JAMES DENTON, CPA/PFS, CGMA, started his career singing to a different tune. Denton initially earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from


the University of Central Oklahoma and spent time teaching music classes and directing band in the public school system. Two years later, he redirected his career and decided to obtain a second bachelor’s degree in accounting. Denton worked as a part-time music teacher while he worked toward his accounting degree. When he earned his accounting degree in 1984, he also reached another milestone moment—he joined Arledge & Associates, P.C., the firm that has shaped his entire career. In his almost 40-year career, Denton has become a standout leader


and is a true example of what it means to work diligently toward a marathon career, placing no ceiling on his success. “Success will not just rain upon you,” Denton said. “It takes skill,


creativity and hard work to find your way.” Denton has not only been a leader and mentor to new CPAs, but


to OSCPA members in all areas as a CPE speaker. In fact, Denton’s session, Ethics Takes Practice: Learning Trough Historical Example, was adapted to an article for CPAFOCUS and won the 2019 Silver Pen Award – honoring the OSCPA’s top contributing writers. He advises new CPAs to get comfortable speaking and writing to become a master communicator. “Take every chance to speak and write,” Denton said. “When you


write an article, turn it into a speech or presentation. If you get asked to speak, turn that speech into a publishable article.” Tat is not the only advice he has for future leaders of the profession.


JAMES DENTON, CPA/PFS, CGMA ARLEDGE & ASSOCIATES, P.C.


PARTNER EMERITUS/WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISOR


Other tips include honing your people skills, adapting to new technology, becoming a life-long learner, being courageous, showing gratitude and having fun along the way. “Learn new subjects at a rapid pace. Be the one who starts new


practice areas for your firm,” Denton said. “Invest your time in learning from online tutorials, training materials and knowledge bases.” Most importantly, he advises all those looking for success to stay true to their core values and stay positive. “It’s no secret that your career as a CPA will be financially rewarding,”


Denton said. “It is an amazing profession for those who want to give back to their community, to help others and be a catalyst for change in the world.”


OSCPA CONTRIBUTIONS Director at Large


Educational Foundation (Chair)


Governmental Accounting & Auditing Committee (Chair) Liaison with Educational Institutions Committee Oil & Gas Committee


Personal Financial Planning Resource Pool Professional Ethics Committee


Small Firms Practitioners Committee (Chair) Nominating Committee


COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Edmond Chamber of Commerce - Chairman of the Board/ Executive Committee


Oklahoma Venture Forum – Board Member State of Oklahoma Inventive Evaluation Commission


PROFESSIONAL DEDICATION AICPA Member


KEY AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS OSCPA Silver Pen Award (2021)


8 CPAFOCUS May/June 2022


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