Get to know our new COO

Stephanie Trougakos, CAE, has spent the last 19 years of her career in association management. She joined the OSCPA in 2010 after spending almost seven years with the Oklahoma Dental Association. Starting as the director of marketing for the OSCPA, she has spent the past 12 years serving in a leadership role for almost every department at the Society, including both membership and CPE.

Trougakos is currently attending Oklahoma City University and pursuing her graduate degree in Nonprofit Leadership. She is also a 2000 graduate of Oklahoma State University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in public relations. In 2019, she earned her Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the American Society of Association Professionals (ASAE).

In her free time, she recently earned both her 200- and 300-hour yoga teaching certifications and is now a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT® 500) with the Yoga Alliance. She lives in Edmond with her husband, Nick, and their son, Mason. She enjoys traveling, cooking, spending time in nature and taking her dogs— Lily Potter and Pickles—on long walks.

CPAFOCUS: What excites you most about your new leadership role at the OSCPA?
Trougakos: Growth.
The past few years have brought an abundance of change for both the accounting profession and the Society. As someone who thrives in a changing environment, it’s exciting to visualize our future and work toward developing a roadmap to success. The current energy and engagement of our members is encouraging.

CPAFOCUS:How has your experience at the OSCPA helped prepare you for your new role?
Trougakos: Saying yes to new opportunities is a key component in my professional growth. Being open to learning and growing has provided me the opportunity to lead our marketing, membership and education departments, as well as provide overall staff leadership with my new position as the COO. The insight gained from the diversity of my roles was invaluable and prepared me for leading the staff toward the mission and goals of the society.

CPAFOCUS: What is the most rewarding part about working with the OSCPA?
Trougakos: Helping others be successful.
Whether it’s our members or our staff, I find great fulfillment in helping others achieve success. Our staff is amazing and watching them grow professionally is such a joy. Not only are they interesting and enjoyable people, they are also extremely dedicated, creative and hardworking. I watch them overcome challenges and provide solutions on a daily basis, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to lead them.

CPAFOCUS: What advice do you have for CPAs who are interested in getting more involved with the OSCPA?
Trougakos: Take the first step.
Sometimes it’s hard to join a committee or attend a networking event for the first time. But, if you take the first step, I promise you it will be worth it. Our members are constantly engaging with each other, learning from each other and supporting each other. This is true of both public practice and industry members, so know there is a place for you here. If you would like to be more involved but are unsure where to start, please shoot me an email. I’m happy to connect you with another member or offer advice.

CPAFOCUS: In your opinion, what is the key to finding career success?
Trougakos: Lean in.
Challenge yourself to push past your comfort zone and seize every opportunity that comes your way. You may not feel you are ready yet, and you may not end up enjoying it. Do it anyway. You never know what new door will open for you by taking a chance. The lessons learned in discomfort are where personal growth starts.

Check out the OSCPA's July/August edition of the CPAFOCUS to stay up to date with the latest news in the profession.