It was more than just the spoken word that convinced students and teachers an accounting career can be exciting. The enthusiasm of speakers at the MACPA’s second annual High School Leaders Conferences was even more compelling.

A combined total of 25 teachers and 172 students gathered at the two conferences, on February 3 at Oakland University and on February 10 at Wayne State University, to learn about the roles of CPAs and the accounting profession, and the value of a business degree.

Each of the day-long conferences featured live presentations and roundtable discussions with practicing professionals and Beta Alpha Psi (accounting club) students.

Several excellent speakers shared their career-related experiences and advice at the event. An East Detroit High School teacher said, “the speakers love what they do and are enthusiastic in their presentations.”

Among the speakers were Paul MacDonald, vice president of finance for the Detroit Red Wings; Richard Berschback of Walsh College; Jeff Hill, an audit supervisor of the Wayne County Commission; LaMont Muhammed, a WSU accounting student; and consultant Judith Trepeck of the Trepeck Group.

“I enjoyed seeing the enthusiasm that was evident from professionals about their career,” said an Alma High School teacher.

The conference offered valuable benefits for students and teachers alike. Students enjoyed learning about the different and exciting careers they could have as a CPA or accounting professional as well as having the opportunity to network with CPAs and new professionals during lunch.

A Utica High School teacher enjoyed the informal atmosphere of the event and that “students had a chance to ask their questions and interact with the professionals.”

To assist teachers in continuing accounting and business education beyond the conference, they received a classroom video and fifteen professionally prepared lesson plans. They were also equipped with career books to distribute to students.

A special thank you to our partners: The Detroit Chapter of The National Association of Black Accountants, Oakland University and Wayne State University; and to our Wayne State luncheon sponsors: Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG and Pricewaterhouse Coopers.

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