In Public Accounting Report’s 27th Annual Survey of Accounting Professors, Grant Thornton LLP again topped the list of the global accounting firms as the U.S. firm they considered to be the most ethical and the best for work-life balance, for the second consecutive year. In addition, the firm placed amongst the top four in diversity and client service.

"I am pleased to see that our firm has been recognized as an organization dedicated to ethical principles and the value we place on keeping exceptional people," says Grant Thornton CEO, Ed Nusbaum. "We choose people who are both extremely talented and of impeccable character. We have also put into place important management principles such as Grant Thornton's Code of Conduct, our EthicsPoint Internet-based reporting system, and our Professional Excellence Committee. We can all be proud that our firm's efforts are being acknowledged by the profession."

"I am very pleased that the firm is recognized for encouraging our people to integrate a work/life balance into their Grant Thornton experience," says Wichita, Kansas office Managing Partner and Work/Life Integration Task Force Co-Chair Jarod Allerheiligen. "Our task force continues to work diligently on improving work/life balance to enable our people to achieve and enjoy both their work and personal lives optimally. Our employees should feel empowered to make personal decisions to achieve a work/life balance that is right for them, which fits within the framework of doing their part in helping the firm execute its strategy and reach our strategic objectives."

More than 1,500 accounting educators from 206 colleges and universities participated in this year's survey. Accounting faculty members often are influential in shaping the perceptions and career decisions of students.