SAX 2024 Year in Review by Sax LLP

YEAR IN REVIEW

JOSEPH A. DAMIANO SAX CEO & MANAGING PARTNER A Message from

Dear Valued Clients, Team Members, and Friends,

It is with immense pride that I share SAX’s 2024-2025 Year in Review, a reflection of the pivotal moments and collective achievements that have propelled our firm forward. This past year, we’ve continued to strengthen our foundation, earning recognition and accolades that affirm our unwavering dedication to excellence and client satisfaction.

Key to our progress has been our investment in forward-thinking leadership, the expansion of our service offerings, and the adoption of innovative technologies that have enhanced both our efficiency and the value we deliver. Equally important is our commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive culture while deepening our impact within the communities we proudly support.

As we delve into our 2024 review, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your trust and partnership. Your collaboration drives our success, and we look ahead with excitement to the opportunities the future holds for SAX and those we serve.

Warmest Regards,

SAXWe Are

2024 has been a pivotal year for SAX—a time of reflection, transformation, and renewed focus on our purpose. As we grow and evolve, we remain deeply committed to embracing what fuels our success and pursuing new opportunities that align with our vision for the future. Guided by this mindset, we took a thoughtful approach to redefining our core values to ensure they fully capture the essence of who we are as a firm. These values are more than words; they are a reflection of our mission, our people, and the impact we strive to make.

We invite you to take a moment to discover what drives us at our core by watching the video below—it’s a glimpse into what makes SAX more than just a firm, but a community with a shared purpose.

And here’s a peek at what we’re like when we think the cameras aren’t rolling...

2025 KEY MANAGEMENT SERVICE DIRECTORY

CEO & MANAGING PARTNER

Joseph A. Damiano, CPA

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Joshua Chananie, CPA

Joseph A. Damiano, CPA

Shivani Jain, CPA, MST

Ermal Luzaj, CPA, MBA

Joseph Shannon, CPA/ABV, CFE

Kyle Stawicki, ChFC®

OFFICE LEADERS

PARSIPPANY, NJ

Joseph A. Damiano, CPA

EWING, NJ

Jeremy Rhen, CFP®

NEW YORK CITY, NY

Lisa Goldman, CPA, M.TAX, TEP

MUMBAI, INDIA

Shivani Jain, CPA, MST

SERVICE DIRECTORY

ACCOUNTING + AUDITING

Albert Traverso, CPA

 (973) 554-6136 atraverso@saxllp.com

CANNABIS

Todd W. Polyniak, CPA

 (973) 554-6164 tpolyniak@saxllp.com

CLIENT ACCOUNTING SERVICES

Jordan Goldman, CPA

 (646) 616-1613 jgoldman@saxllp.com

CONSTRUCTION

Ermal Luzaj, CPA, MBA

 (973) 554-6174 eluzaj@saxllp.com

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Joshua Chananie, CPA

 (973) 554-6160 jchananie@saxllp.com

FIRM OPERATIONS

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Nicholas Valentini

CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER

Christine Brennan-Savino

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

Rob Owen

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER / HEAD OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Leon Grassi

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Michael Rolls

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER & CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER –SAX WEALTH ADVISORS

Trevor Hodges

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN AUDITS

Jennifer L. Moroz, CPA

 (973) 472-6250 jmoroz@saxllp.com

FEDERAL TAX CREDITS & INCENTIVES

Peter J. Scalise

 (212) 661-8640

pscalise@saxllp.com

FRACTIONAL FINANCE

Eric Meisner

 (201) 694-2999

emeisner@saxllp.com

HEALTHCARE

Deborah Nappi, CPA, MST

 (973) 554-6191

dnappi@saxllp.com

HR CONSULTING

Christine Brennan-Savino

 (973) 554-6190

cbrennan-savino@saxllp.com

INTERNATIONAL TAX

Lisa Goldman, CPA, M.TAX, TEP

 (646) 395-5037 lgoldman@saxllp.com

NEW LEASE ACCOUNTING

Jason Borofsky, CPA, MBA

 (973) 554-6082 jborofsky@saxllp.com

NONPROFIT

David Ashenfarb, CPA

 (212) 268-2805 dashenfarb@saxllp.com

PRIVATE CLIENT

Joseph J. Bulger

 (973) 554-6094 jbulger@saxllp.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Jennifer L. Moroz, CPA

