Yeo & Yeo’s Kellen Riker Receives MICPA’s Rising Star Award
Yeo & Yeo, a leading Michigan advisory firm, is pleased to announce that Kellen Riker, CPA, has received the Rising Star Award from the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA). The Rising Star Award honors the accomplishments and contributions of up-and-coming CPAs who add value to their firm or company through strategic and innovative initiatives, leadership competencies, and commitment to the profession.
Kellen Riker joined Yeo & Yeo in 2018 as a staff accountant in the Assurance Service Line. He earned his CPA license, and his dedication propelled him to become a manager and a member of the firm’s Government Services Group. Riker is passionate about getting to know his clients on a personal level and helping them succeed. Reflecting on his approach to client relationships, he said, “I really enjoy helping clients achieve their goals above and beyond simply delivering a completed audit. Sometimes, that includes providing consulting services, implementing a new standard, or offering training. Helping clients develop their skills and improve their expertise is fun and rewarding.”
Riker was recognized in 2021 with the firm’s Spirit of Yeo award for his resiliency and positive impact during the pandemic. In 2022, he was named a Flint and Genesee Group 40 Under 40 honoree, underscoring his significant community contributions and specialized expertise in governmental audits, which significantly enhances the firm’s capabilities and greatly benefits its public sector clients.
“Kellen embodies the highest standards of the profession,” said Jamie Rivette, CPA, CGFM, principal and Assurance Service Line leader. “He is committed to learning and professional development, and is always looking for innovative solutions to challenges. His clients truly value the knowledge and insight he brings to every engagement.”
Jennifer Watkins, CPA, principal, commended Riker’s exceptional growth and commitment to community service, emphasizing his impact within the firm and beyond. She remarked, “Kellen has shown tremendous leadership throughout his career at Yeo & Yeo. He is dedicated to the community, serving as the Young Professionals Service Chair for the Yeo & Yeo Foundation and volunteering at events for the American Cancer Society and Special Olympics. He is a great role model for his colleagues and the next generation of CPAs.”
Honorees will be recognized at the MICPA Celebrate Awards on November 13, 2024, at the Gem Theatre in Detroit.