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University of Washington Foundation Honors Warren Averett for Over 30 Years of Philanthropy

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, December 4th 2025 at 5:53 GMT by Pensacola News Journal

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University of Washington Foundation Honors Warren Averett Accounting for Decades of Philanthropy

By The Pacific Northwest Journal – December 4, 2025

The University of Washington Foundation (UWF) celebrated the long‑standing partnership between the university and the Portland‑based accounting firm Warren Averett on Friday evening. In a ceremony held at the UW’s Memorial Union, the Foundation publicly acknowledged the firm’s generous support over more than three decades, and unveiled a new scholarship fund that will benefit future generations of Washington students.

A Legacy of Giving

Founded in 1952 by Warren S. Averett, the firm grew from a modest partnership into a multi‑office firm with over 2,200 professionals across the Pacific Northwest. While its primary business has always been accounting and tax advisory, the Averett family and senior leadership have maintained a strong philanthropic focus since the firm’s inception. The article’s author, Sarah Kim, highlights the firm’s “deep roots in community service,” noting that the firm has routinely supported educational initiatives, health care organizations, and civic infrastructure projects throughout the region.

The UWF’s recognition ceremony featured remarks from Dr. Angela Kim, President of the Foundation, who praised the firm for “not only providing financial resources but also for nurturing a culture of generosity among its employees.” According to Kim, the Averett firm’s donations have helped fund scholarships, faculty research grants, and capital projects—most notably the renovation of the UW School of Business’s downtown campus.

A Milestone Donation

Central to the celebration was the unveiling of a $2 million endowment, donated by the Averett firm’s charitable arm, the Warren Averett Foundation. The endowment will fund the “Averett Scholarship for Leadership in Accounting,” aimed at students pursuing degrees in accounting, finance, and business analytics. The scholarship will provide up to $5,000 per year for four years, with priority given to students from low‑income families and those participating in UW’s community‑service programs.

The article includes a link to the official press release from the UW’s Office of Institutional Advancement, which details the scholarship’s application process and selection criteria. It also notes that the endowment’s annual return will be reinvested to grow the scholarship pool, ensuring sustainability for at least the next decade.

Impact on Students and Faculty

The article quotes several UW alumni and current students who have benefited from the Averett firm’s giving. “When I applied for my first scholarship, I was told it was a result of the Averett firm’s partnership with the university,” said Maria Lopez, a 2023 graduate of the UW School of Accounting. Lopez, a recipient of the new Averett Scholarship, highlighted how the financial support allowed her to focus fully on her studies and internships, ultimately landing a role at a Fortune 500 company.

Faculty members also shared their perspectives. Dr. Kevin Yamada, Chair of the Accounting Department, explained that the Averett firm’s donations have facilitated hiring of adjunct faculty, expansion of research labs, and collaboration on joint research projects. “The firm’s contributions have directly impacted our ability to conduct cutting‑edge research in forensic accounting and data analytics,” Yamada said.

A Community‑Wide Celebration

The UWF’s ceremony was attended by over 300 guests, including local business leaders, UW faculty, alumni, and families of students. The event featured a live band, a short video montage showcasing the firm’s philanthropic history, and a keynote speech by Warren Averett himself. In his address, Averett reflected on the firm’s journey, stating that “giving back has always been a part of our identity.” He also emphasized the importance of mentoring youth in the accounting profession, announcing the launch of a new “Leadership in Accounting” mentorship program that pairs Averett staff with UW students.

The article also links to the official UWF event page, which lists the event’s agenda, sponsors, and a photo gallery. A side note mentions the firm’s upcoming annual “Accounting for Good” conference, scheduled for March 2026, where attendees will discuss best practices in corporate philanthropy.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the immediate impact on the university, the article places the Averett firm’s philanthropy within the broader context of philanthropic trends in the Pacific Northwest. It cites a recent report from the Washington State Foundation that notes a 12% increase in corporate giving to educational institutions in the past five years. The Averett firm’s sustained giving over three decades serves as a benchmark for other local businesses seeking to cultivate long‑term community relationships.

The article concludes with a note from the UWF’s Executive Director, who expressed hope that the new scholarship and partnership will inspire other organizations to invest in higher education. “Our partnership with Warren Averett is a testament to what can be achieved when business leaders commit to a shared vision of student success,” the director said.

In sum, the UWF’s recognition of Warren Averett’s decades‑long giving highlights a powerful synergy between academia and the private sector. Through strategic philanthropy, the firm has helped shape the next generation of accounting professionals, reinforcing the University of Washington’s reputation as a leading institution for business education in the region.