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WSCPA Award Winners

CongratS to our 2025-2026 aWARD WINNERS!

Every year, the WSCPA honors individuals (and one company or firm) that have demonstrated their commitment to supporting the Society and maintaining the CPA's trusted and respected place in Washington State's professional community. Below you will find a list of the awards the WSCPA presents, as well as the names of the past recipients for each. Please take a moment to read through their names and reflect on their contributions. 

The flipbook below has additional information about each winner, to open it to full screen, click on the X in the lower right corner.

Do you know someone who fits this description? Submit a nomination for the WSCPA Lifetime Achievement or Community Leadership Award by filling out the form at the bottom of this page. 

Nominations for 2026-2027 Award Winners are due December 31. Nominees will be considered in spring, and new award winners announced thereafter.


Lifetime Achievement Award

Recognizes a current or former WSCPA member for a career of leadership and dedicated service to the accounting profession and as an exemplary role model for other CPAs.

Randy Fenich, CPAFor an exemplary career of leadership in the accounting profession and the community.

After graduating from Washington State University, Randy joined Moss Adams in Yakima in 1981 and built a career focused on serving agribusiness clients, including fruit production and packaging operations, vineyards and wineries, hops and breweries, and cooperatives. During his tenure, he oversaw the opening of the firm’s Wenatchee and Kennewick offices, helping expand professional services throughout Central Washington while building strong community and business relationships across the region.

Prior Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

2025: Bill Wells Posthumous
2024: Bill Reed, CPA, CGMA, MBA
2023: Elaine Myers, CPA
2022: Rhona Kwiram, CPA
2021: William A. Simer, CPA
2019: Thomas J. Sadler, CPA-Retired
2018: Richard E. Jones, CPA, CGMA
2017: Thomas G. Neill, CPA, CGMA
2016: James R. Ladd, CPA, CGMA
2015: Robert W. Ash, CPA
2014: Rick J. Anderson, CPA
2013: Robert G. Nuber, CPA-Retired, CMC
2012: Steven D. Huebner, CPA
2011: Edwin G. Jolicoeur, CPA
2008: Lorin H. Wilson, CPA
2007: Richard C. Sweeney, CPA
2006: Laurie J. Tish, CPA
2005: Robert L. Bunting, CPA
2004: John L. O'Brien, CPA

Community Leadership Award

Recognizes a WSCPA member whose respected leadership in community organizations has enhanced the image or public perception of CPAs.

Donald Heisler, CPAFor outstanding lifelong civic and community service.

Don is Seattle Managing Partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP, representing Deloitte’s Assurance & Advisory, Tax, and Consulting businesses. With more than 30 years of experience, he has served companies ranging from Fortune 100 multinationals to startups across the technology, life sciences, consumer, manufacturing, and private equity sectors. Don also leads Deloitte’s Retired Partner and Alumni Relations program, serves as an advisor to and member of various industry and community boards, and is a faculty member with Deloitte’s renowned Executive Transition Lab program. In his spare time, Don enjoys golf, time with family, travel, and outdoor exercise.

Prior Community Leadership Award Recipients

2024: Rick Betts, CPA-Retired
2022: Marvin Tjoelker, CPA
2021: Ronald G. Rauch, CPA
2021: Bavan M. Holloway, CPA
2020: Pam R. Cleaver, CPA
2019: Newton Rumble, CPA
2018: Robert J. Fleming, CPA
2017: Ross D. McIvor, CPA
2011: Peter A. Shimer, CPA
2010: Richard D. Greaves, CPA
2008: William A. Simer, CPA
2006: Robert G. Nuber, CPA
2005: Frank Ault, CPA, CVA, ABV
2004: Irwin G. Conner, CPA
2003: Clifton E. Lahue, CPA
2001: Robert L. Gerth, CPA
2000: Richard C. Sweeney, CPA
1999: Carmen J. Aguiar, CPA, CFP
1997: Vernon F. Peterson, CPA
1996: Mark A. Hugh, CPA
1995: John A. Clees, CPA
1994: Dr. Gerhard G. Mueller, CPA
1993: Frank H. Larner, CPA
1992: Jerry L. Myers
1992: John A. Moga, CPA
1991: Vincent A. Gervais, CPA
1990: James R. Ladd, CPA
1989: Henry V. Benson, CPA
1988: Gerald E. Gorans, CPA
1987: W. J. (Jerry) Pennington, CPA
1986: Ludwig Lobe, CPA
1985: John L. O'Brien, CPA
1984: Firth J. Chew, CPA
1983: Robert L. Block, CPA
1980: William R. Gregory, CPA

Business of the year

Recognizes a company or firm that provides noteworthy support and dedication to the WSCPA and its members.