 (973) 472-6250 jmoroz@saxllp.com

DIRECTOR OF IT OPERATIONS

Tom Hughes

DIRECTOR OF LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT

Nick Romanowski

DIRECTOR OF M&A

Peyton Bowman, MBA

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Margaret Henn

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Stephen Pena

DIRECTOR OF QUALITY CONTROL

Akram Soliman, CPA

REAL ESTATE

Joseph Shannon, CPA/ABV, CFE

 (973) 554-6100 jshannon@saxllp.com

SAX CAPITAL ADVISORS

Jerome Fusco

 (203) 988-3473 jfusco@saxca.com

SAX TECHNOLOGY ADVISORS

Rob Owen

 (201) 694-6909 rowen@saxllp.com

SAX WEALTH ADVISORS

Kyle R. Stawicki, ChFC®

 (973) 554-6006 kstawicki@saxwa.com

RISK MANAGEMENT

W. Michael Curry, CPA, CCIFP

Vincent Flanagan

Christopher Gaffney, CPA, MST

Trevor Hodges

Shivani Jain, CPA, MST

Rob Owen

Michael Rolls

Albert Traverso, CPA

CHARITABLE FOUNDATION BOARD

Lauren Frary, MA

Candy Gordon-Geanoules, CPA

Carolyn Lanza

Helena Lynch, CPA, MST

Jennifer L. Moroz, CPA

Deborah Nappi, CPA, MST

Michael Rolls

Peter Scalise Marqus White, CPA

STATE & LOCAL TAX

Richard Goldstein, JD

 (973) 554-6916

rgoldstein@saxllp.com

STRATEGIC BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION

Lauren Frary, MA

 (973) 554-6099

lfrary@saxllp.com

TAX

Shivani Jain, CPA, MST

 (973) 554-6161

sjain@saxllp.com

TAX CONTROVERSY

Julio M. Jimenez, JD, LLM

 (857) 891-3114

jjimenez@saxllp.com

TRANSACTION STRATEGY & TRANSFORMATION

Eric Lewandowski

 (401) 556-7940

elewandowski@saxllp.com

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Lisa M. Mela, CPA, MST  (973) 554-6168

lmela@saxllp.com

VALUATION, FORENSIC & LITIGATION

Megan Sartor, CPA/ABV/CFF

 (973) 554-6158

msartor@saxllp.com

SolutionsSAX

CORE SOLUTIONS AND ADVISORY SERVICES

At SAX, our tax and accounting services have long been the cornerstone of our success, providing the reliable foundation our clients depend on. While we continually enhance these offerings, like International Tax, State & Local Tax, Federal Credits and Incentives, we’ve recognized that our clients need even more to thrive. To be their #1 trusted advisor, we continue to expand and evolve our advisory services, growing alongside them every step of the way. Some of these offerings include:

CLIENT ACCOUNTING SERVICES

At SAX, we offer customized accounting and bookkeeping services designed to streamline operations and promote longterm success for businesses of all sizes. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we provide real-time financial insights, manage cash flow, and implement strategies for budgeting, expense tracking, and risk management. Our dedicated team builds strong partnerships with clients, focusing on their unique goals to drive sustainable growth and financial stability.

FRACTIONAL FINANCE / OUTSOURCED CFO

We understand that every business, regardless of its size, requires strategic financial expertise to thrive. We provide this through our Fractional Finance Practice, designed to offer an organization the financial acumen it deserves without the need for a full-time CFO.

