Firm Spotlight: Swart, Lalande & Associates Celebrates 50 Years

The Fairfax accounting firm of Swart, Lalande & Associates, PC, marked its 50th anniversary last year, and the company’s efforts are as vital today as they were upon its founding.

The firm’s official celebration was pushed back a year to allow its founders to join in the celebration, befitting their status and respect among the staff. John F. Swart Jr. founded the firm as a sole proprietorship in 1960. Two years later, Luke J. Lalande signed on, and the firm changed names and entities several times before arriving at its present incarnation.

Swart and Lalande are both life members of the Virginia Society of CPAs (VSCPA) — Swart joined the society in 1949 and Lalande followed suit in 1969. Despite all the changes, the pair continues to provide inspiration for the current employees.

“The founders of this firm were highly skilled in many areas of public accounting, and we are proud to have maintained that high level of expertise and diversity,” said Paul D. Burke, CPA, the firm’s managing partner. “We are always looking to grow our practice and for new opportunities in different niches.”

Swart, Lalande isn’t coasting on its reputation — the firm was ranked No. 36 on the Washington Business Journal’s 2010 edition of the Book of Lists. Its accountants made their reputation in construction, nonprofit, government contractors and estate and trusts, and have performed at a high level to keep the company strong through its golden anniversary and beyond.

“Fifty years is an extraordinary accomplishment for any firm in our industry,” Burke said. “Our success and longevity are attributable to the governing values on which we were established, as well as our dedicated professionals and support staff who strive to provide the highest quality service to our clients each and every day.”