Withum’s Rich Wright and Laura Forthman have been named to the Rochester Business Journal’s Power List for Accounting and Insurance for 2026. Western New York natives are shaping the professional services landscape to support businesses and economic growth.
Rich Wright is the Partner-in-Charge of Withum’s Buffalo, Rochester and Batavia offices, offering more than 30 years of public accounting experience and deep expertise in tax planning. He advises closely held businesses, high-net-worth individuals and business owners on complex tax compliance and advisory matters across multiple industries.
A strategic, people-focused leader, Rich plays a key role in advancing Withum’s presence across Western New York, championing talent development, technology innovation and long-term growth initiatives. Outside the Firm, Rich is deeply engaged in his community, having held numerous leadership and volunteer roles with numerous nonprofit organizations essential to the WNY region, and is currently serving on the boards of select private clients.
Laura Forthman is a Partner in Withum’s Rochester office, bringing more than three decades of experience in accounting and tax advisory services. She works closely with privately held businesses and individuals across the manufacturing, real estate, construction and distribution and service industries, advising clients on financial reporting, tax planning and compliance matters.
A trusted advisor and regional leader, Laura is committed to helping clients navigate complex regulatory environments while strengthening Rochester’s business community. She plays an active role in developing and mentoring emerging professionals within the Firm and is connected to the community, serving on the Advisory Board for Make-A-Wish Western New York.
The Rochester Business Journal Power List for Accounting & Insurance recognizes influential leaders shaping the professional services sector across the Greater Rochester region. Presented annually, the unranked list honors professionals for their expertise, leadership and community impact as they help organizations navigate evolving financial, regulatory and workforce challenges. Honorees span public accounting, advisory services, insurance brokerage, risk management and executive leadership roles. View the complete list.
Advancing Audit Innovation Sameer has played a key role in advancing Withum’s use of audit technology, helping teams adopt new methodologies, improve efficiency and enhance consistency across engagements. A trusted resource for technology implementation, he has been instrumental in the Firm’s adoption of Caseware Cloud and Dynamic Assurance Solutions (DAS) applications. Driving Firmwide DAS Adoption…
Leading Industry with a Tech–Forward Vision Matt Walsh, partner and practice leader of Withum’s Industrial and Consumer Products Services Team, was honored in the Finance/Accounting category for helping modernize the Firm’s technology ecosystem. His leadership has supported initiatives that enhance efficiency, streamline workflows and better align technology with evolving client needs, including work with Caseware…
As a trusted advisor to entertainment clients, Alan helps organizations navigate the unique opportunities and complexities of an increasingly dynamic, deadline-driven industry. This recognition reflects his commitment to delivering strategic guidance that supports both immediate business needs and long-term success across Southern California’s creative economy. Alan advises production companies, professional athletes, arts organizations and closely…