November 05, 2025
TXCPA’s 2025 Rising Stars
By DeLynn Deakins, Today’s CPA Managing Editor
TXCPA’s Rising Stars Program shines a spotlight on the next generation of leaders - CPA members 40 and under who are already making a big impact. From driving change in the accounting profession to serving their communities with passion, these individuals embody what it means to lead with purpose. After careful review, our selection committee has chosen 16 exceptional honorees for 2025. We’re proud to introduce this year’s Rising Stars, listed alphabetically.
Aarika Anderson, CPA | Senior Auditor | Atchley & Associates LLP | Austin
Aarika Anderson is making waves in the accounting profession, already having a remarkable impact through her dedication and leadership within TXCPA Austin. Even before earning her CPA license in February 2024, she demonstrated her commitment by serving on the chapter’s Oversight Council, ensuring the voices of students and candidates were heard in key discussions. Her insights helped spotlight the challenges and opportunities facing those entering the field.
She also played a pivotal role in Leaders Emerging in the Accounting Profession (LEAP), chairing the group and leading events that fostered connection, growth and professional development for early-career accountants. Now a licensed CPA, Aarika continues to grow her involvement in the organization. With her passion, vision and drive, she is poised to become one of the profession’s most influential young leaders.
Emily Baller, CPA | Senior Manager | Weaver and Tidwell LLP | Permian Basin
Emily Baller has a true passion for developing the next generation of CPAs. She considers one of her most significant business achievements to be enhancing her firm’s audit internship program, where she served as mentor and coach for new interns. Through weekly group meetings and one-on-one check-ins, Emily created a supportive environment that encouraged collaboration, problem-solving and professional growth. She guided each intern in mapping out their CPA journey. The result: stronger performance, lasting confidence and full-time offers for every intern she mentored.
Beyond her firm, Emily’s passion extends to TXCPA Permian Basin, where she helped create the Pathway to CPA program for University of Texas Permian Basin students. By developing step-by-step resources, timelines and application tools, she has made the road to licensure clearer and more accessible for aspiring CPAs.
Preston Branch, CPA | Instructor of Accounting | West Texas A&M University | Panhandle
When Preston Branch changed his major from marketing to accounting, he set a bold goal: to one day own a CPA firm with his name on the door. He began building toward that dream by gaining valuable experience at CMMS, CPAs and LPT CPAs + Advisors, where he developed the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to succeed. Along the way, he was guided by mentors who generously shared their tax knowledge and expertise.
In 2022, Preston embraced a new opportunity in academia, joining West Texas A&M University as an accounting instructor, teaching tax courses. While he found deep fulfillment in teaching, he realized he missed the direct client interaction. That insight led him to launch Branch CPA PLLC in January 2023. Today, Preston successfully balances both roles - helping clients navigate tax challenges and students prepare for their futures.
Heath Cochran, CPA, CVA | Partner | Myatt & Young CPAs LLC | Panhandle
Heath Cochran is a Partner at a Canyon, Texas firm whose career blends technical expertise with a strong commitment to client service. After earning his CPA license in 2015, he continued to advance professionally, achieving the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) designation in 2019 - positioning him as one of only a handful of professionals in the Texas Panhandle licensed to provide business valuation services.
Heath is also a committed leader within TXCPA Panhandle, having served on the board and as chapter President. His leadership helped guide the organization through key transitions and periods of growth. Beyond his professional contributions, Heath serves on the board of Fill With Hope/Canyon Snack Pak 4 Kids, an organization that works to ensure children in the Canyon Independent School District have access to nutritious food and the support they need to thrive.
Priyanka Desai, CPA | Partner | Adamson & Company LLC | Corpus Christi
Priyanka Desai is an extraordinary leader whose impact is felt across her firm, profession and community. At just 29, she became a partner at Adamson & Company, LLC, where she is recognized for her expertise, mentorship and commitment to developing future CPAs. As President of TXCPA Corpus Christi, she strengthened member engagement and expanded professional development by introducing innovative CPE opportunities such as Sunrise courses and extended luncheons. She has also chaired the CPE Committee and serves on multiple chapter committees, and she is a visible advocate for the profession through mentorship, advocacy and education outreach.
In the community, Priyanka champions charitable causes, including the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk and the “Counting on Santa” fundraiser. With her professional achievements, passion for service and dedication to lifting others, Priyanka Desai stands out as a Rising Star.
