CPE Catalog & Events

**Get ready for something new** The Cypress Summit Workshop is your one-stop destination for impactful learning, fresh connections, and a full day packed with value!For the first time ever, we’re bringing together five top workshops under one roof: • Medical & Healthcare• Financial Institutions• Not-for-Profit• Human Resources• Estate & Financial Planning With multiple specialized tracks, you can customize your experience based on your interests and goals. Whether you're diving deeper into your area of expertise or exploring something completely new, this all-in-one event offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with professionals across industries.Don’t miss this exciting new way to earn CPE, expand your network, and gain fresh insights—all in just one day! Click the agenda tab at the top of this page or see below to review session options, speakers, and times. When registering, you’ll select sessions to help us estimate room sizes, but you can attend any session you choose on the day of the event. 8:00am - 9:30amLooking into Crystal Ball Clouded by Tariff ChangesLoren Scott, PhD • Loren C. Scott & Associates, Inc. • Baton Rouge, LAWhy do forecasts for the national economy change radically every month?  Is the word "tariff" a beautiful word or an ugly one?  Billions in industrial investments have been awaiting a change in administrations---will they issue FIDs now?  Louisiana now has 10 MSAs instead of 9.  Who is the new player on the block? How do things look in each area of the State?9:30-9:50 Break9:50am - 10:50am Breakout SessionsUnleashing the Power of Collaborative AI in HR Dynamics: Leading the Future of Work (HRW)Craig Broome • Highflyer HR • Baton Rouge, LAIn this engaging session, we will explore the transformative potential of Collaborative AI in enhancing HR dynamics and driving organizational success. Designed for HR professionals in leadership and strategy roles, this presentation will cover the fundamentals of Collaborative AI, its benefits, and practical steps for successful implementation. Through real-world case studies and best practices, attendees will learn how to leverage AI tools to foster communication, boost productivity, and foster innovation within their teams. Additionally, we will address the ethical considerations and the importance of fostering a collaborative culture that embraces AI technologies. Balance Sheet Management, Banking Economic Update (FIC)T. Jefferson “Jeff” Fair, CVA • American Planning Corporation • Shreveport, LAThis session will cover a range of current banking topics, including changes in the banking landscape over the last year, recent regulatory perspectives and areas where accountants and auditors can assist their bank clients.Louisiana Impacts of What Was In, and Missing From, the OBBBA (MED)Michael Bertaut, MBA, CHC, PAHM • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana • Baton Rouge, LAUnlocking Financial Efficiency: Reporting, Cash Management & Budgeting (NFP)Melissa Carollo • Louisiana Association of Public School Charters • Metairie, LAJoe Keeney • 4th Sector Solutions • Greenwich, CTWith many organizations facing financial uncertainty with the end of several federal programs and other upcoming changes, join us for practical insights on managing cash flow, building financial resilience, and strategic budgeting in this evolving landscape. Tax Update (EFP)Brandon Lagarde, CPA, JD, LLM • EisnerAmper • Baton Rouge, LA10:50 – 10:55  Change Break10:55am - 11:55am Breakout SessionsNot for Profit Tax Compliance. Form 990 and related schedules - what you should know (NFP)Gina Rachel, CPA • EisnerAmper • Metairie, LAMental Health is Physical Health: Unlock the Keys to Access  (MED)Shondra Williams, DNP • InclusivCare • Marrero, LALegal Update (HRW)Alexandra Hains, JD • Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson, LLP • Baton Rouge, LAThis legal update presentation will focus on recent developments in employment law that impact CPA firms and their clients. Topics will include updates on wage and hour laws, employee classification, non-compete agreements, and workplace discrimination. Attendees will gain practical guidance to help clients navigate compliance and reduce employment-related risks.Mergers & Acquisitions, Succession Planning (FIC)Johnny Bond • Performance Trust Capital Partners • Atlanta, GASocial Security, Medicare, Retirement Planning (EFP)Anne Oestriecher, CPA, CFP • Oestriecher Financial Management Services • Alexandria, LA11:55 – 12:55  Lunch12:55pm - 1:55pm Breakout SessionsCharitable Planning Opportunities under OBBA (EFP)John C. Schmidt, CPA • Pelican CPAs & Advisors • Shreveport, LAFraud and Cybersecurity (MED)Internal Controls: Policies and Procedures (NFP)Layne McDaniel, CPA • Layne R. McDaniel, CPA, LLC • Baton Rouge, LA Leadership Starts with Awareness (HRW)Lauren Navarre, JD • Arena • Slidell, LAGood leaders are stable and consistent, keenly focused on attracting and building up others. Good leaders attract leaders and bad leaders attract followers. Pinpoint the tools and habits you need to control your triggers and effectively lead with confidence. What Happened?  A Review of the 2025 Legislative Session (FIC)Steven Procopio, Ph.D. • PAR Louisiana • Baton Rouge, LADr. Steven Procopio will offer a broad update on state legislative and policy activity, focusing on developments that may have downstream effects for banks, financial institutions, and the CPAs who support them.1:55 – 2:00  Change Break2:00pm - 3:20pm Breakout SessionsFrom Main Street to Ultra High Net Worth: Estate Planning Strategies and Tax Court Insights (EFP)Vanessa Brown Claiborne, CPA, ABV, ASA, AEP • Chaffe & Associates, Inc. • New Orleans, LAMiriam Henry, JD • Jones Walker • New Orleans, LAThis session will cover the spectrum of estate planning—from foundational strategies every client needs to advanced techniques for the top 0.1%. We’ll explore practical planning frameworks, dissect recent Tax Court decisions, and examine their real-world implications for high-net-worth families. Attendees will gain the tools to identify planning opportunities and advise clients across the wealth continuum. Whether you're guiding everyday households or generational wealth, this session delivers the latest thinking every CPA should know.M&A in Healthcare, Ownership Structure (MED)Kendall Johnson, CPA • General Health System / Baton Rouge General Medical Center • Baton Rouge, LAShunn Phillips, CPA • The Baton Rouge Clinic • Baton Rouge, LAAndrew Lofaso, CPA • Legacy Hospice • Baton Rouge, LAJason MacMorran, CPA/ABV/CFF, CVA, MS • EisnerAmper • Baton Rouge, LAThe Top 5 Things Every Leader Should Know About Employee Engagement (HRW)Melissa Thompson, PhD • Success Labs • Baton Rouge, LAIn a world of quiet quitting, burnout, and competing priorities, employee engagement isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. This fast-paced session will walk you through five research-backed truths about what really drives engagement (hint: it's not just pizza parties). Whether you're an HR professional or a leader managing people, you’ll walk away with practical tools to create a culture where employees feel valued, connected, and motivated to give their best.Non-Profit Industry Update (NFP)Jeremy Thibodeaux, CPA, CFE • Louisiana Alliance for Nonprofits • Baton Rouge, LAAI and CPAs: the Future is NOW (FIC)Henry Hays • DisruptREADY • Baton Rouge, LA3:20 – 3:50  Break/Prize Giveaway3:50pm - 4:40pmA Federal Look AheadKate Kiley • Director of Congressional and Political Affairs – AICPA • Washington, DCA legislative and regulatory update on the political environment and issues at play before Congress and the Administration, and how these could be of impact to the accounting profession.  

