Shawn M. Howard, Bus Ad ’02
Fairfax, Va.
An accomplished tax partner at a leading national accounting firm, Shawn was recently recognized by Washingtonian magazine as a top tax accountant in the Washington, D.C., area. In addition to his career success, he has made service to others a priority.
Having first made partner at age 30 at another leading area firm, Shawn is now the co-practice leader of Citrin Cooperman鈥檚 government contracting practice and is the industry group leader for the firm鈥檚 merger and acquisition tax practice. He also serves on the firm鈥檚 tax policy committee and is a frequent speaker on topics including merger and acquisition tax matters and current tax law. He is dedicated to advising clients on tax strategy in ways that promote the growth and eventual sale of their companies. 鈥淏eing a close adviser and being a part of their success is tremendously rewarding,鈥� he says.
Shawn also enjoys giving back to the community. In alignment with the values of his firm and clients, he and his colleagues honored U.S. troops and veterans by raising funds for the Code of Support Foundation, an organization that helps veterans in their transition back to civilian life.
Outside of work, Shawn contributes time and support to the Board of Governors for Tower Club Tysons Corner and its philanthropy committee. The club is a diverse business and social community whose members dedicate resources to improving Northern Virginia.
Shawn鈥檚 interest in business was sparked at Marquette, specifically by Dr. James Trebby, associate professor emeritus of accounting. 鈥淗is unique and engaging style of teaching was phenomenal,鈥� says Shawn, who went on to earn a master鈥檚 degree in taxation from the Kogod School of Business at American University.
In addition to setting his career trajectory, Shawn鈥檚 time at Marquette contributed to his success by providing him with leadership opportunities that helped him understand the importance of surrounding himself with people who share his values.
Shawn says he is humbled and honored to be recognized for 鈥渢rying to live the Marquette mission in my personal and professional life.鈥�
Fun fact: Shawn was among a group of students who started Marquette鈥檚 first Dance Marathon, which supported Penfield Children鈥檚 Center. A new generation of students brought the Dance Marathon back to life in 2011.
