The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced 18 new members for its 2025 Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council (IRSAC).
This diverse group of professionals brings fresh perspectives to tax administration, aiming to enhance communication between the IRS and the public.
A Fresh Start for Tax Policy Dialogue
The IRSAC, established in 1953, serves as a vital forum for discussing tax administration issues. Comprising experts from various sectors, the council provides insights and recommendations to improve IRS operations. The newly appointed members will begin their three-year terms this month, culminating in an annual report to be presented in November 2025.
Leadership and Representation
Christine Freeland, a Chandler, Arizona-based CPA, has been named the 2025 IRSAC Chair. Freeland’s extensive experience in tax education and small business support highlights the IRS’s focus on strengthening taxpayer assistance. The appointments also emphasize diversity, with representatives from different professions, sectors, and regions contributing to a balanced approach to tax policy.
Who Are the New Members?
The 18 new appointees include professionals with expertise in areas like legal aid, tribal finance, and global tax policy. They represent a broad spectrum of stakeholders, ensuring that the council reflects the varied interests of taxpayers across the U.S.
Name |
Role/Title |
Area of Expertise |
|---|---|---|
| Christine Freeland | IRSAC Chair, CPA | Tax Education, Small Business |
| Grace Allison | Staff Attorney, New Mexico Legal Aid | Legal Aid, Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics |
| Pablo Blank | Director of Immigration Integration, CASA | Immigration and Tax Policy |
| Selvan Boominathan | VP Global Head of Tax, Hackman Capital | Global Tax Strategy |
| Caroline Bruckner | Senior Lecturer, Kogod Tax Policy Center | Tax Policy and Legislation |
| Samuel Cohen | Chief Legal Officer, Santa Ynez Band | Tribal Finance |
| Kendra Cooks | CFO and Treasurer, Wabash College | Nonprofit Finance |
| Omeed Firouzi | Professor, Temple University | Legal Aid and Advocacy |
| David Gannaway | Principal, Bederson LLP | Business Taxation |
| Jared Goldberger | Partner, Mayer Brown LLP | International Tax Law |
| David Heywood | Attorney | Legal Practice and Policy |
| Manuela Markarian | Senior Tax Advisor, Bank of America | Corporate Tax Strategy |
| Charles Markham | Principal, Markham & Company LLC | Business Finance |
| Mark Matkovich | Attorney | State and Local Tax Law |
| Sarah Narkiewicz | Director, Washington University LITC | Taxpayer Clinics |
| Adam Robbins | VP of Tax, FanDuel Group | Corporate Tax Compliance |
| Tralynna Scott | Chief Economist, Cherokee Nation Businesses | Tribal Economics and Taxation |
| Kristofer Thiessen | Small Business Partner, Block Advisors | Small Business Tax Support |
| Rolanda Watson | Owner, Empower 2 Impact | Individual Taxpayer Services |
Diverse Expertise for Evolving Challenges
This year’s appointees will bring unique perspectives to address emerging challenges in tax administration. They will provide innovative solutions, ranging from low-income taxpayer representation to advanced corporate tax strategies, through the council’s diverse composition.
Annual Report and Strategic Goals
The IRSAC’s annual report, scheduled for November 2025, will outline recommendations to refine taxpayer services and optimize IRS operations.
Important areas of focus will include developing improved digital tools, enhancing support for small businesses, and simplifying tax compliance for individuals.
Looking Ahead
The addition of these 18 members to the IRSAC reinforces the IRS’s commitment to engaging with diverse voices to shape the future of U.S. tax policy.
By addressing the needs of taxpayers, professionals, and businesses alike, the council will help steer the IRS toward a more efficient and inclusive system.
Stay informed on IRS developments and learn more about the advisory council’s work by visiting IRSAC Updates.
