Meet the Professionals Behind SMB CPAs

Jacob is the Managing Partner and co-founder of Sanders, Myers & Blackwell CPAs, LLP, bringing two decades of public accounting experience to the firm. He specializes in complex tax incentive strategies, including Historic and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, like-kind exchanges, and opportunity zone investments, helping clients navigate intricate financial opportunities with confidence.

Jacob holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Administrative Management and a Master of Business Administration from Missouri State University, and he is an active member of the AICPA. Known for his thoughtful approach, strategic insight, and steady leadership, Jacob is a trusted advisor to clients and a mentor to the SMB team.

Outside the office, Jake is a self-proclaimed Lego enthusiast, a longtime Kansas City Chiefs season ticket holder, and enjoys camping trips with his wife, Catherine, and their dogs. One of his favorite mottos sums up his approach to life and work: “If all you see is what you see, then you fail to see all there is to be seen.”

Chris Myers, CPA, is a Partner and co-founder of SMB CPAs, bringing nearly two decades of public accounting experience and a steady commitment to helping clients achieve clarity in their financials. He specializes in nonprofit accounting, audit and attestation services, and low-income housing audits, and is also a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor®, helping clients build efficient financial systems.

Chris earned both his Bachelor’s and Master of Accountancy degrees from Missouri State University and is an active member of the AICPA. A proud veteran of the Missouri Air National Guard, he served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and he previously served as President of the CCCC Sertoma Club.

Clients and colleagues value Chris for his technical expertise, calm professionalism, and ability to navigate complex financial requirements. At SMB, his approachable mentorship and collaborative leadership make him a trusted advisor for clients and a cornerstone of the team. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with family and friends and gaming.

Matthew Blackwell, CPA, is a Partner and co-founder of SMB CPAs, bringing nearly two decades of public accounting experience and a steady, thoughtful approach to complex financial matters. He specializes in audits and tax credit work, including low-income housing audits, cost certifications for historic and affordable housing projects, nonprofit audits, and both individual and corporate taxation.

Matt earned his Master of Accountancy from Missouri State University and is an active member of the AICPA. Clients and colleagues value his calm presence, practical insight, and ability to break down complicated financial issues with clarity. At SMB, his steady, methodical approach and focus on mentoring staff help maintain the collaborative, people-centered environment that defines the firm.

Outside the office, Matt enjoys traveling and spending time with his family. Known for keeping his cool under pressure, he is a trusted advisor to clients and a reliable leader within the SMB team.

Catherine Sanders is the Firm Administrator at SMB CPAs, serving as the backbone of the office and ensuring day-to-day operations run smoothly. With a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and an Associate of Science in Nursing, Catherine brings a unique combination of organizational skill, foresight, and care that keeps the team focused and clients well-supported.

While she doesn’t have direct client responsibilities, Catherine plays a crucial role in managing office operations, coordinating administrative processes, and supporting marketing initiatives. Her ability to anticipate needs and stay one step ahead ensures the firm operates efficiently and effectively.

Outside the office, Catherine enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, and spoiling her dogs. Her dedication, attention to detail, and approachable nature make her an indispensable part of the SMB team.

Brad Vass, CPA, is a Manager at SMB CPAs with over two decades of accounting experience and a long-standing passion for the profession. He specializes in tax and monthly accounting, with particular expertise in trusts and estates. Brad’s technical knowledge, combined with his methodical approach, allows him to guide clients through intricate financial matters with clarity and confidence.

Brad earned his Master of Accountancy from Missouri State University and is a member of the AICPA. Known for his calm, steady presence, he is a trusted advisor to clients and a supportive mentor to staff, helping maintain the collaborative, people-focused environment that defines SMB.

Outside the office, Brad enjoys spending time with family, playing board games, and indulging in his longtime hobby of Magic: The Gathering. His approachable style, coupled with deep expertise, makes him both a valued member of the SMB team and a reliable partner for clients.

Nick Pyatt, CPA, joined SMB CPAs in November 2021 and brings a strong analytical approach to accounting and finance. He holds an MBA with an emphasis in Accounting, a BS in Accounting, and a BS in International Business, and is also a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor®. With several years of management experience, Nick supports clients across audit, nonprofit, and financial reporting work, helping them build effective, streamlined systems.

Colleagues value Nick for his leadership, thoughtful problem-solving, and approachable style, which make him a reliable mentor to staff and a trusted advisor to clients. Outside the office, Nick enjoys reading, hiking, gaming, and sharing fun stories about his family, including his adorable son.

Maxwell Niemeyer, CPA, has been with SMB CPAs since 2021, starting as an intern before joining full-time in January 2023. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Drury University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, double-majoring in Accounting and Finance, and is an active member of the AICPA.

