Member News

President's Message

 

Dear IPT Members,

As we move into the fall season, I am energized by the strong momentum we’re carrying into the final quarter of 2025. The coming months are packed with exceptional educational programs and opportunities to connect with colleagues across all areas of state and local taxation. I’m proud of the dedication shown by IPT members and the committees who make these programs possible. I recently returned from the 2025 Property Tax School in Irving, TX and was completely impressed.  This was a school that I initially challenged earlier in my career and now wish I hadn’t.  Besides the horrible display by the Bears in the fourth quarter on Monday night, the rest of the week was spectacular.

Later this month, IPT returns to the Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells, California, for two premier programs: the 2025 Sales Tax Symposium (September 28 – October 1) followed immediately by the 2025 VAT Symposium (October 1 – 2). Together, these events will offer a comprehensive look at the latest developments in transactional taxes, featuring insights from leading practitioners and industry experts. I look forward to connecting with attendees at the resort.

In October, two of IPT’s most valued educational offerings will take place at the Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center in Atlanta. The Real Property Tax School (October 13 – 17) followed by the Personal Property Tax School (October 20 – 24). These schools provide advanced, in-depth education in property taxation and continue IPT’s tradition of building a strong foundation for the next generation of property tax professionals.

In November, we return to Indian Wells for the 2025 Property Tax Symposium (November 2 – 5), a cornerstone of IPT’s educational programming. This event brings together practitioners from across the country to explore current developments, challenges, and strategies in property tax. Shortly after, we head to Arlington, Texas, for the 2025 Credits & Incentives Symposium (November 16 – 19) at the Loews Arlington Hotel. This program will feature an expanded focus on economic development organizations and enhanced networking opportunities. Concurrently, IPT will host the Texas Two Day Seminar (November 17 – 18), offering tailored content for both sales/use and property tax professionals.

As we prepare for next year’s 50th Annual Conference in Hawaii, I encourage you to get involved. The Call for Speakers is open to all members, with proposals due by September 30, 2025. This will be IPT’s largest educational event to date, and I’m thrilled by the progress already made. My sincere thanks to Jeff Gordon, Overall Chair, and his discipline chairs for their tireless work in assembling an outstanding program. Please stay tuned for more details in the months ahead.

Although I’ve only served as IPT President for a few months, I continue to be inspired by the commitment and passion of our membership in delivering high-caliber programming. I deeply appreciate everyone who contributes to this organization—whether as a committee member, instructor, or attendee.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of IPT. I look forward to seeing many of you at an upcoming program later this year.

Warm regards,
Donald L. Lippert, Jr., CMI
IPT President

Related News

Member News

President's Message

 

Dear IPT Members,

As we move into the fall season, I am energized by the strong momentum we’re carrying into the final quarter of 2025. The coming months are packed with exceptional educational programs and opportunities to connect with colleagues across all areas of state and local taxation. I’m proud of the dedication shown by IPT members and the committees who make these programs possible. I recently returned from the 2025 Property Tax School in Irving, TX and was completely impressed.  This was a school that I initially challenged earlier in my career and now wish I hadn’t.  Besides the horrible display by the Bears in the fourth quarter on Monday night, the rest of the week was spectacular.

Later this month, IPT returns to the Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells, California, for two premier programs: the 2025 Sales Tax Symposium (September 28 – October 1) followed immediately by the 2025 VAT Symposium (October 1 – 2). Together, these events will offer a comprehensive look at the latest developments in transactional taxes, featuring insights from leading practitioners and industry experts. I look forward to connecting with attendees at the resort.

In October, two of IPT’s most valued educational offerings will take place at the Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center in Atlanta. The Real Property Tax School (October 13 – 17) followed by the Personal Property Tax School (October 20 – 24). These schools provide advanced, in-depth education in property taxation and continue IPT’s tradition of building a strong foundation for the next generation of property tax professionals.

In November, we return to Indian Wells for the 2025 Property Tax Symposium (November 2 – 5), a cornerstone of IPT’s educational programming. This event brings together practitioners from across the country to explore current developments, challenges, and strategies in property tax. Shortly after, we head to Arlington, Texas, for the 2025 Credits & Incentives Symposium (November 16 – 19) at the Loews Arlington Hotel. This program will feature an expanded focus on economic development organizations and enhanced networking opportunities. Concurrently, IPT will host the Texas Two Day Seminar (November 17 – 18), offering tailored content for both sales/use and property tax professionals.

As we prepare for next year’s 50th Annual Conference in Hawaii, I encourage you to get involved. The Call for Speakers is open to all members, with proposals due by September 30, 2025. This will be IPT’s largest educational event to date, and I’m thrilled by the progress already made. My sincere thanks to Jeff Gordon, Overall Chair, and his discipline chairs for their tireless work in assembling an outstanding program. Please stay tuned for more details in the months ahead.

Although I’ve only served as IPT President for a few months, I continue to be inspired by the commitment and passion of our membership in delivering high-caliber programming. I deeply appreciate everyone who contributes to this organization—whether as a committee member, instructor, or attendee.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of IPT. I look forward to seeing many of you at an upcoming program later this year.

Warm regards,
Donald L. Lippert, Jr., CMI
IPT President

Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

19 Sep 2025IPT Member News
IPT Presidents September 2025 Message
As we move into the fall season, I am energized by the strong momentum we’re carrying into the final quarter of 2025. The coming months are packed with exceptional educational programs and opportunities to connect with colleagues across all areas of
Click for more info...
IPT Member News

Meet IPTs President

Don Lippert serves as Principal and National Property Tax Leader at Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, where he oversees strategy and execution for one of the firm’s most dynamic service lines. With more than three decades of experience, Don brings an enterprise perspective to property tax compliance and advisory, delivering measurable value to clients navigating complex and evolving tax landscapes. He currently leads a high-performing, cross-border team of 70 professionals, aligning tax strategies with broader business objectives.

