Meet ERC Chair E. Kent Smoll

E. Kent Smoll is the current Chair of the Enforcement Resources Committee and a Director at Large for NASBA . Smoll has been part of the association for over 20 years, serving in various capacities, including as member of the Kansas Board of Accountancy and as a member of NASBA’s Alternative Practice Structure Committee, President’s Search Committee, Nominating Committee, Legislative Support Committee, Administration and Finance Committee (where he was the Chairman for 5 years) and a Regional Director for Central Region.

Smoll is an alumnus of Kansas State University and graduated with a BS in accounting. He moved to Dodge City in 1975 and by 1981 opened his own firm – Smoll and Banning. The firm focused primarily on tax related concerns. In 2000, Smoll became security licensed and is now a registered representative of broker dealers. Previously, he was the Mayor of Dodge City and is currently the City Commissioner.

What do you love most about your city?

What has impressed me most is Dodge City’s continuous growth. In fact, at one time, CNN commented that Ford County is the least economically stressed county in the United States. We have had nearly a billion dollars’ worth of construction done in a town of about 30 thousand people. Dodge City has so many new developments, including new schools, an event center, sports fields and more, and it’s been great to see that.

What three things could you not live without? Why?

My wife, cellphone, and kids/grandkids. I have been married for 44 years to my wife and we have a great relationship. I also couldn’t live without my cellphone because I need to be able to talk to people, and I need my kids and grandkids because I really enjoy the chance to see through little eyes again.

How do you like to relax? What are your favorite ways to unwind?

My favorite thing to do is to go on cruises. I just finished my 46th cruise by going to the Caribbean with my grandkids. And I just recently booked my 47th cruise and we decided to return to the Caribbean. Of all our trips, I would say our visit to Cozumel, Mexico, was my favorite.

What is your vision for the Enforcement Resources Committee for 2018?

To be a resource to all accountancy boards and to be a sounding board for enforcement issues. I hope to provide useful tools and to be an outlet for information on enforcement activities among other boards.