Shannon Blevins, CPA

Get to Know Shannon at Work

Q. What do you love about your job?

Accounting and finance are typically not an area of strength in the not-for-profit sector. I love providing a needed service, educating my clients to understand their financials and tax returns, and being a go-to resource.

Q. Describe your most memorable moment at KWC.
In 2006, I was engaged and trying to prepare for my upcoming leave when a staff member led me down the hall to a room full of KWC staff, a beautiful table full of delicacies, and wedding gifts all around. I am still in awe of how thoughtful our staff is to others and how we really treat each other as family members. The shower was such a nice event and behind the decorations and cake were employees and friends who continue to be “family” today.

Q. Why did you choose a career at KWC?
After life at a “big four” accounting firm, KWC was a welcome change of lifestyle. This is a place where work/life balance is truly a priority. I was also amazed at the level of commitment by the Principals to their clients and their employees. It’s not often you see a Principal spending time training a first year team member, but at KWC, it’s the norm, not the exception.

Q. What are people most surprised to learn about your job?
Most people view a typical accountant with their head down behind a computer with adding tape spilling out of the calculator. I think people would be surprised to learn that my job allows me to spend more time out of the office at client sites, performing audits, visiting with non-profit boards and performing other services.

Shannon Outside the Office

Q. How are you active in your community?
I currently serve as Treasurer on the Board of my sons’ Montessori school. This has been a great way to experience what it’s like to be part of a Board in the non-profit environment. It gives me another perspective on  some of my clients’challenges.

Q. What do you do for fun?
I’m a dedicated runner, kids-only photographer, pretend interior designer and mom of two active boys.

Q. What’s your favorite vacation spot and why?
We’ve been going to the Outer Banks since I was a little girl. It’s the one place we continue to trek year after year.

Q. What word best describes you?
Dedicated

Q. What’s your favorite book, or one that you’ve read recently?
Beauty and the Beast- My four-year-old is currently enthralled with everything princess.

Q. What’s one thing people are often surprised to learn about you?
The biggest shocker continues to be that I grew up on a small tobacco farm in southwest Virginia, in a one red-light town. I progressed on the farm from water girl to driving the tractor, much like I’ve progressed at KWC from staff to Principal. The same drive is required. The same character building ethics are learned. My nails just stay a bit cleaner these days.