Laura joined the BE team in September 1998 and, with over 20 years of accounting experience, currently serves as the firm’s chief operations officer (COO). In her role as COO, she provides leadership to the firm’s administrative teams including information technology, human resources, finance, and business development and spearheads many of the firm’s special projects.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance and Decision Support Systems from Ferrum College, and is a licensed CPA in Virginia. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA).

We interviewed Laura to really get to know her, outside of her profession, and we were surprised to learn that she loves heavy metal music!

Where are you from and where did you grow up?

I am from Rocky Mount, VA (Franklin County) 

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy running, reading, making pasta and fancy meals, and beach vacations with my husband.

What do you consider your best quality or trait?

I am patient.

What is the best advice you ever received and from who?

My dad told me, "Just be yourself" and "Don't lose sight of the compassionate and caring person you are."

If you could be a superhero what would be your superpower?

Bilocation or teleportation would be my top two picks! (Obviously a theme there...)

What is your favorite food?

Fish tacos, though most tacos will make me happy.

What famous figure (living or dead) would you most like to meet and why?

There are certainly figures of more historical importance that I could have chosen, but I think an afternoon with Nancy Regan would have been very entertaining. From her life in Hollywood to living in the White House and being a strong partner to President Regan and retaining her individuality with her fashion choices.

What do you think is your biggest contribution to the Brown Edwards team?

My passion and enthusiasm for our Firm. I am so proud of all that we have accomplished during the time I have been here, and I look forward to using my energy and passion, for what we do, to help us navigate the future.