Prior to joining Grant Thornton, Don held a senior leadership role at General Electric, where he managed the global property tax function for its Energy, Healthcare, Water, and Industrial divisions. His initiatives generated over $105 million in tax savings, underscoring his ability to drive performance through operational innovation and fiscal discipline. Don began his property tax career with a leasing company and quickly elevated his abilities by joining a Big 4 accounting firm, building the foundation for his broad expertise in strategic tax planning and execution.

He advises Fortune 500 clients and emerging enterprises alike across industries including manufacturing, retail, multi-family, senior living, hospitality, healthcare, captive finance, transportation, technology and centrally assessed – railroad, energy, airlines and telecommunication.

Credentials and Affiliations:
• Certified Member (CMI), Institute for Professionals in Taxation
• Licensed Senior Property Tax Consultant, State of Texas
• Member, International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO)
• Published author and speaker on tax strategy and organizational performance

Don lives in Glenview, IL (suburb of Chicago), with his wife Allie, kids Ava (Senior at SCAD), Sophie (Sophomore at Arizona) and Max (Senior in HS). Outside of work, he enjoys attending sporting events, concerts, travel, and spending time with the family at Disney.

Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

30 Jun 2025IPT Member News
Meet IPTs President
Don Lippert serves as Principal and National Property Tax Leader at Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, where he oversees strategy and execution for one of the firm’s most dynamic service lines
Click for more info...

Apply for IPT’s Advanced Property Tax School Scholarships in 2025

The IPT Scholarship Program offers an excellent opportunity for professionals working in state and local property tax to enhance their education and advance their careers. IPT offers two scholarships each year for its Advanced Property Tax Schools – the Real Property Tax School and the Personal Property Tax School.

The Real Property Tax School
October 13 – 17, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

This is an advanced program designed for professionals with experience in real property tax who seek a deeper understanding of the field's complex concepts and principles. The comprehensive curriculum builds on foundational knowledge, equipping attendees with advanced skills to apply in real-world scenarios. Topics covered at school include a comprehensive study of the property tax valuation process, concentrating on the three approaches to value.

The Personal Property Tax School
October 20 – 24, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

This school incorporates an advanced learning experience tailored for property tax professionals who already possess a basic grasp of ad valorem principles. The school's comprehensive curriculum demonstrates how proper management of tangible personal property can significantly impact a company’s financial performance. Topics covered at the school include a deep dive into the four cornerstones of personal property tax: classification, valuation of machinery & equipment, compliance, and audits & appeals.

Both schools are ideal for those who want to expand their careers in property taxation and are essential to those who aspire to earn the CMI - Property Tax professional designation.

These scholarships can support your journey toward professional growth and leadership roles within the field of property taxation. Ideal candidates include those who work in corporate property tax departments and other SALT professionals who work on state and local property tax issues on behalf of their employers. For them, having a deep knowledge of property taxation and staying current on regulations and issues is crucial.

Details of the Scholarships

To make these valuable learning opportunities more accessible, you can apply for one of two scholarships that can be used for either the Real Property Tax School or the Personal Property Tax School.

  • Each individual scholarship covers up to $2,500 of eligible travel and lodging expenses.

  • The registration fee for the selected school is waived for the scholarship winner.

  • Scholarship applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025.

  • These scholarships are available only to corporate members of IPT.

  • To take the Advanced Property Tax Schools, applicants must pass the IPT Property Tax School or the Online Property Tax School Competency Exam.

How to Apply for the Scholarships

To apply for the Advanced Property Tax Schools scholarships, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Submit a Letter of Recommendation: A letter from your supervisor is required. The letter should highlight your contributions to your organization, your potential for career growth, and why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship. Be sure to include contact details so your supervisor can verify the recommendation.

  2. Write a Personal Statement: Each applicant must submit a short personal statement that outlines their interest in ad valorem tax and their experience in the field. This statement should reflect your passion for property tax, your career goals, and what you hope to gain from attending your selected Advanced Property Tax School. Be clear and concise and focus on why you are committed to advancing your expertise in property taxation.

  3. Complete the Application Forms: Ensure you fill out the application form thoroughly. Make sure all sections are completed accurately and submitted before the deadline. All applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025.

Brochure

Application Form


Tips for Success

Here are a few tips for crafting a strong scholarship application:

  • Letter of Recommendation:

    • Ask your supervisor to focus on your potential for growth and commitment to property tax.

    • Highlight your professional achievements and how attending the school will benefit both your career and your employer.

  • Personal Statement:

    • Be specific about your career goals and interest in ad valorem tax.

    • Emphasize how attending your selected Advanced Property Tax School aligns with your current role and future aspirations.

    • Please share any previous experiences in property tax that have driven your desire to deepen your expertise.

Additional Information

  • Verify Corporate Membership: If you are applying for the Advanced Property Tax Schools Scholarship, you must confirm your corporate membership with IPT on the scholarship application form.

  • Questions and Support: If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, feel free to reach out to at iptinfo@ipt.org.

Take the Next Step

Regardless of which Advanced Property Tax School you’re looking to attend, these scholarships offer tools and resources to help you thrive in the competitive world of property taxation.

Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

18 Mar 2025Property Tax
Advance Your SALT Career: Apply for IPT’s Advanced Property Tax School Scholarships in 2025
The IPT Scholarship Program offers an excellent opportunity for professionals working in state and local property tax to enhance their education and advance their careers. IPT offers two scholarships each year for its Advanced Property Tax Schools –
Click for more info...
Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.