MAY 25-27, 2022 • VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON OPTIONS
Grandover Resort & Conference Center, Greensboro • 
Virtual Conference Option
Conference Agenda
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NCACPA’s Business & Industry Spring Conference is designed to meet the diverse demands of your job—with specific updates in North Carolina’s business and economic trends, technology, A&A, tax, fraud, and personal development. It’s specifically developed to give you key knowledge to take back to your organization.
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
8:05–9:20 am
General Session
Hear from Tom Triumph!
Tom Triumph Consulting, LLC
Intentional Evolution: How People and Companies Navigate Challenge and Thrive
As a result of the uncertainties and challenges facing businesses today, a significant percentage of once (or currently) healthy businesses will encounter significant difficulty operating with a “business as usual” mindset. Yet the reality is that these inevitable changes concurrently bring new opportunities to those organizations that are able to understand, respond and leverage them. However, a successful future is not arbitrary nor is it reached with a haphazard approach. Rather there are proven strategies that can be learned and methodologies that can be applied to not just survive – but thrive in the future.
More about Tom
 | Tom Triumph Tom Triumph Consulting, LLC |
I’ve got over three decades of hard-won experience. Along the way I’ve helped large organizations act nimbly and small companies scale, been a participant in two global technology revolutions, joined a podcast with Dose of Leadership —and have been part of some remarkable teams and success stories (and some misfires), and am the author of the book Evolve or Die: Lessons for World-Class Innovation & Creativity.
- Oversaw the creation of dozens of innovative products within different industries, including: medical device, defense, software and professional services.
- Experienced in bringing the unique personalities and skills sets of team members together to generate innovative ideas and solve real business (and real-world) problems.
- Worked and consulted for B2B & B2C Fortune 100 companies and entrepreneurial startups, and bring a broad perspective.
I help event attendees better innovate and contribute by delivering inspiring, informative and engaging keynotes tailored to your specific needs. I also consult with companies to help them improve their product development process and create next generation products that leapfrog the competition, reinvigorate their marketing or reinvent some aspect of their business – all with the goal of driving revenue.
9:30–10:45 am
General Session
Ted Abernathy
Economic Leadership, LLC
Economic Update: Anticipated Post-Pandemic Reality
The past 24 months have reset the economic development world. Trends we saw in 2019 have been fast-tracked. Workforce demand has been transformed. Every economic developer is flying their plane at supersonic speed; (and rebuilding it as they go). What does the future look like and how can you and your organization be more successful?
More about Ted
Ted Abernathy
Economic Leadership, LLC
Ted is the Managing Partner of Economic Leadership LLC, a consultancy that is currently working in more than a dozen states to develop economic and workforce strategies. Ted has 35 years of experience in directing economic development and workforce development programs. From 2008-2013, Ted was the Executive Director of the Southern Growth Policies Board, a 42-year old public policy think tank that provided economic development research, strategy and marketing advice, to states and communities across the South. He also served as economic development policy advisor to the Southern Governors Association.
11:05 am–12:05 pm
Concurrent Sessions
Tommy Stephens, Jr., CPA, MS, CITP
K2 Enterprises
1A: K2s’s Data Analytics for Accountants and Auditors
Increasingly, accountants and auditors are called upon to use data analytics to understand and improve results. Yet, many professionals struggle with the concept of data analytics and remain unaware of how to obtain the results needed using tools they already own.
In this session, you will learn about the four primary types of data analytics and when to use each. Further, you will learn how to generate meaningful analytical measurements using Excel, Power BI, and other tools and, more importantly, how to interpret the results. If you seek to use data analytics – and who isn’t – this session is for you.
More about Tommy
Tommy Stephens, Jr., CPA, MS, CITP
K2 Enterprises
Tommy Stephens received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. In 1992, he earned a Master of Science degree (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in Atlanta. Presently, Tommy is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Information Technology Professional, and a Chartered Global Management Accountant.
During his professional career, Tommy has gained valuable experience in a variety of positions, including:
- Working as an auditor and technology consultant for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm;
- Leading an Internal Audit staff and managing a Cost Accounting team for a Fortune 500 company;
- Serving as a Chief Financial Officer for an international engineering organization; and
- Founding and managing his public accounting firm that provides accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a variety of small and emerging businesses.
