Outstanding Member Volunteer.

In recognition of the years of service, time and expertise he has given to The Ohio Society of CPAs, J. Matthew Yuskewich, CPA has been named the inaugural winner of the Outstanding Member Volunteer Award.

The Outstanding Member Volunteer Award is given to an Ohio Society member who exemplifies the best in volunteer service within The Ohio Society of CPAs, demonstrating leadership through their commitment, contribution and responsibility for events, activities or committees of The Ohio Society.

"I was surprised and honored when I found out I had won this award," Yuskewich said. "It means a lot to have visible recognition of my time spent with the Society; to see that my efforts are valued by other leaders and members."

Yuskewich has been instrumental in a number of advocacy successes in tax reform. He frequently testifies before Ohio House and Senate committees on behalf of The Ohio Society, offering expert opinion to legislators on a variety of tax issues.

Some of his most important testimony was during the development of the tax reform legislation signed into law in 2005. "It was encouraging to see the personal property tax set to phase out. Removing this barrier for business was a positive move for Ohio. I love when something is a win for both Ohio and the profession."

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Yuskewich has also worked closely with The Ohio Society to bring more uniformity to Ohio's municipal tax system. His work with the Society led him to join the Ohio Municipal League. "There are still some things to be done to make Ohio a better place to do business," Yuskewich said. "But it has already been beneficial to me both personally and professionally."

Through his involvement with the Society's Tax Policy Committee, Yuskewich is on the front lines in monitoring any attempts to amend the commercial activities tax or institute a sales tax on professional services in Ohio. On the federal level, monitoring the alternative minimum tax and the licensing of tax preparers remain hot topics.

Yuskewich is also wrapping up a three-year term with the AICPA's IRS Policy and Procedures Committee. This group meets three times a year to advise the top policy makers in the country and provide insight on the small firm environment.

In addition to testifying before legislators, Yuskewich has also been heavily involved in the endorsement process.

Yuskewich chaired the Society's very first Endorsement Committtee, and continued to lead the group for the next five election cycles. "We endorse the candidates who best represent the Society and its members," Yuskewich said. "People come to us seeking an endorsement because we're a significant body in Ohio."

The strength of the Ohio CPA/PAC contributes to the political clout of Ohio CPAs. Yuskewich serves on the Board of Trustees of this important body. "The CPA/PAC is an indication that members' voices are being heard."

Through all of his involvement, Yuskewich has seen the return on his investment. "I give up my time, but I get back much more in terms of relationships with people, knowledge gained and the feeling that I've made an impact."

J. Matthew Yuskewich, CPA