Equitable Accounting Solutions
CLIENT
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Mary Barton, CPA
Mary Barton, CPA, is the President and CEO of Equitable Accounting Solutions, a Detroit-based firm providing full-service accounting and advisory services to small service-based businesses. With over 20 years of experience, Mary specializes in taxation, assurance, advisory, and financial reporting across various industries. Her expertise allows her to work closely with business owners, key personnel, vendors, and bankers to gain a comprehensive understanding of their financial landscape and proactively address financial matters, including wealth management.
Mary’s passion lies in supporting women- and minority-owned businesses. As a woman of color and small business owner herself, she recognizes the vital role small businesses play in driving economic growth and is committed to helping her clients build and maintain financial stability. Mary is actively involved in numerous organizations, serving as Treasurer for NAWBO Greater Detroit Chapter and as PTA Treasurer at her son’s public elementary school. She is a mentor for MICPA’s college student members and an active mentor with Winning Futures. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for MACRS (Minority Accounting Career Resource Society), where she helps to create pathways for high school and college students entering the accounting field.
Mary’s dedication and expertise have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2022 MICPA Advancing Equity Award, the 2022 NAWBO GDC Top 10 Michigan Business Women Award, and the 2024 Enterprising Women Champion Award. In 2023, she received a scholarship from GM, through her active involvement with NAWBO, to attend Building a Successful Diverse Business at The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and she graduated from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program in 2024. In 2025, Mary was recognized by Forbes as one of the Best-in-State CPAs. Mary lives in Detroit with her husband and two active boys. When she’s not working, she enjoys yoga, fine dining, traveling and live music.
Fun Fact: Prior to starting Equitable Accounting Solutions, Mary was an avid couponer who created stockpiles of household supplies and personal care products that she donated frequently to various causes.
Feliz Mae Lagura
Feliz brings over four years of experience in bookkeeping and account analysis to Equitable Accounting Solutions. A skilled accounting professional, Feliz is proficient in QuickBooks, Excel, and Gusto Payroll, with expertise in accounts payable/receivable, bank reconciliations, month-end closings, and compliance.
Feliz holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and multiple certifications, including QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor. She ensures our clients' books are updated monthly, handles invoicing, payroll, and sales tax filings. She values the supportive work environment, which fosters learning and development.
Fun fact: Feliz loves exploring new hobbies, from cooking to woodworking!
Leila Waters
Leila started off as an intern for Equitable Accounting Solutions and has since grown into a key member of the administrative team. She brings new experience in bookkeeping, financial organization, and client communication. Her skills include ensuring accuracy in the accounts payable process and maintaining organized financial records.
She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising Management and certifications in BILL, QuickBooks, and Gusto. She values the collaborative learning environment and the opportunity to grow professionally.
Fun fact: Leila has a deep love for music and enjoys singing and dancing in her free time!
Stephanie D.
Stephanie joined the Equitable Accounting Solutions team in 2023, bringing a wealth of experience from 16 years in retail and hospitality management.
Her career pivot to accounting began in 2019, earning dual Associate Degrees in Hospitality Management and Accounting in 2022. While pursuing her education, Stephanie gained hands-on experience as a Staff Accountant and Financial Controller, where she discovered her passion for tax preparation.
Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Accounting, Stephanie assists with preparing tax returns and researching complex accounting and tax issues. Stephanie values being part of a woman-led business that supports small and minority-owned businesses.
Fun fact: She’s proudly had green hair since 2021!