In 1995, Tommy began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, he affiliated with K2 Enterprises, and in 2007, he joined the firm as a partner. Over the past twenty-seven years, Tommy has presented over 2,800 educational sessions to over 71,000 participants throughout the United States and Canada.
Tommy maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants. Additionally, he is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.
Peter Metzner, MA, MPA, PCC, BCC
Dynamic Change, Inc.
1B: Emotional Intelligence – EQ Decision Making
What is Emotional Intelligence and why is more important than IQ? How can we develop it? You will gain a practical understanding of how self-awareness, self-mastery and interpersonal skill are the compass, rudder and sail that will help you navigate these turbulent times. This session will cover these essential aspects of emotional intelligence and how they play out in our professional and personal lives and leave with a useful way to enhance their EQ. Participants will realize how these competencies can build trust, commitment and enhanced team performance. Each will also understand the mindset and traits of resilience and ways to incorporate them in personal as well as professional lives.
More about Peter
Peter Metzner, MA, MPA, PCC, BCC
Dynamic Change, Inc.
Peter Metzner is a Professional and Board Certified Coach and Peoplemap Trainer. He is the President and founder of Dynamic Change, Inc. He has facilitated hundreds of team development and training programs and coached scores of executives from city government, federal agencies, universities, hospitals, colleges, schools, non-profits, associations, as well as professional offices and businesses. Before founding Dynamic Change Inc., he was employed by the Center for Creative Leadership, helping customize executive development and training programs for major businesses and corporations. Peter also taught Psychology at Vance-Granville Community College until May of 2016. Currently he facilitates seminars on Leadership and High Performing Teams at UNC Chapel Hill as well as Duke University Medical Center. He is also an adjunct Instructor for the Institute for Life Coach Training.
12:05–1:00 pm
Lunch
1:00–2:00 pm
Concurrent Sessions
Tommy Stephens, Jr., CPA, MS, CITP
K2 Enterprises
2A: K2’s AI for Accounting and Financial Professionals
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a theoretical concept! Instead, AI is a practical tool available today to help you address and solve real-world problems. In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of AI and how you can put this amazing technology to work today to help you and your team work more efficiently and effectively.
Participate in this course to learn about the fundamentals of AI and specific types of problems AI can help you address. You will learn about AI features available in everyday applications – including Excel – and how you can use these features in situations such as detecting fraud and identifying potential errors in transactions. You will also learn how AI is changing how accounting and financial professionals work, both today and in the future.
More about Tommy
Tommy Stephens, Jr., CPA, MS, CITP
K2 Enterprises
Tommy Stephens received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. In 1992, he earned a Master of Science degree (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in Atlanta. Presently, Tommy is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Information Technology Professional, and a Chartered Global Management Accountant.
During his professional career, Tommy has gained valuable experience in a variety of positions, including:
- Working as an auditor and technology consultant for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm;
- Leading an Internal Audit staff and managing a Cost Accounting team for a Fortune 500 company;
- Serving as a Chief Financial Officer for an international engineering organization; and
- Founding and managing his public accounting firm that provides accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a variety of small and emerging businesses.
In 1995, Tommy began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, he affiliated with K2 Enterprises, and in 2007, he joined the firm as a partner. Over the past twenty-seven years, Tommy has presented over 2,800 educational sessions to over 71,000 participants throughout the United States and Canada.
Tommy maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants. Additionally, he is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.
Peter Metzner, MA, MPA, PCC, BCC
Dynamic Change, Inc.
2B: Practicing Safe Stress and Preventing Burnout
We live in stressful times with daunting challenges both professionally and personally. This webinar will help you understand how stress impacts your mental functioning, health, productivity, relationships and ability to cope. Each will come out of this session with a plan – proven ways to better manage stress and be more creative in navigating the complexities of our current situation.
More about Peter
Peter Metzner, MA, MPA, PCC, BCC
Dynamic Change, Inc.
Peter Metzner is a Professional and Board Certified Coach and Peoplemap Trainer. He is the President and founder of Dynamic Change, Inc. He has facilitated hundreds of team development and training programs and coached scores of executives from city government, federal agencies, universities, hospitals, colleges, schools, non-profits, associations, as well as professional offices and businesses. Before founding Dynamic Change Inc., he was employed by the Center for Creative Leadership, helping customize executive development and training programs for major businesses and corporations. Peter also taught Psychology at Vance-Granville Community College until May of 2016. Currently he facilitates seminars on Leadership and High Performing Teams at UNC Chapel Hill as well as Duke University Medical Center. He is also an adjunct Instructor for the Institute for Life Coach Training.
