2007 40 Under 40 Honoree: Barbara J. Houser

As a certified public accountant and supervisor at Kirkpatrick, Phillips & Miller, CPAs PC, Barbara J. Houser is responsible for planning and supervising audit and tax engagements for clients.

“I specialize in not-for-profit accounting, auditing and taxation,” Houser said. “My goal is to learn all I can about the clients I work with so I may assist them in making sound financial decisions for their business.”

Houser, who also helps shareholders with hiring, training and mentoring of new staff, said she got her most valuable professional advice from Mike Phillips, a member of the firm’s management team, who said, “In this profession, all you have is your integrity; never let it down.”

Her job experience is useful, too, when it comes to serving the community.

“As an active board member of several local charities, I have the opportunity to assist executive directors in making financial decisions that impact many families as well as making Springfield a better community,” Houser said. Her volunteer work assists several organizations, including The Victim Center, Habitat for Humanity, Natural History Museum of the Ozarks and Relay for Life.

“I have had the opportunity to contact our state and local representatives about increasing cancer research and awareness to the public,” she added. “Also, I work with a firm that is active in over 100 charitable and civic organizations.”

Serving the community is a family objective for Houser, who has been married to her husband, Brett, for nine years. They have two children, Audra, 5, and Jackson, 2.

“Although a work-life balance is not always easy, I choose to be involved in community organizations where my husband and two small children can also serve,” she said. “This allows us to spend time together as a family but also teaches my children the importance of helping others.”

Stats

Position: Supervisor, Kirkpatrick, Phillips & Miller CPAs PC

Age: 33

Favorite professional sports team: St. Louis Cardinals

A quote to live by: “Work like you don’t need money, love like you’ve never been hurt and dance like no one’s watching.” – Crystal Boyd

Information accurate at the time of the honor.[[In-content Ad]]