As the 2026 Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP) year begins, several members are stepping into leadership roles as Project Committee Chairs, united by a shared commitment to improving the taxpayer experience.
This year’s committee leaders shared what motivates them to serve, what inspired them to take on leadership roles, and why TAP’s mission matters to them. While each leader brings a different background and perspective, the conversation around the table quickly revealed a common thread: a passion for helping taxpayers and working collaboratively to improve IRS services and processes.
Each year, TAP volunteers dedicate their time and expertise to projects focused on improving communications, customer service, and taxpayer interactions with the IRS. As Project Committee Chairs, these members take on additional responsibility by guiding committee discussions, encouraging collaboration, and helping move improvement ideas forward.
For Tasha Preisner, Chair of the Taxpayer Communications Committee, the desire to serve has always been personal. “I have always wanted to help people,” Preisner shared during the discussion. “Each step in my career has been with the intention to gain a broader reach to help more people.” She said that TAP gives her the opportunity to make an impact beyond her own clients and contribute to improvements that benefit taxpayers nationwide. Preisner also spoke about her passion for technology and taxation, noting that the Communications Committee allows her to combine both interests while helping other members discover their own voices and strengths.
The leaders also emphasized their shared commitment to collaboration. John Shoemaker, Chair of the Special Projects Committee, described TAP as an important bridge between taxpayers and the IRS, one focused on practical, real-world improvements. “I wanted to help channel the energy and insight of TAP members into projects that can produce meaningful results for taxpayers,” Shoemaker said.
Thomas Wolf, Chair of the Toll-Free Phone Lines Committee, added that collaboration was a major reason he stepped into a leadership role. “I value collaboration and wanted to help guide productive discussions that can lead to meaningful improvements,” Wolf shared.
The committee leaders also reflected on the importance of encouraging others to get involved and contribute their ideas. Preisner encouraged people not to hold back from sharing their perspectives. “Don’t let your fear stand in the way of your brilliance,” she said.
Together, the newly appointed leaders emphasized the importance of building a community of engaged citizens who share ideas, listen carefully, and work together to improve the taxpayer experience. They also highlighted their shared dedication to advocacy, leadership, and a sense of purpose that continues to advance TAP’s mission on behalf of taxpayers.
Meet the 2026 Project Committee Chairs
Notices & Correspondence Committee
Michael Stewart, representing Tennessee
Special Projects Committee
John Shoemaker, representing International Taxpayers
Tax Forms & Publications Committee
Jason Crispin, representing New Jersey
Taxpayer Assistance Center Improvements Committee
Elizabeth Colvin, representing Texas
Taxpayer Communications Committee
Tasha Preisner, representing Texas
Toll-Free Phone Lines Committee
Thomas Wolf, representing Ohio
To learn more about TAP volunteers, visit the Our Members page.
Want to see TAP leaders in action? Visit our Committee Meetings page for details and explore the projects shaping TAP’s improvement efforts.