At Lewis & Knopf, CPAs, P.C., we believe that true leadership is measured not only by professional success but also by the lasting impact made within our communities. Through decades of service, mentorship, and volunteer leadership, Tom Lillie, CPA, has exemplified that commitment. We are proud to spotlight Tom as he receives the prestigious 2025 Mrs. J. Dallas Dort Award, recognizing his extraordinary dedication to the Flint community and the organizations he has helped strengthen over the years.
2025 Mrs. J. Dallas Dort Award Recipient
Presented by the Flint Institute of Music, the Mrs. J. Dallas Dort Award honors individuals who have devoted significant time and service to advancing the organization’s mission and strengthening the community. Tom’s selection reflects more than five decades of leadership, service, and commitment to helping others succeed.
As a partner at Lewis & Knopf, Tom built a career guiding businesses, entrepreneurs, and families through important financial decisions. Throughout his career, he became known not only for his technical expertise, but also for his genuine care for clients and his commitment to helping them achieve their goals.
Reflecting on what has motivated him throughout his career, Tom shared:
“I enjoy seeing people apply the things I suggested. Watching them build something, develop wealth, plan for their families’ futures, and improve things along the way. That’s really gratifying.”
Leadership Through Service
Tom has served as Treasurer of the Flint Institute of Music Board of Trustees for 14 years, helping strengthen the organization’s financial oversight, governance, and long-term planning. Drawing on his experience advising businesses, he introduced systems and processes designed to improve accountability, risk management, and organizational sustainability.
His leadership has extended beyond the Flint Institute of Music as well. Over the years, Tom has served on the board of the Flint Institute of Arts, including two years as board president, and currently serves on the investment committee for the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Through these roles, he has helped support organizations that enrich the cultural and economic vitality of the region.
A Legacy of Mentorship
Within Lewis & Knopf, Tom is equally respected for the impact he has had on colleagues and future generations of accounting professionals.
For decades, he has mentored staff members, sharing both technical knowledge and practical wisdom gained throughout his career. His belief that no question is a bad question has helped create an environment where learning, growth, and professional development are encouraged.
Tom’s influence can be seen not only in the clients he has served but also in the many professionals he has helped develop along the way.
Celebrating a Well-Deserved Honor
The Mrs. J. Dallas Dort Award recognizes individuals whose service leaves a lasting impact on both organizations and the broader community. Tom’s career reflects those very qualities—leadership, stewardship, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed.
We are proud to celebrate Tom’s well-deserved recognition and grateful for the example he continues to set for our firm, our profession, and our community.
Congratulations, Tom, on this remarkable honor.
