Orlando, FL – Top-ranked CPA firm WithumSmith+Brown (Withum) has partnered with the University of Central Florida (UCF) to establish a new learning lab, which officially welcomed its first students following a recent ribbon-cutting event. Located in building BA1 on the UCF campus, the new center offers students a place to seek tutoring services as well as collaborate with fellow accounting majors.

The lab, which was designed by Withum’s Creative Director Jin Park, features state-of-the-art workstations and amenities that appeal to today’s undergraduate and graduate students. The décor also features inspirational messages of passion, innovation and strength that align with Withum’s unique corporate culture.

“The Withum Learning Lab is an extension of our ties to UCF and its College of Business, where the next generation of business advisors and accountants are being challenged to refine their skills and creativity,” said Russell Goldberg, Withum’s partner in charge of the Orlando office. “At Withum, we take our responsibility very seriously to contribute to and pave the path for the future of our profession, which will only soar to new heights that not-too-long-ago once seemed unfathomable.”

The Withum Learning Lab was established in memory of three of the firm’s late team members who were an inspiration to their peers and displayed unparalleled enthusiasm and passion for accounting. Sandi Breitenstein and Barb Sorenson, who passed in 2015, as well as Robin Word, who passed in 2016, were honored posthumously.

“The Withum Learning Lab is essential for our students,” said Gregory Trompeter, director of the Kenneth G. Dixon School of Accounting at UCF College of Business. “For those who are being tutored, they obviously receive one-on-one education from more senior-level students. Less obvious, is the expertise developed by the tutors who really solidify their knowledge of the subject by teaching it to others. In both instances, Withum is helping UCF develop future leaders for the community and the profession.”

In addition to the Withum Learning Lab, the firm awards its Annual Employee Memorial Scholarship to two deserving undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in UCF’s Kenneth G. Dixon School of Accounting. The firm, which has an office in Downtown Orlando, also is a Corporate Sponsor for the College of Business and participates in a wide range of activities that include committee involvement, sponsorships and support of UCF athletics.

Established in 1974, Withum is a national top-ranking public accounting firm providing advisory, tax and audit services to businesses and individuals on a local-to-global scale. In addition to its Orlando office and Princeton, N.J., headquarters, additional offices are located in major financial centers including New York City, NY; Boston, MA; Philadelphia, PA; and Washington, DC. Withum is an independent member of HLB, the global advisory and accounting network.