Avalara

"Reaching out for help is always a strength. It is never a weakness. It just like making mistakes. If you don't admit the mistake, how can you correct it and learn from it?" -Shoshana Johnson We had the privilege of Shoshana Johnson speaking with us during a conversation hosted by the Women of Avalara, Veterans of Avalara, and Ujima Employee Resource Groups in partnership with our DEI team. Shoshana shared her story, her journey with mental health and PTSD, insights on the importance of diversity, and her charming personality. (Plus, a few quips we’ve saved for future use. ??) A bit about our speaker, Shoshana: Shoshana Nyree Johnson was born in the Republic of Panama, is a second-generation Army Veteran, and resides in El Paso with her family. U.S. Army officials identified Johnson as the first female POW of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the first black female POW in U.S. war history. Johnson’s awards and decorations include the U.S. Army Service Ribbon, Army Commendation Ribbon, National Defense Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, and the Prisoner of War Medal. Shoshana was awarded the Order of Manuel Amador Guerrero by her native country of Panama, it’s the highest honor. Since her return to the U.S., she graduated from El Paso Community College with an Associate of Arts degree in 2008. She also received her degree in culinary arts (pastry) in 2011. #AvaCulture #DEI #Veterans #VA #MentalHealth #DVA

While #AvalaraCRUSH was adding to the orange of Austin, Avalarians were showcasing #AvaCulture at #AfroTech in Houston. We’re proud to have supported AFROTECH again this year alongside our Ujima Employee Resource Group. Avalarians had the chance to network, learn from industry leaders, and leave feeling motivated and inspired. We’re already looking forward to next year!

The CCO Business Excellence Teams with colleagues from across the globe took their volunteer day to support the RESQ Charitable Trust. The team helped with corn cultivation, supporting food sustainability for the rescued animals, and constructing wildlife hides, which helps to create safe, nurturing spaces for animals. We're proud of our Avalarians taking their #volunteer days to support causes that matter to them.

From the headliners on stage for keynotes to the presenters in our powerful breakout sessions, speakers at #AvalaraCRUSH span a wide range of industries and roles. See the list of experts, plan your agenda, and register before space runs out! avlr.co/CRUSH2024

What a fun and special October AvaChat! Our costumed guests highlighted #AvaCulture and the superb managers making their teams feel supported and empowered. Thank you to all our employees for participating in our engagement survey!

We’re proud to be a TrustRadius 2025 Buyer’s Choice Award winner! "This recognition, driven entirely by unbiased customer reviews, shows how Avalara’s solutions help organizations navigate complex tax regulations with ease and accuracy. We’re excited to celebrate Avalara for the trust they've earned and the value they continue to deliver." - Allyson Havener, SVP of Marketing and Community at TrustRadius https://lnkd.in/gGkByRme

Beyond networking and collaborating, #AvalaraCRUSH gives you the chance to earn #CPE. Experts will deliver insights on the tax and regulatory landscape, customer experience, technology, and more. Register today to customize your agenda and get the most out of the conference! https://avlr.co/CRUSH24

We're proud of all the Avalarians who have used their #volunteer day off to get involved in their communities. Recently, a group of Avalarians spent the day at Central Kitsap Food Bank, cleaning, organizing, unloading trucks, stocking shelves, repacking donations, and assisting visitors. #AvaCulture #Volunteering #KitsapCounty

Join the Avalara Alumni Community today and continue to grow and learn together. Stay up to date on the latest Avalara news, reconnect with other alumni, and attend special Avalara Alumni events. Sign up for free today! https://lnkd.in/g2nNX9p5

This past week, Avalarians took Philly by storm attending #GHC24. AnitaB.org Grace Hopper Celebration brought together thousands of women technologists to network, learn, and inspire.