Celebrating 70 Years of Excellence: How Our Tax Institute Empowers Pros!
For an impressive 70 years, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Tax Institute has been a cornerstone for tax professionals across the Cornhusker State, arming them with the essential skills and insights to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. This is not just education; it’s empowerment!
From savvy certified public accountants to sharp-minded attorneys, thousands of dedicated professionals turn to the institute, managed by the College of Business’s Center for Executive and Professional Development, for top-notch continuing education that ensures compliance with the latest federal and state tax requirements. The stakes are high, and staying informed is vital!
Take Sandy Stimson, for instance—a passionate tax preparer from Ogallala, Nebraska, whose remarkable journey in tax preparation has been profoundly influenced by the Tax Institute.
“Every time I take a class, I learn something new that I can apply to help my clients. And sometimes, that client is myself!” – Sandy Stimson
Sandy’s story began at just 15 years old in Valentine, Nebraska, where her natural talent for numbers shone bright. She helped her peers in business class and even managed payroll for the local drive-in while working there. A serendipitous encounter with tax forms at the post office ignited a lifelong interest in tax law that would change her life forever.
“I turned taxes into a hobby, helping everyone around me fill out their forms. I used carbon paper to keep copies of everything I did!” Sandy reminisced. “Eventually, I thought, why not turn this into a side hustle? That’s when I discovered the UNL Tax Institute.”
What started as a passion quickly evolved into a thriving profession. Sandy relied on the Tax Institute for ongoing education as she built her business—Sandy’s Taxes & Bookkeeping—navigating life’s twists and turns that took her from Laurel to Columbus and back to Ogallala. The institute’s annual seminars, offered in various locations and online, kept her ahead of the curve amid complex tax regulation changes.
“I was terrified the first time I attended classes—everyone seemed so seasoned and knowledgeable. But the instructors broke things down so simply, it made the complex seem manageable.”
With her husband’s support, Sandy took a leap of faith into full-time tax preparation. This bold move paid off for her clients as well as for Sandy. She recalls, “My office was my dining room table, and my hours were when my husband was at work or when my kids were at school. Initially, I served clients who struggled with literacy and needed guidance, but soon, small business owners and farmers came knocking on my door.”
Throughout her journey, Sandy wore many hats—juggling part-time roles and even driving trucks to make ends meet. Eventually, she returned to her true calling in tax preparation and became a registered tax return preparer.
“I quickly realized the value of using software to streamline my work. I could fill out a simple federal form 1040EZ in just a minute and a half if no one was watching! While software might take longer, it provides essential checks,” she explained. “With this new designation, I needed even more education, so I paired the IRS tax workshop with the UNL Tax Institute.”
Now celebrating its 70th anniversary, the Tax Institute continues to be an invaluable resource for professionals like Sandy. The two-day seminars cater to a wide range of continuing education requirements, making them a must-attend for CPAs, IRS enrolled agents, and preparer tax-identification number holders. This year’s lineup features incredible presenters like Guido van der Hoeven and J’Nan L. Ensz, who will guide attendees through the latest tax legislation updates.
As Sandy looks to retire in 2025 after more than six decades of dedication to tax preparation, she attributes her enduring success and the vibrant connections she has formed within Nebraska’s tax community to the Tax Institute.
“It’s surreal to think I’ve been filling out tax returns for 63 years since I was 15. These classes have given me a network of professionals I can reach out to for advice. I always felt their support. Even after retiring, I plan to continue attending classes.”
There’s still time for professionals to register for the remaining seminars this year: Norfolk, Nebraska, on Dec. 9-10; Lincoln on Dec. 12-13; and numerous online and self-study options available. For more details or to sign up, visit taxinstitute.unl.edu.
As Sandy reflects on her incredible journey, she beams with pride at the legacy she’s created. Five years ago, she sold Sandy’s Taxes & Bookkeeping to one of her employees, ensuring she could continue working as long as she desired. Excitedly, she also anticipates providing guidance to her nephew, who is set to launch his own tax firm next year.
“Without the UNL Tax Institute, my career wouldn’t be what it is today. It’s been a wild ride, but one I wouldn’t trade for anything. I’m thrilled my nephew and his son are following in my muddy footsteps!”
