Jill Foster: Trailblazer, Mentor, and Champion for Clients and Community
Celebrating the legacy of a partner who shaped Jones & Roth and expanded what was possible for women in the profession.
A Non-Traditional Path with Extraordinary Impact
Jill Foster’s journey to Jones & Roth wasn’t linear — it was bold, hands-on, and fueled by grit.
Jill earned her BA in Theatre from Oklahoma State University before discovering her interest in accounting. She began with bookkeeping and accounting classes at Oklahoma State University and, after moving to Oregon, joined Tiffany Drug in the accounting department, where she focused on warehouse accounting. Ready for a new challenge, Jill asked Tiffany Drug’s controller — who had connections at Haggerty & Ruff, a predecessor of Jones & Roth — to share her name. He did, and Lanny Jones brought her onboard to support client payroll, where she managed approximately 150 payroll clients before also taking on bookkeeping services.
Recognizing her potential, Lanny encouraged Jill to pursue the education required to become a CPA. The firm supported her as she worked full time and returned to school. At the University of Oregon, Paul Friskoff asked Jill to audit the first accounting course to ensure the program was a fit. It was — and he helped her navigate adult-education options to keep costs down, support Jill deeply appreciated. She passed the CPA exam and became a licensed CPA.
After several years with the firm, Jill briefly left with a partner and a couple of managers to start a new practice. It wasn’t the right fit. She explored private industry roles, but at that time many businesses were unwilling to hire women as controllers. True to form, Jill created her own opportunity: she launched her own practice, which flourished and gave her the flexibility she loved — arriving early, taking a mid morning Jazzercise class, then returning to serve clients.
During the early 1980s Reagan tax reforms, Jill collaborated with CPAs from several firms — including Haggerty & Ruff — to lead educational sessions at local banks on the changes and their impact. Around that time, Lanny encouraged her to return. Though hesitant to give up her independence, Jill rejoined the firm.
A series of mergers in the late 1980s culminated in the name Jones & Roth. Jill’s client focus, technical strength, and leadership propelled her to partner — at a time when very few women held that role.
Relationships First: Clients as Family
Jill’s clients weren’t just accounts; they were people she knew deeply, rooted for, and stood beside. Many felt more like family than clients.
- Innovating with a Logging Company Owner
Jill loved working with a local logging entrepreneur who embraced using financial information to run a better business. Together, they co created practical financial tools and reports tailored to his operations — turning numbers into insight and insight into action.
- Believing in a Healthcare Provider’s Vision
A client providing in-home care for head injured patients dreamed of moving into a space of her own. Jill believed in her — and helped build a five-year plan to get there. Drawing on relationships with banks and community partners, Jill found a city program that provided funding and support, turning aspiration into reality. The client later nominated Jill for a National Small Business Advocate Award, where Jill was named a finalist — recognition that meant a great deal to her.
“To Jill, her clients’ successes were her successes. She invested the time to truly understand their goals — and then she helped them get there.”
Culture, Camaraderie, and a Legendary April Fools’ Prank
Jill has fond memories of firm parties, laughter, and how close-knit the team felt. She remembers being supported, encouraged, and given the space to succeed.
- The warmth of Dave Roth
- The career advice of Lanny Jones
- The charisma of Bill Haggerty
- The work ethic of Archie Ruff
And then there’s the prank. On April 1, Jill walked into Lanny’s office and told him she was pregnant. They had a long, thoughtful conversation about what it would mean. As she left, she turned back: “April Fools!” It remains one of her favorite memories.
Dave Roth also encouraged Jill to join the Downtown Athletic Club to build friendships beyond work. She became part of the 6 a.m. crew — a group of working women who exercised together before heading to their jobs — finding community and energy that fueled her days.
Opening Doors: Jill’s Impact on the Firm
As a woman in a male-centric profession — and for many years the only woman partner at Jones & Roth — Jill navigated challenges with humor, resilience, and purpose. Her goal was clear: bring more women into the firm and support their advancement.
Because Jill had strong, trusting relationships with her partners, she was able to help them see the value women brought across the firm. Her advocacy influenced culture and decision making, opening doors that had too often been closed.
Women who came after her — including Robin Matthews and Tricia Duncan — have expressed deep appreciation for Jill’s mentorship and guidance. She offered perspective, encouragement, and practical advice, helping them move forward with confidence.
Outside the firm, Jill led through service as a Delta Rotary member where she served first as Treasurer and later as President and through involvement with the Chamber of Commerce, where she served on the Board as Treasurer for nine years
A Legacy That Lasts
Jill retired in 2001, leaving a firm that was stronger, more inclusive, and deeply client-focused because of her impact. She achieved her goal of bringing more women into leadership — today, Jones & Roth’s leadership team is 50% women. The ripple effect of Jill’s career continues to shape the firm, the profession, and the lives of clients and colleagues.
“Jill didn’t just succeed — she made it easier for others to succeed, too.”