HR CONSULTING

We provide a level of HR support to help make strategic long-term and day-to-day business decisions, so companies reach their organizational goals and retain talent. In addition, we ensure businesses understand the changing landscape of regulatory and industry standards and build the appropriate controls for maintaining compliance.

INVESTMENT BANKING

Our team has the expertise needed to assist in finding the perfect partner when selling or acquiring a business, preparing a business for sale, raising capital, and/or restructuring a company, and more.

PRIVATE CLIENT

We offer tailored solutions to high-net-worth individuals, ensuring the utmost confidentiality while taking a comprehensive approach to wealth management. We assist in managing wealth, preserving legacy, and ensuring financial security.

STRATEGIC BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION

We provide 360 consulting via a full range of comprehensive and projectbased services. Our team focuses on guiding businesses forward through strategic and innovative solutions from start-up to succession planning, and everything in between.

TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY

We provide strategic technology advisory solutions designed to empower an organization to thrive and scale. Whether augmenting existing IT teams

or replacing the need for a full-time CIO, CTO, or CISO, we provide roadmaps that guide technology investments and initiatives, ensuring alignment with long-term business objectives.

TRANSACTION, STRATEGY & TRANSFORMATION

From integration to transformation to separation strategy, we are an execution driven and results focused M&A leader who works tirelessly to ensure clients are strategically positioned, identifying and realizing value during the due diligence process and throughout the entirety of a transaction.

VALUATION, FORENSIC & LITIGATION

Whether it is litigation, investigating potential fraud, Alternative Dispute Resolution, or just trying to find a solution to a complex financial situation, leading attorneys, business owners, banks, insurance companies, in-house counsel, and the judiciary lean on us to help navigate through the intricacies of any matter.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

With over $3 billion in Assets Under Management, SAX Wealth Advisors is committed to delivering personalized wealth management solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial goals and circumstances. With a focus on providing comprehensive advisory services, we strive to empower individuals and families to navigate the complexities of wealth management with confidence.

FirmACCOLADES

SAX LLP SAX WEALTH ADVISORS

in the nation, a Regional Leader, a Top Mid-Atlantic Firm, a “Leader in Tax”, and a “Leader in Accounting & Auditing” by Accounting Today

RANKED # 71 in the nation, and a “Best of the Best” Public Accounting Firm by Inside Public Accounting

RANKED # 67 on The Top 50 Construction Accounting Firms list by Construction Executive

RANKED # 12

RANKED # 37

on the “Wealth Magnet” list of the Top 150 Firms by Assets Under Management by Accounting Today

*Please click here to reference important disclosure information regarding this award.

RANKED # 29 on Top 50 FastestGrowing Firms by Assets Under Management (AUM) list by Financial Advisor

*Please click here to reference important disclosure information regarding this award

RANKED # 58 by NJBIZ on their list of Top New Jersey Accounting Firms

RANKED # 21 on NJBIZ’s list of the Top 250 Privately Held Companies

TEAM MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS

Joseph Damiano

l Ranked #4 on the Power 50 for Accounting list by NJBIZ

l Named to Forbes’ Inaugural List of America’s Top 200 Accountants

l Named a 2024 Champion of the C-Suite by ROI-NJ

Peter Scalise

l Selected to the inaugural United Service Organizations (USO) Global Advisory Council

l Appointed to the Alzheimer’s Association New York City Chapter Board of Directors

LARRY GRADZKI RETIREMENT

After over four decades of dedicated service, we celebrate the retirement of a valued member of the SAX family. Larry Gradzki joined the firm in 1983, where he began his career as a Tax Associate and advanced to Tax Manager before being named Partner in 1992. Throughout his remarkable career, he became a trusted expert in structuring complex tax transactions, including tax-deferred exchanges, corporate reorganizations, and business sales and acquisitions. His contributions have left a lasting mark on our firm and clients alike. We thank him for his leadership and wish him all the best in this new chapter.