2:15–3:15 pm
Concurrent Sessions
Tommy Stephens, Jr., CPA, MS, CITP
K2 Enterprises
3A: K2’s Excel’s Best Features – Updated for Excel 2021!
With recent Excel updates provided through Microsoft 365/Office 365 subscriptions and Office 2021, Microsoft continues to pack new features into the popular spreadsheet tool. Enhancements to data analysis tools, new functions, and improved collaboration opportunities are available in more recent Excel versions. For those who know about these new features and apply them, exciting opportunities for improved productivity await. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn how you can put Excel’s best new features to work right away!
More about Tommy
Tommy Stephens, Jr., CPA, MS, CITP
K2 Enterprises
Tommy Stephens received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. In 1992, he earned a Master of Science degree (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in Atlanta. Presently, Tommy is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Information Technology Professional, and a Chartered Global Management Accountant.
During his professional career, Tommy has gained valuable experience in a variety of positions, including:
- Working as an auditor and technology consultant for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm;
- Leading an Internal Audit staff and managing a Cost Accounting team for a Fortune 500 company;
- Serving as a Chief Financial Officer for an international engineering organization; and
- Founding and managing his public accounting firm that provides accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a variety of small and emerging businesses.
In 1995, Tommy began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, he affiliated with K2 Enterprises, and in 2007, he joined the firm as a partner. Over the past twenty-seven years, Tommy has presented over 2,800 educational sessions to over 71,000 participants throughout the United States and Canada.
Tommy maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants. Additionally, he is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.
Javier Young
CLA Charlotte
3B: Digital Payments and E-Commerce: Who’s in Your Wallet?
Money transfer apps offer speed and convenience but are they safe? Web facing transactions seem secure but how do you protect yourself and business from digital banking fraud? In this interactive session, you will hear from a former DOD cyber expert who consults with financial institutions to safeguard their assets. Javier will outline some of the options and what are the risks associated with payment apps and third-party solutions.
More about Javier
Javier Young
CLA Charlotte
Javier is a Principal within the Cybersecurity Services Group at CLA and has been in the cybersecurity field for over 12 years. Javier leads a team of technology and industry specialists providing IT audits and security assessments for clients in a wide range of industries and diverse operating environments. Prior to joining CLA, Javier spent ten years supporting the Department of Defense as well as a financial services company in the fields of insider threat, incident response, fraud, waste and abuse, analytics, and systems engineering. Since Javier has been with CLA, he has spent the majority of his time providing IT Security, Risk, and Consulting services to clients in healthcare, higher education, and financial related institutions.
3:35–4:50 pm
General Session
Marcey Rader
Work Well. Play More!
Remote Work, Productivity and Leadership
Worried about keeping your team engaged on endless video calls? Are folks lost, communicating across a million different channels? Do you wonder if they’re working too little or too much?
Managing remotely can feel like a recipe for burnout for both you and your team. It doesn’t have to be that way. Though everyone handles working from home differently, there are strategies to foster team collaboration virtually. You can respectfully manage your remote employees without sacrificing your own time, health, or productivity.
Learn how to:
- Avoid distractions and streamline communication team-wide
- Encourage transitions and downtime by constructing guardrails to protect work and personal life
- Drive engagement and connection by creating team rituals
This program is perfect for people who manage people in a remote or hybrid environment.
More about Marcey
Marcey Rader
Work Well. Play More!
Marcey Rader believes that health powers productivity. She is a multi-certified health and productivity expert, a three-time author, and an award-winning, global Certified Speaking Professional® keynote speaker. As the founder of RaderCo, Marcey helps executives, teams, and individuals banish burnout, keep good people, and move forward through practical, tailored tools, healthy, sustainable habits, and coaching accountability.
Sought-after by Fortune 100 companies and others, she’s spoken for tens of thousands of people worldwide – from North Dakota to Dubai to Tokyo. As a high-impact speaker, she trains her audiences to maximize their energy, conquer the calendar, master tasks, and extinguish their email. To change your career, team, or organization one habit at a time, learn more or connect with Marcey at marceyrader.com.
