FMD Proudly Supported the 2026 Burgess New Venture Challenge
FMD was proud to sponsor the 2026 Burgess New Venture Challenge, held on April 9 at the Marriott East Lansing.
Hosted by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University, the event brought together student entrepreneurs to pitch their ventures, receive real-time feedback, and compete for $50,000 in prizes.
The challenge showcased the innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit of MSU students as they shared ideas with the potential to shape the future of business. FMD was honored to be part of an event that supports emerging entrepreneurs and celebrates the next generation of business leaders.
FMD Announces Strategic Growth While Remaining Independent
FMD is pleased to announce the continued growth of the firm with the addition of Payter & Schwartz PC and Eric S. Canvasser, CPA PLLC.
As FMD continues to expand thoughtfully and strategically, the firm remains committed to maintaining its independence while strengthening the depth of service, expertise, and guidance available to clients.
These additions represent a natural fit for FMD, with strong alignment across client relationships, firm culture, and a shared commitment to serving entrepreneurial business owners and high-net-worth individuals. Together, the expanded team enhances FMD’s ability to provide personalized, forward-looking financial and business guidance while preserving the responsiveness, relationships, and independence clients value.
FMD is excited about what this growth means for the firm’s team, clients, and future, and remains dedicated to delivering the trusted service and strategic insight clients have come to expect.
FMD Supports Michigan’s Future Entrepreneurs at EO Detroit GSEA
FMD was proud to sponsor the recent Global Student Entrepreneur Awards competition hosted by EO Detroit, an inspiring event that showcased some of Michigan’s most innovative student entrepreneurs.
The competition gave young business owners the opportunity to present their ideas, share their vision, receive valuable feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders, and compete for prizes designed to support their continued growth.
From impactful business concepts to creative, forward-thinking solutions, the event highlighted the talent, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit of the next generation. FMD is honored to support EO Detroit and its commitment to encouraging student entrepreneurs as they build businesses, strengthen their skills, and take meaningful steps toward future success.
FMD has been named one of the Best Places to Work In Southeast Michigan – for the third year in a row!
We’re beyond proud of our amazing team who make FMD a place of growth, collaboration, and fun every single day. This recognition is a reflection of the dedication, positivity, and passion our people bring to the office (and beyond!).
Here’s to continuing to grow, learn, and thrive together.
FMD Proudly Supports Special Olympics Michigan
FMD has been a proud sponsor of the Pine Trace Golf Club Special Olympics event for years, and this time, due to construction, the event was held at Shepherd’s Hollow. Our team had the privilege of attending, with our athlete, Brandon Middleton, winning GOLD in Division 7!
With over $750,000 raised for Special Olympics Michigan, Pine Trace’s 34-year partnership is truly inspiring. The medal ceremony is a heartwarming experience, showing the true spirit of the Olympics—one that everyone should witness.
Huge thanks to Stephen Beresh, Brianna McNamara, Krista Quinn, Jesi Molnar, Sylvia Hensler, and Lindsey Brewer for attending and supporting this wonderful cause!
FMD Team Members Featured in Crain’s People on the Move
FMD is proud to share that five members of the firm have been featured in Crain’s People on the Move, recognizing their contributions to Fenner, Melstrom & Dooling, PLC and the continued growth of the team.
The feature highlights Liz Zezula, CPA, Attest Manager; Katelyn “Katie” Peabody, CPA, Senior Tax Manager; Ryan Kandt, CPA, Tax Manager; Farrah Nordman, CPA, Tax Manager; and Eric Canvasser, CPA, who recently merged his practice with FMD.
Each brings valuable experience, specialized knowledge, and a strong commitment to client service. Their expertise spans strategic business consulting, financial statement services, real estate and construction businesses, high-net-worth individuals, middle-market entrepreneurial businesses, manufacturing, industrial automation, multi-state tax issues, income tax provisions, and long-term business planning.
FMD is excited to celebrate this recognition and the continued contributions of these talented professionals as the firm grows while remaining focused on trusted relationships, high-level service, and forward-looking guidance for clients.
FMD Sponors EO Detroit’s Global Student Entrepreneur Awards
Detroit, Mich. – The Detroit Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization is once again hosting its annual Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) on Jan. 28 at 2 p.m. on the Walsh College campus in Troy, Michigan.
Sponsored by FMD CPAs & Strategic Advisors and EO Detroit, this “student pitch” competition boasts the Chapter’s largest group ever, with eight participants from colleges and universities across the state of Michigan. Each will be vying for a top prize of $7,500, and like the popular Shark Tank show, the students will have 10 minutes to present their business plan and entrepreneurial journey. A panel of judges will score them across 10 different categories and ultimately select a winner.
Notable highlights about the student companies presenting include:
Founder listed in Forbes magazine's 30 under 30
A company that builds military target drones
A smartphone application that scans customers for detailed clothing fitment before they order online
"The response this year has been incredible, and we are really excited about the number of students competing," says Rob Cote, chairman of the EO Detroit GSEA program. "With a record number [for our chapter] of qualifying students this year's event will definitely be another great one."
