Shelbi Adams-Pena
Manager
Shelbi is a dedicated professional at Hungerford who specializes in providing tax planning, compliance, and advisory services to privately held businesses and individuals. She works with a broad range of business entities, including corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies. She enjoys helping clients navigate complex tax regulations while identifying opportunities to minimize tax liability and support their long-term financial goals.
With experience serving clients across a variety of industries, Shelbi takes a thoughtful approach to tax planning and compliance. She works closely with her clients to understand their unique circumstances, providing practical guidance that helps them make informed business decisions, remain compliant with changing tax laws, and plan for the future.
Known for her responsive communication and collaborative approach, Shelbi is committed to building lasting client relationships and delivering personalized service tailored to each client’s needs. Shelbi is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the State of Michigan and is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA). Through her ongoing professional involvement, she stays current on evolving tax legislation and industry developments to provide clients with timely, informed advice.
Education/Certification
I graduated from Central Michigan University in December 2019 where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree in accounting and finance. I am also a licensed Certified Public Accountant with the State of Michigan.
What is your area of specialty – how do you best help your clients?
I am a Manager at Hungerford, specializing in tax. I work with both businesses and individuals, specializing in S-Corporation, partnerships, C-Corporations, and individual tax preparation, as well as Michigan Flow-Through Entity tax returns. I enjoy helping clients navigate the ever-changing tax landscape and finding practical strategies that support their goals, both today and for the future.
What I enjoy the most about my work is building trusted relationships with my clients and helping them feel confident in their financial decisions. I enjoy taking the time to explain tax concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, and there’s nothing better than seeing that “light bulb” moment when everything clicks. Being a trusted resource that my clients can turn to for guidance is what makes this work so meaningful to me.
How do you like to give back to the community?
I enjoy volunteering for Pound Buddies, a Muskegon County animal shelter, by participating in their dog walking program. I also actively participate in Muskegon State Park’s Friends Movement, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving and maintaining Muskegon State Park.
What are your superpowers – something you’re good at that others should know about?
My super power is always staying positive and cheering others on.
Accomplishment you’re proud of?
I am proud to have accomplished passing all 4 sections of the CPA exam on the first try and receiving my CPA license as of September 2023 while simultaneously purchasing my first home.
Tell us about your life outside of work (family/pets/sports/activities/interests/hobbies)
I enjoy hiking, playing a variety of board and card games, and spending time with family and friends. I recently adopted a black cat named Keena through Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven and entertaining her is where a lot of my free time goes. I also love the Fall season and enjoy activities such as apple picking and pumpkin picking.