2026 Accounting Educators Workshop

Overview

This event is limited to full- and part-time educators and adjuncts and is designed to support their vital contributions to the future of the profession. It is made possible through the support of LCPA and our generous sponsors.

The Accounting Educators Workshop brings together Louisiana educators to exchange knowledge and collaborate to find new ways to push the CPA profession forward.

AGENDA

8:30-8:55 am Registration & Continental Breakfast 

8:55-9:00am Welcome 
Christine Smith, CPA
Chair, Accounting Education Issues Committee

9:00-9:50am
New Pathways for Future CPAs (panel)
Moderator: David Zoller, LCPA Director of Government & Political Affairs 
Jeremy Thibodaux, CPA, CFE, Member at Large, LCPA Board of Directors and Assurance & Advisory Practice Leader at Ericksen Krentel, LLP in New Orleans
Kandace Mauldin, CPA, CGMA, Member, State Board of CPAs of Louisiana and CFO at Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government

In addition to the existing education and experience pathways, a new path is in the works that allows Louisiana students to qualify for licensure with a baccalaureate degree with an accounting concentration plus two years of supervised work experience. Representatives from LCPA and the State Board will discuss the timeline for proposed state legislation and expected implementation. Find out how to advise your students on choosing the path that best fits their career plans, while maintaining the integrity of the CPA.

9:50-10:10am Break

10:10-11:00am
Navigating the CPA Examination (panel)
Moderator: Jennifer Zerangue Mistretta, CPA
Joe Maslott, CPA, Director – Content Management – Examinations, AICPA 
Kyle Barrier, Associate Director of International Evaluation Services, NASBA 

AICPA and NASBA representatives will cover many important topics including: the CPA Exam process, administration, international candidate administration, CPA Evolution Updates, CPA Exam resources, and hot topics. Bring your questions!

11:00am-12:00pm
AI in the Classroom: Educators’ Response (panel)
Moderator: Christine Smith, CPA
Blaine Fisher, PhD, MS, MA, NRP, PG-Cert 
Tulane University School of Professional Advancement 
Andrew Schwarz, PhD 
Stephenson Department of Entrepreneurship & Information Systems, LSU 

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping accounting education. This session helps accounting educators understand how AI is being used in today’s classrooms and what it means for teaching, learning, and student preparedness. Participants will explore current trends, practical tools, and instructional techniques for integrating AI in ways that support critical thinking and academic rigor. The workshop also addresses key ethical considerations—including academic integrity, bias, transparency, and responsible use—equipping educators to set clear expectations and policies. Attendees will leave with practical insights and ideas for confidently and responsibly incorporating AI into their courses.

12:00-12:30pm Lunch

12:30-2:00pm
AI Deep Dive – The Profession’s Response (panel)
Moderator: Adena LeJeune, CPA
Derek Foret, CPA, Partner, Hannis T. Bourgeois, LLP • Baton Rouge 
Nicolaus D. Simon, CPA, Partner, Darnall Sikes & Frederick • Lafayette 
Maggie Perrien, Director, Assurance Director - Professional Practice Group, PwC • New Orleans 

Building on the classroom conversation, this panel brings together CPA firm leaders to share how AI is being used in practice today. Panelists will discuss real-world applications across firm services, emerging ethical considerations, and the skills they expect graduates to bring into the workplace. Educators will gain direct insight into how accounting programs can better align curriculum with firm needs and prepare students to use AI responsibly and effectively from day one.

2:00-2:10pm Break

2:10-3:00pm 
AI Deep Dive – The Profession’s Response (continued)

ETHICS FOR LOUISIANA CPAs (Non-Public)
PLUS: We're offering an ethics course the day before (March 26) so you can knock out your 2026 ethics CPE requirement in the same trip. Separate registration and fee required.

EVENT LOCATION 
City Club at River Ranch 
1100 Camellia Blvd. 
Lafayette, LA 70508

NEED A ROOM?
Carriage House Hotel 
603 Silverstone Rd
Lafayette, LA 70508
Call 337.769.8400 to make a reservation.

Designed For

Full- and part-time accounting/finance educators and adjuncts