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.

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.

Member News

President's Message

It was wonderful to attend both Sales Tax School II and the VAT School in Atlanta this past month. The energy at each program was incredible, and I truly enjoyed the opportunity to connect with so many of you in person. The enthusiasm, engagement, and commitment to learning were on full display—it is always a great reminder of what makes IPT such a strong community.

Thank you to Sales Tax School II Committee Chair Kathleen Holston, CMI, CPA, Vice Chair Bill McConnell, CMI, CPA, Esq., and the entire committee for putting together such a meaningful and successful school. An additional thanks to VAT School Committee Chair Carlos Hernandez, CMI, Vice Chair Ela Choina, and their committee for developing and delivering an insightful learning experience.

Next up is one of IPT’s biggest events of the year, the 49th Annual Conference in Fort Lauderdale! This year’s theme is Club PRO Royale, and I encourage you to join us. With outstanding education sessions, excellent networking opportunities, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, this is a can't-miss event. And yes—there’s still time to register!

During the Conference, we’ll also hold IPT’s Annual Meeting, which will take place directly after Tuesday’s lunch. At this meeting, we will announce the results of the elections for Officers and Board of Governors members, share whether the proposed bylaw amendment has passed, and recognize this year’s Annual Award recipients.

And don’t miss our Tuesday evening reception, inspired by a glamorous mix of Casino Royale and the Palm Royale TV show. It’s your chance to dress the part—think 1960s country club chic—and enjoy an unforgettable night of fun, fashion, and connection.

I look forward to seeing many of you in Fort Lauderdale.

Let’s keep the momentum going!

Warm regards,
Trisha C. Fortune, CMI, CPA

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.

IPT Member News

Join Us in Fort Lauderdale at the 49th Annual Conference

Discover the Power of Professional Growth at IPT’s Annual Conference

Mark your calendar for IPT’s 49th Annual Conference, which takes place June 22–25, 2025, in beautiful Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As IPT’s flagship program, the Annual Conference brings together state and local tax professionals from across the country for an unmatched educational experience and valuable networking opportunities.

This year’s program features four specialized educational tracks—Credits & Incentives, Property Tax, Sales Tax, and State Income Tax—each offering the latest updates, emerging technologies, and fresh perspectives in their respective disciplines.  Whether you're seeking insight into legislative developments, compliance challenges, or strategic planning, there’s a track designed for your professional growth.

In addition to the focused tracks, the Conference offers dynamic general sessions, including an engaging keynote presentation, a favorite ethics speaker, and timely discussions on litigation updates, tax policy shifts, and management strategies relevant across disciplines.

Between sessions, connect with fellow tax professionals at evening receptions and networking events.  Whether you’re deepening your expertise or expanding your network, the IPT Annual Conference is the place to be.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and lead.  We’ll see you in Fort Lauderdale!

Register before May 16th and save $100. Register

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.