Kristine Thompson, CPA, ABV “No matter what happens or how bad it seems today, life does go on and it will be better tomorrow.” ~Maya Angelou

Kristine Thompson, CPA, ABV, a tax manager with Eide Bailly LLP in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, thought her test-taking days were over when she passed the CPA exam, but after practicing in public accounting for two years, a partner encouraged her to attempt the Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV) exam. “After having a difficult time passing the

last part of the CPA exam, I was afraid to fail again,” Thompson said. “With the help and expertise of my peers in the Eide Bailly LLP business valuation department, preparing many valuations and studying many hours I was able to pass the exam.” “I not only did this for myself, but also

to add value to our clients’ experiences,” Thompson said. “This has helped clients who are looking to sell their business—either to family members or to outside buyers who want to continue the successful business venture.” “Kristine actively seeks out new and

challenging projects while completely taking ownership of those projects,” said Gregory Jones, CPA, CVA, a tax partner with Eide Bailly LLP in Oklahoma City. “She has demonstrated time and time again that she is highly motivated and dedicated to achieving excellence.” Thompson, an OSCPA member for three

years, is a member of the Oil and Gas Committee. Additionally, she volunteers with

the OU Medicine Corporate Challenge and Junior Achievement. “To me, the most important way of

volunteering is through Junior Achievement,” Thompson added. “Junior Achievement’s purpose is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy.” “Each class I have volunteered in is

different and special in the best way possible,” Thompson said. “Not only am I making a positive impact on them, but they help me remember not to be nervous and that we can have fun learning.” Thompson said her most fulfilling

experience she had teaching was with a fourth grade class at Parmalee Elementary School in Oklahoma City. “One kid in particular did not want to

participate so the teacher made him sit in the back of the room to deter interruptions,” Thompson said. “I made sure he joined the group activities and called on him to answer questions.” At the end of the class, the student told

Thompson he wanted to be an accountant and hugged her in front of the class. Thompson said, “It is my greatest joy

knowing I can help try to change the lives of children to help them become a better people.”

kristine’s Trail mix

One thing I won’t be caught doing is: Eating bugs for money (Fear Factor)

If you could have any animal, what would you have? A penguin

Have you ever met anyone famous? Jamea Jackson, a retired professional tennis player

26 CPAFOCUS March/April 2016

If you could have an endless supply of anything, what would it be? Spring-like warm weather without the tornadoes