Home and family
Norfolk with two furry cats; my son Jason lives and works in Virginia Beach, and my mother and sister live on the Peninsula, where I grew up.
What you do in your job
I help building owners save income taxes through a depreciation strategy called cost segregation. My team of CPAs and engineers basically dissect property into pieces that depreciate for taxes.
Education
BS in accounting, Old Dominion University.
Career progression
I worked for two of the Big 4 accounting firms for the first five years of my career. I came to Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer in 2000 as a tax supervisor. I was given the opportunity to take charge of our cost segregation department. 
Proudest business achievement
The completion of “The Practical Guide to Cost Segregation,” published by CCH in 2006.
Biggest factor in your success 
Having a dedicated team and the firm’s support.
Professional, business activities
Member of the American Society of Cost Segregation Professionals, the International Council of Shopping Centers, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Virginia Society of CPAs, Commercial Real Estate Women’s Network and the Hampton Roads Association for Commercial Real Estate. I co-chair the community service committee for the local CREW chapter and serve on the ASCSP Technical Standards Committee. 
Volunteer and community activities 
I volunteer with the United Way of South Hampton Roads, serving on subcommittees and as vice chair of the executive committee of the Young Leaders Society and as a member of the Women’s Leadership Council. I am also active with the WooHoo Sistahs, a nonprofit organization supporting the Susan G. Komen Foundation, American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and Walk for Hope, Samaritan House, Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia, Adopt-A-Soldier, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and The Joy Fund. 
How do you balance your time?
Family comes first. Everything else falls into place.
Biggest obstacles you have faced
There is still a gender barrier in the commercial real estate industry. Organizations like CREW help women bridge the gap through networking and mentoring.
How have you overcome some of your challenges?
Sometimes you just have to tough it out. Having a support network of people who believe in me helps a lot.
Professional goal in five years 
To grow and perfect our cost segregation practice.
Advice for women
Find a network of support. There are great women who are willing to show you the ropes and help you make connections.
Downtime Work out, travel, socialize.
What gets under your skin?
Bad drivers.