approximately 250 employees across 16 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi and Georgia. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

ATA guides its clients towards success by providing advisory services that are not traditionally associated with the accounting industry. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; ATA Digital focuses on growth through the design and development of digital applications and marketing products such as video, social media, and digital content for businesses; ATA Capital is an investment banking firm dedicated to providing clients with M&A brokerage services; and ATA Employment Solutions is a human resource management consulting agency.

About ClearlyRated

Rooted in satisfaction research for professional service firms, ClearlyRated utilizes a Net Promoter® Score survey program to help professional service firms measure their service experience, build online reputation, and differentiate on service quality. Learn more at https://www.clearlyrated.com/solutions/.

About Best of Accounting™
ClearlyRated’s Best of Accounting® Award recognizes accounting firms that have demonstrated exceptional service quality based exclusively on ratings provided by their clients and employees. The award program provides statistically valid and objective service quality benchmarks for the accounting industry, revealing which firms deliver the highest quality client and employee experience. Winners are featured on ClearlyRated.com—an online business directory that helps buyers of professional services find service leaders and vet prospective firms with the help of validated client ratings and testimonials.

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Press Releases

ATA Names Chief Financial Officer

ATA appoints Clay Crockett as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead strategic financial planning, forecasting, and analysis in support of ATA’s long-term objectives.

With over 15 years of experience in both public accounting and the private sector, Clay brings expertise in strengthening financial internal controls, budgeting & forecasting, business process improvement, software system implementations and risk management.

“We welcome Clay to our senior executive team,” said Managing Partner John Whybrew. “His experience in financial management and strategic planning makes him a great addition to ATA. We look forward to his contributions to our continued growth and success.”

A Certified Public Accountant, Clay is an active member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs (TSCPA) where he currently serves on the Legislative Committee for 2024-2025 and previously was past president of the West TN Chapter. Clay is a member of the American Institute of CPAs. With a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, he has demonstrated his commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in his field.

In 2019, Clay was honored with the Distinguished Leadership Award by the Association of Leadership Programs, recognizing his exceptional contributions and leadership.His community involvement includes board memberships with the Rotary Club of Jackson and Trinity Christian Academy, as well as participation in their finance committees. Clay resides in Jackson, TN with his family and spends free time visiting State & National Parks, tinkering on DIY projects around the house, and laughing at the latest viral video with his daughter.

Clay holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee at Martin. He also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management with a minor in Economics from Lambuth University. Additionally, he graduated from the Barret School of Banking in Memphis, TN, in May 2011.

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About ATA

ATA is an advisory firm that works with clients on all aspects of their business needs. ATA guides its clients towards success by providing consulting services that are not traditionally associated with the accounting industry. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; ATA Digital focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products as well as offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; ATA Capital is an investment banking firm dedicated to providing clients with M&A brokerage services; and lastly, ATA Employment Solutions is a comprehensive human resource management agency.

ATA has 16 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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Press Releases

ATA ANNOUNCES DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

ATA ANNOUNCES DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

ATA welcomes Natasha Pennington to their leadership team as the firm’s Director of Human Resources. Bringing more than 15 years of personnel experience to her role, Natasha will execute human resource strategies in support of the overall business plan and strategic direction of the firm, specifically in the areas of employee relations, compliance, HR administration, recruitment & talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, performance management, and HR technology.

“Natasha is an effective communicator and possesses many great qualities for her role at ATA,” said John Whybrew, managing partner of ATA. “I am confident Natasha will be a tremendous asset to help manage our team and streamline our operations.”

Previously, Natasha was an HR Manager with ATA Employment Solutions, ATA’s human resource management partner. Natasha’s career has provided ample opportunity for learning and development.  She is a member of The Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and is a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). She is also a member of the West Tennessee SHRM chapter (WTSHRM).

“I am passionate about people and learning what motivates them in their careers,” said Pennington. “I’m excited to be part of ATA to support and further develop its human resource strategies.”

Natasha earned a Master of Science degree in Human Resources as well as a Graduate Certificate in Organizational Leadership and Human Resources Management from Chapman University System. She also received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Industry Analysis from the University of Redlands.

