Smith + Howard Celebrates 45 Years

Forty-five years ago today is the day it all started – Joe Smith and Jim Howard created what would become a top CPA firm in both the state and nation. As we reflect on our 45-year journey many things come to mind, but growth has been our biggest reward. We grow stronger together and are proud that our growth hasn’t been in just the traditional sense of revenue or employees (though those have grown significantly). The growth we are proudest of is that of our people. While the number of employees has grown from two to over 100, it is the professional and personal growth of the individuals of Smith and Howard that will truly leave a lasting mark.  

Our client family continues to grow every day. It has been our pleasure and honor to work with some of the most respected businesses and individuals in Georgia over our 45 years. We have seen those businesses grow and prosper, which of course contributes to the prosperity and success of their owners and employees.  

The community impacts the firm and our growth. We exist to be valuable to our clients, our people and our community. Smith and Howard employees live and breathe this mission and have a deeply embedded commitment to serve our community. Each quarter we set aside time to give back to this community that has been so gracious to us. 

Hard work comes with rewards. We come together and celebrate successful milestones, completion of deadlines and the opening (and closing) of busy season. At the beginning of each year, I hold a state of the firm gathering that brings all employees together to reflect on the success of the previous year and to set new goals for the upcoming year. These goals always require one element – teamwork. We will continue to grow and succeed together. 

In the past 45 years, the Smith and Howard team has grown in a strategic and special way. We would like to thank our clients and friends of the firm for including Smith and Howard in their journey. We look forward to the years to come! 

Here is to the next 45 years!

John W. Lucht

Managing Partner