Finalists Announced for 2026 TMA/SDM Monitoring Center Excellence Awards

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The Monitoring Association (TMA) today announced the finalists for the 2026 TMA/SDM Monitoring Center Excellence Awards, sponsored by SDM Magazine. The awards honor outstanding monitoring centers and professionals who demonstrate exceptional performance, innovation, and service to customers, communities, and the alarm monitoring industry.

The TMA/SDM Monitoring Center Excellence Awards recognize monitoring centers that are FM Approved, Intertek/ETL, or UL-listed, along with individuals who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and contribute to advancing the monitoring profession.

Finalists represent the top scoring entrants in each category, selected by an independent panel of industry judges.

“Each year, these awards highlight the extraordinary professionals and monitoring centers that work tirelessly behind the scenes to protect lives and property,” said Whitney A. Doll, CEO of The Monitoring Association. “We are proud to recognize this year’s finalists whose dedication to service, innovation, and operational excellence continues to elevate the monitoring profession and strengthen the safety of the communities they serve.”

The 2026 Excellence Awards finalists are:

Monitoring Center of the Year

  • Becklar Monitoring
  • Elite Interactive Solutions
  • Everon
  • Puget Sound Energy
  • Vivint

Monitoring Center Manager of the Year

  • Katie Money, ADT
  • Larry Esposito, Affiliated Monitoring
  • Galina Klimchuk, Vivint

Monitoring Center Operator of the Year

  • Tammy Moon, ADT
  • Crystal Uzdevenes, COPS Monitoring
  • Cherray Clifton, UCC

Monitoring Center Support Person of the Year

  • Bill Kaelin, ADT
  • Jennifer Acevedo, Affiliated Monitoring
  • Rob Dyer, Becklar Monitoring

Award winners will be revealed during the virtual 2026 TMA Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 12, at 2:00 PM ET, taking place on the opening day of the 2026 TMA Virtual Mid-Year Meeting.

Industry professionals are invited to attend the ceremony and celebrate the achievements of this year’s finalists.

Register to attend:
https://tma.us/events/2026-mid-year-meeting/

For more information about the awards program, visit:
https://tma.us/events/awards/excellence-awards/

Celebrating Our Volunteers During Volunteer Month

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April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and we’re proud to recognize the members who strengthen our professional community every day.

Across TMA, volunteers share their time, expertise and leadership – serving on committees, mentoring peers, and helping guide our work. Your contributions drive our growth, deepen our impact, and create meaningful opportunities for members and their companies.

Volunteering at TMA is about more than giving time; it’s about building connections and strengthening our industry together. We’re grateful for the commitment and leadership that each of our volunteers bring to this community.

To all who serve, thank you. Your efforts make a lasting difference.

Our gratitude to our Board of Directors and Committee Leaders:

Board of Directors

President
Alan Gillmore IV, Gillmore Security Systems Inc.

Vice President
Daniel Oppenheim, Affiliated Monitoring

Vice President
Mike Picciola, ADT, LLC

Vice President
Wes Usie, Guardian Alarm Systems

Secretary
Justin Bailey, Becklar

Treasurer
Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm

Immediate Past President
Steve Butkovich, CPI Security

Special Advisors to the President

Jau Hauhn, Hauhn & Associates
Morgan Hertel, Rapid Response Monitoring
Pam Petrow, Vector Security

Directors
Caroline Brown, Security Central
David Charney, Everon
Chet Donati, DMC Security Services, Inc.
Jack Doyle, Doyle Security Systems, Inc.
Scott R. Elkins, Zeus Fire and Security
Richard Flores, Puget Sound Energy
Mark Hillenburg, DMP
Brandon Niles, Acadian Monitoring Services, LLC
Stanley Oppenheim, DGA Security Systems, Inc.
Mark Miller, Johnson Controls Security (JCI)
Joseph Pereira, Securitas Technology
Joey Rao-Russell, Kimberlite Corporation dba Sonitrol
Tim Westphal, Bay Alarm Company

TMA Committee Leaders

AICC
Tiffany Garlaza, ADT, LLC
Sascha Kylau, Jadugar

Associate Member Council
Mark Hillenburg, DMP
Jennifer Holloway, CIBC

Bylaws
Chet Donati, DMC Security Services, Inc.
Jay Hauhn, Hauhn & Associates

Compliance Community
Kate Fisher, Compliance Management Solutions, LLC
Tommy Whisnant, CPI Security

Education
John Brady, TRG Associates Inc.
Brandon Niles, Acadian Monitoring Services, LLC

Ethics
Jau Hauhn, Hauhn & Associates

Five Diamond
Caroline Brown, Security Central
Jeff Cohen, Quick Response
Ralph Sevinor, Wayne Alarm Systems

GSOC
Richard Flores, Puget Sound Energy
Randy Rickert, Thrivent Financial

Government Relations
James Marcella, AXIS Communications
Tommy Whisnant, CPI Security

Marketing and Communications
Brandon Freedman, Wayne Alarm Systems
David Morgan, Security Dealer Marketing

Membership Development and Retention
Jack Doyle, Doyle Security Systems, Inc.

