Abacus! is excited to announce Riley Gatten and Gwynn Smail as recipients of the 2026 Abacus Values Award for Ownership. Riley is a Consultant in Traditional Tax, and Gwynn is a Senior Accountant in Traditional Tax.

The Abacus Values Award for Ownership recognizes employees who consistently demonstrate pride in their work, a desire to succeed and loyalty. Riley and Gwynn reflect those qualities through their initiative, follow-through and commitment to delivering excellent work for clients and colleagues.

Riley’s impact has been clear from day one. Colleagues recognize Riley as someone who steps into opportunities with confidence, embraces challenges and communicates clearly about what is happening and what is needed.

When describing the level of care Riley brings to each project, Riley said, “I try to approach every project like my name is on it and my eyes are the last ones that will ever review it.”

Riley is known across the firm for being reliable, responsive and willing to help. Even while supporting work across multiple departments, Riley makes time to answer questions, stay available and ensure important details do not fall through the cracks.

When asked what receiving the Ownership Award means, Riley said, “It honestly came as a big surprise to me. I can only hope that I uphold the standards and values for all past and future recipients of the award.”

What makes Riley stand out is a commitment to understanding the work at a deeper level. Riley takes time to learn the process, the purpose and the client behind each project so the final result reflects the excellence Abacus! strives to deliver.

Gwynn also sets a strong example of what it means to truly own the work. Colleagues describe Gwynn as determined and dependable, someone who steps up, keeps projects moving and sees work through exactly as it was meant to be completed.

When explaining what ownership means in day-to-day work, Gwynn said, “Truly owning my work means taking responsibility for the outcome, not just the task.”

Gwynn is known for strong follow-through and a willingness to go above and beyond to serve others. No matter the task, Gwynn approaches the work with a can-do attitude and a commitment to delivering an excellent outcome.

When asked what receiving the Ownership Award means, Gwynn said, “Receiving the Ownership Award is a meaningful honor because ownership is something I try to bring to my work every day. I care deeply about doing what is best for our clients and supporting my coworkers in a way they can count on. I am grateful to be part of a team that recognizes the importance of taking responsibility and following through.”

Across the firm, Gwynn is recognized for drive, consistency and passion for making the Abacus Experience better for both clients and employees. Gwynn takes pride in the result, ensuring every detail aligns with the bigger picture and the experience Abacus! aims to create.

The Abacus! Values Awards were created in 2020 to recognize individuals who fully exemplify Abacus Values in how they live, work and build relationships with clients and coworkers. Honorees are selected each spring and announced at Abacus!’s semi-annual firm-wide retreat, AM³.

2026 Complete List of Abacus Value Award Honorees:

  • Riley Gatten, Consultant, is a recipient of the Abacus Ownership Award, which includes the attributes of Pride in Our Work, Desire to Succeed and Loyalty.
  • Gwynn Smail, Senior Accountant, is a recipient of the Abacus Ownership Award, which includes the attributes of Pride in Our Work, Desire to Succeed and Loyalty.
  • Paige Frealy, Coordinator, is a recipient of the Abacus People Focus Award, which includes the attributes of Respect, Effective Communication, Compassion and Cooperation.
  • Tori Busby, Marketing and Communications Associate, is a recipient of the Abacus People Focus Award, which includes the attributes of Respect, Effective Communication, Compassion and Cooperation.
  • Sandy Dake, Coordinator, is a recipient of the Abacus Client Service Orientation Award, which includes the attributes of Effective Communication, Innovation, Sense of Urgency and Quality in Work.
  • Mason Gilsinger, Senior Accountant, is a recipient of the Abacus Client Service Orientation Award, which includes the attributes of Effective Communication, Innovation, Sense of Urgency and Quality in Work.
  • MJ Lutz, Client Accounting Specialist, is a recipient of the Abacus Positive Attitude Award, which includes the attributes of Coachable, Cooperative and Believing the Intentions and Abilities of Others are Good.
  • Jenean Richardson, Administrative Assistant Specialist, is a recipient of the Abacus Positive Attitude Award, which includes the attributes of Coachable, Cooperative and Believing the Intentions and Abilities of Others are Good.
  • Eddie Musani, Senior Consultant, is a recipient of the Abacus Integrity Award, which includes the attributes of Responsible, Trustworthy and Honest.
  • Levi Stillwell, Consultant, is a recipient of the Abacus Integrity Award, which includes the attributes of Responsible, Trustworthy and Honest.