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**Get ready for something new** The Cypress Summit Workshop is your one-stop destination for impactful learning, fresh connections, and a full day packed with value!For the first time ever, we’re bringing together five top workshops under one roof: • Medical & Healthcare• Financial Institutions• Not-for-Profit• Human Resources• Estate & Financial Planning With multiple specialized tracks, you can customize your experience based on your interests and goals. Whether you're diving deeper into your area of expertise or exploring something completely new, this all-in-one event offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with professionals across industries.Don’t miss this exciting new way to earn CPE, expand your network, and gain fresh insights—all in just one day! Click the agenda tab at the top of this page or see below to review session options, speakers, and times. When registering, you’ll select sessions to help us estimate room sizes, but you can attend any session you choose on the day of the event. 8:00am - 9:30amLooking into Crystal Ball Clouded by Tariff ChangesLoren Scott, PhD • Loren C. Scott & Associates, Inc. • Baton Rouge, LAWhy do forecasts for the national economy change radically every month?  Is the word "tariff" a beautiful word or an ugly one?  Billions in industrial investments have been awaiting a change in administrations---will they issue FIDs now?  Louisiana now has 10 MSAs instead of 9.  Who is the new player on the block? How do things look in each area of the State?9:30-9:50 Break9:50am - 10:50am Breakout SessionsUnleashing the Power of Collaborative AI in HR Dynamics: Leading the Future of Work (HRW)Craig Broome • Highflyer HR • Baton Rouge, LAIn this engaging session, we will explore the transformative potential of Collaborative AI in enhancing HR dynamics and driving organizational success. Designed for HR professionals in leadership and strategy roles, this presentation will cover the fundamentals of Collaborative AI, its benefits, and practical steps for successful implementation. Through real-world case studies and best practices, attendees will learn how to leverage AI tools to foster communication, boost productivity, and foster innovation within their teams. Additionally, we will address the ethical considerations and the importance of fostering a collaborative culture that embraces AI technologies. Balance Sheet Management, Banking Economic Update (FIC)T. Jefferson “Jeff” Fair, CVA • American Planning Corporation • Shreveport, LAThis session will cover a range of current banking topics, including changes in the banking landscape over the last year, recent regulatory perspectives and areas where accountants and auditors can assist their bank clients.Louisiana Impacts of What Was In, and Missing From, the OBBBA (MED)Michael Bertaut, MBA, CHC, PAHM • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana • Baton Rouge, LAUnlocking Financial Efficiency: Reporting, Cash Management & Budgeting (NFP)Melissa Carollo • Louisiana Association of Public School Charters • Metairie, LAJoe Keeney • 4th Sector Solutions • Greenwich, CTWith many organizations facing financial uncertainty with the end of several federal programs and other upcoming changes, join us for practical insights on managing cash flow, building financial resilience, and strategic budgeting in this evolving landscape. Tax Update (EFP)Brandon Lagarde, CPA, JD, LLM • EisnerAmper • Baton Rouge, LA10:50 – 10:55  Change Break10:55am - 11:55am Breakout SessionsNot for Profit Tax Compliance. Form 990 and related schedules - what you should know (NFP)Gina Rachel, CPA • EisnerAmper • Metairie, LAMental Health is Physical Health: Unlock the Keys to Access  (MED)Shondra Williams, DNP • InclusivCare • Marrero, LALegal Update (HRW)Alexandra Hains, JD • Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson, LLP • Baton Rouge, LAThis legal update presentation will focus on recent developments in employment law that impact CPA firms and their clients. Topics will include updates on wage and hour laws, employee classification, non-compete agreements, and workplace discrimination. Attendees will gain practical guidance to help clients navigate compliance and reduce employment-related risks.Mergers & Acquisitions, Succession Planning (FIC)Johnny Bond • Performance Trust Capital Partners • Atlanta, GASocial Security, Medicare, Retirement Planning (EFP)Anne Oestriecher, CPA, CFP • Oestriecher Financial Management Services • Alexandria, LA11:55 – 12:55  Lunch12:55pm - 1:55pm Breakout SessionsCharitable Planning Opportunities under OBBA (EFP)John C. Schmidt, CPA • Pelican CPAs & Advisors • Shreveport, LAFraud and Cybersecurity (MED)Internal Controls: Policies and Procedures (NFP)Layne McDaniel, CPA • Layne R. McDaniel, CPA, LLC • Baton Rouge, LA Leadership Starts with Awareness (HRW)Lauren Navarre, JD • Arena • Slidell, LAGood leaders are stable and consistent, keenly focused on attracting and building up others. Good leaders attract leaders and bad leaders attract followers. Pinpoint the tools and habits you need to control your triggers and effectively lead with confidence. What Happened?  A Review of the 2025 Legislative Session (FIC)Steven Procopio, Ph.D. • PAR Louisiana • Baton Rouge, LADr. Steven Procopio will offer a broad update on state legislative and policy activity, focusing on developments that may have downstream effects for banks, financial institutions, and the CPAs who support them.1:55 – 2:00  Change Break2:00pm - 3:20pm Breakout SessionsFrom Main Street to Ultra High Net Worth: Estate Planning Strategies and Tax Court Insights (EFP)Vanessa Brown Claiborne, CPA, ABV, ASA, AEP • Chaffe & Associates, Inc. • New Orleans, LAMiriam Henry, JD • Jones Walker • New Orleans, LAThis session will cover the spectrum of estate planning—from foundational strategies every client needs to advanced techniques for the top 0.1%. We’ll explore practical planning frameworks, dissect recent Tax Court decisions, and examine their real-world implications for high-net-worth families. Attendees will gain the tools to identify planning opportunities and advise clients across the wealth continuum. Whether you're guiding everyday households or generational wealth, this session delivers the latest thinking every CPA should know.M&A in Healthcare, Ownership Structure (MED)Kendall Johnson, CPA • General Health System / Baton Rouge General Medical Center • Baton Rouge, LAShunn Phillips, CPA • The Baton Rouge Clinic • Baton Rouge, LAAndrew Lofaso, CPA • Legacy Hospice • Baton Rouge, LAJason MacMorran, CPA/ABV/CFF, CVA, MS • EisnerAmper • Baton Rouge, LAThe Top 5 Things Every Leader Should Know About Employee Engagement (HRW)Melissa Thompson, PhD • Success Labs • Baton Rouge, LAIn a world of quiet quitting, burnout, and competing priorities, employee engagement isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. This fast-paced session will walk you through five research-backed truths about what really drives engagement (hint: it's not just pizza parties). Whether you're an HR professional or a leader managing people, you’ll walk away with practical tools to create a culture where employees feel valued, connected, and motivated to give their best.Non-Profit Industry Update (NFP)Jeremy Thibodeaux, CPA, CFE • Louisiana Alliance for Nonprofits • Baton Rouge, LAAI and CPAs: the Future is NOW (FIC)Henry Hays • DisruptREADY • Baton Rouge, LA3:20 – 3:50  Break/Prize Giveaway3:50pm - 4:40pmA Federal Look AheadKate Kiley • Director of Congressional and Political Affairs – AICPA • Washington, DCA legislative and regulatory update on the political environment and issues at play before Congress and the Administration, and how these could be of impact to the accounting profession.  

