2025-2026 WSCPA Award Winners

Randy Fenich, CPA

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

For an exemplary career of leadership in the accounting profession and

Randy Fenich, CPA, is recognized for a career defined by leadership, mentorship, and dedication to advancing the accounting profession and supporting future generations of accountants. A longtime leader in public accounting, Randy spent his entire 42-year career with Moss Adams, retiring at the end of 2023 after serving as Managing Partner of the firm’s Central Washington practice.

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.

Randy was also deeply committed to recruiting and mentoring future accounting professionals. For many years, he led Moss Adams’s college recruiting efforts at Washington State University and Central Washington University while building strong relationships with accounting faculty and supporting students entering the profession. He served on the Washington State University Accounting Advisory Board for many years and helped organize significant fundraising efforts that resulted in both a Moss Adams Distinguished Professorship in Accounting and funding for the university’s Accounting Career Advisor role, now known as the Accounting Relationship Manager.

Randy’s vision for the Accounting Career Advisor role created a lasting bridge between students and the accounting profession. Through his leadership and advocacy, the role has helped students gain career guidance, connect with firms, and prepare confidently for professional opportunities.

In addition to his contributions to accounting education, Randy championed support for the Washington Apple Education Foundation, helping expand scholarship opportunities for first-generation college students connected to Washington’s tree fruit industry. In 2023, he was recognized with the Beta Alpha Psi Professional of the

the community

Year award at Washington State University. Following his retirement, the Randy and Sue Fenich Excellence Fund in Accounting was established to continue supporting students and faculty within the university’s accounting program.

As Craig Anderson, Principal at Baker Tilly in Yakima, shared, “We at Baker Tilly are extremely proud and humbled by Randy Fenich’s deep and meaningful contributions to the accounting profession. Randy not only set the tone and pace as a CPA and Partner but is also a wonderful person, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, and we couldn’t be happier for him with this well-deserved recognition.”

Outside of the profession, Randy enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family, especially his six grandchildren. A lifelong supporter of Washington State University athletics, he continues to attend WSU home football games whenever possible.

Through decades of leadership, service, and investment in future professionals, Randy has left a lasting impact on the accounting profession, higher education, and the Central Washington community.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

For many years of active support of the WSCPA

Sweeney Conrad is recognized as Business of the Year for its exceptional volunteer engagement and steadfast support of WSCPA’s mission and the accounting profession. Since 1980, the firm has served high-net-worth individuals and businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest, providing tax, audit, and client accounting and advisory services focused on helping clients achieve long-term success.

At the core of Sweeney Conrad’s culture is a strong commitment to putting people first. That philosophy is reflected not only in the firm’s client relationships and employee centered working environment, but also in its active involvement within the accounting profession and broader community.

Sweeney Conrad team members contribute across a wide range of WSCPA initiatives, including conference programming, advocacy efforts, scholarship review, and Emerging Leader programs. Through consistent volunteer leadership and firm-wide engagement, the firm has demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening the profession and supporting the next generation of CPAs.

As Kimberly Scott, CAE, WSCPA President & CEO, shared, “Sweeney Conrad’s commitment to service and professional engagement is evident across every level of the firm. Their people-first culture has translated into meaningful volunteer leadership and lasting contributions that continue to strengthen WSCPA and the profession throughout Washington.”

Bea Nahon, CPA, CGMA

CHAIR’S AWARD

For leadership and dedication to the WSCPA and the accounting profession in Washington state

Bea Nahon, CPA, CGMA, is a principal at Sweeny Conrad in Kirkland, where she serves clients in the real estate, auto dealer, professional services, and high-net-worth sectors. Throughout her career, Bea has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the accounting profession through leadership, volunteer service, and community engagement.

A past Chair of WSCPA and former member of the AICPA Board of Directors and its governing Council, Bea has devoted decades of service to advancing the profession. She currently serves on the WSCPA Government Affairs Committee and has contributed her expertise through numerous committees and task forces for WSCPA, AICPA, and the Washington State Board of Accountancy.

Her commitment to service extends well beyond the profession. Bea has served in leadership and volunteer roles with organizations including the Kirkland Community Foundation, Samis Foundation, Hillel at the University of Washington, Hopelink, and the City of Kirkland. She has also shared her expertise as an instructor for the City of Kirkland’s Business of Finances for Small Business program as part of the city’s annual Pitch competition.

As Joel Williams, CPA, WSCPA Chair, noted, “The Chair’s Award honors a WSCPA member who has provided extraordinary commitment and service to the WSCPA. Bea Nahon exemplifies that commitment.” He added, “From serving on numerous committees to chairing both the WSCPA Board and the CPAPAC, Bea has lived a lifetime of service to the accounting profession. It is my honor to recognize a true leader and role model in our community.”

