Blog

When new people come on board at Gilmore Jasion Mahler, LTD we ask them to fill out a fun questionnaire to help our people get to know them a bit better. We’ve started sharing those in Q&A format on our blog so that our clients and the rest of the GJM community can enjoy them as well. They’ve been well received so we expanded to feature other “GJMers” as well. Today is your chance to get to know Tracy Kennedy a bit better. You could say Tracy is the “face” of GJM’s Findlay office. That’s because she’s often the first person you meet when you walk in the door.  

Describe your role at GJM: Director of First Impressions

When did you start employment/will you start at GJM? August of 1997

Why did you choose the accounting industry? It chose me!

What is the nature of your work at GJM and what do you like best about it? I started as the morning receptionist but in the past 21 years, my role has expanded. I have become support staff for the tax and healthcare departments. I have been the marketing assistant. I feed the staff and keep them happy during busy season. I help our elderly clients with their tax work, as it can all be very confusing. I have organized company events small and large.

GJM is quite involved in the community. Any particular programs or volunteer work you’ve enjoyed being involved in here? I run the Children’s Mentoring Connection Christmas party that GJM supports every year. I also run our Adopt a Family through Hope House every year at Christmas. The most work but the most rewarding has been being the point Findlay person for our Carnevale event to benefit Flag City Honor Flight the past two years. (The event returns in November of 2019 rebranded as "Wanderlust" so stay tuned for details!

Are you from the Northwest Ohio area originally? If not, where are you from? I am from Findlay.

What do you like about living in Northwest Ohio? Findlay is a very supportive community. It’s a big, little city. If there is a need in the community the city, Chamber of Commerce, or a local non-profit jumps to action to help resolve the issue. Local companies are always willing to donate their time and treasure to make life better here.

Where did you go to school? Findlay High School and Ohio University

Do you have any pets, hobbies, family? Husband Jim, daughter Lena (21), son Ian (19), one dog Oliver that was recently featured as the Ohio Society of CPAs dog of the week!

How do you like to spend your free time? Hanging out with friends & family, volunteering, weekend trips, ballroom dancing with my hubby!

Are you involved in any community organizations, do any volunteer work? I am one of the coordinators of the local community dinners. My church (First Presbyterian of Findlay) serves anyone that needs a meal the 2^nd Sunday of every month. I plan, prep, serve and clean up with other church volunteers. I’m a trustee with the Findlay Elks and a co-chair of the entertainment committee. I am an alumnus of Hancock Leadership and serve on the board and two committees. I have volunteered (and “volun-told” my husband) for community events for years and/or attended a large number of them. United Way, Arts Partnership, Camp Fire USA, Hope House.

What is something people may be surprised to find out about you? I LOVE 80’s alternative music but not big hair!!