Anette Flores, CPA | Senior Client Advisory Services Manager | Sol Schwartz & Associates | San Antonio
Anette Flores first became involved with TXCPA San Antonio by volunteering with the chapter’s annual Funlympics. Her dedication led to an invitation to serve as a judge for Jr. Duel, a financial literacy competition for high school students hosted by the chapter. Inspired to do more, Anette took on leadership roles with the Accounting Careers & Education Committee, eventually becoming Chair and earning the Outstanding Committee Chair Award. Her journey with TXCPA San Antonio has only grown - she now serves as the Chapter President and is a member of the TXCPA Leadership Council and Emerging Professionals Advisory Board.
Beyond her work in accounting, Anette has embraced motherhood and a personal journey of fitness and wellness, completing her first 5K in personal record time and currently training for a Hyrox competition. Her commitment to balance and growth makes her a true inspiration.
Robert (Logan) Kendrick, CPA, ABV | Shareholder - Audit Partner | Thompson Derrig & Craig PC | Brazos Valley
Logan Kendrick joined Thompson Derrig & Craig PC in 2016 and became a shareholder in 2021, focusing on the firm’s audit practice. Known for his big-picture thinking and leadership, he has been deeply involved in TXCPA Brazos Valley, serving in several roles, including President. Logan helped the chapter create impactful events that significantly boosted student engagement at Texas A&M.
Logan also collaborated with accounting professors to develop meaningful content and launched a panel featuring CPAs from industry, public accounting and government, giving students valuable insight into the many paths within the profession and the CPA journey. He and his wife have four children and are active in their church. At home, Logan enjoys coaching his kids’ sports teams and tending their humble family farm in Franklin with chickens, bees and soon a milk cow.
Nicholas Larson, CPA | Owner | Larson CPA LLC | Fort Worth
Nicholas Larson has built a career defined by leadership, technical excellence and service. As owner of Larson CPA PLLC, he provides trusted tax and bookkeeping services to clients across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. His background includes experience at both national and local CPA firms, as well as serving as an Internal Revenue Agent with the IRS, underscoring his expertise and commitment to professional integrity.
As a member of TXCPA and AICPA, Nic actively supports fellow CPAs and champions the profession to the next generation. His passion for service extends into the community, where he serves on the Board of Trustees and Finance Committee for Hill School of Fort Worth, advancing education and financial literacy. He exemplifies the qualities of a leader making a lasting impact on both the profession and his community.
Nhu Le, CPA | Audit Associate | Doeren Mayhew | Houston
Nhu Le’s leadership journey with TXCPA Houston began as a Student Auxiliary officer, where she served for three years and capped her service as President. Always proactive, she earned her CPA license in March 2023 and quickly stepped into new leadership roles, including Chair of the Student Auxiliary Steering Committee, Vice Chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee, and active member of CPAs Helping Schools, the Scholarship Extravaganza and Membership Committees. She also encouraged her employer to support TXCPA Houston’s philanthropic programs and enroll at least one person in the leadership program each year.
On the Scholarship Extravaganza Committee, Nhu helped plan and execute the Gala in 2023 and 2024, boosting donations and expanding scholarships for accounting students. These efforts strengthened the CPA pipeline while honoring leaders in the profession, work she finds deeply rewarding.
Jeff Lindenmoyer, CPA | Audit Manager | Gollob Morgan Peddy PC | East Texas
Jeff Lindenmoyer has proven to be an invaluable asset to TXCPA East Texas, where his passion for advancing the profession is clearly evident through his service on the Golf Committee, Young and Emerging Professionals group and the Board. His enthusiasm for connecting people and fostering engagement has left a lasting impact on the chapter.
Jeff’s drive for excellence traces back to his collegiate football career at Ave Maria University, where he helped launch the inaugural program. He earned Second Team and later First Team All-American honors and was inducted into the university’s inaugural Hall of Fame. Football taught him accountability, discipline and how to lead without ego, which continues to shape how he serves his profession and community. For Jeff, achievement lies not in recognition, but in giving his best and lifting others along the way.
Yamely Medina, CPA | Partner | Garza & Morales LC | Rio Grande Valley
Yamely Medina has built an impressive career marked by leadership and service to her community. A partner at Garza & Morales in McAllen by age 27, she has also played a key role in TXCPA Rio Grande Valley as Vice President and Student Outreach Committee Chair. Passionate about inspiring the next generation, Yamely has helped to expand outreach from elementary through high school, organizing classroom presentations, career fairs and a general assembly of 200 business students at a local high school.
