About the Society of Auditor-Appraisers

The Society of Auditor-Appraisers is dedicated to advancing the profession of audit-appraisal through integrity, education, and collaboration. We uphold high professional standards and ethical conduct, while promoting the recognition and credibility of our members within the public and private sectors.

Our mission includes:

  • Offering a professional certification program that acknowledges experience and proficiency in the field.

  • Providing ongoing education in the principles, practices, and evolving techniques of audit-appraisal.

  • Serving as a resource hub for industry knowledge, research, and innovation.

  • Supporting the personal and professional growth of our members through training, conferences, and networking opportunities.

  • Facilitating open dialogue among members to share insights, challenges, and solutions.

  • Advocating for the interests of auditor-appraisers by engaging with policymakers, the business community, and the public.

  • Promoting tested and effective methodologies for the appraisal of commercial personal property, trade fixtures, and industrial assets.

  • Partnering with organizations that share our goals and values.

  • Maintaining and enforcing a strong Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.

Through these efforts, we strive to empower auditor-appraisers and elevate the profession in a constantly evolving economic and technological landscape.

SAA Board Members

Joseph White, Santa Clara County, President
Joseph White is the President of the Society of Auditor-Appraisers and currently serves as a Senior Auditor-Appraiser with Santa Clara County. He has over 13 years of experience in California property tax, including roles as both a property tax agent and an Auditor-Appraiser. He began his public service career in Lassen County, where he worked as an Auditor-Appraiser from 2017 to 2018, before joining Santa Clara County. Within the Society, Joseph has been an active leader for many years, serving six years as Treasurer of the Golden Gate Chapter and four years as Second Vice President of the National Chapter. In these roles, he focused on strengthening financial oversight and expanding professional education. As President, Joseph is committed to raising standards, promoting ethical practice, and uniting auditor-appraisers across the state through education, advocacy, and collaboration.

Melissa Stewart, Los Angeles County, First Vice-President
Ms. Stewart graduated from Occidental College and received her MBA from Claremont Graduate School.  She worked in the non-profit industry and in the wholesale industry before finding her way to the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office.  She has been with the Assessor’s Office over 20 years working in Marine & Aircraft and Major Business Personal Property before becoming the Supervising Appraiser for the Major Leasing Section.  She has two grown daughters and enjoys traveling, music and gardening.

Jill Joy, Santa Clara County, Second Vice-President

Rebekah Figueroa, San Diego County, Treasurer

Paul San Diego, Orange County, Secretary

Chris Dickson, Santa Clara County, Chief Technical Officer and Board Member

Jeff Barlow, Santa Clara County, Board Member, Chair of Conference Committee and Board Member

Steve Finch, Orange County, Board Member

Elizabeth Steckel, Orange County, Board Member

Babalola Sowunmi, Santa Clara County, Board Member