Member Spotlight

LaShanda R. Thomas is the Founder and Managing Director of The Clairmount Group, a Detroit-based accounting and advisory firm that provides audit, tax, consulting, grant management, and business advisory services to nonprofit organizations, governmental entities, charter schools, and closely held businesses. 

With more than 30 years of experience in accounting, financial management, governance, and strategic planning, LaShanda has built a reputation for helping organizations strengthen operations, improve financial reporting, navigate complex compliance requirements, and position themselves for long-term success. She began her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where she worked with publicly traded companies on audits, mergers and acquisitions, and initial public offerings. 

Throughout her career, LaShanda has worked extensively with nonprofits, governments, educational institutions, and mission-driven organizations. She is particularly recognized for her expertise in financial and operational turnarounds, internal controls, grant compliance, Single Audits, and strategic advisory services. Under her leadership, The Clairmount Group has grown into a trusted advisor to organizations with budgets ranging from $10 million to more than $500 million. 

In addition to her professional work, LaShanda is an active leader in the community and has served in numerous governance roles. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Ferris State University, where she previously served as Chair and Treasurer. She is also the Midwest Director for the Diverse Organization of Firms and is committed to advancing opportunities for women- and minority-owned businesses. 

LaShanda has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Top CPAs in Michigan and is a recipient of the Women of Excellence Award. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to excellence, and passion for helping organizations transform mission into value.