Thursday, May 26, 2022
8:05–9:20 am
General Session
Jack Cathey, Ph.D., CPA
UNC Charlotte
Technology Update
It’s no longer possible to imagine business operating without technology and this past year has brought that reality into an even closer focus. This session will provide updates for common business platforms and tools like Windows. In addition, new analytics tools and methods will be discussed. It will also focus on mobile platforms and devices and smart technologies. A review of new cyber threats and associated security practices will be covered. The session will conclude with a focus on emerging technologies that will likely have value and impact on accounting systems and processes.
More about Jack
Jack Cathey, Ph.D., CPA
UNC Charlotte
Jack Cathey is an Associate Professor in the Turner School of Accountancy at the Belk College of Business at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is the Director of the Master of Accountancy program and has previously served as both a Department Chair and an Associate Dean in the Belk College. He earned a Ph.D. and Masters in Accounting from Virginia Tech. His undergraduate degree is also in Accounting from Wake Forest University. Dr. Cathey is licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in North Carolina.
Dr. Cathey’s professional experience includes working as senior auditor with KPMG in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Cathey has published articles in a number of journals including Strategic Finance, Internal Auditing, Management Accounting, The Tax Advisor, The Journal of Accountancy, The American Subcontractor, and various academic journals. He is a co-author of Financial Accounting Theory and Analysis, 13th Edition, by John Wiley & Sons.
Dr. Cathey frequently speaks to professional groups on topics related to technology and financial reporting. The NCACPA recognized Dr. Cathey’s contributions to continuing professional education by awarding him their Chapter Speaker Award. Dr. Cathey previously served as the Vice Chairman of the Board and a Director at NewDominion Bank, a community bank based in Charlotte, NC and as a Director of Camber Ridge LLC, a Charlotte-area startup focused on meeting the needs of the automotive industry for an advanced tire testing services.
9:40–10:30 am
Concurrent Sessions
Cal Christian, CPA, PhD
East Carolina University
College of Business
4A: Ethical Decision Making
As we continue to strive towards improvements in our ethical decision making, this class will provide some guidelines for making sure that our decisions are well thought out. We will discuss ways to make sure that we are prepared for the many ethical dilemmas that we will encounter in the coming year. The class will be centered around the different attributes that will provide a foundation for making better choices in our life and our work. We will also examine how many of the biases that we have acquired throughout our career impact our decision making.
More about Cal
Cal Christian, CPA, PhD
East Carolina University
College of Business
Cal Christian is a professor of accounting at East Carolina University teaching International Accounting and Accounting for Decision Making. He is a registered CPA in North Carolina and Mississippi, and has more than 10 years of experience in the public accounting profession with the former international accounting firm of Ernst & Whinney in Houston, TX, and Jackson, MS; and in industry with LDDS (the predecessor to WorldCom) and the Mississippi law firm of Holcomb, Dunbar. Cal holds a PhD from Florida State University and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Mississippi. He teaches continuing education classes for the NCACPA, AICPA, CPA firms, and publicly traded companies, and has been recognized as an NCACPA Outstanding Conference Speaker. While at ECU, Cal has been honored as a College of Business Teaching Fellow and has been awarded the UNC Board of Governors’ Outstanding Teaching Award and the ECU College of Business Scholar/Teacher Award. Cal also has several service responsibilities with ECU including serving as The NCAA Faculty Athletic Representative. Cal has been involved within the CPA profession as a NCACPA Board Member and within the Greenville Community as President of the Eastern NC Ronald McDonald House.
Paula McMillan, CFP®, CPA/PFS, CGMA
Stearns Financial Group
4B: Financial Wellness Strategies by Stage
While the best time to put a financial life plan in place was twenty years ago, the second best time is today. Outside of winning the lottery or receiving a lofty inheritance, most people don’t just wake up one day with a healthy nest egg. It happens over time. It comes with doing the right things – at the right time. Since challenges and opportunities can vary greatly based on stage of life, we’ll identify specific behaviors and actions to be taken now, and going forward, to be on (or get back on) a solid path to building or maintaining financial independence.
