Celebrating Our 2025 Pathfinders: Melinda Stinnett, CPA

Melinda Stinnett, CPA, has carved an exceptional path in the accounting profession, driven by a blend of adaptability, ambition, and a deep-rooted connection to her academic upbringing. From her early days inspired by her parents' achievements to her pivot from aspiring marine biologist to accomplished CPA, Melinda has shown remarkable foresight and resilience. 

As the founder of Stinnett & Associates, she grew the firm from a one-woman operation into a powerhouse with more than 120 team members across multiple states, ultimately leading to its acquisition by CBIZ. Her dedication to innovation, continuous learning, and fostering strong professional relationships exemplifies her vision for the future of accounting—one that embraces technology, mentorship, and opportunities to empower the next generation of CPAs.

What She Has to Say

OSCPA: Why did you decide to become a CPA?

Stinnett: I grew up in a family rooted in academia—my father was a business management professor at Oklahoma State University (OSU), and my mother earned her master's and Ph.D. in accounting from OSU. So, I was naturally drawn to the profession. Initially, I aspired to be a marine biologist, but realizing that wasn't a practical path in our landlocked state, I shifted my focus to accounting. I believed accounting would allow me to pursue a career no matter where I lived.

OSCPA: What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?

Stinnett: The most rewarding aspect of my career has been the opportunity to build and lead Stinnett & Associates from its inception in 2001 to its acquisition by CBIZ in 2022. Growing the firm from a solo venture to over 120 team members across multiple states and expanding our services to include cybersecurity, data analytics, supply chain, sustainability, and other services has been immensely fulfilling. Additionally, being recognized with awards such as Oklahoma Small Business Person of the Year, the 2017 U.S. Small Business Administration, and the 2019 Journal Record Best Places to Work, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.

OSCPA: What advice would you give to students pursuing accounting degrees and/or new CPA’s?

Stinnett: To students pursuing accounting degrees and new CPAs, I advise embracing continuous learning and staying adaptable to the evolving landscape of the profession. Engage in networking opportunities, seek mentorship, and actively participate in professional organizations to build a strong support system. Additionally, focus on developing soft skills such as communication, leadership, and ethical judgment, as these are crucial for long-term success in the accounting field.

OSCPA: What are your hopes for and/or expectations of the future of the accounting profession?

Stinnett: I hope to see the accounting profession continue to evolve with technological advancements, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and data analytics, to enhance the efficiency of work, allow more time spent on value-added and challenging activities, and improve decision-making. I also look forward to a focus on the realignment of educational and work experience requirements to obtain a CPA license. I am especially intrigued by the apprenticeship concept currently being explored. I think those measures will ensure we continue to be a robust and “in demand” profession in the future.

Accomplishments