HEAR ABOUT LARRY’S IMPACT FROM OUR STAFF

Working alongside Larry for over 20 years has been an honor and a privilege. From the very beginning, he became more than just a colleague – he was a mentor, a guide, and often, my go-to person for both professional and personal advice. Larry’s profound knowledge of tax is unmatched, and his ability to solve the most complex transactions made him an invaluable resource to everyone around him. But beyond his technical expertise, it was his attitude toward problem-solving that set him apart.

Larry always said, “Don’t be the victim, be the solution.” This mindset not only defined his approach to work but also served as a guiding principle for the rest of us. Larry’s legacy is not just in the work he’s done but in the way he’s shaped and mentored those lucky enough to work with him.

LeadershipRISING

2025 NEW PARTNERS

Matthew Bernocchi, CFP®

Matt was promoted to Partner in 2025 and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) with over a decade of experience. Matt focuses on owners and employees who receive equity in their public or private company, working to minimize tax and reduce risk. He takes pride in educating clients in all areas of financial planning and helping to set and achieve goals.

Matt graduated from The University of Scranton with a degree in Operations Management and Finance

On a personal note, Matt lives in Wayne with his wife Brannan, their son Brooks and their Bernedoodle, Maple. He enjoys being a new father, spending the winter skiing at Stratton Mountain, and spending the summer with family at the Jersey Shore.

Igor Petrovic, CPA

Igor was promoted to Partner in 2025, specializing in accounting, auditing, and tax services. In addition to conducting audits and preparing financial statements, Igor works closely with many of the firm's Consumer Products clients, providing guidance on audit requirements, operation efficiencies, distribution and inventory management, and compliance best practices.

Igor is also involved in the firm’s Construction and Financial Services practices, providing industry-specific accounting, auditing, tax, and

consulting services to property owners, developers, and investors.

Within the firm, Igor is charged with managing client relationships and engagements as well as creating and facilitating various training programs to ensure team members are current on evolving industries. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and being at the beach.

Igor earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accounting from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Joseph T. Saverino, CPA

Joe brings nearly a decade of experience in the accounting industry and was promoted to Partner in 2025. He specializes in providing comprehensive accounting, auditing, tax, and advisory services tailored to the construction industry. Joe also assists clients with critical financial aspects, including bonding capacity, lines of credit, accounting software implementation, cash flow management, and strategic financial and tax planning. He is also a member of the AICPA.

In addition to his client-focused work, Joe is passionate about mentoring and training younger staff, helping to shape the next generation of accounting professionals.

Joe earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Caldwell University, where he was also a member of the baseball team, and an MBA in Accounting from Iona College.

From left to right, Igor Petrovic, Matthew Bernocchi, and Joseph Saverino.

2024 PROMOTIONS

Please join us in celebrating and congratulating the individuals who have been promoted to Manager-level positions and above.

TAX PROMOTIONS

Erick Morillo promoted to Director

Louis Calamunci promoted to Director

Michael Penberg promoted to Director

Mayank Shah promoted to Director

Sydney Hestevold promoted to Manager

Julia Chiorello promoted to Manager

Kennedy Spittler promoted to Manager

Nomaan Ali promoted to Manager

Christine Grispart promoted to Manager

A&A PROMOTIONS

Ella Valdes promoted to Senior Manager

Tetiana Bevza promoted to Manager

Ryan Fidlow promoted to Manager

Albion Derguti promoted to Manager

Maggie Shiel promoted to Manager

Haneen Hasan promoted to Manager

Dom Trinh promoted to Manager

Michael Paphitis promoted to Manager

Kayla Roddy promoted to Manager

OPERATIONS PROMOTIONS

Trevor Hodges promoted to SAX Wealth Advisors’ Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer

Deloris Maple promoted to Manager, Tax Processing

EXPANSIONS ENHANCEMENTS and ACCOUNTING FOR THE FUTURE

SAX APPOINTS JORDAN GOLDMAN AS DIRECTOR OF CLIENT ACCOUNTING SERVICES, STRENGTHENING PRACTICE CAPABILITIES.