During this time, we’ll be addressing saving and investment strategies and how to mitigate risks. I will offer suggestions to better simplify and manage your portfolio and considerations to build a customized financial plan. Information on Social Security and Medicare planning along will be provided from a plan expert. This sessions will help you identify the gaps in your financial future from college tuition to long term care. Where ever you are in your life stage, some of your financial concerns will be addressed in this fact filled, fast paced session.
More about Paula
Paula McMillan, CFP®, CPA/PFS, CGMA
Stearns Financial Group
- Published and quoted in CNBC, US News & World Report, The Tax Adviser, Journal of Accountancy, Kiplinger’s, The Business Journal, How Stuff Works and more.
- Created two national AICPA podcast series on retirement planning and women and wealth
- TEDx presenter on the topic of Retirement: Longevity and Security
- AICPA Advanced Personal Financial Planning Conference Committee Investment Committee Lead ‘
- AICPA Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) Credential Committee Member
- Greensboro Estate Planning Council Board Member
- Society of Financial Service Professionals (SFSP) Board Member
- Society of Financial Service Professionals (SFSP) Foundation Board Chairperson
- NCACPA Triad Women’s Initiatives Group Lead
- Plenteous Financial Forum Chairperson and Founder
- Regularly deliver presentations to national, regional and local audiences on financial life planning and investment related topics.
10:40–11:55 am
Concurrent Sessions
Holly Sullenger, Ph.D.
5A: Successfully Building and Leading Virtual and Hybrid Teams: Recruitment and Retention Tips and Tricks for Today’s Fickle Workforce
The ability to work in-person, virtually, or in a hybrid fashion is the new organizational reality – and new leadership expectation. However, many find that building and leading a virtual and/or hybrid team is difficult, that time spent on work projects is hard to monitor, and that collaboration, engagement and retention suffer. While these outcomes are possible, there are steps that a leader can take to foster success for their team and their organization.
This seminar will present tips and tricks to leading more effectively in a virtual and/or hybrid environment and will enable participants to develop a personal action plan to successfully lead their virtual work teams.
More about Holly
Holly Sullenger, Ph.D.
Dr. Holly Sullenger is an award-winning, internationally renowned veteran in the fields of corporate speaking, training, and consulting. She offers expert speaking and training opportunities in the areas of leadership, professional development, and technology.
Dr. Holly has worked with individuals representing a vast array of different occupations and industries. She is known for being able to present high-level topics in ways that make the content easy to understand, to assimilate, and to act on. Dr. Holly’s passions include prompting “light bulb moments” in her participants, and helping professionals stay relevant in their fields.
Dr. Holly has a PhD in Adult, Workforce and Continuing Professional Education from NC State University, as well as degrees in Adult Education, Business Management, Computer Science and Liberal Arts. This enables her to combine an in-depth knowledge of business and industry with adult-education techniques and infused humor in order to bring unparalleled knowledge and assistance to those she partners with.
Mike Cheng, CPA
Frazier & Deeter, LLC
5B: A&A Hot Topics
This course will be an overview of accounting and assurance standards newly effective for the upcoming calendar year-end busy season. The content will be prioritized based on those standards which will likely be most impactful to the largest number of participants. The content will cover ASUs, SASs, SSARSs, and SSAEs.
More about Mike
Mike Cheng, CPA
Frazier & Deeter, LLC
Mike Cheng joined Frazier & Deeter in 2019 as the Partner who oversees the firm’s professional practices related to accounting and audit. As part of this role, he specializes in assisting clients with complex accounting and financial reporting issues.
Prior to joining the firm, Mike was a Senior Project Manager at the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). At the FASB, he served as the Private Company Council (PCC) coordinator, where he was responsible for all PCC related matters.
In addition, Mike led projects to simplify the accounting for non-employee share-based payments, help shape the future of the FASB technical agenda and improve consolidations guidance (VIE guidance). Most recently, he worked on the FASB’s implementation team on revenue recognition (ASC Topic 606) and lease accounting (ASC Topic 842). Prior to joining the FASB, Mike held various management positions with PricewaterhouseCoopers. He was an Audit Senior Manager, Private Company Services, in the firm’s Stamford, CT office.
From 2003-2011, he also held roles of increasing responsibility in PwC’s Core Assurance divisions in Buffalo and Rochester, NY.
