At Brown Edwards, we are fortunate to work alongside professionals who bring exceptional skill, integrity, and dedication to everything they do. Today, we are proud to celebrate two of our own: Laura Sprouse, CPA, our Chief Executive Officer, and Jeff Smith, CPA, Tax Partner — both of whom have been named to the Forbes 2026 Best-In-State CPAs list.
This recognition is a testament not only to their individual accomplishments but to the standard of excellence that Brown Edwards strives to uphold every day for our clients and communities.
Laura Sprouse: A Back-to-Back Honoree
For Laura Sprouse, this recognition carries special significance. In only the second year Forbes has published the Best-In-State CPAs list, Laura has been named to it both times — a distinction that speaks to her sustained impact and leadership within the accounting profession.
As CEO of Brown Edwards, Laura brings a commitment to our team that is evident in all she does. Her inclusion on this list reflects her professional achievements, deep community involvement, and the thought leadership she consistently demonstrates across the industry.
"Being named to this list two years in a row is an honor I share with the entire Brown Edwards team. Their dedication and professionalism are the foundation of everything we have built, and I am proud Forbes has recognized that standard of excellence once again."
— Laura Sprouse, CPA, Chief Executive Officer
Jeff Smith: A Well-Deserved Distinction
We are equally proud to congratulate Jeff Smith on his inclusion in the 2026 Forbes Best-In-State CPAs list. As a Tax Partner at Brown Edwards, Jeff has long exemplified the qualities this award seeks to recognize: deep expertise, unwavering dedication to clients, and a genuine commitment to the communities we serve.
Jeff’s recognition reinforces what his colleagues and clients have known for years — that he is among the finest in his field.
"Tax work is about more than compliance — it is about delivering clear, thoughtful guidance that clients can truly rely on. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and for the trust our clients place in us every day."
— Jeff Smith, CPA, Tax Partner
About the Forbes Best-In-State CPAs Recognition
The Forbes Best-In-State CPAs list identifies top accounting professionals from across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands who are engaged in the practice of public accounting. Now in its second year, the list represents a rigorous, independent evaluation process.
Forbes gathered nominations from accounting associations and professionals nationwide. Thousands of candidates were evaluated across criteria including professional achievements, years of experience, community involvement, thought leadership, regulatory compliance, and dedication to the profession. Candidates were required to hold active CPA licensure, and while lifetime achievements were taken into account, the selection process placed particular emphasis on recent accomplishments.
A Reflection of Our Firm’s Values
At Brown Edwards, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. The recognition of Laura and Jeff by Forbes is a proud moment for our entire firm — and a reminder of the talent and dedication that drives everything we do.
We congratulate Laura and Jeff on this well-deserved honor, and we thank our clients, colleagues, and communities for the trust they place in Brown Edwards each and every day.