Maxwell’s work spans financial statement audits, LIHTC cost certifications, monthly bookkeeping, and a variety of client accounting needs, bringing both versatility and precision to the team.

Known for his calm, steady approach and “just go with the flow” mindset, Maxwell helps maintain the collaborative and client-focused environment SMB is known for. Outside the office, he is a passionate car enthusiast who enjoys anything related to cars and racing, as well as traveling, music, and spending time with friends and family.

Joel Barrientos, CPA, joined SMB CPAs in 2022 as an intern and quickly established himself as a talented and dependable member of the team. He earned both his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Master of Accountancy from Missouri State University. Joel focuses primarily on tax, while also assisting with audits and mentoring interns, helping them gain hands-on experience and develop their skills.

From an early age, Joel knew accounting was his path, beginning at 17 by keeping track of his father’s small business expenses. He brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to every client engagement, combining technical expertise with a calm, collaborative style. Outside the office, Joel is an avid bowler with a current average of 200, and enjoys spending time with friends and family while striving for that elusive perfect 300 game.

Moriah Clapp joined SMB CPAs as an intern in 2023 and was promoted to Staff Accountant in 2024 after earning her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Missouri State University. She works across a variety of areas, including tax returns, monthly bookkeeping, audits, and historical cost certifications, providing flexible support wherever it’s needed most.

Before pursuing accounting, Moriah spent four years as an orthodontic assistant, giving her a unique perspective and attention to detail that she brings to her work with clients and colleagues alike. Known for her upbeat attitude and collaborative spirit, Moriah approaches each task with a focus on precision, positivity, and learning from every experience.

Outside of work, Moriah enjoys taking her dog, Ringo, on adventures, baking, and spending quality time with her family. Her favorite motto, “We have tomorrows for a reason,” reflects her optimistic approach to both life and work.

Sam Bass joined SMB CPAs in July 2024 as a Staff Accountant, bringing a strong academic background and diverse experience to the team. He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Accounting from Missouri State University, as well as a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Oklahoma State University. Sam focuses on controllership, audit, and tax work, applying his analytical skills to help clients navigate complex financial situations with clarity and confidence.

Before joining SMB, Sam spent 15 years teaching, developing a patient and approachable style that carries over into his client work. Known for his thorough problem-solving and clear communication, he excels at breaking down complex issues so that clients and colleagues alike understand the steps needed to resolve them.

Outside the office, Sam enjoys video games, coffee, and exploring Asian cuisine, and he’s always up for a good board or card game with friends. A Springfield native and the youngest Eagle Scout in his hometown at age 13, Sam brings the same dedication and curiosity to his professional work that has guided him throughout life.

Cade Brundage joined SMB CPAs as an intern in January 2024 and returned in July to continue gaining hands-on experience. He earned his B.S. in Accounting from Missouri State University and is currently working toward his Master’s in Accounting. Cade brings enthusiasm and a natural curiosity to every assignment. A student member of both MOCPA and AICPA, he enjoys exploring all aspects of accounting and values the opportunity to work across tax, audit, and bookkeeping projects at SMB.

Inspired by his first accounting class, Cade has always been drawn to numbers and organization. His favorite motto, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you” by Walt Whitman, reflects his positive and proactive approach to work and life.

Outside the office, Cade enjoys disc golf, golfing, and traveling to baseball stadiums and national parks—he’s working toward a goal of visiting them all.

Robbie Lear joined SMB CPAs in 2019 at its founding, bringing decades of experience in both private and public accounting. A graduate of Sauk Valley College with an Associate in Applied Science in Accounting, Robbie supports a wide range of clients with services including bill payment, payroll processing, payroll tax filings, monthly accounting, and financial statement preparation. Her steady expertise and deep familiarity with day-to-day client needs make her an essential part of SMB’s workflow.

Known around the office for her kindness, reliability, and unmistakable sense of humor, Robbie exemplifies the supportive culture that defines SMB. She loves working alongside a team where everyone brings their strengths to the table and uses them to help one another succeed.

Outside the office, Robbie enjoys chasing her energetic beagles and spending time with her family.

Julie brings more than 30 years of private and public accounting experience and serves as a trusted QuickBooks ProAdvisor®, helping clients confidently navigate their small business accounting software.

A Certified Public Bookkeeper and active member of the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB), Julie supports businesses of all sizes in maintaining accurate, dependable financial records. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Ozarks Technical Community College in 2013 with an Associate of Applied Science in Accounting.

Outside of work, Julie enjoys camping and reading—two hobbies that reflect her steady, thoughtful approach to life. Known for her forward-focused mindset, she lives by the motto: “Don’t look back. You’re not going that way.”

