For over two decades, Trish Hamilton dedicated herself to her profession, working tirelessly in a small accounting firm where she wore many hats—tax preparation, payroll, compilations, and more.
Despite her hard work and growing responsibilities, she faced a harsh reality: no benefits, no clear path to advancement, and a culture that did not fully recognize her value.
Her story is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and the importance of company culture in fostering personal and professional growth.
Recognizing the Need for Change
“I was really devoted to that job,” Trish recalled. “I mean I stayed there for 20 years.” But over time, the lack of growth opportunities and diminishing support took its toll.
As the firm dropped benefits and stagnated in structure, Trish found herself in a cycle that offered no room for progress. It wasn’t until COVID-19 disrupted the industry that she took a step back and reassessed her career path.
“I thought, ‘this is just the way it is,’” she admitted. “But my husband saw in me what I didn’t see in myself. He told me that I was undervalued, underpaid, and that I could do so much better.’” His encouragement gave her the confidence to seek out an employer that would recognize and nurture her potential.
Choosing the Right Culture: Why Donovan?
After making the difficult decision to leave, Trish explored new opportunities. Initially, she believed she was done with CPA firms altogether. “I decided I didn’t ever want to work for a CPA firm again,” she said with a laugh. But fate had other plans.
Through a chance call with a recruiter, Trish learned about Donovan CPAs—a firm that wasn’t just looking for another accountant but someone who could mentor and support the next generation of professionals.
“The biggest thing that stood out to me was when Donovan told me they’d love to have an experienced person to help teach and mentor younger staff,” she recalled. “That was it. That’s what I love doing.”
It was a stark contrast from her previous firm, where leadership didn’t want any other leadership other than their own and became dismissive of employees.. At Donovan, she was encouraged to take ownership of processes and improvements.
One of her first contributions was revamping the way the firm handled 1099s. “They said, ‘Go for it.’ And when we did it my way, it worked better. Now, I’ve passed that down to another staff member, and she’s made it even better.”
This cycle of innovation, trust, and empowerment is a hallmark of Donovan CPAs’ culture.
A Culture of Empowerment
Unlike many traditional accounting firms, Donovan doesn’t believe in forcing employees into rigid roles. Instead, they shape opportunities around each individual’s strengths and aspirations.
For Trish, this shift was life-changing. After years of feeling unheard, she now had a seat at the table. “People started coming to me, asking for advice, valuing my input.’” she said. “I want to hear people’s ideas and I want to empower them to go with it.”
Her experience is not unique within the firm. After she had shared her story at a company retreat, several new employees approached her, echoing her sentiments. “They said, ‘I was in the same boat before coming here. I can’t believe this place actually listens to me.’”
This culture of encouragement and flexibility is what has fueled Donovan CPAs’ growth and success. When employees feel valued, they innovate, take initiative, and contribute at a higher level.
The Road to Partnership
Trish’s journey took an unexpected but rewarding turn when she was invited to become a partner at Donovan CPAs. “I never saw myself on a partner path,” she admitted. “I just do what I do.” But her leadership, willingness to mentor, and ability to implement change made her a natural fit.
Even working remotely from El Paso, Texas—1,400 miles away from the firm’s headquarters in Indianapolis—Trish has built meaningful connections with both clients and colleagues. “I’ve been told a few times that it feels like I’m in the office,” she said. Through constant communication, video calls, and a commitment to collaboration, she ensures that distance is never a barrier.
Now, as a partner, she is excited about the firm’s future. “I want to keep watching our team members grow into new leaders. That’s what excites me.”
A Message for Those Feeling Stuck
For professionals—especially women—who feel undervalued in their careers, Trish has one clear message: don’t stay stuck. “If your company doesn’t listen to you, if there’s no path for growth, if you feel like your ideas are dismissed—leave,” she urged. “Yes, it’s scary to try something new, but look at what you can find.”
Her story is proof that finding the right culture can completely change the trajectory of a career. “I’m passionate about this company and really honored to have been invited into the partner group,” she said. “You know, it’s somewhere where I didn’t see myself going, but here I am. And they invited me in.”
Trish Hamilton’s journey to partnership at Donovan CPAs isn’t just a personal success story—it’s a testament to the power of a strong company culture. Donovan’s commitment to fostering leadership, valuing employees, and encouraging innovation has created a firm where professionals can thrive. And for Trish, it’s been a place where she has truly found her value.
Do you want to listen to her full story? Trish was recently on a podcast. Listen in!
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