With over a decade of experience and as a previous founder of an outsourced CFO and business consulting firm, Jordan brings a wealth of expertise in financial oversight and back-office solutions. His leadership will enhance SAX’s ability to provide strategic insights and develop key performance indicators, helping clients make informed decisions and achieve business growth. Jordan’s commitment to delivering customized financial solutions aligns perfectly with SAX’s mission to support clients in navigating complex financial challenges.

SAX APPOINTS ROB OWEN AS CIO TO ENHANCE TECHNOLOGY CAPABILITIES FOR FIRM AND CLIENTS.

SAX has enhanced its Technology capabilities by appointing Rob Owen as the firm’s first Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Practice Leader of SAX Technology Advisors. With over 20 years of experience in enterprise architecture, Owen will lead SAX’s digital transformation, aligning technology initiatives with the firm’s strategic objectives. His appointment underscores SAX’s commitment to integrating innovation, such as AI, cybersecurity, and next-gen technologies, into its services. Owen’s leadership will drive efficiency and automation in the firm and provide clients with top-tier IT consulting and fractional CIO, CTO, and CISO expertise.

SAX LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM WITH AMPLIFIRE TO ADDRESS INDUSTRY CHALLENGES.

SAX launched an innovative talent development initiative using Amplifire, an adaptive e-learning platform designed to address the rapid changes in automation, globalization, and AI. The program aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to tackle modern challenges in the accounting industry through personalized, brain science-based learning. With a flipped learning model combining selfpaced courses and interactive virtual workshops, employees will gain real-world insights and develop expertise in areas like tax compliance, auditing, and soft skills. This initiative reflects SAX’s commitment to continuous growth, leveraging technology to enhance both employee development and the firm’s ability to adapt to the evolving accounting landscape.

SAX’S “AI IN BUSINESS” REPORT REVEALED BUSINESS LEADERS’ OPTIMISM FOR AI GROWTH AMID PRIVACY AND JOB CONCERNS.

In the pursuit of having a finger on the pulse of the AI movement in business, SAX’s research through its “AI in Business” survey revealed that, despite concerns about privacy, security, and job displacement, business leaders remain optimistic about AI’s potential, with nearly 70% expecting to increase AI investment over the next five years. While 74% express concern about AI replacing jobs, 38% of respondents cite security and privacy risks as the biggest challenges. The study also highlights that nearly half (45%) of business leaders believe AI will provide immediate benefits, particularly in sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance. SAX’s research underscores AI’s growing role in industries like accounting and its varied impact across age and gender groups, with younger generations and men viewing AI more favorably.

Read the full report here.

Thought LEADERSHIP

INDUSTRY UPDATES

HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY UPDATE

SAX’s 2024 Healthcare Industry Update, held on February 16 at the Upper Montclair Country Club, brought together healthcare professionals for networking and discussions on industry advancements. Moderated by Debbie Nappi, SAX’s Healthcare Practice Leader, the event featured expert speakers Wiks Moffat of Healthcare Compliance Network, Brian Kern of Deep Risk Management, and Nelson Gomes of Medicus IT. Topics included AI integration, private equity’s influence, and 2024 predictions, offering valuable strategies to address challenges and seize opportunities in the healthcare sector.

NONPROFIT INDUSTRY UPDATE

On June 6, SAX’s Nonprofit Group hosted its annual Industry Update at The Westin in Times Square. The event featured an expert panel, including SAX’s Rob Owen, Lauren Frary, and David Ashenfarb, SAX’s Nonprofit Niche Leader alongside Randy Peers, President & CEO of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. Panelists addressed key nonprofit issues, such as cybersecurity and board governance, offering attendees valuable insights to strengthen their organizations.

REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY UPDATE

SAX LLP hosted its 2024 Real Estate Industry Update on November 6 at the Upper Montclair Country Club, featuring keynote speaker Dr. David Stubbs of BlackRock, a global leader in investment and risk management.

