Staff Accountant

Jennifer is a Staff Accountant at Kern & Thompson, LLC. She joined the Firm in 2023.

Jennifer has a diverse professional background, starting with a career in teaching that took her from instructing 5th grade science and history to working with English language learners in Turkey. She then transitioned into the accounting field and has four years of experience working in a CPA firm, including roles as a tax and assurance administrative assistant, tax intern, and staff accountant. In her current role as a staff accountant, Jennifer specializes in preparing 990s for nonprofit organizations, providing a deep focus on compliance and reporting for these entities. 

Her past experiences have equipped her with a strong foundation in financial reporting and tax compliance, allowing her to serve clients with precision and expertise.

Jennifer is currently preparing for the CPA exam and is an active member of the Oregon Society of Certified Public Accountants (OSCPA), where she stays engaged with industry trends and best practices.

Outside of her professional life, Jennifer enjoys exploring Oregon and beyond with her husband and daughter. She values family time and is passionate about balancing work with leisure activities.

Cheryl is the Managing Principal of Kern & Thompson, LLC and has been providing public accounting services since 1986.

Cheryl’s practice currently includes tax planning and preparation for corporations, partnerships, trusts and individuals. She also provides audit, attestation, and information/tax filing services to approximately 150 not-for-profit organizations. She serves as a Board Member and the Treasurer of the Portland VA Research Foundation, and is on the board and finance committee of Rural Development Initiatives, Inc.  She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Portland.

Cheryl is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Oregon Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Outside the office Cheryl cares for her flock of chickens and aspires to share as many organic eggs as possible.  Along and with her husband, she is also developing her skills in beekeeping.