Two accountants who left Kruggel Lawton CPAs have returned to the firm with new experiences.
CPAs Simon Smucker and Brian Ulrich both left to pursue other opportunities, but came back for senior manager positions.
Smucker joined the firm as an intern in 2011 after graduating from Goshen College. In his three years with the firm, he became a senior staff accountant. He also was part of a special team that developed a strategy for the firm's growth, now called KLimb to 2030.
He left in 2014 to pursue a private accounting position at a regional health system, which led to leadership as a chief financial officer.
“Simon brings valuable real‑world insight from his time in industry, which directly enhances the way we serve our clients,” said CPA Adam Schwelnus, partner, client accounting and advisory services, in a press release. “His experience as a CFO and senior financial leader gives him a deep understanding of the challenges our clients face, strengthening the firm’s advisory services.”
Ulrich first joined Kruggel Lawton in 2021 as a tax manager. He helped clients in the Elkhart office with tax filing, forecasting and other consulting services. He left to become an assistant professor of accounting at Bethel University in Mishawaka.
Those skills also will be used to help train and develop staff, as well as recruit new talent.
“Brian’s return brings a unique combination of real‑world tax experience and academic insight.,” said CPA Kate Leichty, partner. “This blended perspective not only strengthens the way we serve clients, but also reinforces our commitment to mentoring, staff development and growing the next generation of professionals.”
Smucker earned his Bachelor of Arts in accounting from Goshen College. Urlich earned his Bachelor of Arts in accounting, economics and finance, as well as his MBA from Bethel University. Both are members of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Indiana CPA Society.
Kruggel Lawton CPAs, which was founded in 1956, has offices in South Bend, Elkhart and Goshen; Portage and St. Joseph, Michigan; and Knoxville, Tennessee. It employs about 150 people.
