McConnell & Jones LLP (MJ) is pleased to announce the selection of Partner, Odysseus Lanier, CPA, as chairman of the Division of Firms (DOF).
As the third largest African-American owned CPA firm in the United States, MJ is a proud member of DOF, which consists of the top African-American certified public accounting firms in the United States. The DOF provides member firms with a forum to network with other minority firms and share opportunities for education, professional development, and advocacy within the accounting profession.
Lanier, a certified public accountant with more than 38 years of experience, is committed to encouraging and mentoring others the accounting profession; both as individual practitioners and CPA firms operating as general partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and limited liability corporations. When asked about his new role, Lanier responded, “I look forward to chairing the Division of Firms this year and working with other practice leaders to implement our mission: to serve as the premier organization and collective voice of African-American owned CPA firms throughout the United States whose primary goal is to develop, nurture, and promote business development, professional education, advocacy, and mentorship.”
In addition to leading MJ’s risk advisory practice, Lanier is passionate about community service. He currently chairs the fundraising committee for the St. James Episcopal Church Annual Chili Cook-Off and serves on the board of directors of the Joe Sample Youth Organization. He also serves as an independent director on the Parkview Capital Credit, Inc. Board of Directors where he chairs the governance and nominating committee.
“Odysseus brings a wealth of knowledge the Division of Firms and has been a great resource to the organization for years,” said Managing Partner and DOF member, Wayne McConnell. “His perspective as a practice leader for our firm will be immensely valuable to other member organizations.”