NextGen
Amy Becht, Vivint
Jessica Lambert, Becklar

Standards
Morgan Hertel, Rapid Response Monitoring

Surveillance Video and Verification
David Charney, Everon
Wes Usie, Guardian Alarm Systems

Technology
Stephen Kovacsiss, Radionix
Matt Narowski, Security Central

If you’re interested in getting more involved, we encourage you to explore volunteer opportunities within TMA. Whether you can contribute a few hours or take on a leadership role, your involvement helps us strengthen our network and support the success of professional monitoring.

DMP Launches VUE Camera Line Delivering Intelligent Video and Active Deterrence

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) announces the launch of its new VUE Camera line, a trio of 5MP cameras designed to deliver enhanced visibility, intelligent detection and proactive deterrence across a wide range of applications. Building on the recent introduction of the VUE Video Doorbell, this release strengthens the VUE portfolio with new professional-grade cameras that offer improved performance, expanded capabilities and seamless integration across the DMP ecosystem.

The VUE lineup includes bullet, turret and dome form factors, built for retail, QSR and medium to large commercial installations.

With 5MP resolution across all models, VUE Cameras deliver sharper detail, and support faster, more confident alarm verification. Advanced analytics identify relevant activity such as person and vehicle detection, helping reduce unnecessary footage and improve response accuracy.

All models support PoE or 12VDC power, are ONVIF compliant and include built-in microphones. VUE Cameras also integrate with Virtual Keypad™, allowing users to view video, review events and verify alarms from anywhere.

Bullet and turret models feature integrated active deterrence lighting with red and blue or white options, along with two-way audio, enabling users to intervene in real time and help stop incidents before they escalate.

“The launch of VUE Cameras marks a significant advancement for our video lineup,” said Ken Francis, Executive Vice President of Video Solutions at DMP. “Compared to our previous generation, these cameras deliver improved performance, sharper image quality and more capable analytics, helping dealers provide faster, more reliable and more proactive security.”

VUE Cameras are available now through authorized DMP dealers.

Learn more at DMP.com/VUE5.

TMA Welcomes New Chief of Staff

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The Monitoring Association (TMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Franklin to the organization’s newly created position of Chief of Staff. An accomplished association professional with nearly 20 years of experience, Franklin’s talents span event planning, operations, and customer service. Franklin’s first day at TMA is Mon., Nov. 24th.

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.“I am honored to step into this pivotal new role at TMA,†commented Franklin. “This role presents an exciting opportunity to work closely with the association’s leadership and help drive the initiatives that advance TMA’s mission. I look forward to working closely with our members and stakeholders to enhance the value we deliver and to support the continued growth and impact of the association and the industry.”

TMA CEO Whitney A. Doll said, “Jessica brings a unique combination of talents and skills to our team at TMA. She is an outstanding leader who has consistently demonstrated the ability to connect with stakeholders at all levels. Her energy and commitment to service excellence will be an asset to TMA as we look to future growth.â€

As Chief of Staff, Franklin will serve as a strategic advisor and thought partner to the CEO and provide cross-functional collaboration and project management. Additionally, she will lead the planning and execution of TMA meetings and events, including the Mid-Year Meeting, Annual Meeting, OPSTech, and other TMA-sponsored receptions, dinners, and events.

Franklin can be contacted by email at jfranklin@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4917.

Alan Gillmore, IV Assumes Presidency of The Monitoring Association

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.The Monitoring Association (TMA) is proud to announce that Alan Gillmore, IV, President of Gillmore Security, has been appointed as TMA’s 38th President. Gillmore assumed the role at the conclusion of TMA’s 75th Anniversary Annual Meeting, held on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, in Palm Springs, California.

