DON MADHAVAN, LLM, JD
MANAGING PARTNER
BUSINESS TAX AND ADVISORY
Donny is a seasoned tax expert with over 20 years of experience in the field. His professional journey includes significant tenures at prestigious firms including a Big 4 accounting firm and a prominent law firm. This extensive background has equipped him with a robust understanding of both law and accounting, allowing him to offer comprehensive advice to his clients.
Donny's path to SMCPA began during his time at a the Big 4 firm, where he met Ron, who shared his vision of establishing a premier CPA firm in the Detroit area. Attracted by the entrepreneurial spirit and the opportunity to provide higher level tax consulting to privately held businesses, Donny joined SMCPA. Here, he focuses on federal and state tax planning, providing invaluable advice and counsel to clients who might not otherwise have access to such high-level expertise.
One of Donny's favorite aspects of working at SMCPA is the collaborative environment. He thrives on brainstorming with colleagues to explore opportunities for their clients and enjoys mentoring his teammates, guiding them toward their desired career paths.
Donny's passion for client interaction is evident. He enjoys advising clients on their specific challenges and guiding them in ways that optimizes tax efficiency and steer their businesses effectively. He values getting to know his clients deeply, offering guidance wherever possible, and learning about their unique situations. This passion for helping people and his wealth of experience make his counsel particularly meaningful.
Donny holds a JD and an LLM in Taxation. He earned his LLM from NYU, his JD from Santa Clara University School of Law, and his undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from GMI/Kettering University in Flint, MI.
Outside of work, Donny enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, engaging in activities like tennis, hiking, and bike rides. The family often travels to destinations that offer great hiking trails. Donny also plays pickleball, adding to his active lifestyle.
RON SCHLAUPITZ, CPA, MBA
FOUNDER AND
MANAGING PARTNER -
AUDIT, TAX AND CORPORATE
FINANCE
With a robust career spanning 44 years, Ron has established himself as an authority in audit, tax, and corporate finance. His journey began with a foundation in accounting, which he expanded by earning an MBA from the University of Michigan, specializing in corporate finance, strategy, and business development. This academic achievement laid the groundwork for his dynamic roles as a corporate controller, division controller, and eventually a CFO. However, despite his successes, Ron felt a lack of progression in his career path. At the age of 45, he decided to return to his roots, leveraging his CPA credentials and extensive background to lead teams and provide strategic tax, audit, and advisory solutions to clients.
Ron’s career includes pivotal roles at Olsen Corporation during a transformative period. As one of four division controllers, he was recognized for his fresh perspective and was offered the position of Director of Worldwide Business Analysis — a fancy title for Budget Director. Despite a promising opportunity, Ron resigned before Olsen's $2.5 billion division was sold to its largest competitor, an event that spurred his decision to forge his own path. This turning point led him to focus on helping small private companies navigate financial challenges, an experience that eventually inspired him to establish SMCPA. Ron’s dedication to privately held businesses and his passion for identifying growth opportunities have been instrumental in his entrepreneurial journey, which is notably detailed in Gary Hernbroth’s book, “Twist the Familiar.”
At SMCPA, Ron finds immense satisfaction in driving the firm’s growth, attracting and nurturing talent, and contributing to the firm's success. Despite the inherent challenges of building a business, his enthusiasm for the future opportunities remains unwavering. His commitment to the team is evident in his enjoyment of their diverse pursuits and his dedication to helping them achieve their goals.
Outside of his professional life, Ron enjoys socializing with friends and traveling, with a particular fondness for South Florida. A true travel enthusiast, he and his family have explored destinations across the US, Canada, and Mexico, with their most recent adventure being a summer trip to Germany. His life beyond work is as vibrant and varied as his professional endeavors, reflecting his love for new experiences and cherished moments with family.
Ron holds certifications as a CPA and an MBA, further underscoring his extensive expertise and dedication to the field of accounting and finance.
