Laura Barnes is a dedicated Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a professional background rooted in both a passion for helping people and a love for numbers.
Educational & Professional Background
Laura holds a diverse educational background, achieving a Bachelor of Social Work from UNI (University of Northern Iowa), where she attended from 1993 to 1997. Her initial major was driven by a desire to help people.
She later pursued a second degree, earning a BS in Accounting from Buena Vista University between 1998 and 2000, drawn by her inherent love for numbers. She has since continued her education by obtaining her CPA designation along with career development classes and seminars.
This dual background laid the foundation for her current career as a CPA. Prior to this, she also held roles as an investment representative and an insurance agent.
Laura chose the accounting industry because she is passionate about helping clients with tax strategies. She enjoys her job due to the opportunity to work with great clients and the satisfaction of working with numbers. Her favorite achievement from her career is the success of helping people retire.
Personal Background
Born in Estherville, Iowa, Laura established her home in Winterset in 1999. She is married to Jason, and they have two children, Katie (husband, Colt) and Kayla. Laura's family has expanded to include her granddaughter, Clara, with whom she loves to play with and spoil.
The family's household is lively, as they share it with three dogs (Puppy, Bear, and Oakley) and one cat (Buddy). A core principle in Laura’s life is family as well as actively volunteering at her church.