A long-time volunteer and dedicated leader within TMA, Gillmore has served in numerous leadership capacities over the years, most recently as Co-Chair of the Membership Committee. His commitment to member engagement, innovation, and industry advancement has made a lasting impact on the association and its initiatives.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to be chosen to lead TMA’s growth, innovation, and collaboration efforts over the next two years,” said Gillmore. “TMA is the industry leader in education, standards development, and thought leadership. I am eager to advance these areas while finding new avenues for growth and modernization. I look forward to working with the TMA Board and staff to continue our legacy of excellence and support our great industry, which has given us all so much.”

Outgoing TMA President Steve Butkovich praised Gillmore’s leadership and vision, noting his long-standing dedication to the association and the industry at large.

“Alan’s deep understanding of our industry and his proven leadership within TMA make him the ideal person to guide our association into the future,” said Butkovich. “His strategic mindset and collaborative spirit will undoubtedly take TMA to new heights as we continue to evolve and serve our members in an ever-changing environment.”

As President, Gillmore will focus on advancing TMA’s mission and strengthening its role as a thought leader in the monitoring and security industry. His priorities for the coming term include:

  • Membership growth and expansion, including outreach into new vertical markets
  • Supporting and expanding the ASAP Service initiative
  • Enhancing collaboration and alignment with other industry associations
  • Driving standards development and promoting adoption of existing standards such as AVS-01
  • Fostering thought leadership and education to help the industry navigate a rapidly changing landscape

Learn more about President Gillmore and his vision for TMA in the next issue of TMA Dispatch.

Woodie Andrawos Named CEO of ORR Protection

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.ORR Protection has appointed Woodie Andrawos as its new chief executive officer, effective immediately. He succeeds Ray Aldridge, who is retiring after nearly 32 years with the company.

Andrawos joins ORR following a long tenure at National Monitoring Center (NMC), where he co-founded the company in 2001 and served as president since 2013. Under his leadership, NMC grew to more than 200 employees across two monitoring centers and became known for advancements in proactive video monitoring and customer-focused operations. His experience spans engineering, operations, finance, and mergers and acquisitions — backgrounds that ORR leaders say will help guide the company through its next phase of growth.

“Woodie’s vision and experience make him the right leader for ORR’s future,†said Clark Orr, chairman of ORR Protection. “His values align with ours, and he brings an entrepreneurial mindset that complements our mission to protect critical infrastructure and evolve with the needs of our customers.â€

In his new role, Andrawos will focus on building upon ORR’s legacy in mission-critical fire protection while expanding into advanced services, integrated solutions and recurring revenue opportunities.

“I’ve long admired ORR for its professionalism and technical expertise,†said Andrawos. “Having worked with the company as a partner in the past, I know the strength of its people and culture. I’m honored to lead this next chapter and help advance our growth while staying true to what makes ORR a trusted name in fire protection.â€

ORR Protection provides design, installation, monitoring and service of fire protection systems for mission-critical environments across the United States.

The company remains part of the privately held ORR Corp., a family-founded enterprise established in 1948. While ORR Corp. sold its safety division to Würth Industry North America in 2021, its fire protection business — including ORR Protection and related service units — continues to operate under family ownership and leadership.

RAD’s Steve Reinharz Shares Top 5 Predictions for the Future of AI and Security

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Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the “Company”) (OTCPK:AITX), a global leader in AI-driven security and productivity solutions for enterprise clients, today released insights from Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX and Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), highlighting his top five predictions for how artificial intelligence will reshape the security industry in 2026 and beyond. According to Reinharz, adoption of advanced AI security solutions is rapidly shifting from early adopters to mainstream acceptance. Direct client feedback, industry partnerships, and ongoing technology advancements all point to a period of major transformation in security.

“As we approach the midpoint of 2025, the inflection point for AI in security is clear,” said Reinharz. “Just as we saw rapid shifts when IP cameras, smartphones, and cloud computing redefined expectations, we are now seeing the same momentum with AI-powered security. When the practical benefits become clear, widespread adoption accelerates quickly. Every conversation with clients, partners, and industry leaders signals the same thing: security is undergoing a major transformation.”

Reinharz outlined the following five predictions as the trends most likely to shape how organizations approach security in the coming years:
1. Autonomous Security Becomes the New Standard By 2026, AI-powered security solutions, including autonomous patrol and surveillance platforms and interactive AI agents, will move from a niche interest to widespread adoption. Reinharz expects organizations to shift away from traditional manned guard posts and embrace autonomous security for surveillance and patrols, featuring intelligent incident detection and immediate response.