Sweeney Conrad PS—For many years of active support of the WSCPA

"Since 1980, Sweeney Conrad has partnered with high net worth individuals and closely held businesses in the Pacific Northwest, offering tax, audit, and client accounting and advisory services that not only meet their immediate needs but also help build long-term success. We're passionate about getting to know our clients and providing personalized & high touch financial services for every stage of their personal lives & their businesses. We take pride in the exceptional team we've built and the passion we have for putting People First in everything we do

Prior Business of the Year Award Winners

2025: Baker Tilly
2024: Vine Dahlen PLLC CPA
2023: Greenwood Ohlund PS
2022: Hutchinson & Walter CPAs
2021: DP&C (Dwyer Pemberton & Coulson)
2020: Werner O'Meara & Co PLLC
2019: Larson Gross, PLLC
2018: Eide Bailly LLP
2017: Clark Nuber PS
2016: CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP
2015: Camico
2014: Peterson Sullivan, LLP
2013: Moss Adams, LLP
2012: Bader Martin PS
2011: Dingus, Zarecor & Associates PLLC
2010: Jacobson Jarvis & Co PLLC 
2009: Berntson Porter & Company 
2008: Hellam Varon & Co PS 
2007: Shannon & Associates LLP 
2006: Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP 
2005: Robert P. McKinley, CPA, PC 
2004: Washington Trust Bank 
2003: Clothier & Head 
2002: Moss Adams, LLP 
2001: LeMaster & Daniels 
2000: Clark Nuber
1999: Moss Adams, LLP 
1998: Sweeney Conrad PS

Educator of the Year

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Ashton Hyman, CPAFor dedication to mentoring and inspiring future accounting professionals. 

Ash is a Teaching Assistant Professor of Accounting at Washington State University - Vancouver.  Ash graduated from University of Washington with an undergraduate degree in Theater and Philosophy and spent five years working in nonprofit accounting and working in the Seattle theater scene.  Ash returned to get his MBA at University of Washington in 2014, and spent ten years teaching there before beginning teaching at his current position at Washington State University - Vancouver.

Outstanding Volunteer Leader Award

Recognizes an active WSCPA member for outstanding service and dedication and/or innovative and inspirational WSCPA leadership.

Allison Benabente, CPA; Jillian LaBelle, CPA; and David Togami, CPA For active leadership and dedication service to the WSCPA

Allison is the Business Unit Controller for Carlile Transportation Systems, a TOTE Group company. She began her career in public accounting with Peterson Sullivan and BDO USA, LLP before transitioning into industry. Allison has been an active leader within the Washington Society of CPAs, serving as Chair of the Seattle-Bellevue Chapter and Chair of the Washington CPA Foundation Board of Trustees, now acting as Past Chair. One of her favorite WSCPA memories was helping launch a multi-chapter Day of Service initiative across Washington state. She also serves as Board Treasurer for Wellspring Family Services and has taught as an adjunct instructor at Pacific Lutheran University, her alma mater. Outside of work, she spends her time exploring new places and adventures with her family

Jillian is a Lecturer of Accounting at Gonzaga University. She earned her bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University and her Master of Accountancy from Gonzaga University and began her career in tax at Moss Adams in the Spokane office. At Gonzaga, Jillian serves as faculty advisor for the Beta Alpha Psi and Gonzaga Women in Business student organizations. She has been a WSCPA Spokane Chapter Board member since 2020 and currently serves as the Chapter Chair. Jillian is also pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration in Accounting at West Virginia University, with expected graduation in May 2027. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities with her husband, two children and dogs, including hiking, biking, lake summers, and winter skiing.

David is a Senior Manager in Armanino’s Growth Office, Data & Analytics group. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, David moved to Washington to attend Gonzaga University. Throughout his career, David has worked in a range of industries, including public accounting, aviation, intermodal operations, information security, and DevOps. Outside of work, David is an adjunct instructor at Gonzaga University and trains at a local Thai boxing gym.

Prior Outstanding Volunteer Leader Award Recipients

2025: Martha K. Ramirez, CPA
2025: Nick Fuller, CPA, CFP®
2024: Gilbert Plascencia, CPA, CFE
2024 Kelly Rancourt, CPA
2024: Eon Roberts, CPA
2023: Zenaida "Zeny" Fletcher, CPA
2023: Kelly Nelson, CPA
2022: Richard Burger Mackey, CPA
2022: Kelly Collins, CPA
2022: Diane Pietrowski, CPA
2021: Nate Ill, CPA, CFA
2021: Ursula Perkins, CPA
2021: Brooke Stegmeier, CPA, MHA, CMPE
2020: Chris M. Falco, CPA, CBI, CM&AA
2020: Darcy N. Kooiker, CPA
2020: Rachel S. Roberson, CPA
2019: Writu Kakshapati, CPA, CGMA
2019: Andrew M. Prather, CPA
2018: James E. Coates, CPA
2018: Lisa A. Cushman, CPA
2017: Donna Evered, CPA, JD
2017: David James, CPA, CGMA
2017: Jeffrey Mock, CPA, ABV, CVA
2016: Lydia Ahn, CPA
2016: Brett Jordan, CPA
2016: Jonathan McNicol, CPA
2016: Susan Thomson-Sines, CPA
2015: Mary Joyce, CPA
2014: Mike Cheney, CPA
2014: Dave Trujillo, CPA
2013: John Vogel, CMA, CCD
2012: Joseph P. Sambataro
2012: Ann Norman, CPA
2011: Christopher Hesse, CPA
2010: Heather Fitzpatrick, CPA
2010: Barbara Huang, CPA
2010: Dora Leung, CPA
2010: John Fasler, CPA