LAUREN DEBAY, CPA
PRACTICE AREA -
BUSINESS TAX
With 15 years of expertise in tax services for businesses and their owners, Lauren has cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of this field. Her resume includes significant experience at a large national firm, as well as midsize firms, all of which have honed her skills and broadened her perspective.
Lauren chose to join SMCPA because of its unique position -- a midsize firm filled with professionals who have experience and technical expertise from large firms, but with the closeness of smaller team. This combination of a close-knit team and intricate client work was incredibly appealing to her.
Her favorite part about working with SMCPA is the people. The colleagues she collaborates with daily and the clients she serves are truly exceptional. The variety of businesses her clients represent keeps her work engaging and dynamic. She is particularly passionate about assisting smaller businesses, providing the guidance and expertise these clients need to make impactful decisions.
Lauren holds several certifications, including CPA, and memberships to the AICPA, and MICPA. Her educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Oakland University and a Master’s Degree in Accounting from Walsh College of Accountancy.
Outside of work, Lauren is an avid reader with a love for both non-fiction and fiction books. Watching Bravo series is her guilty pleasure for some much-needed brain candy She cherishes spending time with friends and family, especially her favorite child, a Shih Tzu-Yorkie named Annabelle.
CARRIE HAMMONS, CPA
PRACTICE AREA -
AUDIT AND ASSURANCE
Carrie Hammons is an accomplished professional with over 18 years of experience in Public Accounting, specializing in Audit and Assurance. Her extensive expertise encompasses financial statement compilation, reviews, and audits, with a particular passion for auditing 401K plans to ensure compliance with rules and regulations.
Throughout her career, Carrie has worked with various mid-size CPA firms and served as a Controller in private practice. This dual experience gives her a unique perspective, allowing her to understand and address clients' day-to-day challenges effectively.
Her transition to SMCPA was driven by the desire to join an organization offering a clear path to partnership and the opportunity to collaborate with some of the industry's best and brightest professionals.
At SMCPA, Carrie values the firm's team-oriented approach, matching clients with the experts best-suited to their needs. This collaborative environment ensures that every client benefits from comprehensive and multifaceted support. Carrie takes great pleasure in learning about her clients' industries and businesses, identifying opportunities for best practice recommendations, and providing guidance to enhance their compliance and operational efficiency.
Carrie holds certifications as a CPA and is a member of both the AICPA and MICPA. She is proud to be part of a firm that is a member of the AICPA's Employee Benefit Audit Quality Control Center, reflecting the highest standards in 401K plan compliance. Carrie earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a major in Accounting from Eastern Michigan University.
Outside of work, Carrie enjoys spending time with her husband and relaxing at their house up North. She also loves watching movies and TV series, particularly Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, and Chicago Med, during her downtime.
PEIJIN WU HOPPE, CPA, CGMA, MSA
PARTNER
AUDIT, BUSINESS TAX
AND COMPLIANCE
Peijin (Pei) was a partner with MSP CPA, and National Practice Leader of the International Services Group practice at the firm. She is a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), and a member of both the AICPA and the MICPA. Pei served as chair of the audit committee and as board member for Prime Global Capital Group Inc., a US public company.
Pei joined her first CPA firm in 1996, became a supervisor in 2006, and became a Partner in 2007. Before joining a regional firm, she held positions in the accounting departments of Panasonic Automotive Systems Corporation and at Rogow & Loney PC, CPAs.
Pei specializes in serving Chinese companies, joint ventures, and international groups. Pei has been practicing in accounting and taxation for over 28 years, demonstrating a wide range of experience in audit, taxation, merger and acquisition, organization and registration in United States.
Due to her unique educational, multilingual capability, unparalleled background in US international taxation and treaties, Peijin continues to deliver extensive value to Chinese companies through considerable tax benefit strategies. Peijin’s team has one of the largest group of Chinese clients in Metro Detroit area.
Pei taught Economics at Eastern China Normal University before she came to United States. She earned her bachelor’s degree in economics and master’s in international finance from Eastern China Normal University and earned master’s degree in accounting from Eastern Michigan University in the United States in 1994. She plays an active role in non-profit and charitable activities and hosted various taxation and financial forums to Chinese society.
