Meet Jacquelyn Kalish, CPA, and Our Team

Jackie joined her parents' firm in 2013 and has led Kalish & Associates since 2021, carrying forward the personal, hands-on service Sheldon and Cathy built since 1986. She works closely with individuals, families, business owners and many of the area's dentists and health care professionals, and she believes clients should always know where they stand and who to call. Jackie holds a BS from the University of Maryland and a Master's in Taxation from the University of Baltimore, and she is a member of the Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA).

A Pikesville native, Jackie enjoys traveling around the world, discovering new restaurants, and following her Baltimore sports teams. She also has a love of fashion and enjoys staying active. Outside the office, she treasures time with her close circle of friends and family, including her fiancé, Jason, and his two children, Sidney and Goldie.

Fair warning: Jackie loves to talk. Most clients say a meeting with her feels more like catching up with a friend than doing their taxes.

Sheldon Kalish, CPA, started Kalish & Associates with his wife, Cathy, in 1986. He graduated from the University of Maryland, earned his Master’s in Taxation from the University of Baltimore, and is a member of the Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA). What began as a small practice grew into a trusted firm built on long-standing client relationships, one that’s still family-owned and serving clients 40 years later. In 2021, Sheldon passed leadership of the firm to his daughter, Jackie, and he remains a trusted resource for clients and staff.

Sheldon is our go-to person for tax questions and brings a strong business sense to the table. Clients appreciate his direct, straightforward approach. He tells them what they need to know, not just what they want to hear. With decades of experience, he offers perspective that’s valuable to both our clients and our team, whether he’s working through a complicated tax issue or talking through a business decision.

Outside the office, you’ll usually find Sheldon on the golf course. Calling him an avid golfer might be an understatement, and he’s always happy to talk about his latest round.

Cathy Kalish, CPA, started Kalish & Associates with her husband, Sheldon, in 1986. She graduated from Towson University, earned her Master’s in Taxation from the University of Baltimore, and is a member of the Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA). Together, they built the firm on the idea that clients should feel known, not just served.

Cathy is the person many of our clients know best. Her friendly, personal approach has turned countless client relationships into genuine friendships over the years, so much so that it can be hard to tell where her clients end and her friends begin. When a client has a question, Cathy is always there to help, and she’s known for going above and beyond to make sure they’re taken care of.

For Cathy, this work has never been just a job. Her dedication to the firm and the people it serves is a big part of why so many clients have stayed with Kalish & Associates for decades. Even after all these years, she still finds it hard to slow down, and you can count on her to pick up the phone when a client needs her.

Outside the office, Cathy's favorite time is spent with her children and grandchildren.

Tracy joined Kalish & Associates in November 2021 as a bookkeeper and has grown into her role as Director of Operations. A key leader within the firm, she plays an essential role in overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and keeping client work moving forward. Her ability to coordinate priorities and follow through makes her someone the entire team can count on.

Working closely with both clients and colleagues, Tracy brings a warm, approachable personality that makes people feel comfortable and supported. She balances the many demands of a busy accounting firm while keeping the team organized and focused on delivering attentive, dependable service.

Tracy’s growth within the firm reflects her dedication, versatility, and the trust she has earned. Whether she’s supporting a client, guiding a team member, or stepping in wherever she’s needed, she brings care and commitment to her work and is an invaluable part of Kalish & Associates.

Will joined Kalish & Associates in February 2025, stepping into his first tax season after graduating from college. He brings an outgoing personality and a professional, approachable manner to his work, helping clients feel comfortable asking questions and working with our team.

Will supports our business clients through accounting and tax preparation, with a particular interest in tax work. As he continues to develop his skills, his responsibilities give him a well-rounded understanding of our clients’ businesses and their accounting needs throughout the year.

A team player who connects easily with clients and colleagues, Will brings a fresh perspective to the firm. He continues to carry forward Kalish & Associates’ commitment to building strong client relationships and providing personalized service.

Kaden joined Kalish & Associates in February 2025 after relocating from California, beginning his career in an accounting firm with a willingness to learn and a genuine desire to contribute. From the start, he has embraced new challenges and shown a genuine investment in the firm’s growth.

A true team player, Kaden readily steps in wherever he’s needed. Whether he’s helping a colleague or putting in extra time to see an assignment through, he approaches his work with dedication and a strong sense of responsibility. His willingness to follow through and support those around him has made him someone the team can count on.

As he continues his education and develops his accounting and tax experience, Kaden brings the same dedication to learning that he brings to his work. His work ethic and enthusiasm for the firm’s future make him a valued member of Kalish & Associates.

Susan joined Kalish & Associates in August 2025 and has quickly become an integral part of the team as our Office Administrator. Often the first person clients speak with when contacting the firm, she offers a warm welcome and sets the tone for the personalized, relationship-focused service we strive to provide.

Her bubbly personality and positive attitude are matched by the professionalism she brings to every conversation. She carries that same upbeat approach into her work with colleagues, readily stepping in to help and taking on requests with a smile.

Susan has truly found her place within the firm. Her genuine care for people and understanding of the importance of client relationships have made her a wonderful fit for Kalish & Associates.