Through her sustained leadership, volunteerism, and dedication to the profession, Bea has made a lasting impact on WSCPA, the accounting community, and the broader Washington community.

Donald Heisler, CPA

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD

For outstanding lifelong civic and community service

Donald Heisler, CPA, is the Seattle Managing Partner at Deloitte, representing the firm’s Assurance & Advisory, Tax, and Consulting businesses. With more than 30 years of experience, Don has served organizations ranging from Fortune 100 multinational companies to startups across the technology, life sciences, consumer, manufacturing, and private equity sectors.

Throughout his career, Don has demonstrated a strong commitment to civic leadership and community engagement across the Pacific Northwest. He serves on the board of FareStart and is an Executive Council Member for Greater Seattle Partners. At the University of Washington Foster School of Business, he serves as an Advisory Board Member and Chair of the Accounting Development Fund Board, helping support future business leaders and the accounting profession. Don also serves on the board of City Year Seattle and the Cristo Rey Jesuit High School Seattle Jobs Committee, reflecting his commitment to workforce development and expanding career pathways for students.

Patrick D’Amelio of FareStart described Don as a thoughtful and deeply engaged community leader, sharing, “Working alongside Don, I’ve seen firsthand the thoughtfulness, generosity, and genuine care he brings to community engagement.” He added that “Don never misses an opportunity to roll up his sleeves and make a difference.” Through Deloitte’s partnership with FareStart, Don has contributed both strategic leadership and hands-on support, from helping shape organizational planning efforts to leading fundraising events and volunteering directly alongside staff and community members.

In addition to his client and community leadership roles, Don serves as Deloitte’s Alumni and Retired Partner, Principal and Managing Director leader and as a faculty member with Deloitte’s Executive Transition Lab program. His broad and sustained service has made a meaningful impact on the business, nonprofit, and civic communities throughout the region.

Outside of work, Don enjoys golf, travel, outdoor exercise, and spending time with his family.

Ash Hyman, CPA

EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

For dedication to mentoring and inspiring future accounting professionals

Ash Hyman, CPA, is a Teaching Assistant Professor of Accounting at Washington State University Vancouver, where he is recognized for his dedication to educating and mentoring future accounting professionals. A WSCPA member since 2023, Ash encourages students to engage with the profession beyond the classroom by connecting with WSCPA opportunities for networking, professional development, and scholarships.

As advisor to the Nu Theta Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi at Washington State University Vancouver, Ash fosters student leadership and professional engagement while helping students build meaningful connections within the accounting profession. As Benjamin Warren, WSCPA Manager of Pipeline Initiatives, shared, “Through his commitment to teaching, mentorship, and professional advocacy, Ash has made a meaningful and lasting impact on students and the accounting profession.”

Ash graduated from the University of Washington with an undergraduate degree in Theater and Philosophy and spent five years working in nonprofit accounting while remaining active in Seattle’s theater community. He returned to the University of Washington in 2014 to earn his MBA and spent 10 years teaching there before joining Washington State University Vancouver.

Through his enthusiasm for education, mentorship, and professional involvement, Ash continues to inspire and support the next generation of accounting professionals.

Micah Tongedahl, CPA

NEW PROFESSIONAL AWARD

For passion, commitment, and service to the WSCPA

Micah Tongedahl, CPA, is a Senior Accountant at DP&C in Tacoma, Washington, and is recognized as a rising leader within WSCPA. He began his career as an intern with the Office of the Washington State Auditor in 2022 before joining DP&C in 2024. That same year, he earned his Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Washington Tacoma.

In his current role, Micah works on a variety of engagements for both private companies and not-for-profit organizations. Early in his career, he has already demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting the next generation of CPAs through mentorship, professional engagement, and volunteer service.

Micah has served as a panelist for several student and member-focused events, including a WSCPA Member Exclusive webcast and Tacoma Community College’s Accounting Day. Through these opportunities, he has openly shared his own journey to CPA licensure, offering practical advice, encouragement, and transparency to students and CPA candidates navigating their own professional paths.

Micah consistently contributes to the professional community through fostering meaningful conversations, promoting the value of WSCPA membership, and supporting the organization’s mission to connect, educate, and inspire accounting professionals.

Benjamin Warren, WSCPA Manager of Pipeline Initiatives, noted, “Micah’s willingness to give back early in his career reflects both professionalism and dedication to the future of the profession.”

Outside of work, Micah enjoys lifting weights, eating good food, and encouraging others to live their best lives.

NEW PROFESSIONAL AWARD

For passion, commitment, and service to the WSCPA

Katherine “Kat” Virden, CPA, is a Senior Manager in the Audit & Assurance practice at Clark Nuber PS and is recognized for her leadership, volunteer service, and commitment to advancing the accounting profession. A graduate of Gonzaga University, Kat began her public accounting career with Clark Nuber in 2018 and has developed a strong passion for serving not-for-profit organizations throughout the region.