The winner of this event will go on to compete at a regional level and, if successful, will ultimately advance to the national competition. The winners of all national competitions from around the world will go on to compete for the title of Global Student Entrepreneur Awards global champion in 2025. GSEA participants will have an opportunity to engage with world-class entrepreneurs, receive media exposure, win cash, and share in more than $100,000 in donated business services.
As an added bonus, the local event will also host several young entrepreneurs who will set up booths to sell items they make. Some of the proceeds from the young entrepreneurs will go to local charities. The GSEA competition is open to the public. Tickets are not needed and pre-registration is not required.
About EO Detroit
EO Detroit is a peer-to-peer network of the most driven and accomplished entrepreneurs in Southeast Michigan. Laser-focused on creating, building and innovating, our members fuel each other's passions through killer learning and educational events, meaningful experience shares, accountability partnerships and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Detroit, MI 48433 | https://www.eodetroit.com/ | Facebook | Twitter
FMD Recognized as a Crain’s Best Place to Work for the Second Year in a Row
FMD is proud to announce that the firm has once again been named one of Crain’s Best Places to Work, earning the #20 spot out of 100 recognized organizations.
This honor reflects FMD’s continued commitment to building a workplace where collaboration, professional growth, positivity, and strong relationships are at the center of the firm’s culture. Just as FMD is dedicated to providing exceptional service to clients, the firm is equally committed to creating an environment where team members feel supported, valued, and empowered to do meaningful work.
Being recognized for the second year in a row is a testament to the people who make FMD what it is. The firm is grateful for its dedicated team, loyal clients, and the relationships that continue to inspire growth and excellence year after year.
Brianna J. McNamara Promoted to Partner at FMD
FMD is proud to announce the promotion of Brianna J. McNamara, CPA, to Partner.
Brianna’s promotion reflects her leadership, technical expertise, commitment to client service, and meaningful contributions to the firm. Throughout her time at FMD, she has demonstrated a strong dedication to helping clients navigate complex financial and business matters with confidence, while also supporting the growth and development of the team.
This milestone is a well-deserved recognition of Brianna’s hard work, professionalism, and continued impact within the firm and the accounting profession. FMD is excited to celebrate Brianna’s advancement and looks forward to her continued leadership in this new role.
FMD Earns Crain's Detroit 2023 Best Places to Work
We are humbled and honored to share that FMD has been awarded Crain's 2023 Best Places to Work.
This accomplishment reflects the dedication and passion of our team in creating an exceptional work environment. Just as we prioritize delivering top-notch service to our clients, we are equally committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and positivity within our organization.
We firmly believe that our success is intertwined with the relationships we have with clients and collaborators like you. Your trust and partnership have played a significant role in shaping who we are today, and we are truly grateful for that.
FMD Sponsors EO Detroit's Global Student Entrepreneur Awards
FMD sponsored the EO Detroit Global Student Entrepreneur Awards last month in January and was pleased to award $5000 to the winner, Dario Lucci. This event spotlights young people who turn innovative ideas into businesses. Congratulations to all who participated!
FMD Sponsors Special Olympics Event at Pine Trace Golf Club
FMD was a skills event sponsor at Pine Trace Golf Club’s 29th Annual Special Olympics Michigan Golf Benefit. 39 Olympians from Michigan were paired with participants for an Olympic competition that featured six golf skills events.
More than $10,000 was raised to support Special Olympics! Donations are still being accepted and can be made here. The Olympians were the big winners of the day, with each receiving a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place medal. There was also an award for the highest points scored in each of the skills categories and for the overall point winner.
FMD and Pine Trace Golf Club celebrate all Special Olympics athletes and thank you for being part of a great golf event!
FMD's Kim Beare Awarded Firm Manager of the Year by CPAFMA
FMD is thrilled to announce that our Firm Administrator, Kim Beare, was awarded the 2022 CPA Firm Management Association’s (CPAFMA) prestigious Firm Manager of the Year Award (FMAward), which honors senior-level firm managers who have significantly impacted their companies.
Recipients are recognized for leadership, strategic impact on the firm, and the contribution and oversight of programs that contribute to overall growth, profitability, and fostering employee-friendly company culture.
Kim recently told us that “Fenner Melstrom, & Dooling is a great company to work for. I learn a lot from my involvement with CPAFMA that I’ve been able to bring back ideas and implement to make our firm stronger.” In addition to her role as Firm Administrator, she assists the FMD partners on the Management Committee, which is responsible for strategic planning.
Kim holds a degree from the University of Michigan and is an active member of the Michigan Association of Public Accountants. Beare is active with the national and state chapters of CPAFMA and has served on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Chapter for over 10 years.
We’re thrilled that your hard work and dedication at FMD have been recognized by your peers. Kim, congratulations!
About CPA Firm Management Association
CPA Firm Management Association leads CPA firm management by empowering and equipping them for success by providing community and connections, inspiring them to advocate and elevate, sharing tools and resources, and by offering education, strategy, and implementation.
