Age: 36
Occupation: CPA, partner at KEB
Email: jeremya@kebcpa.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts, accounting, Illinois Wesleyan University
Family: Wife, Misty; sons, Mason, 4, and Cohen, 1
Affiliations/community activities: Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; member, Illinois CPA Society; member, Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce; treasurer, Springfield Noon Lions Club; past board member and treasurer, Springfield Art Association; graduate of Leadership Springfield
What is your guiding principle in life?
My guiding principle in life is to create surplus value for the people around me, to leave every situation, relationship, team and community better than I found it. That means contributing more than I take, solving problems, supporting others’ growth and creating outcomes that benefit others more than myself.
What led you to your career?
My introduction to accounting professor was a retired CPA who brought a real-world perspective to the subject and the profession that resonated with me. After that class, I had no doubt what I wanted to do as a career.
What would you like your life to look like in five or 10 years?
I want my life to reflect steady growth both personally and professionally. I hope to be established as a trusted and respected accounting resource in Springfield. Personally, I’m looking forward to seeing my boys grow up, spending as much time with them as possible and being involved in their sports and school activities.
What do you wish your younger self had known when you started on this path?
I wish I had known the fulfilling life my career would provide for me and my family. It has opened so many doors and opportunities that my younger self could never have imagined.
What has been your greatest professional achievement?
My greatest professional achievement was being promoted to partner at KEB. It was my goal since day one at KEB. I’m grateful for everyone who helped me get to this point.
What app on your phone are you embarrassed to say you use?
I’m embarrassed to say that I’m addicted to mindlessly scrolling through Facebook reels.
This article appears in July SBJ 2026.