2. AI-Driven Monitoring Will Surpass Human Monitoring: Human attention is limited, but AI operates without these constraints. Reinharz predicts that most monitored video feeds worldwide will soon be managed by AI, with only the most complex or urgent events requiring human review. Rising costs, operator fatigue, and the need for constant vigilance are making AI the preferred choice for around-the-clock monitoring.

3. Security Becomes Predictive, Not Just Reactive: The days of reviewing video after an incident are coming to an end. Reinharz sees security platforms evolving to identify patterns and anomalies in real time, taking immediate and proactive action. Automated voice and visual alerts, combined with instant escalation, will help organizations prevent incidents rather than just responding after the fact.

4. Physical and Cybersecurity Merge: The distinction between physical and digital threats is quickly disappearing. Reinharz anticipates a rise in unified security strategies that integrate AI-driven physical security devices with advanced cybersecurity tools. Access control, surveillance, and threat detection will operate together on cloud-based platforms, providing organizations with a single, integrated view of risk.

5. RMR Surpasses CapEx in Security Budgets: The security industry is moving away from capital expenditures on hardware and toward subscription-based models. Reinharz expects more organizations to adopt AI-powered solutions delivered as a service, which ensures systems remain current, connected, and continually improving. This shift allows for regular updates, analytics, and enhancements, all included in a recurring monthly revenue model.

“If 2025 is the year the AI conversation in security becomes real, 2026 will be the year action takes over,” Reinharz added. “At AITX and our RAD subsidiaries, our team is focused on staying ahead of these shifts and helping our clients do the same. The future is already taking shape.”

For a comprehensive look at AITX’s business, technology, and market trajectory, the Company recently released an updated Company Profile. Investors and stakeholders are encouraged to review the document for additional insight into AITX’s strategy and ongoing growth initiatives. For more information or to learn how AITX is helping organizations realize the benefits of AI-powered security, please visit www.aitx.ai and www.radsecurity.com.

Shannon Woodman to Receive Prestigious Moody Award for Leadership In Fighting Verified Response in Seattle

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Shannon Woodman, Chief Executive Officer of Washington Alarm, will be honored with the prestigious William N. Moody Award on June 17th at ESX 2025 in Atlanta.  Created in 2004 by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), the Moody award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates a passion for advancing positive alarm management and best industry practices.

“Shannon has a long history of involvement and leadership as a member of the Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association, NetOne International, and as Chairman of the Western Chapter and Board Member of the Security Integration and Life Safety Association of the Northwest,†said SIAC Board Chairman Tim Creenan. “When our industry was challenged by the Seattle Police Department’s sudden implementation of verified response, Shannon stepped up to lead an industry coalition to support the model ordinance and retain police response for the citizens our industry and the police serve and protect.â€

“Her commitment and organizational skills have been instrumental in putting the issue in front of elected officials and Seattle’s new chief of police.â€

“My family has been in the security and life safety field for 82 years now,†said Woodman. “I learned from an early age the value of the service we provide the community and the importance of giving back to our community and our industry,†said Woodman. “It has been a privilege to work with SIAC on the verified response update in Seattle. We value their expertise and guidance as we collaborate with our colleagues, law enforcement, and elected officials to make our community as safe as possible.â€

About the William N. Moody Award   

The William N. Moody Award was established in 2004 by the SIAC Board of Directors to recognize those who embody Bill’s dedication to alarm management issues. The award honors individuals who reflect attributes that include integrity, fairness and perseverance in the face of adversity. 

About Washington Alarm Company

Founded by Jack Woodman and now under the leadership of Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm has served Washington State for over 82 years. The company’s in-house UL-listed Five Diamond Certified Central Station in Seattle monitors over 10,000 customers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and security.

About SIAC

SIAC represents one voice for the electronic security industry on alarm management issues –communicating solutions and enhancing relationships with law enforcement.  SIAC is comprised of four major North American security associations–Canadian Security Association (CANASA), Security Industry Association (SIA), Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA). For more information, go to www.SIACinc.org,  www.siacinc.wordpress.com, or follow us on www.twitter.com/siacinc.

TMA CEO Announces Retirement

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The Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association (TMA) announces the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Celia T. Besore, MBA, FASAE, CAE. Celia has served in successive positions during her tenure with the organization, which spans over 19 years of service. Her final day at TMA is Friday, July 18th.