7946 Clyo Road, Suite A, Centerville, OH 45459
(937) 222-0030 | info@cpafma.org | https://cpafma.org/
FMD Sponsors EO Detroit Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) 2021
Once again, FMD supported the EO Detroit GSEA as presenting sponsor providing the $5,000 awarded to the winning student entrepreneur.
The Detroit Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) hosted a student entrepreneur competition, EO Detroit Global Student Entrepreneur Awards, at the Rock Studio at Campus Martius on December 3.
Student entrepreneurs competed against their peers by presenting their businesses to a panel of entrepreneurs and business professionals. All participants received feedback from the judges during the competition. The winning entrepreneur will go on to represent the Motor City at the 2022 national competition.
The winners of all national competitions from around the world will go on to compete for the title of Global Student Entrepreneur Awards global champion in 2022. GSEA participants will have an opportunity to engage with world-class entrepreneurs, receive media exposure, win cash, and share in more than $100,000 in donated business services.
About EO Detroit
EO Detroit is a peer-to-peer network of the most driven and accomplished entrepreneurs in Southeast Michigan. Laser focused on creating, building and innovating, our members fuel each other's passions through killer learning and educational events, meaningful experience shares, accountability partnerships and once in a lifetime experiences.
Detroit, MI 48433 | https://www.eodetroit.com/ | Facebook | Twitter
Best Buddies Champion of the Year 2021
FMD was honored to sponsor the 2021 Best Buddies Champions Gala to unite and recognize the community’s most active leaders in the name of inclusion. On Friday, November 19 at the Henry Ford Museum guests enjoyed an evening full of games, auctions, dancing, and exploring the Museum’s exhibits. Congratulations to the 2021 Michigan Champion of the Year, Rachel Mueller.
Best Buddies is the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower the special abilities of people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communication skills, and feel valued by society.
FMD Sponsors Annual Michigan Auto Dealers Association (MADA) PAC Golf outing
Dan Patterson and Alan Rudzewicz of FMD, along with attorney Michael Weikert and financial wealth manager Kevin Zezula spent the afternoon in East Lansing supporting and networking with Michigan auto dealers and other vendors to support the MADA organization. The weather and golf were both amazing. Thank you to Terry Burns and the whole MADA Board and Staff for allowing us to participate again this year.
FMD Supports BBChamber Golf Outing
Jeff Goins, Alan Rudzewicz, and Dan Patterson of FMD participated in the event on July 20 to represent FMD and network with fellow BBChamber members.
FMD Sponsors Romeo MayFest
On May 22, the Romeo MayFest took place. FMD supported the event as the sponsor of the car show that was held.
The Romeo MayFest supports the two local nonprofit organizations listed below.
DRIVE R & E Family Foundation (www.driveforchildren.org) is focused on bettering the lives of children in Michigan aged 0-22. This event will help raise much needed funds to support our ongoing initiatives such as:
Supporting food insecure children with backpacks of food throughout the school year.
Supporting impoverished children with clothing & personal care items through our DRIVE Closet.
Supporting families in need with gifts for their children during the Christmas Season. AND MORE!
The Romeo Lions Club (romeolionsclub.org) was established in 1942 as a local chapter of Lions Club International, the world’s largest service club organization. Our motto is “We Serve” and our focus is on helping our local community. With almost 100 years of service, we’re only getting started.
Vincent Gotko and Dan Patterson attend Romeo MayFest on behalf of FMD
FMD Hires Alan C. Rudzewicz as Director of Trust, Estate and Gift Planning
Mr. Rudzewicz retired from practicing law at the end of 2020 and joined FMD in 2021 as the Director of Trust, Estate and Gift Planning to support the firm’s clients with estate planning in collaboration with the client’s legal advisor.
Mr. Rudzewicz has more than 40 years of experience in the practice of law. He has been providing legal expertise to families and businesses with a concentration on estate planning, estate tax, probate and trust administration, corporate law, business planning, and real estate. Throughout those years, Mr. Rudzewicz regularly advised businesses and executives on business formation, legal compliance, family and succession planning, and sales and acquisitions. He also represented and counseled families on various aspects of probate administration, estate planning, wills, powers of attorney, revocable and irrevocable trusts, special needs planning, gift planning, estate and gift tax, and asset protection.
Be Prepared for Changes in Estate and Gift Tax Law
The recent Presidential and Congressional elections have caused concern about changes to estate and gift tax laws. While no specifics have been formally announced by the new administration, we believe that it is extremely important that you review your estate plan in the coming months.
We have taken steps in this direction to assist with this process. FMD has brought on additional resources to review, update and provide planning assistance to help you protect your assets and make certain that they will be distributed to heirs and charities according to your wishes.
We urge you to contact your FMD advisor to set up a review or to discuss any questions you may have about possible changes in the law and how they may affect you.
Managing Partner Brian Hunter 2021 Corp! Magazine Most Valuable Professional Award Winner
Congratulations to 2021 Corp! Magazine Most Valuable Professional award winner Brian J. Hunter, Managing Partner of FMD.
MVP honorees are deserving members of the community who are creating job opportunities, driving economic growth, nurturing community advancements, or leading successful companies.
