Gumbiner Savett Inc. (Los Angeles) Trio Named to List of Women Leading the Accounting Industry

Published on October 29, 2020

Gumbiner Savett Inc. congratulates Valerie Colin, Karla Chavez Luna and Helena Song for being recognized as “Women of Influence in Accounting” in the Los Angeles Business Journal.

The accolade is a result of the 2020 Accounting MOVE Project Report that looks at the inroads women accountants have made towards equality in the accounting field.

“This is undoubtedly a well-deserved honor for Valerie, Karla and Helena. Their leadership is not only invaluable but very appreciated at the firm. They are great practitioners and role models for our staff,” said Rick Parent, Managing Director of Gumbiner Savett Inc.

Colin joined Gumbiner Savett Inc. in 1994 and is a senior tax shareholder with more than 30 years of experience working with individuals and businesses in tax, accounting and business consulting. She helps clients optimize their tax situations with an emphasis on maximizing deductions and available credits. Her specialties include estates and trusts, advanced estate and tax planning techniques, tax compliance and financial consulting. She recently took over as head of the Tax Department in January 2020.

“I am so honored to be recognized,” Colin said. “I deeply respect Karla and Helena and enjoy working with them to support new female leaders within the firm.”

Chavez Luna has been with Gumbiner Savett Inc.since 2000 and is the firm’s first Latina shareholder. She works extensively with high-net-worth clients to guide them through the process of optimizing their income tax positions and decreasing their tax liability to help preserve their income and wealth. Her specialties lie in the areas of tax planning, consulting and compliance for privately held companies, trusts and estates.

Song has 12 years of service with Gumbiner Savett Inc. and was promoted in July 2019 to audit and accounting principal. She works with both privately held entities and SEC registered companies in various industry and sectors. Song has extensive experience in leading financial statements audits, due diligence and special reports. She specializes in the real estate industry and handles large audit engagements for real estate investment funds, residential and commercial real estate builders and operators.