Our Team
Dustin Kern, CPA
Certified Public Accountant | Owner
Dustin Kern is the owner and principal CPA of Dustin Kern CPA PC. With nearly two decades of experience in the accounting industry, Dustin is dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive financial services to clients, specializing in tax planning, preparation, and advisory for individuals and small businesses. Dustin earned his Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) from East Carolina University in 2005 and obtained his CPA license in 2006. He is a proud member of both the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the North Carolina Association of CPAs (NCACPA). Early in his career, Dustin gained invaluable experience working for Steve Smith CPA, where he spent 12+ years honing his expertise before establishing his own firm. In addition to his professional achievements, Dustin is a proud husband to his wife, Christie, whom he met during his time at ECU. He is also a devoted father to two children who share his passion for soccer.
Questions?
📞 Call me at 910-790-9010 Ext. 4
📧 Email me at dustin@southerncpa.com
Azia Zajda
Office Operations & Payroll Manager
Azia Zajda joined Dustin Kern CPA PC in 2019, bringing with her over 10 years of customer service expertise and more than 5 years of experience in office administration. As a Notary Public since 2017, Azia has been a valuable resource to both our clients and team.
In her role as Office Operations and Payroll Manager, Azia oversees the smooth day-to-day operations of the firm and ensures exceptional service in managing client payroll functions. Her dedication to organization and efficiency plays a vital role in supporting our clients’ needs and fostering a productive work environment.
In her free time, Azia enjoys traveling, walking her dogs, and spending quality time with her loved ones.
Questions?
📞 Call me at 910-790-9010 Ext. 3
📧 Email me at azia@southerncpa.com
Katy Ponist
Enrolled Agent
As an Enrolled Agent at Dustin Kern CPA PC, Katy brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team, specializing in tax preparation and accounting services. With eight tax seasons under her belt and a strong background working in CPA firms, Katy is dedicated to delivering accurate and insightful financial services to our clients.
Originally from Doylestown, PA, just outside of Philadelphia, Katy earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Temple University’s Fox School of Business. Her strong educational foundation and hands-on experience make her a valuable asset to our team and to the clients we serve. Outside of work, Katy is an avid Eagles and Phillies fan. She also enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids, exploring Wilmington beaches, and trying new restaurants.
Questions?
📞 Call me at 910-790-9010 Ext. 1
📧 Email me at katy@southerncpa.com
Sarah Hinceman
Accounting Assistant
As an Accounting Assistant at Dustin Kern CPA PC, Sarah provides vital support to our accounting professionals and ensures that our clients receive outstanding service. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her an integral part of our team.
Sarah graduated with honors from UNC Asheville, earning a B.S. in Health and Wellness Promotion. Since joining Dustin Kern CPA PC, she has brought her organizational skills and dedication to supporting both the team and our clients’ financial needs.
In her free time, Sarah enjoys making pottery, cooking healthy recipes, fishing, hiking, and exploring the beautiful North Carolina coast.
Questions?
📞 Call me at 910-790-9010 Ext. 2
📧 Email me at sarah@southerncpa.com
Richard Bandy
Front Desk and Office Assistant
As the Front Desk and Office Assistant at Dustin Kern CPA PC, Richard is often the first point of contact, ensuring our clients feel welcomed and supported. With a strong attention to detail and a friendly demeanor, he helps keep the office running smoothly and provides key administrative support to our team.
Richard was born and raised in Morehead City, NC, and graduated from UNCW in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in Film Studies and Creative Writing. Outside of work, Richard is a proud member of Saint John’s Lodge #1, where he dedicates his time to charitable efforts.
In his free time, Richard enjoys watching movies, reading, and writing.
Questions?
📞 Call me at 910-790-9010 Ext. 0
📧 Email me at reception@southerncpa.com
Dustin Kern worked at Steve Smith, CPA, P.C. for 12+ years and had a great opportunity to take what Steve created and turn it into something of his own. We will strive to give our clients excellent service, top-notch tax knowledge, attention, and responsiveness.
Our focus is on business accounting services, business taxes, and personal income tax returns. We want to bring a valuable service to our clients that they will truly appreciate and are willing to refer us to their friends and colleagues.
Our mission is to show our clients we care about them and their business by being proactive, responsive, trusting, knowledgeable, and giving great value to our service.
Our vision is to be recognized as the most highly regarded and innovative local CPA firm in South Eastern North Carolina.
Our values are:
- Passion for excellence
- Integrity
- Intellectual curiosity
- Leading by example
- Teaching
- Quality service plus excellent delivery
- Innovation and continuous improvement
- Balanced life (family life)