Yamely has shared her expertise directly with students through presentations across the region. In addition, she serves on the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Accountancy Advisory Board, strengthening ties between the chapter and the university. For her, bridging aspiring business leaders with the CPA profession is a highly meaningful achievement.
Spencer Payne, CPA | Associate Director | The Siegfried Group | Dallas
Spencer Payne quickly distinguished himself as a leader within TXCPA Dallas, serving on the Leadership Development Academy Steering Committee, including a term as Chair, as well as the Young Professionals Group Committee and Chapter Advisory Board. His career has been equally dynamic. In 2023, Spencer was selected by The Siegfried Group’s executive team to establish their Dallas presence as the firm’s first Associate Director in Client Relationships. After relocating, he built connections, expanded the client base and laid the foundation for Siegfried’s first Dallas office, which officially opened in March 2025.
Spencer also gives back to the community through the BYU Management Society, where he helped lead the most successful Charity Golf Tournament in the chapter’s history, raising record scholarship funds for DFW students. For him, leadership is about purpose, service and creating opportunities for others.
Carl Reis, CPA | Tax Manager | CAPTRUST | San Antonio
Carl Reis first became involved with TXCPA San Antonio through Young Accounting Professional social events, finding enjoyment in meeting peers and students while sharing experiences with like-minded professionals. As Chair of the Young Accounting Professionals, he brought strong creativity to event planning. As an advocate for the profession, Carl has encouraged students to pursue the CPA Exam, led discussions at the Accounting Careers Workshop and even purchased tickets for students to attend chapter events to ensure they had a seat at the table.
Known for his positive energy and follow-through, Carl also takes on challenges outside the office. His most significant personal achievement is completing a full marathon, a goal that demanded months of early runs, steady training and resilience. Crossing the finish line in under four hours, he proved to himself the power of perseverance.
April Roxana Samaniego, CPA, MAcc | Tax Partner | Pena Briones McDaniel & Co PC | El Paso
April Samaniego has been a driving force in TXCPA El Paso, serving in multiple officer roles - including President - and leading the Young CPA Committee in professional and philanthropic initiatives. A Partner at Peña Briones McDaniel & Co., she achieved this milestone before turning 30, a success she treasures not just for the title, but for the growth, resilience and leadership it represents. With extensive tax and accounting experience, April continues to lead by example, encouraging students and young professionals to excel in the field.
April volunteers annually with Rebuilding Together, presents Accounting Career Education programs at area schools and has spoken at a Professional Development Workshop for college students. Known for her energy and commitment, April believes investing in the next generation is among the most meaningful contributions a CPA can make.
David Twu, CPA, JD | Commercial Banker | Comerica Bank | Dallas
David Twu has become a trusted leader within TXCPA Dallas, serving as Chair of the Business & Industry Committee, where he elevated its profile with a strong lineup of CPE and social events. He also contributes his time and talent on the CPE Council and the Sponsorship Committee, and represents the chapter on TXCPA’s Leadership Council. Known for his enthusiasm and commitment, David is an invaluable asset to the Society.
Beyond TXCPA, David is deeply committed to serving the community that shaped him. As Texas Chair of Comerica Bank’s Asian American Pacific Islander Business Impact Team, he leads a committee spanning North and South Texas, dedicated to supporting local businesses and families. Through this work, he has helped organize youth camps and served on nonprofit boards - efforts that reflect his passion for leadership, service and community impact.
Eric Wilson, CPA | Director | Your Part-Time Controller, LLC | Dallas
Eric Wilson is a professional services leader with a passion for mission-driven work and a talent for business development. Since launching the Dallas/Fort Worth office of Your Part-Time Controller, LLC (YPTC) in August 2022, he has grown it into a thriving team that serves dozens of nonprofit clients across North Texas. His relationship-based approach positions YPTC as a trusted partner, earning client loyalty through responsiveness and high-quality service.
Outside the firm, Eric has served on TXCPA’s Nonprofit Organizations Conference Planning Committee and is a founding board member of Fort Worth STEAM Academy. His financial expertise has helped advance the school’s mission to provide high-quality Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education. He is excited about the future of the academy and the opportunities it will provide for students in East Fort Worth.
Rising Star Nominations Opening Soon!Do you know a CPA who’s making a difference - whether through bold leadership, community impact or active involvement with TXCPA? Now’s your chance to put them in the spotlight! Nominations are open to everyone, but nominees must be TXCPA members. Keep an eye on your TXCPA updates for all the details on how to submit your nomination and help us celebrate the next generation of leaders. |
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