Dr. Stubbs shared his expertise on the intersection of macroeconomic trends and real estate investment strategies, offering attendees a forward-looking perspective on the industry. The event also covered key market insights, regulatory developments, and actionable strategies to help professionals navigate a complex and evolving market.

CONFERENCES

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY UPDATE

SAX LLP’s 2024 Construction Industry Update, held on November 14 at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, NJ, brought together industry leaders for an engaging discussion.

Moderated by SAX’s Construction Partner

Michael Curry, the panel featured Jason Meister of Hotaling Insurance, Rob Harms of George Harms Construction, and Richard A. Butkus Jr. of Control Point Associates, Inc. Topics included regulatory changes, technological innovations, and strategies for optimizing business operations in today’s competitive market.

CONSUMER & INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS CONFERENCE

On November 1, SAX’s Consumer & Industrial Products Group held its third conference at the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford. The event brought together top professionals to share insights and foster connections. The conference featured a panel on navigating challenges in consumer and industrial markets, a leadership discussion on adapting to change, and sessions on the economy, technology, and business transitions. Attendees also had the opportunity to connect during lunch and happy hour at Dream Bar.

NONPROFIT CONFERENCE

SAX’s 2024 Nonprofit Conference, The Road to Resilience: Nonprofit Success in Unstable Times, was held on October 25 at Pinstripes in Paramus, NJ. The event featured three panels: “Building Resilience in Donor Relationships”, “Embracing Digital Transformation”, and “Effective Fundraising in Uncertain Times.” The panels, led by moderators Adam Holzberg, April Kushner, and Leon Grassi, featured experts from various organizations who shared valuable insights on nonprofit strategies and challenges. The conference concluded with a networking session over bowling.

PODCASTS / VLOGS

EVENTS

420CANNECT

SAX LLP was proud to host three successful 420Cannect events in 2024, held on February 28, June 11, and October 1 at our Parsippany office. These events brought together professionals from across the cannabis industry to share knowledge and foster connections. Featuring esteemed speakers like Todd Polyniak, David Cunic, and Colby Piper, the discussions spanned crucial industry trends, regulatory insights, and future opportunities. Each session reflected SAX’s commitment to supporting growth and innovation in this dynamic sector.

Herb on the Curb is SAX’s exciting new video series spotlighting the people and stories driving New Jersey’s cannabis industry. Hosted by our own Todd Polyniak (aka the “Toddfather”) and Leon Grassi, this series takes you straight to the curbs of local dispensaries, where we interview business owners about their journey, challenges, and impact on the community. Whether you’re part of the industry or just curious, Herb on the Curb offers an engaging and insightful look into the evolving cannabis landscape.

Discover SAX’s Nonprofit Fundamentals video series— designed for dedicated professionals and enthusiasts in the nonprofit sector! Join SAX’s Nonprofit Partners, April Kushner and Adam Holzberg, as they break down key nonprofit accounting principles in concise, impactful episodes. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned pro, these videos simplify the complexities of nonprofit financial management, offering practical insights you can use right away.

INFORMATIVE WEBINARS

SAX’s Industry Vitals is a healthcare podcast hosted by Debbie Nappi, partner in charge of our healthcare niche, and Leon Grassi, CMO and Head of Business Development. Each episode features industry experts who share insights on the key trends and challenges shaping healthcare. From disability insurance solutions for PE-backed healthcare companies to healthcare real estate, SAX Industry Vitals provides valuable perspectives and actionable advice for navigating the evolving healthcare landscape.

SAX’s Good Morning Cannabis podcast, hosted by Todd Polyniak, dives into the key topics shaping the cannabis industry today. With years of expertise, Todd delivers insightful discussions on regulatory updates, financial challenges, and emerging trends, alongside guest experts who bring diverse perspectives. Designed for industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts, this podcast equips listeners with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in the rapidly growing cannabis sector.