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NEW LOCATION THIS YEAR: SHREVEPORT Get ready to dive into a dynamic Fall CPE Cluster, where we’ll tackle the hot topics in accounting and finance. From emerging regulations to tech trends, this is your chance to stay ahead of the curve and earn valuable CPE credits while keeping your skills sharp! 7:30am Registration & Continental Breakfast8:00-9:15Federal Tax Update – One Big Beautiful BillBryan Ehricht, CPA • James, Lambert, Riggs & Associates, Inc • Hammond, LA9:15-9:35 Break 9:35-10:25Driving M&A Success: Market Trends, Valuation, and Enhancing Deal Outcomes G.F. Gay Lebreton • Chaffe & Associates, Inc. • New Orleans, LA  10:25-11:15North Louisiana Economic Update Dr Timothy Magner • Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce • Shreveport, LA 11:15-12:15Recent Developments in Trusts and Estates Law with an Emphasis on Industry TrendsChris Holtzclaw, JD • Argent Trust Company • Ruston, LAJames 'Jim' Ferraro, JD • Argent Trust Company • Shreveport, LARecent developments in trusts and estates law are reshaping the way practitioners navigate both tax and fiduciary responsibilities. This session will highlight emerging litigation trends and key tax law updates that directly impact estate planning, administration, and dispute resolution. 12:15-1:15 Lunch 1:15-2:30 Accounting & Auditing UpdateAnne Oestriecher, CPA, CFP • Oestriecher Financial Management Services • Alexandria, LA2:30-2:50 Break2:50- 4:20Misappropriation FraudJ. Michael Inzina, CPA, CGFM, CGMA • Altec, Inc.• Monroe, LAA review of the types of misappropriation fraud and the controls that are designed to prevent or detect and correct it, as well as audit procedures that may indicate whether fraud is occurring.