11:55 am–12:55 pm
Lunch
12:55–2:10 pm
Concurrent Sessions
Louise Warwick Reed, CPA
Louise W. Reed, CPA, PC
6A: Cryptocurrencies Explained – The Industry of Blockchain
This session will cover cryptocurrency and blockchain concepts through short stories of how a CPA went from not knowing anything about blockchain to becoming passionate about the math behind the technology. The stories will start with an intriguing title at a national CPA conference then go into the highs, lows and pivots behind building one of the first real-use cases of blockchain technology in the accounting industry. The over-arching goal of these tales is to help the attendees have some context to process domestic and foreign governments’ various acceptance levels of the technology through time.
More about Louise
Louise Warwick Reed, CPA
Louise W. Reed, CPA, PC
Louise W. Reed received her master’s degree in physics from Duke University and Master of Accounting from University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. She became a licensed CPA in 2004 and started her own public accounting practice in 2006, where she currently bills in bitcoin per hour. Reed’s interest in blockchain technology led to her most recent innovation, Afloat, Inc. The company utilizes blockchain technology and smart contracts to automate the exchange of state transferable taxable credits.
David Randall Peters, CPA
Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting
6B: The Evolving Workplace: State Tax & Payroll Implications of Working From Home
The post-COVID world has brought about numerous changes in how we work and where we work. The brick and mortar office is slowly going away, as employees increasingly work from home, coffee shops, or their favorite spot at the local park. While these changes offer employees and companies more flexibility, they also bring about significant changes at the state tax level. In this session, we will discuss state income and payroll tax implications of remote work. Using real world examples and looking at trends in taxation, we will see how the post-COVID world is a new world for CFO’s and Controllers!
More about David
David Randall Peters, CPA
Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting
David Peters is the Founder and Owner of David Peters Financial Group and Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting, PC. David has over fourteen years of experience in financial services, including 3 years in the hedge fund industry and six years in the insurance industry. David was the first-ever Chief Financial Officer at Compare.com – a position he held for more than three years.
Currently, David is a National Instructor for the AICPA, Surgent, and Kaplan. He regularly teaches courses in accounting, finance, insurance, financial planning, and ethics throughout the United States. David holds four masters degrees, and is currently pursuing his PhD in Financial Planning. He contributes regularly to various CPA publications, including NCACPA’s Interim Report, SCACPA’s CPA Report, and VSCPA’s Disclosures. David was also a co-author of the 2018 Virginia CPA Ethics course – a required course for all CPA’s licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
2:20–3:10 pm
Concurrent Sessions
Jeff Garrett
Opkalla
7A: Ransomware and Cybersecurity
Key Takeaways:
- Protect yourself/your org from evolving cyber threats by staying informed on what the bad actors are doing and how to stay ahead of them.
- Learn about what is at stake in an attack, from compromised data and lost money to the negative impact on your organization’s reputation.
- Understand why some of the worst threats are the people inside your company (even when they don’t mean to be).
- Gain tips for championing security throughout your organization to build your strongest defense.
- Become comfortable determining when to handle security in-house, vs. bringing in external support.
More about Jeff
Jeff Garrett
Opkalla
With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry as both a consumer and consultant of technology, Jeff brings a breadth of technical and tactical knowledge to help companies drive strategic business evolution with innovative IT solutions. Outside of work Jeff enjoys watching, playing and coaching soccer as well as the hustle and bustle of life with his wife and three children.
Holly Sullenger, Ph.D.
7B: Communication Best Practices for In-person, Virtual and Hybrid Success
Great workplace communication is a skill that employers place high value on. However, human communication has always been challenging. Add in the virtual world of work, and we have an even greater challenge! Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, communication can be handled artfully and provide success for all involved.
This seminar will communication best practices for in-person, virtual and/or hybrid environments. Participants will develop a personal action plan to improve their own communication, with personal, team and organization success as ultimate goals!
More about Holly
Holly Sullenger, Ph.D.
Dr. Holly Sullenger is an award-winning, internationally renowned veteran in the fields of corporate speaking, training, and consulting. She offers expert speaking and training opportunities in the areas of leadership, professional development, and technology.
Dr. Holly has worked with individuals representing a vast array of different occupations and industries. She is known for being able to present high-level topics in ways that make the content easy to understand, to assimilate, and to act on. Dr. Holly’s passions include prompting “light bulb moments” in her participants, and helping professionals stay relevant in their fields.
