GBQ, a Top 100 tax, accounting, and consulting firm, is proud to announce that Mallory Ashbrook, CPA, CVA, JD, MAFF, Partner, Forensic & Dispute Advisory, has been named to Columbus Business First’s 2026 40 Under 40 list. Now in its fifth decade, the 40 Under 40 program is among Central Ohio’s most respected and competitive business honors, recognizing emerging leaders under the age of 40 who have demonstrated exceptional professional achievement, leadership, and community impact.
Since joining GBQ in 2014, Ashbrook has been a driving force in the growth and evolution of the firm’s forensic and dispute advisory services practice. She brings deep expertise in litigation support, business valuation, and fraud-related matters, pairing her legal expertise with technical rigor for a “client‑first” approach.
“Mallory has an uncommon ability to lead with both precision and heart,” said Darci Congrove, Managing Partner, GBQ. “She is someone clients trust with their most complex, high-stakes matters, and someone colleagues look to for guidance, perspective, and integrity. Being named to Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40 list is a powerful and well‑deserved honor, and it reflects the depth of her impact.”
Ashbrook’s leadership extends beyond her professional role. Her commitment to child advocacy began in law school and evolved into long‑standing service with the Friends of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. Joining the organization’s board in 2017, she later served as the organization’s treasurer and then as president. Additionally, Mallory serves on the finance committee for the National Center for Families Learning.
Nationally, Mallory has contributed to the advancement of her profession through multiple leadership positions, including her roles with the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA). She previously served on its Standards Board, but currently sits on the Executive Advisory Board. She also serves as co‑chair of NACVA’s Young Professionals Commission, focused on developing future leaders in valuation and advisory services.
Ashbrook earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting from The Ohio State University and her juris doctorate degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law. She is a member of the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA), and Columbus Young Professionals.
About GBQ
At GBQ, our purpose is clear: we empower growth; growth of our people, our communities, and our clients’ businesses. A top tax, accounting, and consulting firm for 70 years, we’re driven by the outcomes that we know can change the lives of those we work with and for. We’ve learned that this is what matters most to our stakeholders. It is this purpose that drives and inspires us every day. It’s why we exist. Visit GBQ online at www.gbq.com.