LaPorte is proud to announce that former equity partner Holly Sharp, CPA, CFE, CFF, has been honored as a Life Member of the Society of Louisiana CPAs. This award, subject to board approval, is presented to longstanding CPAs who have serviced the profession in an outstanding way and are in or near retirement. Holly Sharp has been with LaPorte for 43 years, stepping down from equity partner to advisory director in 2023.
Holly’s career with LaPorte has been distinguished with many milestones, both hers and the firm’s. She became the LaPorte’s first female director in 1991 and the first female shareholder in 1993. Holly paved the way for female leadership at LaPorte and championed gender equality. Currently, 43% of the firm’s income and equity directors are female.
With an impressive background in litigation and forensic accounting, Holly was hand picked to join the litigation and forensic accounting team in its early stages and moved into full-time consulting in the mid- 1990s. She was a key member of the AICPA’s inaugural committee on litigation services, and she authored the book “Measuring Damages Involving Individuals: A CPA’s Litigation Service Guide with Case Studies.”
Holly exemplifies the values of LaPorte through her dedication and service to the community. Her leadership in the Preservation Resource Center, particularly in the “Operation Comeback” and “Rebuilding Together” programs, played a vital role in preserving the city’s historic architecture and helping homeowners rebuild post-Katrina. Furthermore, Holly’s involvement in organizations like the Center for Development and Learning, the Cultural Landscape Foundation, and the New Orleans Charter Science and Mathematics High School has left a legacy that has impacted our local community.
Holly Sharp’s career is a blend of professional mastery, innovative leadership, and deep-rooted community involvement. Her contributions have not only elevated LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors but have also significantly impacted the accounting profession and the community of New Orleans.