30 Sep Living Our Core Values: Celebrating What Makes Blackman & Sloop Thrive
At Blackman & Sloop, our core values aren’t just words on a wall — they’re the compass that guides us every day. From how we serve our clients to how we support each other, these values shape our culture, fuel our growth, and keep us focused on what really matters.
We believe that when you live your values, you create a workplace where people can thrive. That’s why we established our quarterly Core Value Awards. These awards celebrate team members who go above and beyond in embodying the heart of Blackman & Sloop.
We sat down with some of our Core Value Award winners and firm leaders to hear their perspectives on what our values mean, how they live them out, and how those values shape meaningful careers at Blackman & Sloop.
Andrea Eason, Chief Executive Officer
How did the firm determine its core values, and what do they mean today?
“We came up with our core values many years ago during a partner/senior manager retreat. We spent two days reflecting on the values that we were already living every day — not just the ones we aspired to. That authenticity has made them stick. We refined them slightly last year during our partner retreat, but I still truly believe they reflect who we are as a firm.”
How do you see the team living out these values daily?
“Because our values are part of who we are, I see them in action all the time — whether it’s different service lines collaborating to exceed client expectations, teams working together to win new opportunities, or our ‘Pay It Forward’ committee organizing ways to give back.
Today, for example, our whole firm is out participating in CPA Day of Service, volunteering at local nonprofits. And of course, we never forget our ‘Take Fun Seriously’ value — you’ll often find us at happy hours, trivia nights, or bowling together.”
Why the Core Value Awards?
“We wanted to recognize those moments when someone truly exemplifies our values. It’s easy to focus on what needs improving, but recognition is powerful — it reminds us of what’s important, highlights the great work happening around us, and reinforces the culture we want to protect.”
Looking ahead, how do you see these core values shaping the future of Blackman & Sloop?
“Our core values have gotten us to where we are today, and I believe they’ll carry us into the next 50 years. They’re a big reason as to why Blackman & Sloop has been recognized as one of Accounting Today’s Best Places to Work for eight years running.”
Ross Stremme, Assurance Senior Manager & Core Value Award Recipient
Ross was recently honored with the “Maximize Potential” Core Value Award for his commitment to innovation and improvement.
What does this core value mean to you?
“It means a lot to me that people see me as someone who is always looking for ways to improve processes, motivate others to trust their abilities, and challenge the team to step outside their comfort zone.”
How do you live out this value in your work?
“I’m always looking for ways to gain efficiencies without sacrificing quality. On the audit side, we’ve implemented improvements to our audit process that have already increased realization. That’s a win for the firm and for our clients.”
How did it feel to be recognized?
“Honestly, it was an honor. Recognition like this reinforces that the discomfort that comes with innovation is worth it — because it pushes us to grow as individuals and as a firm.”
Amy Ford, Campus Recruiting Manager
Passionate about our Take Fun Seriously core value, Amy recently earned the award that celebrates it — and she’s sharing advice with those at the start of their career journeys.
Why is this value important?
“If we’re spending such a big part of our lives at work, it should be enjoyable! Fun isn’t fluff — it’s fuel. A little laughter and lightness can transform a workplace into a community, help prevent burnout, and even improve client service. When we’re happy and connected, we show up stronger.”
How do you live out this value?
“As part of the Culture Committee, I love creating moments that bring people together — from Mac and Cheese Day to Photography Day to Guacamole Day. These moments remind us that work can (and should) be fun.”
Why should job seekers care about the values of a firm?
“When you’re exploring employers, look for values that align with your own. Ask about them in interviews and pay attention to how people respond. Do they light up? Do they share real examples? That tells you if the values are lived or just words. For me, working at a firm where my values align makes all the difference — it turns work from a job into a mission I’m proud to be part of.”
Looking Ahead: Meet Splashin’ Sami
Our core values are central to who we are — and we like to celebrate them in style. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our new mascot, Splashin’ Sami! Sami embodies our Take Fun Seriously core value and will “follow” each “Take Fun Seriously” Core Value Award winner throughout the quarter. Keep an eye out on our social media for Sami’s big debut!
At Blackman & Sloop, we’re serious about values — and serious about fun.