Outside of her professional life, Pei cherishes spending time with family and friends. She and her husband have a passion for international travel, whether for leisure or business, and they also delight in time spent with their kids and grandkids. Pei also has a passion for music and enjoys playing the piano.
DAWN JASINSKI, CPA
PRACTICE AREA -
AUDIT AND ASSURANCE
With 24 years of extensive experience in audit and assurance, Dawn brings a wealth of expertise in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, service, and employee benefit plans. A proud graduate of Walsh College with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, Dawn previously honed her skills at large regional firm before finding a new professional home at SMCPA.
Drawn to SMCPA by the firm’s collaborative environment and growth potential, Dawn sought a place where her voice could make a meaningful impact. SMCPA offered a culture that valued individual contributions and collective success. Dawn appreciates the firm’s openness which allows her to participate actively in mentoring, development, and strategic growth initiatives.
What Dawn finds most rewarding in her work is witnessing clients' journeys from struggling start-ups to successful enterprises. One memorable experience was being part of a client’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new headquarters after years of growth and partnership. For Dawn, her clients’ success stories are a source of personal fulfillment and a testament to the impact of her dedication and expertise.
A Certified Public Accountant and active member of AICPA and MICPA, Dawn continues to leverage her skills to drive success for clients and contribute to the evolving landscape of SMCPA.
Outside of work, Dawn finds joy in spending time with her twin girls and recently took them on their first plane trip to Florida. An avid golfer and outdoor enthusiast, Dawn enjoys exploring nature and indulging in craft beer, particularly Bourbon Barrel Stouts. Dawn is also passionate about community involvement and is dedicated to fundraising for breast cancer awareness.
DAVID KUDLA, CPA
PRACTICE AREA -
BUSINESS TAX
Dave is a taxation expert with 17 years of diverse experience. His journey began with a solid foundation in tax advisory at a Big 4 firm, where he developed a robust expertise in taxation. It was there that he met Don Madhavan, a relationship that became instrumental in his transition to SMCPA. Here, Dave has found a professional home that perfectly aligns with his values of autonomy and direct client service.
At SMCPA, Dave enjoys the opportunity to manage his clients personally, providing tailored and high-impact tax advisory services. He thrives in an environment where he can directly interact with a fascinating array of clients, from visionary entrepreneurs to seasoned business leaders. Dave's favorite part of his work is hearing the compelling stories of his clients—how they envisioned their ventures and saw them grow and flourish. These narratives not only inspire him but also drive his commitment to their success.
Dave is known for his approachable and personable nature, making him a favorite among clients who appreciate his ability to simplify complex tax matters and provide clear, actionable advice. His dedication to understanding each client’s unique needs ensures that they receive the most relevant and effective solutions.
Outside the office, Dave's life is a vibrant combination of personal interests and adventures. An outdoor enthusiast, he spends much of his free time hiking with his wife and beloved dog. Dave is also passionate about pickleball and enjoys participating in local 5K races. Recently married, he enjoys travelling with his wife and loves exploring new culinary experiences.
Dave’s multifaceted personality and professional expertise make him an invaluable member of the SMCPA team. His ability to connect with clients on both a professional and personal level ensures that he provides exceptional service while continuously learning and growing. Dave’s enthusiasm for his work and his life’s pursuits reflects his commitment to excellence and his zest for new experiences.
DAVE MAUE, CPA, MPA
PRACTICE AREA -
BUSINESS TAX & TRUST MANAGEMENT
With 39 years of experience in small business tax, accounting, and trust management, Dave is a seasoned expert dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals. Dave began his career at large firm where he refined his skills in providing tailored accounting solutions and fostering long-term client relationships.
Drawn to SMCPA by its dynamic M&A opportunities and impressive Partner team, Dave enjoys mentoring the staff and takes pride in contributing to their professional growth and success.
