Kruggel Lawton is pleased to announce that Courtney Watts, CPA, has been selected as one of the 2026 Michiana Forty Under 40 honorees. This prestigious program organized by the South Bend Regional Chamber, Young Professionals Network South Bend and community sponsors, recognizes forty of the region’s most accomplished and impactful young professionals who not only excel in their fields but also dedicate their time and talents to enriching the Michiana region through service and innovation.
“I’m honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Michiana Forty Under 40,” said Watts. “This recognition is deeply meaningful, as it reflects not only my own efforts but also the support, collaboration, and mentorship of the incredible colleagues, clients, and community members I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the Michiana region and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact through my work and community involvement.”
Watts, who was named a Partner at Kruggel Lawton on January 1, 2026, brings extensive experience and leadership to the firm’s fiduciary tax services practice area, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering specialized expertise in complex tax matters. She began her career with the firm in 2012 as an intern and quickly advanced to Manager within five years. While her early work focused on individual and corporate tax preparation, she developed a passion for serving trust and estate clients as well as high net worth individuals. Over the past eight years, Watts has played a pivotal role in helping to grow the firm’s fiduciary services, building a dedicated team, and meeting the increasing demand from clients. Her leadership has positioned Kruggel Lawton as a trusted resource for trust and estate planning across the region.
Prior to her promotion to partner, Watts was a key member of Kruggel Lawton’s KLimb to 2030 team—an award-winning group of hand-selected managers focused on planning for the firm’s future by exploring growth opportunities and evaluating client needs. Watts served as co-leader of the team for two years, making significant contributions to defining the firm’s path to partner and strengthened initiatives focused on talent development, mentorship, and long-term professional growth for team members.
“Courtney exemplifies the values that define Kruggel Lawton—strong leadership, a people-first mindset, and a genuine commitment to making a difference,” said Patrick Lee, CPA, Partner, Kruggel Lawton. “She is a trusted advisor to both her clients and colleagues and consistently invests in the growth of those around her. Her passion for community involvement and leadership makes this recognition well deserved.”
Watts holds a B.S. in both Accounting and Finance from Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, Ind. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Indiana CPA Society (INCPAS), and both the Michiana and Elkhart County Estate Planning Councils, where she serves on the planning committee for the Elkhart County Council. She currently serves as a board member of the Elkhart Boys and Girls Club and a treasurer of the Elkhart Unit Board.
Watts previously served on the INCPAS Emerging Leaders Alliance from 2013-2016 and was named an Emerging Leader herself in 2018. She also completed Convergence Coaching’s Transformational Leadership Program in preparation for her transition to partner. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Josh, and their two children, Carter and Emma. Together they enjoy traveling, camping, and spending time outdoors.
The 2026 Michiana Forty Under 40 Class will be recognized at a special luncheon on Friday, May 29th at the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart.
