Tennessee Society of CPAs Hosts Third Annual Future CPA Leadership Summit
BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – On Aug. 4-5, the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA) hosted 27 students from colleges and universities across Tennessee for the society’s third annual Future CPA Leadership Summit (FCPALS).
Designed for accounting students who plan to pursue CPA licensure, the summit offered opportunities for participants to connect with peers, gain insight from experts, and enhance their leadership skills. The program included sessions on essential leadership skills for today’s accounting professionals, building and elevating your personal brand, hot topics and trends shaping accounting careers, and strengthening communication and networking skills. Students were also able to connect with seasoned CPAs during a networking reception and dinner.
FCPALS participants had the opportunity to hear from top leaders in the profession, including Okorie Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, PMP, NACD.DC, vice president of Sarbanes-Oxley at Kaiser Permanente and past chair of the AICPA. Ramsey shared practical insight into emerging opportunities in the profession, the skills needed for success, and how to build a rewarding career in accounting while staying true to your values. Gin Binkley, CPA, executive director of the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy, also shared an overview of the CPA Exam and the licensure process.
The students additionally participated in Professionalism Round Tables, a hands-on experience designed to provide practical tools, confidence and insights to stand out in the recruiting process. Participants received internship and job search tips, plus personalized feedback on their resumes, LinkedIn profiles and mock interviews.
In addition, the students had the opportunity to learn from CPAs a few steps ahead in their careers during the young CPA panel discussion. Panelists provided insight on taking the CPA Exam, including how to prepare, balancing life and studying, and their advice for passing the Exam. The discussion also focused on what to expect when transitioning from college to career.
The summit was made possible thanks to TSCPA’s Student Outreach, Advancement and Recruitment (SOAR) Partners. The TSCPA SOAR Partner Program works to enhance the future of the profession by helping the next generation understand the possibilities that a career in accounting can provide.
To learn more about TSCPA’s student programs, contact Megan Williams, CAE, TSCPA students and emerging professionals manager, at mwilliams@tscpa.com.
Pictured are FCPALS participants outside the TSCPA headquarters.
###