Kat’s work focuses on providing high-quality audit and assurance services while helping nonprofit clients navigate complex accounting and compliance matters. In parallel with her professional work, she has become an active and engaged volunteer leader within WSCPA.

Kat first became involved with WSCPA through the Emerging Leaders Committee and has since helped lead the WSCPA Not-for-Profit Conference Planning Committee as Co-Chair. In that role, she has contributed to the development of relevant, high-quality programming that supports professionals serving the nonprofit sector. She has also volunteered as a WSCPA speaker, sharing her expertise through engaging and accessible presentations.

As Daniel Nguyen-Fleming, WSCPA Director of Membership, noted, “Kat brings an incredible level of passion, leadership, and commitment to everything she does with the WSCPA. Through her leadership on conference planning and dedication to creating meaningful learning opportunities for members, she consistently demonstrates a strong spirit of service. Her enthusiasm and willingness to give back continue to make a lasting impact on our community and the profession as a whole.”

Outside of work, Kat enjoys watching Premier League soccer, traveling with her family, and skiing.

Allison Benabente, CPA

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER LEADER AWARD

For active leadership and dedicated service to the WSCPA

Allison Benabente, CPA, has built a reputation as a trusted and deeply engaged volunteer whose contributions have strengthened both member connection and the future of the profession. A WSCPA member since 2015, she serves as the Business Unit Controller for Carlile Transportation Systems, a TOTE Group company, and began her career in public accounting with Peterson Sullivan and BDO USA, LLP before transitioning into industry.

Over the years, Allison has served in a variety of leadership roles within WSCPA, including Chair of the Seattle-Bellevue Chapter and Chair of the Washington CPA Foundation Board of Trustees. Her leadership has helped foster stronger connections among members across the state, including her involvement in launching a multi-chapter Day of Service initiative, one of her favorite WSCPA memories.

A passionate advocate for students and the next generation of CPAs, Allison has played an important role in scholarship review and Foundation initiatives that expand opportunities for aspiring accounting professionals. As Monette Anderson, WSCPA Vice President of Membership & Education and Executive Director of the Washington CPA Foundation, shared, “Allison has been a strong and consistent contributor to advancing both WSCPA’s and the Foundation’s missions.” Her dedication to supporting students and scholarships reflects a deep commitment to stewardship of the profession and its long-term vitality.

In addition to her service with WSCPA and the Foundation, Allison 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 and volunteer service, she enjoys exploring new places and adventures with her family.

Through her sustained leadership, generosity, and commitment to service, including the completion of her term as Past Chair of the Washington CPA Foundation Board of Trustees, Allison exemplifies the spirit of the WSCPA Volunteer Leader Award.

Jillian LaBelle, CPA

VOLUNTEER LEADER AWARD

For active leadership and dedicated service to the WSCPA

Jillian LaBelle, CPA, is a Lecturer of Accounting at Gonzaga University, where she is dedicated to preparing and inspiring the next generation of CPAs. A WSCPA Spokane Chapter Board member since 2020 and current Chapter Chair, Jillian has become a strong advocate for student engagement and connection to the accounting profession.

At Gonzaga, Jillian serves as faculty advisor for the Beta Alpha Psi and Gonzaga Women in Business student organizations, helping students build leadership skills and meaningful professional connections. Through her volunteer leadership with the WSCPA Spokane Chapter, she has played an important role in coordinating chapter events and encouraging student participation in WSCPA programs and activities.

Daniel Nguyen-Fleming, WSCPA Director of Membership, noted, “Jillian’s energy and dedication to volunteer leadership have made a lasting impact. Her close engagement with students and collaboration with the Spokane Chapter have played an important role in building connections and supporting the next generation of CPAs.”

Jillian earned her bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University and her Master of Accountancy from Gonzaga University before beginning her career in tax at Moss Adams in Spokane. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration in Accounting at West Virginia University, with an expected graduation date of May 2027.

Outside of work, Jillian enjoys outdoor activities with her husband, two children, and dogs, including hiking, biking, lake summers, and winter skiing.

Exploring new places and adventures.

David Togami, CPA

For active leadership and dedicated service to the WSCPA OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER LEADER AWARD

David Togami, CPA, is a Senior Manager in Armanino’s Product & Innovation group and is recognized for his outstanding volunteer leadership and service to WSCPA. A current member of the WSCPA Board of Directors, David has become known as a highly engaged leader who brings energy, insight, and a fresh perspective to every role he takes on.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, David moved to Washington to attend Gonzaga University. Throughout his career, he has worked across a wide range of industries, including public accounting, aviation, intermodal operations, information security, and DevOps. In addition to his professional work, he also serves as an adjunct instructor at Gonzaga University.

