Austin Everett, a manager in GYF’s A&A Services Group, was honored with the 2026 Young Leader Award by the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA). The award, which was presented at the PICPA’s annual meeting, recognizes members under the age of 40 who demonstrate a commitment to the accounting profession through PICPA participation or community volunteer activities.
Austin’s career in public accounting began in 2018, when he joined GYF as a Staff Associate, following his graduation from Grove City College. In 2020, he was promoted to a Senior role, and in 2023, he was named as a Manager in the A&A Services Group. Megan Troxell, a GYF Partner who has worked with Austin throughout his career, nominated him for this honor. Megan noted:
“Austin is not only a stand-out professional, but he is the kind of leader who makes everyone around him better. He consistently delivers exceptional client service, driven by an intrinsic commitment to excellence and an insatiable curiosity that elevates all that he does.
His genuine character and sincere approach earns the trust of clients and colleagues alike.”
Ryan Heimann has the unique perspective of working with Austin as a client (in his previous role at a nonprofit), and currently, as a GYF colleague. Ryan reflected on the trusted professional and personal relationship he has developed with Austin over the years.
“Austin is an excellent accountant, but more importantly, it’s evident that he cares deeply about people. He has wisdom far beyond his age (as someone more than a decade his senior, I’m qualified to make that judgment) and provides meaningful perspectives on life and work.”
Austin actively engages with his colleagues on both a personal and professional level and prioritizes opportunities for staff development. He wants to see his teams succeed and takes an active role in both formal and informal teaching. Austin challenges those around him to be relentless about improvement, and he does so in a way that builds rather than erodes trust.
Katelyn Grieco began working with Austin soon after she started at GYF in 2022, and they have worked closely on some very large and challenging engagements. Katy appreciates the positive impact Austin has had on her career over the last 3+ years.
“Austin has always pushed me to be the best auditor that I can be and offers to come alongside me when I am struggling. He encourages me to complete tasks that are outside of my comfort zone, and I would not be where I am in my career if it hadn’t been for his trust in my abilities and his continued devotion to my professional development.”
Austin maintains close connections with fellow alumni, professors and students at Grove City College, which bolsters the firm’s reputation at the school and benefits GYF’s recruiting efforts. Tomas Mueller, who joined GYF in 2024, learned about the firm when a college friend connected him with Austin during his junior year.
“Ever since meeting Austin for lunch in 2022, he has never ceased to be a role model, mentor, and friend. He always makes himself available for any type of guidance. Working closely with Austin at GYF and witnessing his commitment to the growth of his peers has truly been a gift.”
In addition to his participation in professional organizations including the AICPA and PICPA, Austin is deeply committed to serving the community. He actively serves as the Treasurer for Harvest Bridge, a nonprofit with a mission to help bridge the gap between the U.S. Church and South Asian Christians, and is the Assistant Treasurer and a Finance Committee Member for the Church of the Ascension. Additionally, Austin is a graduate of the 2023 Cohort of New Philanthropic Leaders (NPL), an annual initiative of the Pittsburgh Foundation with the goal of developing the next generation of Pittsburgh’s philanthropists.
And last, but certainly not least, Austin is a dedicated husband and father to two young daughters. Driven by a desire to be fully present in all facets of life, Austin skillfully balances his personal, professional and community contributions, while always maintaining a positive outlook and a cheerful disposition.
About the PICPA
Founded in 1897, the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) is the second-oldest CPA organization in the United States and the largest CPA association in Pennsylvania. The PICPA’s mission is to serve, support, and advocate for the profession and to be a meaningful resource for nearly 20,000 members. To learn more, visit www.picpa.org