Natasha received the Volunteer of the Year award in 2016 for her active involvement with Canine Support Teams and their Pawz for Wounded Veterans program. She previously served on the Obion County Chamber of Commerce board in 2020/2021. She is a graduate of the Class of 2019 Adult Leadership Obion County and currently serves on the board as vice president.

Pennington moved to Tennessee from Southern California in 2017. Natasha said, “My husband and I love Tennessee, and we love living and working in Obion County. Moving to Tennessee is one of the best decisions we have ever made!”

Natasha values her faith and family above all, but in her free time, she enjoys fishing, hiking, kayaking, working on her hobby farm, and doing anything adventurous or outdoors.

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About ATA

ATA is an advisory firm that works with clients on all aspects of their business needs. ATA guides its clients towards success by providing consulting services that are not traditionally associated with the accounting industry. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; ATA Digital focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products as well as offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; ATA Capital is an investment banking firm dedicated to providing clients with M&A brokerage services; and lastly, ATA Employment Solutions is a comprehensive human resource management agency.

ATA has 16 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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Milan, TN Press Releases

ATA WELCOMES NEW PARTNER – MILAN, TN

ATA WELCOMES NEW PARTNER

MILAN, TN. — ATA adds Miles Anderson, CPA to its partner group, effective January 1, 2024.

Miles began his career at ATA over ten years ago. He has worked in a variety of industries but has created a focus in ERISA audits and tax services for individuals and businesses.  As partner, he will help lead the Milan location and be responsible for meeting client’s needs and goals as well as mentoring and providing professional development to others in the firm.

“Congratulations to Miles on his contributions and hard work,” said Managing Partner John Whybrew. “Exciting times are ahead for him and the future of our firm. Without a doubt, Miles will make a positive impact in his new role.”

“I’m thankful and excited for the opportunity to take the next step to grow professionally in my career,” said Miles Anderson.  “The leadership of ATA has done an exceptional job in mentoring me and instilling core values important to our firm that revolve around customer relationships. I look forward to what the future holds at ATA.”

Miles received his Bachelor of Science in accounting from Christian Brothers University and his Masters of Accountancy from Tennessee Tech University. He is a member of the Member of First United Methodist Church of Milan, TN as well as a founding board member and graduate of Gibson County Leadership Alumni Association.

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About ATA

ATA is an advisory firm that works with clients on all aspects of their business needs. ATA guides its clients towards success by providing consulting services that are not traditionally associated with the accounting industry. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; ATA Digital focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products as well as offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; ATA Capital is an investment banking firm dedicated to providing clients with M&A brokerage services; and lastly, ATA Employment Solutions is a comprehensive human resource management agency.

ATA has 16 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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Memphis, TN Press Releases

ATA NAMES NEW PARTNER – MEMPHIS, TN

ATA NAMES NEW PARTNER

MEMPHIS, TN. – ATA, a regional accounting firm, names Diane Sparks, CPA as the newest partner effective January 1, 2024. With more than 15 years of experience, Diane will help lead the assurance practice in the Memphis, TN office.

As a certified public accountant specializing in  attest work, Diane brings a wealth of expertise to her new leadership role. As a partner, Diane will have several important responsibilities such as client relationship management, guidance for client success, and mentoring others on the ATA team.

“Diane’s promotion to partner signifies her dedication, expertise, and commitment to ATA’s success,” said Managing Partner John Whybrew. “It’s a significant achievement in her career, and her contributions will further strengthen ATA’s position in the industry.”

“This marks an important milestone in my professional life and am thankful for the support and guidance I have received from ATA leadership and staff throughout my career,” said Diane. “I look forward to the ongoing opportunity to work with our clients to help them meet their requirements.”

Diane received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis in 2005. She sat for the CPA exam and obtained her license in 2010. Apart from her professional life, Diane spends quality time with her husband and two children. Her interests are cake decorating and drawing, and she has a passion for traveling to the mountains. Additionally, Diane enjoys singing and actively participates in her church’s worship team.

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About ATA

ATA is an advisory firm that works with clients on all aspects of their business needs. ATA guides its clients towards success by providing consulting services that are not traditionally associated with the accounting industry. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; ATA Digital focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products as well as offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; ATA Capital is an investment banking firm dedicated to providing clients with M&A brokerage services; and lastly, ATA Employment Solutions is a comprehensive human resource management agency.