In 2024, SAX hosted over 25 internal and external webinars, reflecting the firm’s dedication to providing added value to the industries it serves. These sessions included our quarterly Tax with SAX discussions and presentations on topics such as Critical Technology Strategies, Best Practices for a Successful Sale, and Rising to the Giving Challenge for nonprofits. Through these informative webinars, SAX strives to continue to prioritize knowledgesharing and being a trusted resource for timely information.

THE SAX CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

The SAX Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting charities who display exceptional dedication to building the next generation of leaders, assist the communities in which they operate, and inspire passion in the Firm’s employees and partners. This year, the Foundation’s two flagship initiatives reached significant milestones.

SAX is thrilled to announce a major milestone for the SAX 4 MILER, an annual run/walk event benefiting the Child Life Department at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson, NJ. Since its inception in 2012, the event has raised a remarkable total of $1 million to support the hospital’s critical programs. This achievement follows the success of the 13th annual SAX 4 MILER, held on September 21, which raised over $80,000 This year’s event saw an outpouring of support from the community, participants, sponsors, and volunteers. Thanks

to their generosity, 100% of the funds raised will directly benefit programs and services that enhance the hospital experience for children and their families.

The SAX 4 MILER has always been dedicated to helping children and families cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of hospitalization. The funds raised this year will continue to support essential services provided by the Child Life Department, including therapeutic play, music therapy, art therapy, and more.

This year’s event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of companies like Railroad Construction, Valley Bank,

County Concrete, Value Realty, Lowenstein Sandler LLP, Advisors Insurance Brokers, American Global, Prismatic Development Corp., Imperial Iron Works, and M&T Bank, who contributed at the $2,500 level or higher.

SAX looks forward to continuing its support of St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and the SAX 4 MILER, which has become a powerful force for good in the community. Together, SAX and its partners are helping to ensure that these vital programs will thrive for years to come.

Click here to watch the event video.

THE FOUNDERS’ Award

The 7th Annual Founders’ Award, themed “Empowerment,” celebrated a diverse range of nonprofit organizations creating meaningful change. This year marked a recordbreaking number of applicants, highlighting the event’s expanding influence. Rooted in our core value of stewardship, the award showcases the firm’s commitment to supporting transformative nonprofits through the Charitable Foundation.

Watch the Founders’ Award event video...

THE 2024 AWARD RECIPIENTS INCLUDE:

Brooklyn Debate League, awarded $20,000 for youth-focused debate programs.

Their mission: “To make Speech & Debate more accessible to low-income students in NYC.”

RETI Center, receiving a professional video package from the nonprofit production company Beard and Bowler for environmental justice initiatives.

Their mission: “To educate, train, and collaborate with local youth, industry experts, and community members to promote a balance of equity, ecology, and economy as we reimagine and adapt our waterfront communities to the new climate reality.”

Bronx Charter School for the Arts, granted $5,000 to support creative education.

Their mission: “To serve as a model that encourages creativity and innovation in the classroom and inspire students to develop the intellectual and personal fortitude to realize their dreams.”

Giving Back

The SAX Charitable Foundation has also spearheaded impactful smaller initiatives, such as a Holiday Toy Drive benefiting Oasis - A Haven for Women and Children, monetary donations supporting Child and Family Resources of Morris County and

The Arc of Essex County, and a JETS sweepstakes auctioning six tickets to a game at MetLife Stadium. Proceeds from the sweepstakes were donated to the Red Cross to aid those affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene.

Culture OUR FIRM INSPIRING OUR TEAM

APPRECIATION

As a way to say “thank you” to employees for their hard work and dedication throughout the year, SAX holds events such as the annual End of Year Celebration, Summer Family Picnic, Happy Hours, extra days off, and more.

TEAM COMRADERY

With tremendous growth and an expanding remote workforce, hosting events that bring together all employees is imperative to foster a family-like atmosphere. These events include virtual game nights, team lunches, remote groups, Tax/A&A families, and more.

