Firms operating on the Arlington, Va.-based Ascend growth platform, a partner for regional accounting firms supported by private equity firm Alpine Investors, announced three new acquisitions completed in July.

As of July 1, IPA 200 firm LMC of New York (FY25 net revenue of $39.5 million) integrated Stephen A. Kepniss & Associates, PC of Springfield, N.J. Pasadena, Calif.-based Lucas Horsfall acquired the practice of Lew Adams of Los Angeles. IPA 400 firm TSS Advisors of Lebanon, N.H., added the practice of Patricia Morse. 

“Our partnership with Ascend has given us the resources, network and strategic support to accelerate our growth in a meaningful way. We’ve been able to pursue smart acquisitions, invest in top talent, and scale our service offerings—all while staying true to our mission of delivering white-glove service to every client,” said Lee Cohen, LMC’s CEO. 

“The profession is inundated with discussions about what it takes to stay independent, for good reason. We focus on vision, people, culture, leadership, resources, collaboration and lots of investment. It is a joy to see these firms reaching their own growth goals by adding great people, clients and service capabilities,” said David Wurtzbacher, Ascend’s founder & CEO.

James Godfrey, CEO of TSS, said, “We are on a growth journey. We strive to always bring new value to our existing clients, and the Ascend platform gives us the resources to support Pat and her legacy clients with our growing portfolio of specialized services and technology capabilities. We are well-positioned to help our shared clients achieve their goals.”

“At Lucas Horsfall, growth is not just a goal, it is part of our identity. With the resources of the Ascend platform, we are bringing together high-performing, forward-thinking accountants to build an extraordinary firm,” said Mike Amerio, CEO of Lucas Horsfall.