ATA has 16 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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Memphis, TN Merger News Press Releases TN

MERGER UNITES MEMPHIS ACCOUNTING FIRM WITH ATA CPAs + ADVISORS PLLC

ATA CPAs + Advisors PLLC

227 Oil Well Rd.

Jackson, TN 38305

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

MERGER UNITES MEMPHIS ACCOUNTING FIRM WITH ATA CPAs + ADVISORS PLLC

Memphis, TN. — Regional accounting firm ATA CPAs + Advisors PLLC (ATA) is adding to its West Tennessee presence through a merger with Whitehorn Tankersley & Davis, PLLC (WTD), effective January 1, 2024.

The merger with WTD adds 18 professionals to the ATA team, including Partners Lee Hood and Jeff Hunter as well as Principal Steve Davis. With this merger, ATA will be comprised of 240 employees and 16 locations across four states.

“As a firm our primary focus remains on our clients and our people. We believe that expanding our presence in the Memphis area through the addition of WTD is in line with that focus. With this merger we are adding valuable team members who can help us further expand the opportunities to better serve clients of both firms,” said Managing Partner John Whybrew. “ATA has been built on the principle of always looking for ways to improve and evolve. We believe that expanding our presence in the growing Memphis market and Covington area are another step in that evolution.”

WTD’s 47 years of expertise ranges from tax preparation and accounting services to more in-depth services such as audits, financial statements, and financial planning. It is a premier firm for trust and estate tax reporting.

“We chose to combine practices with ATA because of our common emphasis on serving clients and our core values,” Partner Lee Hood expressed. “As we integrate with ATA, this merger will enhance our capacity to expand our team and strengthen our commitment to addressing clients’ needs. This empowers us to offer customized business strategies that benefit their personal and professional objectives.”

 

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About ATA CPAs + Advisors PLLC (ATA)

ATA is a long-term business advisor to its clients and provides other services that are not traditionally associated with accounting. The ATA Family of Firms consists of a team of experts that can benefit every area of your business. Adelsberger Marketing offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; ATAES is a comprehensive human resource management agency; ATA Secure provides cybersecurity services; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; Revolution Partners provides financial planning expertise; and Sodium Halogen focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products.

ATA has 16 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and advisory services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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Murray, KY Press Releases

ATA CPAs + Advisors Names New Partner

Murray, KY. — Congratulations to Ty Ellegood on being named the newest partner at ATA, a nationally recognized CPA and advisory firm. With over seven years of dedicated service in the public accounting industry, Ty has proven to be a valuable asset to the firm, helping lead the Murray, KY. office.

As a certified public accountant specializing in tax and audit, Ty brings a wealth of expertise to his new leadership role. In his capacity as a partner, he will have several important responsibilities such as client relationship management, guidance for client success, mentoring and providing professional development to others on the ATA team.

“Ty’s promotion to partner signifies his dedication, expertise, and commitment to ATA’s success,” said Managing Partner John Whybrew. “It’s a significant achievement in his career, and his contributions will undoubtedly further strengthen ATA’s position in the industry. His clients and colleagues can look forward to continued excellence in service and leadership.”

“I feel very fortunate to be honored with this exciting career advancement and am thankful for the support and guidance I have received from the ATA partners and staff throughout my career,” said Ty. “I look forward to the ongoing opportunity to deliver outstanding service while accommodating the diverse requirements of our clients.”

Ty received both his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting/Information Systems and Master of Business Administration from Murray State University. During this time, Ty interned with ATA and upon graduation in 2016, he joined the firm full-time. Since then, he has earned both his Certified Public Accountant and Certified Management Accountant designations. Ty is devoted to meeting the needs of his clients and managing relationships while serving the Murray area through his personal and professional endeavors.

Ty has been married to his beautiful wife, Lauren, since 2017. Together, they have one son, Hank, who keeps them on their toes. Ty enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as watching and playing a variety of sports.

As a Murray State alum, Ty is an active participant in the Murray community. He serves as Treasurer for the Murray-Calloway County Need Line and is an active member of the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce and Westside Baptist Church.

