Judy Deniz

1. Can you describe some of your personal values or beliefs that you endeavor to integrate into your work? How do these influence your approach to your role?

My personal values align entirely with those of Linkenheimer. Our values are defined by how we ACT:

Approachable: We engage each other and clients with Genuine Interest, Respect and an Open-Minded approach.

Care: We genuinely care for our Clients, Co-Workers, and the Community.

Team: We achieve our goals through Selfless Action, Collaboration and Commitment to each other.

2. Can you tell us about a person or experience that has had a significant impact on your life or career path, and how that has influenced your outlook on work and life in general?

Graduating high school, I wasn’t entirely sure what my career path would be. I started off at the JC taking some general ed classes hoping it would “come to me.”  I reached a point in my education at Santa Rosa Junior College where I had to decide what path I’d be taking. Eventually, the two choices came down to either an elementary school teacher (my first choice) or accounting. I polled my family and friends on what they thought might be the best fit for me and the overwhelming result was that most could not see me as a teacher. I decided I would give the first accounting class at the JC a chance. The class, debits, and credits all clicked, and I realized accounting was for me! I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer in my kids’ classrooms over the years so I am sure I made the right choice, I have so much respect for teachers! I still have had the opportunity to “teach” in my career through helping new staff, clients, and leading tax trainings.

3. What is your approach to collaboration, and what do you believe are the key elements to successful teamwork?

I personally really enjoy and feed off of the team energy that you can “feel” being back in the office after Covid. It’s generally more efficient to be able to pop into a colleague’s office for a quick question. For me, the key ingredient to successful teamwork goes back to our values. As the saying goes, communication (and respect) is key in teamwork!

4. Can you tell us about an unexpected hobby or interest that may surprise people?

I love to wakeboard. My dream vacation is somewhere warm, on a lake so clear it looks like a sheet of glass! I am definitely no pro – when I am being towed behind the boat it always feels like I am gliding across a massive wake, but then look back at pictures and videos and realize it’s the smallest wake ever, but I have a blast!