Kathleen is a paraprofessional at SMB CPAs, supporting clients with bookkeeping, payroll, and financial organization. She is QuickBooks certified and brings precision, focus, and a calm presence to every project, helping clients feel confident that their accounting needs are in capable hands.

Known for staying calm under pressure, Kathleen approaches her work with thoughtfulness and care. Outside the office, she enjoys reading, walking, gardening, and has played four different instruments over the years, proving that even number-types can be creative.

Pamela officially joined SMB in October 2023, and from the moment you meet her, it’s clear she’s full of life, warmth, and an energy that makes everyone feel welcome. One of her favorite parts of working at SMB is the environment — a place where exceptional customer service and getting the work done well go hand in hand with having a bit of fun along the way.

Pamela earned a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Missouri State University and an Associate of Science from Central Christian College of the Bible. She brings both creativity and care to her role, whether she’s greeting clients or keeping the front office running smoothly.

True to her vibrant personality, Pamela can often be found wearing her favorite color (purple!), spending as much time outdoors as possible, crafting, or enjoying a good book.

Clemmie is a Junior at Missouri State University, pursuing her B.S. in Accounting and Master of Accountancy, with a minor in Economics. An active member of Beta Alpha Psi, she’s strengthening her technical foundation and building meaningful professional connections. Since joining SMB in January 2024, she’s gained hands-on experience across tax, audit, and a variety of other projects—an opportunity she loves because interns aren’t confined to just one area. She’s valued for her steady, methodical approach and her enthusiasm for learning from the close-knit SMB team. Clemmie has already signed on to join the firm full-time after graduation.

Outside of work and classes, you’ll find Clemmie reading, traveling, painting with friends, or on the pickleball court.

Joshua is a Junior at Missouri State University, pursuing his B.S. in Accounting. He previously earned an Associate of Arts in General Studies from MSU–West Plains, completing both his high school diploma and associate’s degree at age 18. Joshua’s passion for accounting was sparked in his very first class, and he’s loved gaining hands-on experience in tax, audit, and other areas at SMB while learning from experienced professionals. After graduation, he’ll join SMB CPAs full-time.

Outside of the office, Joshua enjoys gaming, spending time with friends and family, and reflecting on his journey from student to esports competitor—he played JUCO esports and reached the national championship three times. Guided by his favorite quote from Thomas Edison, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration,” Joshua brings ambition, curiosity, and a strong work ethic to everything he does.

Owen is a Junior at Missouri State University, majoring in Accounting, and will join SMB full-time after graduation. Over the past year, he has contributed to a variety of projects across tax, audit, and accounting, building practical skills and a strong understanding of real-world accounting.

Outside the office, Owen enjoys thrifting, reading, listening to music, and catching up on his favorite true crime podcasts. Fun fact: he has a self-proclaimed “evil fraternal twin.” Guided by his favorite motto, “Enjoy the simple things,” Owen approaches both work and life with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Alaina is an audit and tax intern at SMB CPAs and holds a B.S. in Accounting from Missouri State University. She was inspired to pursue this path after shadowing her mom—an accountant—and discovering that accounting runs deep in her family’s history, all the way back to Germany.

She values the helpful, knowledgeable culture at SMB, where everyone is willing to share their expertise and support her growth as a professional. When she’s not at work, Alaina can be found crafting, journaling, or jumping into her next hobby—she’s a true serial hobbyist.

Ashley is a junior at Drury University, double majoring in Accounting and Mechanical Engineering, combining her love of numbers with problem-solving skills. She’s drawn to SMB’s small-firm feel and collaborative culture, where learning from experienced professionals is encouraged every day.

Outside of work, Ashley enjoys running to clear her mind and curling up with a good book.

Brenna is a junior at Missouri State University pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She’s drawn to SMB CPAs by the supportive environment, appreciating how everyone is willing to help her grow as a professional. Brenna values the guidance she receives and looks forward to gaining experiences she knows will be valuable for years to come.

Outside of work, Brenna enjoys staying active and dominating in pickleball.

Marissa is a tax intern at SMB CPAs, working toward her B.S. in Accounting from Missouri State University, which she will complete in Summer 2026. She also holds an Associate’s in Business from Ozarks Community College and a Certificate in American Sign Language from Ozarks Technical Community College.

At SMB, Marissa appreciates the balance of professionalism and fun, valuing the feedback she receives and the opportunity to learn from her experiences. She hopes to eventually specialize in audit work.

Outside of work, Marissa enjoys spending time outdoors, taking walks, learning to dance and sing, exercising, playing card games like UNO, and hanging out with friends.