“With Celia’s guidance, TMA has experienced consistent growth in membership and influence in our industry. We’ve celebrated marked advancements in TMA programs (ASAP, Five Diamond, and FirstNet), standards, and advocacy,†stated TMA President Steve Butkovich. “Her dedication to the monitoring industry has left a lasting impact on our members and partners in the security industry, public safety, and law enforcement. As a result of her competent leadership, TMA is positioned for continued success. The TMA Board deeply thanks Celia for her service to TMA and our industry.â€

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Celia first joined the then-CSAA staff in April of 1999 as director of marketing & communications, later becoming VP of Marketing and Programs. In the ensuing 11 years, she also guided TMA’s membership and education initiatives—all the while achieving consistent growth of the organization. In August of 2010, she left TMA to become the executive director and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN). She returned to TMA in January 2017, assuming the position of vice president of membership and programs. In November 2018, Celia was appointed executive director of TMA, later promoted to CEO.

“I am overwhelmed with both gratitude and pride as I reflect on my time at TMA where I have been afforded many opportunities to grow and advance in my career,†shared Celia. “Above all, my greatest rewards and inspiration have been appreciated in the moments of collaboration with the many dedicated and passionate professionals who are dedicated to the protection of life and property. I will always treasure the relationships I have made over the course of my tenure at TMA.â€

Most notable among her accomplishments and contributions to the association during her tenure are: assisting with the development of the original Operator Level 1 and 2 Online courses; the introduction of social media; the creation of the Five Diamond program; the development of the Excellence Awards; the development of an marketing campaign for NAMTSE, which included a virtual expo and was recognized with an award by the American Society of Association Executives; the establishment of the first Compliance Community, which created an online resource of state licensing requirements; and the writing of the history of the first 50 years of the Association. She is also especially proud of TMA’s response to the pandemic, an unprecedented challenge for the industry and association. TMA supported its members during this period by offering highly attended weekly town halls covering the most critical issues of that week and providing them with many other resources and assistance.

Those wishing to express wishes to Celia before July 18th may reach her by email at ceo@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4913. Thereafter, she may be emailed at celia@strategia.cc.

EY US announces Scott R. Elkins, CEO, Zeus Fire and Security as an Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Greater Philadelphia Award Finalist

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) announced the finalists for the prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Greater Philadelphia Award. Now in its 40th year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world’s most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities. The program honors entrepreneurs whose innovations shape the future and pave the way for a thriving economy and a hopeful tomorrow.

An independent panel of judges selected Scott R. Elkins, CEO of Zeus Fire and Security (“Zeusâ€), among other finalists for the 2025 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award, recognizing his visionary leadership, resilience, and relentless pursuit of innovation.

A second-generation fire and security entrepreneur, Scott built Universal Atlantic Systems into a thriving business operating across North America before leading its acquisition and becoming the founding CEO of Zeus in 2022. Since then, he has transformed Zeus into one of the fastest-growing, tech-enabled life safety companies in the nation, completing 20 acquisitions, doubling profits, and expanding to over 800  employees across seven hubs.

With a mission to protect people, property, and profits, Scott has championed a culture of purpose, investing in talent, innovation, and local legacy brands to deliver world-class services at scale.

“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with over the course of my career,†said Scott. “At Zeus, we’ve always believed that our strength lies in our unity. Every milestone we’ve reached has been made possible by the collective effort of a truly exceptional team and the belief that we’re better when we’re together.â€

Scott continued, “I’m honored to stand alongside such an inspiring group of finalists. It’s an honor to be part of this community, and I look forward to learning from the experiences and insights of my fellow finalists. The future is bright, and I’m excited for what’s to come.â€

Entrepreneur Of The Year honors business leaders for their ingenuity, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit. The program celebrates original founders who bootstrapped their business from inception or who raised outside capital to grow their company; transformational CEOs who infused innovation into an existing organization to catapult its trajectory; and multigenerational family business leaders who reimagined a legacy business model to strengthen it for the future.

Regional award winners will be announced on June 12 during a special celebration in Philadelphia and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world. The winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum®, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies.

 Sponsors

Founded and produced by Ernst & Young LLP, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards include presenting sponsors PNC Bank, Cresa LLC, Marsh USA, and SAP. In Greater Philadelphia, sponsors also include Donnelley Financial Solutions (DFIN), ADP, Solomon Edwards Group, and DLA Piper.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year

Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 60 countries globally.

The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum® in November where National finalists and award winners are announced. The overall National winner represents the US at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ competition. Visit ey.com/us/eoy.

About EY

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society, and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy, and transactions. Fueled by sector insights, a globally connected, multi-disciplinary network and diverse ecosystem partners, EY teams can provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

EY refers to the global organization and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data, and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

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