At SMCPA, Dave values the opportunity to work closely with clients, meeting their unique needs and assisting in their growth. He cherishes the multi-generational relationships he has built with clients over the decades, both personally and professionally.
Holding a CPA certification and a Master of Science in Professional Accountancy from Walsh College, Dave also brings leadership experience as the former Chairperson of the Information Technology Task Force for MICPA. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Sacred Heart Seminary, providing a foundation for analytical thinking and accounting principles.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys a vibrant family life with his wife, three children, and their household of pets, including three cats and two dogs. A culinary enthusiast, Dave loves BBQ and experimenting with new recipes, from griddle-fried rice to fish dishes. The family cherishes their annual gatherings at their Palm Springs timeshare, a tradition that allows for full relaxation and quality time together.
STEVE SHAW, CPA
PRACTICE AREA -
BUSINESS TAX
Steve Shaw is a seasoned tax expert with 18 years of experience, holding a Master’s in Accounting from Walsh College. He started his career at Baker Tilly, where he tackled various tax challenges and honed his skills in tax advisory.
Steve joined SMCPA looking for a place where he could make a bigger impact and eventually become a partner. Over the past decade, he’s found a great fit at SMCPA, enjoying the close teamwork and the chance to work directly with business owners. He values building real connections and providing more than just tax returns—offering advice that helps clients grow their businesses.
Outside of work, Steve loves to travel and visit amusement parks, especially enjoying roller coasters. He’s a music enthusiast who appreciates all kinds of tunes and stays active through weight lifting and working out. Steve has also had the unique experience of working with Red Wing Hall of Famers, combining his love for fitness with professional networking. His practical approach and genuine interest in his clients’ success make him a valued advisor in the tax world.
ALAN SALOMON, CPA
PRACTICE AREA -
BUSINESS VALUATION
Alan brings 34 years of expertise in business valuation and tax to SMCPA. His extensive experience and deep knowledge in these areas make him a valuable asset to the firm. Alan chose SMCPA for its youthful energy and the remarkable talent of its professionals, whom he considers some of the best and smartest he has met in the business.
His favorite part about working at SMCPA is the opportunity to work closely with the staff on complex projects. Alan finds immense satisfaction in the collaborative environment and values the strong working relationships he has built.
Alan’s true passion lies in working with clients. For him, it’s not just about crunching numbers at a desk; it's about using those numbers to help clients achieve their goals and grow their businesses. This client-focused approach is at the heart of his professional philosophy.
Alan holds several certifications, including CPA, Accredited in Business Valuations (ABV), and Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Walsh College.
Outside of work, Alan is a sports enthusiast with a love for college basketball, football, and hockey. He is a dedicated fan of the Detroit Lions, Michigan State Basketball, and the Detroit Redwings. Alan enjoys exercising, being outdoors, and spending quality time with his wife, daughter, and son. The family loves to travel and takes an annual trip together, creating lasting memories.
BEN WANG, CPA, MSA
PARTNER
AUDIT, BUSINESS TAX
AND COMPLIANCE
Chenjia (Ben) Wang joined his previous CPA firm in June 2014. Before 2014, he worked as program manager with a mid-size industry group from 2010-2013. Experience prior to his promotion to program manager, Ben worked as an IT analyst. Ben has been mainly serving multinational companies headquartered in China since he joined the mid-sized CPA firm in 2014.
Ben’s extensive specialties are developed well beyond tax advice, to planning and tax compliance work, audit and other attestation projects, but also government incentive applications, mergers and acquisitions advice, accounting/ERP system consultancy and other accounting related services in a wide range of industries.
Ben has been actively participating in various events and activities of the Chinese community in Michigan and frequently travels to China to assist clients understand opportunities and the basics of doing business in the U.S., discuss tax and financial planning, tax treaties between U.S. and China, and other services and consultancy to benefit the clients.
Ben is the member of MICPA and AICPA. He earned a Master of Science in Accountancy from Walsh College in 2014, a master’s degree in computer science from Wayne State University and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Shanghai University.