Professional Bio

Lisa Howze is an author, speaker, CPA, and professional strategist, who has positioned herself well as a venerable leader and ambassador for the accounting profession. As the founder and CEO of The Lisa Howze Experience, LLC – a professional development and educational consulting firm, Lisa is committed to helping students and career professionals bounce back from setbacks using time-tested principles and proven strategies that produce next-level results.

With over 25 years of professional experience and outstanding achievements in the accounting profession, government and higher education, Lisa is grateful for every opportunity. However, she is no stranger to struggle. In her flagship book, Candy Girl Mentality, she captivates the hearts and minds of her audiences by compelling them to live life on purpose and appreciate how there are no mistakes in life. Instead, she teaches that, “Everything happens for a reason!”

A former Michigan state representative and one-time leader of Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan’s public policy agenda, Lisa has made legacy-building-impact throughout her career. For instance, while serving in Lansing, she helped to pass legislation that generated billions of dollars in economic development for the city of Detroit. Afterwards, she spearheaded an effort for the mayor that helps lower income residents claim hundreds of millions of dollars in tax refunds and credits each year. While vice president of a private, nonprofit university, Lisa advocated strongly for increased scholarship awards to help improve student retention and reduce student indebtedness.

Finally, Lisa is most proud of her own candidacy for Detroit Mayor, which earned her a spotlight from various media outlets and national publications. Today, she serves as chair of a non-profit board, continues to inspire the next generation, and appreciates the honor of being recognized with the Outstanding CPA in Government Impact Award, Women to Watch – Experienced Leader Award, and Notable Women in Education Leadership Award, to name a few.

Lisa earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting and a Master of Science degree in finance from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business and Walsh College, respectively.

With so much to offer, this powerhouse welcomes your partnership!

awards

Career Mastered Magazine, Spring 2021 Edition: Featured in a story entitled, “Leadership, Giving more than you take.”

AICPA and MICPA 2020 Women to Watch Experienced Leader Award

Crain’s 2019 Notable Women in Education Leadership Award

MICPA 2016 Chair Service Award

National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA) 2007 Walking the Road Less Traveled Award

Michigan Chronicle 2014 Women of Excellence Award

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Greater Detroit Chapter – 2013. Top 10 Greater Good Award

Habitat for Humanity 2011 Public Official of the Year Award

MICPA 2017 Outstanding CPA in Government Award

NABA Central Region 2003 Inaugural Chapter President of the Year Award