Get ready for another round of high-impact learning at the Winter Cluster, returning to the beautiful Beau Rivage Resort & Casino! This can't-miss event combines cutting-edge CPE with a premier destination, offering the perfect setting to sharpen your skills and recharge for the year ahead. Explore timely, relevant topics presented by some of the profession’s most respected and dynamic speakers. DAY ONE: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 7:30am  Registration/Continental Breakfast 8:00-9:40Single Audits - from Beginning to End J. Michael Inzina, CPA, CGFM, CGMA • Altec, Inc. • Monroe, LASingle audits are performed the same way financial audits are, only on different subject matter.  This session will illustrate the single audit process and the single audit risk model, how they mirror the financial audit process. and the specific steps auditors should follow in performing single audits.9:40-10:00 Break10:00-11:40A&A Update  Kurt Oestriecher, CPA • Oestriecher & Company • Alexandria, LA11:40am – 12:40pm Lunch (included)12:40pm – 2:20pmWorking the DocksSarah Delord, CIMA • Hancock Whitney • New Orleans, LAGovernment policy is reshaping the architecture of both the U.S. and global economies. From trade and taxation and from LNG and labor, the economic landscape continues to shift. In this presentation, we’ll examine the key themes driving these changes and explore what may lie ahead.2:20 – 2:40pm Break2:30 – 4:20pm Tech GumboLes Nettleton • Bourgeois Bennett, LLC (Retired) • Metairie, LA This session won't teach you to make a roux, but you will learn a variety of technology tips, techniques and trends.  The session will include a Technology Update, covering what's new and what's out of date. It will also contain an update on Cybersecurity, detailing the new threats and how to recognize them.  Finally we'll end with an AI Update, looking at some of the popular GPT products.DAY TWO: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 217:30am  Continental Breakfast8:00am – 8:50amSilver Linings & Strategic Gifting: Estate Planning in Times of UncertaintyNene Glenn Gianfala, CPA/ABV, CEIV, ASA-BV/IA • Chaffe & Associates • New Orleans, LAPeriods of economic uncertainty can create unique and timely opportunities for estate planning. This session will explore how fluctuating and unpredictable market conditions can actually work in your favor when transferring wealth—particularly for closely held businesses. With historically high gift and estate tax exemptions still in place, now may be a strategic moment to make significant gifts with potentially reduced tax impact. We'll discuss how current volatility is influencing business valuations and how to thoughtfully plan during these uncertain times—before the window of opportunity closes.8:50-9:40Striving & Thriving in Work and LifeLauren Navarre, JD • Arena • Slidell, LA• Learn the Art of Time-Blocking;• Acquire Tools for Clarity & Productivity.9:40 – 10:00am Break 10:00 - 11:40 amThe Big Beautiful Bill: Winners, Losers, and What You Can DoGreg Booth, CPA • EisnerAmper • Metairie, LA 

