As I conclude my term as TEI international president, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve this remarkable organization and its members. It has been both an honor and a privilege to lead TEI during the past year. Throughout my tenure, I have been continually inspired by the professionalism, dedication, and generosity of our members, volunteers, and staff. TEI remains the premier global organization for in-house tax professionals, and I am deeply appreciative of the support, encouragement, and goodwill extended to me throughout this journey.
One of the most rewarding aspects of serving as president was the opportunity to engage directly with members across North America. This spring, I attended four outstanding regional conferences:
- Region 10’s annual conference in Newport Beach, California;
- Region 9’s annual conference in Monterey, California;
- Region 2’s annual conference in Atlantic City, New Jersey; and
- Region 8’s annual conference in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
These conferences showcased the strength of our organization and the exceptional educational programming, networking opportunities, and professional development experiences that TEI provides. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the conference organizers, chapter leaders, speakers, sponsors, and volunteers whose hard work made these events such a success.
I would also like to recognize the members of the 2025–2026 Executive Committee for their outstanding leadership and commitment to the Institute. Throughout the year, this dedicated group provided thoughtful guidance on numerous initiatives and conducted timely reviews of fifteen comment letters prepared by TEI’s legal staff on issues of critical importance to our members. Everything we accomplished this year was the result of a true team effort. I am grateful for the collaboration, professionalism, and unwavering support of each Executive Committee member:
- Marcus S. Shore, senior vice president;
- Stephen Dunphy, secretary;
- Wayne H. Hamilton, treasurer;
- Sean Welsh, Region 8 vice president;
- Juan Carlos Rubio, Region 11 vice president;
- Marji Gordon-Brown, New York Chapter representative;
- Kristina Capretta, Toronto Chapter representative;
- Julia Lagun, Dallas Chapter representative;
- Erica Murray, New England Chapter representative; and
- Rich Pullen, Iowa Chapter representative.
The past year was marked by significant progress on several important initiatives. First, TEI conducted its first comprehensive member survey in many years, providing valuable insights into the challenges, priorities, and opportunities facing today’s corporate tax professionals. The feedback received from our members helped shape many of our strategic decisions and will continue to guide the Institute in the years ahead.
Second, the board adopted a new three-year strategic plan that establishes a clear road map for TEI’s future. This plan will help ensure that the Institute remains responsive to the evolving needs of our members while enabling staff and volunteer leaders to effectively prioritize resources and initiatives.
Third, TEI approved an optional group pricing program designed to encourage broader participation from corporate tax departments. By providing discounted membership opportunities for larger tax teams, this initiative aims to expand access to TEI resources, strengthen member engagement, and attract the next generation of tax professionals.
In addition, TEI is undertaking its first chapter and regional realignment since 2014. Under the proposed structure, Regions 2 and 3 will merge, as will Regions 4 and 5, reducing the total number of regions from eleven to nine. This realignment is intended to create a more balanced distribution of membership across regions and enhance opportunities for collaboration and resource sharing.
Another significant area of focus this year has been governance modernization. Our goal has been to develop a more agile and effective governance structure that supports the Institute’s long-term success. As part of this effort, TEI is contemplating the establishment of a new Chapter Council composed of all chapter representatives. The Chapter Council will serve as a forum for sharing best practices, discussing common challenges, and identifying successful educational and operational strategies that can strengthen chapters across the organization.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the exceptional leadership of Executive Director Pilar Mata and the dedicated TEI staff. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to serving our members continue to elevate the Institute and make TEI one of the most respected organizations in the tax profession. It has been a pleasure to work alongside such a talented and committed team.
As I conclude my service as international president, I encourage every member to remain actively engaged at the chapter, regional, and Institute levels. The relationships, educational opportunities, and leadership experiences available through TEI represent one of the most valuable investments a tax professional can make in their career.
Finally, I would like to congratulate my friend and colleague, Marcus Shore, as he assumes the role of TEI international president. Marcus is an outstanding leader who has served TEI with distinction for many years. I am confident that under his leadership, the Institute will continue to thrive and advance its mission on behalf of our members.
Thank you for the privilege of serving as your president. I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming TEI Annual Conference in Nashville.
Sincerely,
Walter B. Doggett III
TEI International President
