Houghton is a wife and mother of two girls, ages nine and 15. She is the first female to be named a partner at Meyers Brothers-Kalicka. She is also a community volunteer for several non-profit organizations. Her commitment to family, career and the community make her a perfect honoree for Woman of the Year. Houghton became the first partner of Meyers Brothers P.C in January 1997, which subsequently merged with Joseph D. Kalicka & Company LLP in 2004 to become the firm of Meyers Brothers Kalicka P.C., the largest regionally based CPA firm in Western Massachusetts. As the (currently) singular female partner of Meyers Brothers-Kalicka, she sets a tremendous example for the many female professionals within the Firm and within the industry. Houghton serves as the Director of the firm's Tax Department which provides valuable service and strategic advice and planning for its clients. Houghton's community involvement includes, treasurer for the Springfield Symphony and the Spirit of Springfield as well as the Springfield Tax Club. She has also served as treasurer and assistant treasurer of the Kiwanis Club of Springfield. Her efforts at the Springfield Boys and Girls Club include Board of Director, and a contributor of their Planned Giving Community which deals with the long term future of the Boys and Girls Club. Houghton has been instrumental in the advancement of the young members of the club and always speaks on their behalf. She also gives tirelessly on fundraising committees including the Festival of Trees and Golf Outing. Houghton's unrelenting contributions on behalf of the Girl Scouts goes beyond her leadership role as a dual troop leader (one troop for each of her girls); she is mentoring two students to achieve the highest level of merit and leadership called the Gold Award. In addition she takes groups on camping and rafting trips and she is someone they have come to rely on heavily. Her mentoring also includes teaching tenth grade faith formation class for St. Mary's Church in Longmeadow. Houghton balances her family life, her business career and her community involvement seamlessly and unselfishly. The Women's Partnership of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield Inc. annually presents this Award to a businesswoman in the Greater Springfield area. This is one of the highest regarded awards by citizens and is recognized as the top citation earned locally. Women in the Pioneer Valley are eligible and best exemplify ideals of outstanding leadership, accomplishments, and service to the community. Services can be rendered over a lifetime or for more recent achievements. In either case, her leadership and accomplishments are regarded as a model for the Greater Springfield Community. A May 21 banquet is planned in her honor. | ||||||