THIS IS OUR LARGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! In addition to a great lineup, you'll get to experience the Ritz-Carlton all dressed up for the holidays, with one of the best lobby displays in New Orleans.Join us for two days of networking, holiday cheer, and expert insights at the beautifully decorated Ritz-Carlton. Connect with top practitioners and award-winning speakers to get ready for the busy season ahead. Register today for a festive and informative experience! The conference agenda is planned by a committee of leading practitioners and features award-winning speakers from around the country. Full agenda with sessions and speakers coming soon.

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THIS IS OUR LARGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! In addition to a great lineup, you'll get to experience the Ritz-Carlton all dressed up for the holidays, with one of the best lobby displays in New Orleans.Join us for two days of networking, holiday cheer, and expert insights at the beautifully decorated Ritz-Carlton. Connect with top practitioners and award-winning speakers to get ready for the busy season ahead. Register today for a festive and informative experience! The conference agenda is planned by a committee of leading practitioners and features award-winning speakers from around the country. Full agenda with sessions and speakers coming soon.

More Dates

THIS IS OUR LARGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! In addition to a great lineup, you'll get to experience the Ritz-Carlton all dressed up for the holidays, with one of the best lobby displays in New Orleans.Join us for two days of networking, holiday cheer, and expert insights at the beautifully decorated Ritz-Carlton. Connect with top practitioners and award-winning speakers to get ready for the busy season ahead. Register today for a festive and informative experience! The conference agenda is planned by a committee of leading practitioners and features award-winning speakers from around the country. Full agenda with sessions and speakers coming soon.

More Dates

THIS IS OUR LARGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! In addition to a great lineup, you'll get to experience the Ritz-Carlton all dressed up for the holidays, with one of the best lobby displays in New Orleans.Join us for two days of networking, holiday cheer, and expert insights at the beautifully decorated Ritz-Carlton. Connect with top practitioners and award-winning speakers to get ready for the busy season ahead. Register today for a festive and informative experience! The conference agenda is planned by a committee of leading practitioners and features award-winning speakers from around the country. Full agenda with sessions and speakers coming soon.  

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THIS IS OUR LARGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! In addition to a great lineup, you'll get to experience the Ritz-Carlton all dressed up for the holidays, with one of the best lobby displays in New Orleans.Join us for two days of networking, holiday cheer, and expert insights at the beautifully decorated Ritz-Carlton. Connect with top practitioners and award-winning speakers to get ready for the busy season ahead. Register today for a festive and informative experience! The conference agenda is planned by a committee of leading practitioners and features award-winning speakers from around the country. Full agenda with sessions and speakers coming soon.

More Dates

THIS IS OUR LARGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! In addition to a great lineup, you'll get to experience the Ritz-Carlton all dressed up for the holidays, with one of the best lobby displays in New Orleans.Join us for two days of networking, holiday cheer, and expert insights at the beautifully decorated Ritz-Carlton. Connect with top practitioners and award-winning speakers to get ready for the busy season ahead. Register today for a festive and informative experience! The conference agenda is planned by a committee of leading practitioners and features award-winning speakers from around the country. Full agenda with sessions and speakers coming soon.

More Dates