Jeffrey J. Vrabel (’81 Accounting)

2026 Distinguished Achievement Award

Jeff has more than 44 years of experience in public accounting, including 31 years as a partner or principal. He is a CPA and currently a Principal with Baker Tilly, the sixth-largest firm in the U.S. Jeff began his career at Ernst & Young, where he spent 23 years, including 10 as a Partner, after beginning his professional path with an internship through Penn State.

Jeff’s career has focused on assurance services and helping clients achieve strategic objectives through effective use of firm resources. He has extensive experience supporting clients with mergers and acquisitions, financing transactions and private equity activity. In addition to client service, Jeff has held numerous leadership roles throughout his career, including serving on a board, committees and as an industry leader at the firms where he worked.

A lifelong Penn State supporter, Jeff spent six years on the Smeal Alumni Society Board, including time as Vice Chair of the Alumni Engagement Committee. He has also co-hosted the Smeal In Your City event in Harrisburg for its first three years. He is currently a member of the Hammond Society. He was a founding member of the Schuylkill Campus Alumni Society board and served on it for nearly 20 years, chairing the Awards Committee for much of that time. He has also served as a commencement speaker there and received a Schuylkill Campus Special Honor for years of service to the board.

Jeff is an ICON Honors Award recipient from the Central Penn Business Journal, recognizing business leaders who have left an indelible mark in their fields and whose integrity, vision, and service have made a lasting community impact. His current board service includes the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry and the National Association of Corporate Directors, Philadelphia Chapter. He has also had leadership positions, including as a founder, President, volunteer and board member with other community and professional organizations.

Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting (Honors Program) from Penn State.