New Professional Award

Recognizes an active WSCPA member who has been a CPA for fewer than ten years for outstanding WSCPA leadership.

Micah Tongedahl, CPA; and Katherine Verden, CPA For passion, service, and commitment to the WSCPA.

Micah is a Senior Accountant at DP&C in Tacoma Washington. Micah started his career as an intern at the Office of the Washington State Auditor in 2022, started at DP&C in 2024 and graduated with his Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Washington Tacoma in 2024. Today he works on a variety of engagements for a wide range of clients including both private companies and not-for-profit organizations. In his free time, he enjoys lifting weights, eating good food and encouraging others to live their best lives.

Kat is a Senior Manager in the Audit & Assurance practice at Clark Nuber. A graduate of Gonzaga University, Kat started her public accounting career with Clark Nuber in 2018 and has since developed a strong passion for serving not‑for‑profit organizations. Her work focuses on providing high‑quality audit and assurance services while helping nonprofit clients navigate complex accounting and compliance matters. Kat’s clients include a variety of not‑for‑profit organizations across the region. In her free time, she enjoys watching Premier League soccer, traveling with her family, and skiing.

Prior New Professional Award Recipients

2024: Carrie Ommen, CPA
2024: Marcie McAllister, CPA, CGMA
2023: Kairi Roberts, CPA
2022: Bonnie Tse, CPA
2021: Nick Braun-Lopez, CPA
2020: Allison B. McClure, CPA
2018: Fabian D. Benebente, CPA
2017: Sara Bailey, CPA
2016: Erika Hosea, CPA, CGMA
2015: Benjamin Anderson, CPA
2014: Sarah Ozanne, CPA
2012: Brett Jordan, CPA
2011: Stephanie Behne, CPA
2011: Jennifer de Leon, CPA
2010: Kristen Guzman, CPA
2009: Amanda Goodman, CPA
2008: Jason Dangler
2007: Anthony J. Cook
2006: Sarah Funk
2005: Brent M. Hoshizaki
2004: Wendy Darcy

Special Award

Recognizes an individual who is not a CPA but has supported or promoted the activities of CPAs and the WSCPA.

Angela OakleyFor commitment and support of students and the CPA profession.

Angela is a Director, Talent Advisor at Clark Nuber PS, with more than 20 years of experience in organizational development, training, performance management, and coaching. As a Gallup‑Certified StrengthsFinder coach and PCC‑credentialed coach (ICF), she brings a deep passion for coaching and developing leaders at all levels. Angela partners closely with leaders to build self‑awareness, leverage strengths, and drive meaningful growth and impact. She is energized by helping individuals grow into confident, authentic leaders and believes strongly in leadership as a continuous journey of learning, reflection, and development.

Prior Special Award Recipients

2025: Amy Walen
2023: Joseph Smith
2022: Marla Meyer
2021: Arsen Djataj, PhD.
2018: Representative Steven Kirby
2017: Steven Colson, CIC
2016: Jennifer Sciba
2015: Ann Young
2015: Maria Rinaldi
2014: Representative Roger Goodman
2013: Bob Hutchins
2012: Robbie Dahl-Sullivan
2012: Bill Wells
2011: Russ Davis
2010: Lisa Thatcher
2009: Representative Steve Conway
2008: Kathy Benedict, JD
2007: James Jiambalvo, PhD
2006: Michelle Paulsen
2002: Tracy L. White
2001: James Boldt
2000: Jonathon Miller
1999: Melvin L. Joseph
1998: WSCPA Staff
1997: Mary Eklund
1996: John R. Plymyer
1995: Reverend Robert J. Spitzer

Rising Star Award

Recognizes a WSCPA member who is in the process of obtaining a CPA License, for active WSCPA leadership, dedication, and service.

Saymirah Cornelius McClamFor passion, commitment, and service to the WSCPA.

