Maxwell Locke & Ritter is pleased to announce Tara Hojnacki, Michelle Kopplow, and Shannon Peterson as new partners of the firm as of January 1, 2024. “We are delighted to welcome Tara, Michelle, and Shannon into the Maxwell Locke & Ritter partnership group,” says Kyle Parks, Leading Partner. “Each of them has made a tremendous impact on our firm and we look forward to watching them continue to grow and lead the firm in their role as partner.”
Learn more about what makes our new partners standout
Tara Hojnacki, CPA – Audit Partner
After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, Tara began her public accounting career in the Dallas office of Grant Thornton, where she provided audit and assurance services to clients in various industries. Tara joined Maxwell Locke & Ritter in 2013 and enjoys working for a firm that values its clients and people. She serves a diverse client base, primarily focusing on manufacturing, technology, and middle-market businesses. “The leadership at ML&R has always been an inspiration to me, especially the female partners,” says Tara. “As a mom of young children, having work-life balance can be difficult. It’s been amazing to have role models that paved the way to ensure everyone at ML&R feels successful in their professional and personal lives. The leaders of ML&R exemplify the motto, ‘No success at work is worth failure at home’ and I consider myself privileged to follow in their footsteps.” Connect with Tara on LinkedIn.
Michelle Kopplow, CPA – Audit Partner
After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a Master in Professional Accounting, Michelle began her public accounting career with Deloitte & Touche LLP in 2008. There, she served as an audit senior manager before joining Maxwell Locke & Ritter in January 2017. Michelle enjoys serving a diverse client base with a primary focus on companies in the manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and real estate & construction industries. “I love seeing our clients succeed in today’s ever-changing marketplace,” says Michelle. “When I recognize one of my consumer product clients’ snack brands in stores, see one of my real estate clients’ names on a building or at a construction site, or just recognize a client name in the community, I feel proud to be able to support them in their success.” Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn.
Shannon Peterson, CPA – Tax Partner
Shannon began her career at Maxwell Locke & Ritter in 2006 as an intern from the University of Texas at Austin. Upon graduation, she became the first person in the history of the firm to be hired directly from our intern program. Since then, Shannon has developed a passion for providing tax advisory services to nonprofit clients and large family groups. “One of my favorite niches to work in is our nonprofit niche because my nonprofit clients are so inspiring. I enjoy working with clients who are so mission driven and seeing their amazing work benefit our community,” says Shannon.
“I’m also proud to be the first tax intern hired at Maxwell Locke & Ritter. I love that my entire career has been with this amazing firm and that makes this promotion to partner even more special. Due to my tenure, I’ve had the chance to grow incredible relationships with my clients over the years and I look forward to continuing to serve them as a partner of the firm.” Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn.
Please join us in extending the warmest congratulations to Tara, Michelle, and Shannon as they embark on this exciting new chapter!
