This week’s honoree is our newly installed MSA President for the 2021-22 year, Melissa Downs. Melissa has been a member of the organization for 10 years. She is the 3rd generation of Downs at Midwest Bookkeeping in Raytown, Mo.
Melissa received her BSBA in Finance and Economics from the University of Missouri- Columbia in 2006, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Missouri- Kansas City in 2009. She is an Enrolled Agent (EA), Accredited Business Accountant (ABA), Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP). When asked about her best educational experience she replied that first “education never stops!” and 2nd “finding a group of people in MSA has allowed me to learn and grow from established members.”
In her position with Midwest Bookkeeping, Melissa assists in preparation of individual income tax returns, prepares accounting records and payroll returns for our business clients, and maintains the social media outlets and website information. She has worked hard to provide virtual tax planning & solutions for individuals and businesses. This virtual planning that has gone on for several years proved to be very helpful during the pandemic.
Melissa says her most important skill is communication. She stated, “you must be able to communicate with clients while keeping boundaries know your worth!!” Her greatest accomplishment is passing the EA exam and having other members seek out her opinion even when she feels like a newbie.
Melissa’s favorite tip is “find a mentor- ask every question you have, and never stop learning.” With that we move into a new year with Melissa leading the way with a cup a coffee and her laptop, the two things she cannot live without.