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I am an avid listener when it comes to audiobooks, averaging one per month from many genres, with my favorite being science fiction.
Katie Thornton
Partner, CPA

Experience

As the technical leader for the firm’s higher education practice, I keep our clients up to date on accounting developments and help them respond to industry challenges and changes.

I’m passionate about helping organizations that make a difference. I work primarily with public universities, private and community colleges, other not-for-profits, and federal contractors. 

I’m well-versed in the technical requirements related to auditing and accounting standards, compliance, and indirect cost rates. I know today’s regulatory landscape can change very quickly, but I enjoy the intensity and challenge of the work. I also enjoy engaging with people, and my clients appreciate the fact that I make time for them.

Around the office, I’m known for my enthusiasm and excitement about the firm, my clients, and — of course — technical standards! In fact, I’ve won a few internal awards for best suggestion and spirit.

I make frequent presentations to clients, boards, and industry observers about technical standards issued by authorities such as the Governmental Accounting Standards Board and the Financial Accounting Standards Board. I’m also the board chair for the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. I’m a member of the AICPA and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants, and I have a B.B.A. in accounting from Grand Valley State University.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling (I want to visit all 50 states) with my partner, going to the symphony, and watching movies with my kids.