For the tax attorneys, accountants and government officials who gathered at The Beverly Hills Hotel for the 42^nd Annual Tax Controversy Conference hosted by UCLA Extension, the day’s proceedings provided an opportunity to cordially convene with colleagues from all aspects of tax law in a safe and educational environment. Repeatedly, attendees noted how inspiring it was to come back year after year and build relationships vital to their professional growth.

“This is a really tremendous learning opportunity and a wonderful place for sharing information,” said Traci Fordham, associate dean of the UCLA Extension Department of Academic Programs & Learning Innovation. “You’re all asking big questions, and this is exactly what we do at UCLA Extension. We sponsor continuous learning within professions and careers. This is an opportunity for you all – leaders in the field of tax law, business, finance and government – to gather, to learn and to share insights and strengthen your relationships.”

The conference included about a half dozen panels covering a wide range of topics including billionaire taxation, the IRS Examination Division, artificial intelligence, estate and gift taxation, payroll taxes and criminal proceedings.

“We want to curate something that is fresh and topical,” said Steve Toscher, conference co-chair. “I’m looking around and seeing people I’ve known for years, and also many new faces. That’s what will keep this going. We try to make this a big family affair. This is a place where we can discuss the issues and escape that big fishbowl we’re all in day-to-day.”

Networking opportunities were plentiful, including during lunch, where several stalwarts of the industry were celebrated. A. Lavar Taylor was awarded the Bruce I. Hochman Award. Ted Meyer and Mark Tract received the Annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ Award.

“When I look out here, I see a robust, fabulous and talented practitioner community in private practice and government,” Taylor said during his acceptance speech. “This is a special place. There is a magic here you don’t find anywhere else – whether you are in the planning community, in the audience or at the podium. Everyone in this room understands that while getting the right answer is important, how we get the answer is even more important. Integrity is important. Administrating the tax law in a fair and even manner is important.”

The Tax Controversy Conference also paid tribute to Sid Machtinger, who often presented the UCLA Extension Vets Count Scholarship fund during lunch. Machtinger passed away this year at age 104.

“He really exemplified the meaning of what a little push, a little assistance for education does for everybody,” Toscher said. “He was committed to it, and he lived his life that way being actively involved with Vets Count. To his credit, he is an inspiration to all of us.”

Vets Count launched in 2017 for active and retired military who want to pursue a career in tax, accounting, wealth management or other aspects of financial services. Funds raised will also be available to cover basic coursework for personal growth in budgeting, financial literacy and investing.

“This scholarship fund helps active-duty service members, veterans and their families to build careers in finance and tax at UCLA Extension,” said Joon Lee, UCLA Extension portfolio director of Corporate Education & Partnerships, adding that the application process is scheduled to re-open in winter 2027.

As the room toasted Machtinger and the awardees, a sense of warmth emanated from all the tables.

“An event like this allows folks who work in the same field, but have different backgrounds, to exchange ideas, to learn more about their field and at the same time to develop relationships,” said Emin Toro, keynote speaker and judge on the U.S. Tax Court. “Ultimately, that’s what makes the practice of law and accounting meaningful. It’s great to come to a place like this for 42 years running and see their friends, learn a lot and figure out where they need to learn more.”