David’s volunteer service with WSCPA spans student outreach, scholarship review, and speaking engagements at conferences and Member Exclusive education events. Through these efforts, he has built strong connections with students, members, and fellow volunteer leaders while helping foster meaningful conversations across the profession.

As Monette Anderson, WSCPA VP of Membership and Education, noted, “David brings a rare combination of thoughtfulness, humor, and forward-looking perspective to his service. His ability to balance substance with approachability helps make people feel welcome while inspiring meaningful engagement across the WSCPA community.”

Outside of work and volunteer leadership, David enjoys training at a local Thai boxing gym.

PRESIDENT & CEO AWARD

For a career dedicated to inspiring the future of the profession

John Fasler, CPA, CGMA, JD, is a Professor of Accounting at Whatcom Community College, where he has served since 2011. A dedicated educator and advocate for the accounting profession, Prof. Fasler has spent more than two decades helping students discover careers in accounting and encouraging many to pursue CPA licensure.

John began his career in accounting education in Washington state in 2000 and served as chair of the Whatcom Community College Business, Education, and Law Department from 2013 to 2024. He currently serves as program coordinator for the college’s accounting and finance programs, a role he will continue until his retirement. Over the course of his career, countless students have gone on to become CPAs, bookkeepers, and accounting professionals, reflecting the lasting impact of his mentorship and instruction.

John’s commitment to the profession extends beyond the classroom. For many years, he has actively supported WSCPA initiatives focused on promoting accounting careers and developing future professionals. His dedication to students and the profession was recognized in 2010 when he received the WSCPA Volunteer of the Year Award.

As Kimberly Scott, CAE, WSCPA President & CEO, shared, “John has been and still is a dedicated supporter of the profession. He has inspired and encouraged so many young professionals to become accountants and CPAs. If we all did what John does, there would never be a shortage of talented young accounting graduates.”

Throughout his career, John has remained a passionate advocate for accounting education and the CPA profession, helping shape the careers of generations of students across Washington state. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and spending time with friends and family.

Saymirah Cornelius-McClam

RISING STAR AWARD

For passion, service, and commitment to the WSCPA

Saymirah Ainaya Cornelius-McClam is a Senior Associate in the Audit practice at KPMG and is recognized for her passion, service, and commitment to WSCPA and the accounting profession. A 2022 graduate of Seattle University with a double major in Accounting and Finance, Saymirah is dedicated to continuous professional development and creating meaningful impact within the profession.

As a member of the WSCPA Welcoming, Engagement, and Inclusion (WEI) Committee, Saymirah recently stepped into a leadership role as Chair of the Equitable Professional Experiences (EPE) Subcommittee, where she is helping develop cohort-based programs designed to better support new professionals entering the field. She has also been an active contributor to WSCPA strategic planning discussions and feedback forums, offering valuable perspective as a new professional working within a large accounting firm environment.

As Kimberly Scott, WSCPA President & CEO, shared, “Saymirah has brought thoughtful insight, leadership, and energy to every opportunity she has taken on with WSCPA.” Saymirah has contributed meaningfully to program development, participated in student panels, and enthusiastically served as an ambassador to fellow Seattle University students, all while pursuing CPA licensure.

Valuing the importance of diversity and representation, Saymirah also serves as Co-Chair of KPMG’s African Ancestry Business Resource Group, helping foster advocacy, allyship, and community within the firm. Outside of work and studying for the CPA exam, she enjoys hiking, volunteering, and spending quality time with her family.

Angela Oakley

SPECIAL AWARD

For commitment and support of students and the CPA profession

Angela Oakley is a Director and 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 Strengths coach and PCCcredentialed coach through the International Coaching Federation, Angela is recognized for her commitment to developing leaders and supporting growth across the accounting profession.

Angela has played an important role in advancing strengthsbased leadership development within WSCPA programs and initiatives. Through her work with CliftonStrengths at Clark Nuber, she has partnered closely with WSCPA as the organization expanded its use of CliftonStrengths internally and across its membership.

As Monette Anderson, WSCPA VP of Membership and Education, noted, “Angela has been a vital partner and resource as WSCPA has expanded its use of CliftonStrengths both internally and across its membership.” Angela has also contributed to the WSCPA Emerging Leader Conference for two consecutive years, helping shape and facilitate leadership-focused panels exploring how strengths influence leadership, decision-making, and team dynamics.

Angela also played a key role in supporting the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) at the University of Washington. When WSCPA explored incorporating CliftonStrengths into the program, Angela and her team quickly stepped forward to donate strengths codes for students and help design engaging, student-centered programming. The sessions created meaningful connections between students and the accounting profession and received highly positive feedback from participants.

Known for her passion for coaching and leadership development, Angela works closely with individuals and teams to build self-awareness, leverage strengths, and foster meaningful professional growth. She believes leadership is a continuous journey of learning, reflection, and development, and she is energized by helping others grow into confident, authentic leaders.