MEMBERS IN THE NEWS James M. Anderson, CPA, partner at Forvis Mazars LLP in Lincoln, received the John Connor Family Award at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL) School of Accountancy Celebration of Excellence in September 2025. This award recognized his longstanding commitment to the school. In addition to serving as Forvis Mazars’ Northwest regional tax quality leader and being on the firm’s tax growth committee, he is also an adjunct professor at UNL. Anderson served on the School of Accountancy Advisory Board from 2013 to 2019. He currently serves on the board of directors of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. Robert E. “Bob” Bendig, CPA (Inactive Registrant), of Fremont, is running for re-election for District 1 supervisor in Dodge County as a two-term incumbent. He has served on the Dodge County board since 2019. Kim M. Bryant, CPA, of Bryant & Associates, PC, in Lincoln, was named the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus for Southeast Community College’s (SCC) Lincoln campus. This award honors the outstanding professional, personal and civic achievements of SCC graduates. Bryant founded Bryant & Associates in 2001. After graduating from SCC, she earned a bachelor’s degree from Doane University. Lutz announced the redemption of shares held by Mark F. Duren, CPA, of Omaha, a longtime leader at the firm. This transition creates opportunities for the next generation of leaders to step into ownership. Post-redemption, Duren will continue to serve the firm in a consulting capacity, supporting clients at a strategic level and mentoring future leaders. His impact on Lutz spans more than three decades. Duren joined Lutz in 1992, quickly becoming known for his ability to connect with clients and understand the broader challenges facing business owners. He took on leadership roles across both tax and audit departments, building a well-rounded perspective that would later shape his approach to firm leadership. In 2015, Duren became Lutz’s managing shareholder. During his tenure, the firm expanded from approximately 150 employees to more than 370, grew revenue from $32 million to over $89 million, and broadened its capabilities beyond traditional accounting to include M&A, technology, and talent solutions. Under his leadership, Lutz became Nebraska’s largest locally owned business solutions firm and earned consistent recognition as a Top 100 accounting firm nationally. Beyond the firm, Duren has been actively involved in Nebraska’s business and nonprofit communities, serving in leadership roles with organizations like the Nebraska Society of CPAs and supporting economic development efforts through the Greater Omaha Chamber. He also served on various nonprofit boards and helped champion initiatives such as Lutz Gives Back and the LOAN program during the 2008 financial crisis. Liam Jost (student member) of La Vista was selected as a Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholar for the 2026-2027 academic year and was awarded a $15,000 scholarship. This merit-based award is given to students who demonstrate excellence in an accounting degree program, uphold high ethical standards, and are nominated by a professor. Jost is currently attending the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and is pursuing a master’s degree with aspirations to be a CPA. 25 nescpa.org
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