Saymirah is a Senior Associate in the Audit practice at KPMG and an aspiring Certified Public Accountant (CPA). A 2022 graduate of Seattle University with a double major in Accounting and Finance, Saymirah is dedicated to continuous professional development and driving positive change in society. Valuing the importance of diversity and representation, she serves as the Co-Chair of KPMG's African Ancestry Business Resource Group (BRG), working to advocate for others and build a strong, allied community within the firm. She also actively serves on the WEI EPE committee for the Washington Society of CPAs (WSCPA). In her spare time, while diligently studying for her CPA exams, she enjoys hiking, volunteering, and spending quality time with her family.

Prior Rising Star Award Recipients

2025: Heather Fitzgerald
2024: Alexis Vergara
2023: Hannah Fleming
2023: Deedee Oblefias
2020: Jessica A. Packer
2018: Brittany L. Malidore
2018: Chad A. Norris
2016: Rigoberto Garcia
2015: Angela Chase
2014: Wendy Kwan
2013: Adam Jones
2011: John Hirsch
2010: Adam Bystedt 
2009: Chinda Tankhoun 
2008: Bryce Hansen 
2007: Robert Patterson
2006: Nerelys Cordero

President & CEO Award

Recognizes an individual (or organization) who has made a significant contribution to the success of the profession.

John Fasler, CPA, CGMA, JD—For a career dedicated to inspiring the future of the profession.

John is a Professor of Accounting at Whatcom Community College (WCC) and has served in that position since 2011. John started his career in accounting education in Washington state in 2000. He acted as department chair for the WCC Business, Education, and Law department from 2013 to 2024. He currently works as program coordinator for the accounting and finance programs and will continue to do so until his retirement. Many of John's former students have gone on to become CPAs, bookkeepers, and accounting clerks. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and visiting with friends and family.

Prior President's Award Recipients

2025: Marcia Holland-Risch Posthumous
2024: Christopher Hesse, CPA
2023: Jenny Cravens, CPA
2022: Julie Phipps
2021: Bill Reed, CPA, MBA, CFF, CFE, PI, CGMA, CICA
2020: Bea L. Nahon, CPA
2019: David Trujillo, CPA, CGMA
2018: John R. McMillan, CRPC
2016: William Simer, CPA
2015: Ann Young
2014: Trina Doty, CFO, CPA, CGMA, CFE
2013: Peter Miller, CPA, CFE,
2012: Jim Ladd, CPA, CGMA
2011: David E. Katri, CPA, MBA
2010: Roy Polley, CPA
2009: John Dodsworth
2008: Thomas Bourne, CPA
2007: Tommy Thomson, CPA
2006: James Toole, CPA

Chair's Award

Selected by the Chair of the Board of Directors, this award honors a WSCPA member who has provided extraordinary commitment and service to the WSCPA.

Bea Nahon, CPA, CGMAFor leadership and dedication to the WSCPA and the accounting profession in Washington State.

Bea is a principal at Sweeney Conrad in Kirkland, focused on real estate, auto dealers, professional services and high net worth. She is past Chair of the WSCPA and past member of the AICPA Board of Directors and its governing Council. Currently a member of the WSCPA Government Affairs Committee, she has served on and chaired multiple committees and task forces for the WSCPA, AICPA, and State Board of Accountancy. Bea's extensive community board and committee history includes the Kirkland Community Foundation, Samis Foundation, Hillel at UW, Hopelink and City of Kirkland, including serving as the instructor of Business of Finances for Small Business for the City’s annual “Pitch” competition.

Prior Chair's Award Recipients

2025: Ursula Perkins, CPA
2024: Bill Resler
2023: Lowel Krueger, CPA, MBA
2022: Jeanette Kebede, CAE
2021: Monette Anderson, CAE
2020: Hayden B. Williams, CPA, CGMA
2019: Mary E. Joyce, CPA
2018: Marguerite (Zite) Hutton, CPA, PhD
2017: William A. Simer, CPA
2016: Joseph Paul Smith, CPA, CGMA
2015: Peter Miller, CPA, CFE
2014: Russell Price, CPA, MBA, ACA
2013: Judy Love
2012: Mark A. Hugh, CPA
2011: Wayne Borkowski, CPA, CMA, CFM, MBA
2010: Mark Hugh, CPA
2009: Tony Laliberte, CPA (retired) 
2008: Dave Katri
2007: Robert A. Underhill
2006: Antonio Laliberte
2005: Marcia Holland
2004: Howard Sibelman
2003: Lauren Thomas
2002: James E. Coates
2001: Senator Georgia Gardner
2000: Donald F. Aubrey
1999: Elizabeth Widdison
1998: Thomas Keller
1997: Tom Neill
1996: Marc G. Bateman
1995: Robert A. Underhill
1994: Carmen J. Aguiar
1993: Robert L. Bunting
1992: Jeffrey P. Maxwell
1991: Michael D. Sweeney
1990: Daniel L. Pavelich