MEET THE JOURNEY CREW
TIM JIPPING, CPA
Managing Partner
Tim has worked as a CPA for nearly 20 years and founded Journey in 2018. He splits his time between the firm’s locations but is based in the Chicagoland office. Tim used to be an actor, and his favorite movies include The Godfather Part II (but definitely not Part III), The Departed and the masterpiece known as Dumb and Dumber.
“As one of the first people to interact with potential and new clients, I take a long-term perspective to ensure the partnership is a good fit, both for the client and our team. My energetic yet casual nature puts clients at ease and has garnered me the reputation of being ‘unlike your typical accountant.”
LIZA MDANAT, CPA, MBA
ASHLEY VAN MANEN, CPA, MST
EMILY GRATSON, PHR
RENEE BROÑOLA
“I strive to make our clients feel comfortable and supported right from the start, so they know they can come to me with whatever questions they have. I take special care in ensuring our work product is accurate and our clients are thrilled with our service.”
GINA CUMMINGS
Senior Associate, Accounting & Tax
CINDERELLA LAYGO, CPA
Senior Associate, Accounting
Cinderella earned her CPA certification in the Philippines and joined the Journey team in 2023. She has more than seven years accounting and tax experience in the government and business sectors. To relax, she enjoys watching American TV comedy series.
“I work diligently to ensure my clients’ reports are thorough and accurate. I know my clients count on this high-level of accuracy, so I do everything I can to demonstrate that they can count on me want to execute to this while providing great service along the way.”
CLINT LONEY
Senior Associate, Accounting & Tax
Clint joined the Journey team in 2023 and is based at the Grand Rapids, MI, office. Prior to working in the tax/accounting field, Clint worked as private investigator. He is an avid hockey player and enjoys outdoor activities and working with his hands.
LAIDEE RICARDEL
Associate, Accounting
Laidee joined the Journey team in 2023 and is based in the Philippines. She has 10+ years of experience in accounting. In addition to working with numbers, she also enjoys doing peoples’ hair and make-up to help them feel their best.
How you’ll work with Laidee
“My experience in the field has taught me that every client has unique needs, goals, and expectations. My goal is to tailor my process and approach to effectively meet these unique needs. I view my clients as an extension of my team, and I will work with them in the best way I can to help them achieve their financial objectives.”
MARTIN MORRIS, CPA
Senior Manager, Accounting & Tax
MARY CRISSEN OBRERO
Associate, Accounting
Crissen has more than 6 years of experience in accounting. She holds her bachelor’s degree in accountancy and reside in the Philippines. When she’s off the clock, Crissen is a travel enthusiast, a lover of classic romantic movies, and classic old songs (though not necessarily all at the same time). Her passion for travel, vintage films, and classic tunes brings a unique and harmonious rhythm to her work.
How you’ll work with Crissen
“I love working collaboratively with my clients, fostering positive partnerships to support their needs in the best way possible. I strive to make our work both effective and efficient, ensuring my clients feel confident and happy with the results.”
EVAN VERBURG
MARIO PASCUAL
Associate, Accounting
Mario is an experienced accountant with over 7 years in the field and a BS in Accountancy. Based in the Philippines, he’s known for his precision at work and sense of adventure off the clock—often found riding his motorcycle or enjoying his favorite treat, mango graham (though never at the same time).
How you’ll work with Mario
“I believe that great financial outcomes are built on strong, trusting relationships. I take time to truly understand each client—their goals, challenges, and what success looks like to them. I approach every engagement with transparency and collaboration, ensuring that clients feel heard and involved throughout the process.”
MEDEL (MEDS) CURAMENG
Associate, Accounting
Meds is based in the Philippines and holds a bachelor’s degree in accountancy, with over 7 years of experience in the field. When she’s not diving into spreadsheets, she enjoys watching movies at home, visiting quiet cafés, and taking leisurely walks around the city — peaceful activities that help her maintain a thoughtful and balanced approach to both work and life.
How you’ll work with Meds
“I believe great service begins with genuine empathy. I strive to understand my clients’ needs by truly listening, so they feel supported every step of the way. It’s more than just completing tasks—I want them to feel confident in their understanding of their business’s financial health.”
BASILISO (BAS) BAGUHIN
Associate, Accounting
Bas has 5 years of experience in accounting. Based in the Philippines, he holds a BS in Accountancy and a deep love for numbers—and novels! When he’s not balancing books, you’ll likely find him deep in a good read or strategizing his next chess move.
How you’ll work with Bas
“I always strive to understand and meet my clients’ needs by delivering clear, insightful reports that address their key questions. I’m happy to have open conversations to clarify anything they might find confusing, ensuring they feel supported and informed.”
DEXIE ORTEGA
Associate, Accounting
Dexie is a committed accounting professional based in the Philippines, with a degree in Management Accounting and over three years of industry experience. With strong attention to detail and a client-focused mindset, Dexie ensures that every task is handled with precision and efficiency. Outside of work, she enjoys playing badminton and exploring new recipes she discovers online.
How you’ll work with Dexie
“I prioritize clear communication, reliability, and a genuine commitment to each client’s needs. I always want to ensure every detail is explained in a straightforward, easy-to-understand way. Clients can count on a smooth, structured, and efficient experience that frees them to focus on what matters most.”
DONNELL INOT
Associate, Accounting
Based in the Philippines, Donnell brings over six years of experience with a strong background in both computer programming and accountancy. Holding degrees in these fields, he blends technical expertise with financial insight. Donnell’s adaptability and attention to detail allow him to handle projects with clarity, consistency, and excellence. Outside of work, Donnell enjoys watching movies, TV series, and staying connected to the dynamic world of K-pop.
How you’ll work with Donnell
“Clients enjoy working with me because I communicate clearly, set expectations early, and deliver results on time. I strive to create a collaborative and respectful environment where people feel heard, supported, and motivated to contribute their best. As an ambivert, I easily connect with different personalities and adapt to various working styles, which helps foster strong professional relationships.”
RUTA DRULIA
Office Administrator
Ruta has 9 years of experience in the administrative field. She works out of the Chicagoland office and is fluent in Lithuanian. When she’s not organizing the impossible, you’ll find her behind a camera lens capturing the beauty of the world. In her free time, Ruta loves nothing more than hitting the road to explore the breathtaking US National Parks and iconic landmarks.
How you’ll work with Ruta
“I prefer open and transparent communication, actively listen to understand client’s needs, provide regular updates and collaborate closely to ensure their goals are met while maintaining a positive and responsive attitude.”
JAMIELYN (JAM) VILLARUBIA
Associate, Accounting
Jam holds her bachelor’s degree in Accountancy and has more than 4 years of experience in accounting. She lives and works in the Philippines, and in her free time she enjoys traveling and watching beautiful scenery. Whether it’s the dazzling city lights or the serene beauty of a sunrise or sunset, Jam’s passion for travel and scenery adds an extra sparkle to her life—and her work!
How you’ll work with Jam