Dr. Holly has a PhD in Adult, Workforce and Continuing Professional Education from NC State University, as well as degrees in Adult Education, Business Management, Computer Science and Liberal Arts. This enables her to combine an in-depth knowledge of business and industry with adult-education techniques and infused humor in order to bring unparalleled knowledge and assistance to those she partners with.
3:35–4:50 pm
General Session
Will Barfield
Barfield Revenue Consulting
From Great Resignation to Great Retention: How to Move Forward
With statistics stacked against employers – and salary budgets – how can you fight and win in this talent war?
Will’s topics will include:
- Employee vs Hiring Manager – Who has the advantage?
- Where does NC stack rank in turnover?
- How is the employment cycle disrupting budgets for business?
- What is the “post-COVID” salary gain for employees?
- Beyond salary, what are some of the reasons driving this trend?
Join this session and learn how to shift your company’s narrative from “resignation” to “retention”.
More about Will
Will Barfield
Barfield Revenue Consulting
Will cofounded BRC in 2016 with his wife, Amy Barfield. Will has been in sales his entire professional career, and really all the way back to his first job in high school. From his early-90’s days as a part-time telemarketer, to six years in sports sales with the Carolina Mudcats and 12+ years in sales leadership and sales recruiting with Frankel Staffing Partners, Will has never not generated revenue.
In addition to heading all sales-related efforts at BRC, Will is also very active in the local community. He donates his time to several organizations and has a history of leading successful fundraising efforts. At present, Will holds prominent volunteer positions with the WakeMed Foundation, Haven House Services, and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance.
Friday, May 27, 2022
8:05–9:10 am
General Session
Future of the Profession: Panel Discussion
Session highlights will include a panel discussion with educators and practitioners discussing the evolution that is happening in business and the classroom. The conversation will be facilitated by Sharon Bryson, CEO, NCACPA.
Jose Ramon Rodriguez, CPA
More about Jose
Jose Ramon Rodriguez, CPA
Jose Rodriguez was appointed NCACPA Chair-Elect beginning May 2022. He is a retired senior audit partner with KPMG. During his career at KPMG he held various leadership positions, which included serving on its board of directors and as lead director; chief operating officer of KPMG International’s global audit practice; office managing partner; leader of its Audit Committee Institute (ACI); east region professional practice partner and most recently ombudsman. As an audit partner, Mr. Rodriguez had extensive experience with large multinational companies and mid-size private and publicly held companies, with primary emphasis on industrial manufacturing; consumer markets (retail, automotive, and distribution concerns); pharmaceuticals; agribusiness; oil and gas and mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, Mr. Rodriguez is a NACD Fellow and has been included in NACD’s D-100 list, which recognizes the most influential people in and around the boardroom.
Mr. Rodriguez serves on the board of trustees of Marymount University; board of directors of Latin Corporate Directors Association (first Vice Chair), SECU Family House (Chair), the North Carolina Association of CPAs (Chair-elect), the Dean’s Advisory Council at the University of Miami Herbert School of Business (Chair) and the Business School Advisory Board at Wake Forest University. He is a certified public accountant (licensed in FL, NC and NY). Mr. Rodriguez received a B.B.A. with a major in accounting from the University of Miami.
Kecia Williams Smith, Ph.D., CPA
North Carolina A&T State University
College of Business & Economics
More about Kecia
Kecia Williams Smith, Ph.D., CPA
North Carolina A&T State University
College of Business & Economics
Kecia Williams Smith, Ph.D. CPA, is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Master of Accountancy (MACC) Program in the Department of Accounting and Finance at North Carolina A&T State University (NC A&T). She holds degrees from NC A&T and Texas A&M University, where she completed her PhD in June 2016.
Prior to entering academia, she was a senior manager at Deloitte where she led engagement teams in the Technology, Media, and Telecommunications practice. Immediately prior to starting her doctoral studies, she was an Associate Director at the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) where she created and led the Inspections Training Office that served over 400 inspection personnel.