RECOGNITION

SAX is proud to highlight the accomplishments of team members throughout the year. This is done by promoting from within, acknowledging those who embody the firm’s core values, presenting Service Awards celebrating work milestones and anniversaries, and issuing “Great Cards” to reward those employees who go above and beyond on projects.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SAX believes in investing in the health and wellness of its most valuable asset—its employees. Throughout the year, SAX facilitates events and webinars designed to improve the physical and mental health of employees. This includes walking challenges, wellness webinars, and a healthy living reimbursement.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

SAX offers team members of all levels ongoing career development opportunities to sharpen their professional skills to help them reach their unique career goals. This includes investing in technologies such as RSM My Learning, LCvista, and LumiQ, in addition to existing programs such as Pathway to Success, providing mentorship and coaching from a performance manager, and an in-depth evaluation process.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

SAX believes that success goes hand in hand with a commitment to making a positive impact in the communities the firm serves. Yearly, SAX offers team members a PTO day to volunteer at a charity of their choosing and facilitates fundraisers for local nonprofits.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION OF WOMEN FOR EMPOWERMENT & RESULTS (P.O.W.E.R.)

The mission of SAX’s P.O.W.E.R. group is to support women employees, embrace inclusiveness, and collectively address a woman’s role in the evolving business environment. The group focuses on its Four Pillars: Professional Development, Networking, Community Outreach, and Support.

EMPLOYEE MATCH

SAX believes in the power of giving back. For all internal fundraisers, SAX matches each employee’s donation dollar for dollar. Some popular fundraisers are the Beer and Wine Basket Raffle benefiting the American Cancer Society and the annual 4 MILER benefiting St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.

FLEXIBILITY

SAX embraces each team member’s unique lifestyle and provides flexibility through the Customized Work Arrangement (C.W.A.) program and generous PTO packages for all employees, including unlimited PTO for those at the manager level and above. SAX allows all team members to work in and out of the office as it fits their unique circumstances. This ensures that the team sustains a work/life balance.

DEI INITIATIVE

SAX is proud of its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). With an unwavering dedication to fostering a workplace that champions diversity in all its forms, the firm continues to roll out a comprehensive DEI initiative to foster a diverse workforce, ensure equal opportunities, and create an inclusive culture.

THE SAX FAMILY

SAX deeply values its people and takes pride in cultivating a family-oriented culture. To show appreciation for our staff’s dedication and hard work, the firm hosts events that unite team members and their families. Gatherings include post-deadline happy hours, team dinners, and more, solidifying SAX’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment beyond the workplace, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, and meaningful personal connections.

Family Picnic

This summer, SAX hosted its annual Family Picnic at the picturesque Forest Lodge in Warren, NJ, bringing together team members and their families for a day of fun and connection. Attendees enjoyed a catered lunch and an array of boardwalk-themed activities, including an inflatable obstacle course, water

slide, face painting, balloon artistry, bumper cars, and more. With the SAX family extending across the country, the picnic provided a special opportunity for employees to bond with out-of-state colleagues while spending quality time with their loved ones.

End of Year Celebration

This year’s End of Year Celebration was a lively recognition of the SAX team’s hard work and achievements. The evening began with CEO and Managing Partner Joseph Damiano celebrating retiring partners, introducing new partners, and presenting Service Awards to team members for their dedication. The night

continued with dinner, dancing, and connections among colleagues. This annual event not only commemorated a year of success but also offered the SAX team a chance to reflect on their collective accomplishments and look forward to the future with pride and anticipation.

INDIA OFFICE

In 2024, SAX India proudly celebrated its two-year anniversary, marking a period of remarkable growth and diversification. What began in 2022 as a small team of just three employees dedicated solely to tax work has since expanded into a thriving operation. Today, SAX India boasts a dynamic team of over 60 professionals, with a presence both in Mumbai and remotely in Bangalore.

The team’s capabilities now extend far beyond tax services, encompassing expertise in Accounting & Auditing, Marketing, IT, Finance, and Client Accounting Services. This impressive growth reflects SAX India’s commitment to delivering excellence across a broad range of professional services, fostering innovation, and creating impactful opportunities within the organization.