 

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ATA CPAs + Advisors PLLC

ATA is a long-term business advisor to its clients and provides other services that are not traditionally associated with accounting. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; ATA Digital focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products as well as offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; and ATA Employment Solutions is a comprehensive human resource management agency.

ATA has 15 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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Press Releases

ATA CPAs & Advisors Names New Partner

ATA CPAs & ADVISORS ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNER

Union City, Tenn. — ATA, a nationally recognized CPA and advisory firm, names Charles Peery as the newest partner. Peery helps lead the Union City, Tenn. office and has been with ATA for over seven years. Charles is a certified public accountant, specializing in tax and audit. In his new leadership role, Charles will be responsible for managing client relationships, helping guide those clients to future success, and also helping ATA team members further their professional careers. 

“Charles has shown great success in cultivating relationships with clients as well as being a rising community leader, said John Whybrew, Managing Partner of ATA. “I commend him on his growth and commitment to ATA.” 

“I am excited to be a part of a firm with such a long legacy of providing clients with professional excellence,” said Peery. “Our existing partner group, and those that came before, provided a great example of how to service our clients through intentional relationships and seeking continuous innovation. I look forward to what the future holds at ATA.” 

Peery received his undergraduate degree in business administration in accounting from the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2015. Peery has been married to his wife Kylie since 2013. Together, they have four children, Miloh, Madix, Carlisle, and Carisse, who keep them busy with church, school, sports, dance, singing, and pageants. 

Peery is the board chair and prior treasurer for United Way of Obion County, board member for the Obion County Chamber of Commerce, board of directors member for the Global Citizen Adventure Corps, and member as well as former board member of Kiwanis Club of Union City. Charles was recognized in the past as one of Obion County’s young professionals 31 under 31, he is a graduate of Obion County Leadership, and is a recent graduate of the WestStar Leadership Program.

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ATA PLLC

ATA is a long-term business advisor to its clients and provides other services that are not traditionally associated with accounting. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; Sodium Halogen focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products; Adelsberger Marketing offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; and ATA Employment Solutions is a comprehensive human resource management agency.

 ATA has 15 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.

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News Press Releases

ALEXANDER THOMPSON ARNOLD NAMES NEW PARTNER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information contact:

Alexis Long, Marketing Director

731-427-8571

along@atacpa.net 

Jackson, Tenn., September 22, 2022 – Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC (ATA), a business advisory and CPA firm, is pleased to announce Lori Warden, CPA, CGMA will be joining the firm as an assurance partner.

Warden has a wealth of knowledge with more than 30 years of experience in the assurance field including a background in peer review. She will be the Assurance Practice Leader in her new role with ATA. Warden is a Certified Public Accountant as well as a Chartered Global Management Accountant. She received her undergraduate degree in accounting from Marshall University.

“Adding Lori to the ATA team will strengthen our bench of expertise in the assurance area,” says Managing Partner, John Whybrew. “With her extensive background, Lori is well positioned to play an integral role in growing and expanding the Assurance Services offered within ATA.”

Lori previously held positions on the Kentucky Board of Accountancy as secretary, treasurer, and president. She is also a former Kentucky Society of CPA’s Board Member, chair of the Kentucky Society Education Foundation, and AICPA Peer Review Board Member.

“I am excited to become a partner at such an outstanding firm. I look forward to the hard work and am excited to assume more responsibility through the advancement of the practice,” said Warden.

Lori and her family live in Kentucky just outside of Cincinnati, Ohio. Warden is currently treasurer for South West Ohio Residences, a local non-profit. She is also married and has a daughter, who is a nurse in the ICU.

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About Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC (ATA)

ATA is a long-term business advisor to its clients and provides other services that are not traditionally associated with accounting. For example, Revolution Partners, ATA’s wealth management entity provides financial planning expertise; ATA Technologies provides trustworthy IT solutions; Sodium Halogen focuses on growth through the design and development of marketing and digital products; Adelsberger Marketing offers video, social media, and digital content for small businesses; and ATAES a comprehensive human resource management agency.

ATA has 15 office locations in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. Recognized as an IPA Top 200 regional accounting firm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations. ATA is also an alliance member of BDO USA LLP, a top five global accounting firm, which provides additional resources and expertise for clients.