Austin Penn Wachter, CPA
TIAA
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Austin Penn Wachter, CPA
TIAA
Austin is EVP, Chief Accounting Officer and Corporate Controller of TIAA. He is responsible for the controllership and fund accounting functions of TIAA and its subsidiaries, including Nuveen and TIAA Bank. Austin has been with TIAA since 2008 serving in multiple finance and accounting roles including the Funds Treasurer for the TIAA-CREF Mutual Funds, and the Controller for Nuveen, TIAA’s asset management business. Prior to joining TIAA, he was a senior manager in the audit practice at Deloitte. Austin previously served on the AICPA’s Governing Council and as the chair of the board of the North Carolina Association of CPAs, and currently sits on the board of Junior Achievement of Central Carolinas. Austin received his Bachelors of Science in Accounting at Duquesne University, and is a CPA licensed in North Carolina and Maryland.
Sharon H. Bryson, M.Ed.
NCACPA
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Sharon H. Bryson, M.Ed.
NCACPA
In her role as CEO, Sharon works directly with the NCACPA Board of Directors and the Executive Committee to set the strategic direction of the Association. Additionally, she works with the Tax Resource Group, and represents the membership with various state governmental entities, including the NC State Board of CPA Examiners, the NC Department of Revenue, and the North Carolina General Assembly.
Sharon currently serves as President of the CPA Society Executives Association, as a member of the NC State Master of Accounting Advisory Board, and on the ECU College of Business Advisory Board.
Sharon is a Past President of the Association Executives of North Carolina, a former member of the AICPA National Commission on Diversity & Inclusion, and the Louisburg College Board of Trustees. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteer work focusing on adoption.
Sharon received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
9:20–10:25 am
General Session
Jon Kirchoff
East Carolina University
How Disruption is Shaping Global Supply Chain Management
Supply chain disruptions including shipping delays, port congestion, product shortages, and now geo-political conflict continue to plague global economies and the news remains grim. However, what if the pandemic is actually a catalyst for innovative and forward-looking processes and strategies that can revolutionize how future global supply chains are managed?
This session will explore this question and will focus on:
- Describing how disruptive “shocks” can improve supply chain management operations
- Explaining which global firms are using the current disruptions to rethink and restructure their supply chains and how this this is being managed.
- Discussing how consumer expectations are driving supply chain innovation.
- Explaining which technologies and strategies have the best potential to improve supply chain efficiency and effectiveness in the context of disruptive shocks.
More about Jon
Jon Kirchoff
East Carolina University
Jon F. Kirchoff, Ph.D. (University of Tennessee, 2011) is an Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. His primary areas of research include sustainable supply chain management, healthcare supply chains, and functional integration. He has published articles in Journal of Operations Management, Journal of Supply Chain Management, International Journal of Physical Distribution and Logistics Management, Journal of Purchasing and Supply Management, and other academic outlets. Prior to academia, he worked 15 years in global purchasing and logistics management at several Fortune 500 companies, including Mercedes-Benz U.S. International and Dish Network
10:35–11:45 am
General Session
Gene Marks, CPA
The Marks Group PC
Growth 2022: COVID, The Economy, Inflation & Mid-Terms, Strategies, and Actions to Increase Profitability
Booster shots are here, the economy is in flux, inflation is increasing, and mid-term elections are less than a year away. So what does this mean for your company, your people, your partners and your community? What new issues will we be facing? What investments should we be making? How will the economy fare? How will the mid-term elections impact your operations? What are smart leaders around the country doing to navigate their companies towards growth and profitability over the next two years?
More about Gene
Gene Marks, CPA
The Marks Group PC
Gene Marks is a columnist, author, and small business owner. Gene writes every day on business, politics and public policy for the Washington Post and weekly for Forbes, Inc. Magazine, Entrepreneur and the Huffington Post. Gene has written 5 books on business management, specifically geared towards small and medium sized companies. Gene owns and operates the Marks Group PC, a highly successful ten-person firm that provides technology and consulting services to small and medium sized businesses. Prior to starting the Marks Group PC Gene, a Certified Public Accountant, spent nine years in the entrepreneurial services arm of the international consulting firm KPMG in Philadelphia where he was a Senior Manager.
Nationally, Gene appears on Fox News, MSNBC and CNBC discussing matters affecting the business community. Through his keynotes and breakout sessions, Gene helps business owners, executives and managers understand the political, economic and technological trends that will affect their companies so they can make profitable decisions.
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