The Woodard Report

Woodard Members Named 2025 Up 'N Comer ProAdvisors

Written by The Woodard Report Team | Apr 14, 2025 2:58:58 PM

The accounting community thrives on collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for helping businesses succeed. Each year, Insightful Accountant shines a spotlight on professionals who exemplify these values through their annual ProAdvisor Awards—and the 2025 announcements are off to an inspiring start.

Last week, Insightful Accountant revealed two key recognitions in this year’s awards season: the Top 50 International ProAdvisors and the Top 25 Up 'N Comer ProAdvisors. These awards honor individuals who are not only making waves in their practices but also elevating the entire profession through their leadership, advocacy, and dedication to client success.

Honoring rising professionals in the Woodard community

This year’s Top 25 Up 'N Comer ProAdvisors list is especially exciting for the Woodard community. Four of our own members were named to this prestigious list:

  • Michele Ball, Ball Business Consulting
  • Janice Kats, Kats Bookkeeping & Tax Services
  • Heather Kwitschau, SBS Accounting & Advisors
  • Nikki Mullins, R Accounting Goup

These individuals are redefining what it means to deliver high-quality client accounting services in a digital-first world. Whether it’s through optimizing technology stacks, streamlining advisory workflows, or mentoring others in the field, these professionals have demonstrated a deep commitment to their clients and peers.

Why the Up 'N Comer awards matter

The Up 'N Comer category highlights the next generation of leaders in the accounting profession. These professionals have typically been in the ProAdvisor community for five years or less, yet they have made measurable contributions. They are early adopters of new technologies, active participants in professional communities, and advocates for continuous learning.

Recognizing these individuals celebrates their accomplishments and sets a benchmark for others in the profession—especially those building modern, tech-forward practices. The recognition serves as a reminder that leadership isn’t reserved for the most experienced practitioners; it’s available to anyone committed to learning, sharing, and evolving.

A global view with international recognition

The Top 50 International ProAdvisors list expands the lens beyond the United States, acknowledging accounting professionals who are driving innovation in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries. These honorees are known for their advanced use of cloud accounting tools, educational contributions, and commitment to service excellence.

International ProAdvisors bring unique insights to shared challenges and are key contributors to global best practices in CAS.

What’s next? The full Top 100 to be announced soon

While Insightful Accountant has already revealed the Top 50 International and Top 25 Up 'N Comer ProAdvisors lists, the publication has confirmed that the complete Top 100 U.S. ProAdvisors list will be published later this month, likely in mid-April. This final list will showcase a wide range of professionals—from seasoned experts to influential educators—and will complete the 2025 ProAdvisor award cycle.

The annual ProAdvisor Awards are highly anticipated within the accounting profession and offer visibility to those who are transforming their practices and leading peers through ongoing industry change.

To view the 2025 honorees published to date, visit: