ABOUT US
Evan J. Stowell
Evan joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 2002 following his college graduation. In his current role as partner, he specializes in audit engagements for a variety of clients, including manufacturers, not-for-profit organizations and employee benefit plans. In addition, Evan provides a variety of taxation and accounting services to individuals and businesses, ranging from closely-held entities to consolidated multi-state companies.
Beyond the work he performs for his clients, Evan has shared his time as a volunteer for several local charitable organizations. Some of his most recent service has been for Habitat for Humanity and Portsmouth Children’s Day.
Evan attributes his professional success to his analytical problem solving abilities, as well as his strong attention to detail. This combination of skill and dedication allows him to provide accurate, timely and reliable services for his clients.
Evan is a native of Dover, New Hampshire and currently resides in Somersworth with his wife Jessica, and their two children, Julianne and Camden. While away from the office, he can often be found outdoors where he enjoys golfing, boating and skiing. Evan also enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)New Hampshire
- Member, Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- Board of Directors
- Young Professionals Committee
- Golf Tournament Committee
- Cornerstone Visiting Nurses Association
- Board of Directors
- Rochester Opera House
EDUCATION
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Bachelor’s degree, with honors (2002)
Evan J. Stowell
President, Managing Partner
John “Jack” D. Callahan, Jr.
Jack joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 1985. In this role, his tenacity, decisiveness, and visionary nature help him guide the firm’s overall strategy and day-to-day operations, including firm policy decisions, strategic planning, human resources and marketing. Jack specializes in serving clients in the not-for-profit and construction industries, as well as small, family-owned businesses. He has also served as the firm’s Managing Partner.
Jack credits his professional success to his hard work and the personal relationships he develops with his clients. He also places a strong emphasis on the value of honesty and is perpetually committed to providing trustworthy, reliable service.
Jack was raised in Scarborough, Maine and currently resides in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. He and his wife, Tawna, have three children. In his free time, Jack’s hobbies include playing golf and running. He is also a sports fan and enjoys spending time with his family.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – New Hampshire
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- Great Waters
- Board of Directors
EDUCATION
- Saint Anselm College
- Bachelor of Science (1985)
John “Jack” D. Callahan, Jr.
Treasurer, Partner
Paula J. DePlanche
Paula joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 1988 and was admitted to partnership in 2005. Beyond her role as partner, she also serves as one of the Vice-Presidents of the firm. Paula specializes in performing financial reporting for closely-held businesses and not-for-profit organizations, as well as tax preparation services for closely-held businesses, not-for-profit organizations and individuals.
Paula attributes her success to being committed and focused to her profession, having constant support from family, and utilizing a strong network of professional relationships.
Over the years, Paula’s knowledge has generated much more than high client satisfaction and superior results. She believes what clients appreciate most is her ability to obtain the necessary information needed to address unique situations, whether it means finding someone within the firm or taking advantage of her 35-plus years of referral sources. Some referral source examples include finding a reputable intermediary to facilitate an IRC Section 1031 Exchange, having long-standing professional contacts within various State of New Hampshire agencies and referring ideal candidates to clients for staffing or board memberships. People know she is part of a firm that is well connected throughout the communities they service.
Paula was raised in Dover, New Hampshire, where she resides today with her husband. While away from the office, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, volunteering in her community, hiking, kayaking and relaxing with a good book.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Volunteer of the Year Award, Dover Chamber of Commerce
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- American Lung Association of New England Board Member
- Board Member
- Finance & Audit Committees
- Former Chair, New Hampshire Leadership Committee
- Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce
- Former Executive Committee, Treasurer
- Other local nonprofit organizations in varying capacities
EDUCATION
- Bentley College
- Master of Science: Taxation
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Bachelor of Science: Business Studies with a concentration in Accounting
Paula J. DePlanche
Vice President, Partner
Shauna I. Brown
Shauna began her career at Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 2006. Joining the partner group in 2017, Shauna’s practice is primarily dedicated to providing audit and review services for nonprofit organizations and closely-held businesses. Shauna works with a wide range of clients, which include, but are not limited to for-profit businesses in various industries, nonprofits, affordable housing and HUD organizations. She also has experience in taxation. Prior to joining the firm, Shauna worked at a Massachusetts CPA firm for three years.
Shauna originally grew fond of the accounting industry after learning the experiences of friends and family who worked in the field and learning of their interactions with and commitment to serving their clients. Today she attributes her success to a number of factors, including her education and on-the-job training, the knowledgeable mentors she has worked with throughout her career and her commitment to never stop learning. Shauna believes the experience of having a family has emphasized the importance of working hard and efficiently in order to maintain a steady career-life balance.
Shauna grew up in Deerfield, New Hampshire where she resides today with her husband Nate and their two children. While not in the office, she enjoys spending time with family, especially watching her daughters on the soccer field or basketball court. Additionally, whether she is running along the country roads in her home town or going on short hikes with her family, Shauna enjoys spending time outdoors.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- The Inn at Deerfield
- Treasurer
- Board Member
- Concord High School Soccer Booster Club
- Treasurer
EDUCATION
- Bentley University, magna cum laude
- Bachelor of Science: Accounting Information Systems
Shauna I. Brown
Secretary, Partner
Peter R. Ventura
Peter has been a member of the Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association team since 2003, becoming a Partner in 2019. He is responsible for multiple pension, 401(k) and 403(b) plan audits, and is recognized within the firm as an expert with regard to employee benefit plan audits. He is also responsible for audits of many of the firm’s manufacturing clients along with small and mid-size tax clients.
Since his public accounting career began more than 20 years ago, Peter has developed a strong background in and knowledge of several different industries. Specifically, he has spent more than a decade working with clients in both the manufacturing and not-for-profit sectors and has extensive experience with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
Partially due to his friendly personality and strong communication skills, Peter is by nature a very sales oriented individual. He continually attempts to generate new business for Leone, McDonnell & Roberts and ultimately help the firm grow and prosper. In one example, Peter served as a liaison between the firm and an outside investment company, which enabled Leone, McDonnell & Roberts to offer investment planning services to its clients.
In addition to maintaining his focus on the success of both the firm and its clients, Peter extends his commitment and knowledge to local college students. Peter speaks periodically to students at the University of New Hampshire about the accounting profession.
After growing up in Plaistow, New Hampshire, Peter experienced life in other parts of the country, spending five years in Georgia and two years in Michigan. He then moved back to his home state and currently resides in Durham with his wife, Lori, and their two children. While away from the office, Peter is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys participating in a variety of sports.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- James W. Foley Legacy Foundation
- New Museum of Portsmouth, Inc.
- Board of Directors, Treasurer
EDUCATION
- University of New Hampshire
- Bachelor of Science: Business Administration
- Oakland Community College
- Associate degree: Criminal Justice
Peter R. Ventura
Vice President, Partner
Christopher J. McKay
Christopher joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 2009 and was admitted to the firm’s partner group in July 2020. Chris focuses in accounting and tax preparation services for closely held businesses and individuals with an emphasis on multi-state tax issues. Chris also specializes in information technology and is heavily involved in the firm’s nonprofit practice.
Chris found career inspiration when he realized the accounting field was the most technically challenging and engaging course work at business school. Today he attributes his success to his technical and problem-solving skills, his family, and the mentors at Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, P.A., that he worked with throughout his career.
Chris grew up in Exeter, NH and graduated Cum Laude from the University of New Hampshire where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Chris is currently a member of the AICPA and NHSCPA.
Chris’s ambitions do not slow outside the office as he enthusiastically participates in numerous outdoor activities, some of them being quite adventurous; mountain biking, back country skiing, running, hiking, water skiing, and golfing. Chris, a licensed private pilot, is a member of the Skyhaven Flying Club and enjoys spending time in the air well. He is happily married and resides in Wakefield, NH with his wife and children.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- Skyhaven Flying Club
- Board Member
- Executive Committee, Treasurer
- Back Bay Hockey
- Treasurer
- Wakefield, NH
- Budget Committee
EDUCATION
- University of New Hampshire, cum laude
- Bachelor of Science: Business Administration (2009)
Christopher J. McKay
Vice President, Partner
Jason Gaskell
Jason has been with the Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association since 2009 where he managed a multitude of accounting responsibilities at our Dover, New Hampshire location. Promoted to the Partner group in 2022, Jason specializes in several essential financial areas. Jason partners with clients in a wide range of industries on a daily basis to conduct and supervise audit fieldwork for nonprofit and employee benefit plans. He also collaborates with individuals and organizations to prepare and review both business and personal income returns. Put simply – Jason does a little bit of everything, and he does everything well!
Jason graduated cum laude from the University of New Hampshire. He first interned at Leone, McDonnell & Roberts as a UNH undergrad where Jason gained firsthand experience working with our diverse client base as an advisor and problem solver. At Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, we know talent, skill, and capability when we see it. We hired Jason right after he graduated and he’s been with us ever since! Now, more than twelve years later, Jason has become an invaluable contributor to our firm’s success, effortlessly keeping up with our lightning-fast pace and customizing his approach to meet the needs and challenges of every individual client.
Jason’s a lifelong athlete who still enjoys playing hockey and golf in his spare time. He also loves spending time with friends at home in Dover or with family members living in Massachusetts.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
MEMBERSHIPS
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- Seacoast Educational Endowment for Dover (SEED)
- Treasurer
- Board Member
EDUCATION
- University of New Hampshire, cum laude
- Bachelor of Science: Business Administration – Accounting, Finance
Jason Gaskell
Vice President, Partner
Thomas W. Roberts
Tom joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 1987 and currently works part time in the firm’s North Conway and Wolfeboro offices. Over the years, Tom has helped guide the day-to-day operations at our North Conway office, working toward the overall growth and sustainability of the firm in the community. Tom specializes in providing reliable consulting and tax planning services for private, family-owned businesses. He is also involved with the firm’s nonprofit organization practice.
Prior to joining Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Tom worked at a regional CPA firm in Chicago, Illinois for eight years. Tom began his public accounting career in 1979.
With a professional background of more than 40 years, Tom has established the necessary experience and acumen to assist his clients with a wide range of issues. In one instance, he helped an inn and restaurant client more than double its business interruption insurance payout. For another client, Tom assisted with converting the business to a limited liability company saving them significant tax dollars. Beyond his client success stories, he has shared his extensive knowledge as a volunteer and board member for numerous nonprofit organizations.
Tom was inspired to pursue a career in the accounting field due to his interest and natural abilities in problem solving. Today he attributes his success to his strong people skills and the lasting relationships he builds with his clients.
Born and raised in Chicago, Tom currently resides in Wolfeboro with his wife, Rita, and their two children. Outside the office, Tom’s hobbies include biking, skiing, hiking and fishing.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
- Volunteer of the Year Award, Mount Washington Valley Economic Council
- Volunteer of the Year Award, Starting Point
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- Assistance Canine Training Services
- Treasurer
- Board Member
- Mount Washington Valley Economic Council
- Member, Loan Review Board
- Friends of Pop Whalen
- Treasurer
- Board Member
EDUCATION
- Illinois State University
- Bachelor of Science: Accounting (1979)
Thomas W. Roberts
Principal
Joseph F. Quinn, Jr.
Joe joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 2005, and is responsible for managing client relationships and staff. Joe also oversees client development.
In addition to his management duties, Joe provides a wide array of reliable, high quality services to his clients. He maintains particular specialization with financial planning, investments, retirement plans and insurance, as well as tax return preparation and planning for individuals, corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates, gift taxes, not-for-profits and retirement plans. Moreover, Joe has extensive experience representing both businesses and individuals during audits before the IRS and the State of New Hampshire. He works with a variety of clients including those in the manufacturing, construction, consulting, sales, wholesale and retail, country club, condo association and real estate industries.
Joe began his career more than two decades ago, working for two small New York City CPA firms over the course of a six-year period. He then transitioned to a large firm, Grant Thornton LLP, where he performed audits of public and private companies that included filings with the SEC. In 1998, Joe joined H. Richard & Co., CPAs in New Hampshire, which merged with Leone, McDonnell & Roberts approximately six years later.
Growing up, Joe always excelled in math and science and especially enjoyed complex problem solving. These skills and interests led him to focus on accounting and finance in college and pursue a career in the field. Today, Joe attributes his success to his friends, family and the numerous influential colleagues he has worked with over the years. He also credits his appreciation for life and not taking things for granted to his mother and brother, both of whom lost their battles with cancer.
Joe was raised on Long Island, New York. He currently resides in Exeter, New Hampshire. Outside the office, Joe enjoys boating, playing golf and spending time with family and friends.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
- New York
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA)
- Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce
- University of Buffalo Alumni Association
- Exeter Country Club
- Board of Directors
- Vice President
- Board of Directors
EDUCATION
- University of Buffalo, The State University of New York
- Bachelor of Science: Business Administration – Accounting and Finance (1985)
Joseph F. Quinn, Jr.
Principal
Tavia D. Cederberg
In her role as Principal, Tavia oversees work performed by the firm’s staff level employees, such as audits, reviews, compilations and tax preparation.
Tavia joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 1995. In her role as Principal, she oversees work performed by the firm’s staff level employees, such as audits, reviews, compilations and tax preparation. In her own client responsibilities, Tavia specializes in accounting systems analysis and consulting. She also consults with clients regarding their tax planning, banking and financing needs.
Tavia has extensive experience working with closely-held construction companies, including general contractors and sub-contractors. In addition, she possesses a deep understanding of construction from both sides of the desk. Tavia grew up working on job sites during the summers helping her father, a contractor in his own right, allowing her to develop familiarity with the workers, foremen, job superintendents, needs of the owners and the bankers who serve them.
Tavia began her public accounting career in 1992 at the CPA firm of DiSalvo & Associates, PA. There she assisted with payroll preparation, tax return preparation and write-up work. Tavia also got a taste for the accounting profession in a part-time role at Street Electric, Inc., a family-owned electrical contracting company, where she assisted with all aspects of monthly and annual financial statement preparation. While at Street Electric, Inc., she served as an assistant to the company’s controller, who was one of Tavia’s greatest mentors. Tavia is forever grateful to this mentor, who previously served in the same role for the producers of the “Rambo” series of films with Sylvester Stallone, for the invaluable knowledge and experience she gained as a result of her tutelage.
With an accounting background of more than two decades, Tavia has developed the necessary skill set to provide expert recommendations to help her clients succeed. On numerous occasions, she has assisted small businesses faced with tens of thousands of dollars in software upgrades to utilize much less expensive software and customize it to meet their needs. In another instance, Tavia helped a contractor uncover software problems and recreated their data to help save them hundreds of thousands in tax dollars.
When determining the career path that would best fit her personal interests and priorities, Tavia chose accounting because she felt she could take it with her wherever she goes. She desired a career where she was not forced to sit in one place and do the same thing every day. Tavia’s decision proved to be the right one, as her career has allowed her to travel, meet interesting people, and observe the fascinating and diverse effects finance has on people’s lives. Today she attributes her success to her faith, her supportive family and the first-class working environment at Leone, McDonnell & Roberts.
Tavia was born and raised in Meredith, New Hampshire with her parents and sister. She currently resides in Center Sandwich with her husband and son. Outside the office, Tavia maintains a variety of hobbies and interests, including long-distance swimming, trap-shooting, fine guns, fast cars, big trucks, traveling anywhere with warm temperatures and water, photography, art, cooking and snorkeling. She also enjoys staying actively involved with her son’s activities.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
- Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor
- advanced desktop
- advanced online
MEMBERSHIPS
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
EDUCATION
- Plymouth State University (1992)
Tavia D. Cederberg
Principal
Brieanna Pettengill
Brieanna first joined Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 2011. As a Principal in our Dover, NH location, Brieanna’s oversees many of the firm’s non-profit, HUD, and low-income housing audits. Throughout her tenure at Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Brieanna has earned a reputation for leveraging her impeccable attention to detail and strong organizational skills to deliver the financial support clients need to navigate through the potentially arduous audit process seamlessly and successfully.
Brieanna graduated from Southern New Hampshire University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. She launched her career at a firm located in Tewksbury, MA that same year. There, Brieanna teamed with clients in a diverse range of industries and gained invaluable experience in professional tax management.
At Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Brieanna has proven that math and numbers aren’t her only superpowers. She also has exceptional people skills and enjoys traveling to client locations where she can closely collaborate with partners to understand their specific audit needs and concerns. Brieanna effortlessly establishes herself as a trusted resource to our clients, acting as an extension of their organization to ensure they hit every audit deadline and deliverable. As a dedicated Leone, McDonnell & Roberts contributor, Brieanna uses her extensive insight and knowledge to develop customized financial audit solutions to help resolve any client issue.
When not hard at work in the office, Brieanna enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. She spends considerable time traveling New England watching her children’s sporting events.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
MEMBERSHIPS
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce
- Executive Committee, Treasurer
- Granite State Manager’s Association (GSMA)
- Treasurer
EDUCATION
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Bachelor of Science: Accounting
Brieanna Pettengill
Principal
Ryan T. Maran
Ryan launched his accounting career with Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association in 2013 as a recent college graduate. Although new to the field, Ryan’s accounting skills and insights helped him quickly establish himself as an invaluable on-site resource for both clients and colleagues alike. In July 2023, Ryan was promoted to Principal in our Wolfeboro, NH office. In this role, Ryan manages multiple areas of accounting expertise. Some of his many specialties include audits of closely-held companies and not-for-profit organizations as well as tax planning and preparation for both individuals and businesses.
Ryan brings a diverse range of skills and talents to the firm that extend beyond his exceptional accounting capabilities. Ryan is committed to customer service excellence at all times, continuously building and expanding relationships with clients for long-term professional partnerships. He is also a natural problem-solver, going above and beyond to resolve customer questions and concerns for optimal results.
Ryan graduated cum laude from the University of New Hampshire in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in accounting. He completed his graduate degree in 2013, earning a Master of Science in accounting. When not in the office, Ryan can often be found outdoors, camping and playing sports with his sons. He’s also an avid hiker who hopes to someday conquer the Appalachian Trail. Ryan and his wife, Shaylyn, reside in Wolfeboro along with their children.
DESIGNATIONS
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- New Hampshire
MEMBERSHIPS
- New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants (NHSCPA)
- Involved with the Young Professionals Committee
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- Wolfeboro Area Chamber of Commerce
- Treasurer of the Board of Directors
- Wolfeboro Area Recreation Association (“The Nick”)
- Treasurer of the Board of Directors
EDUCATION
- University of New Hampshire, cum laude
- Bachelor of Science: Business Administration with concentration in Accounting
- Master of Science: Accounting