CPE Catalog & Events

In today’s fast-paced world, controllers and finance leaders must navigate constant change while driving innovation and success. The Controllers Conference is your chance to tackle key challenges, explore emerging trends, and build a stronger future for your organization. Connect with industry peers, sharpen your strategy, and walk away with tools to elevate your leadership and financial expertise.AGENDA 7:30 – 7:55 amRegistration and Continental Breakfast7:55 Opening Remarks8:00 – 8:50 amState of the StateBarry Erwin • Leaders for a Better Louisiana • Baton Rouge, LA Leaders for a Better Louisiana will provide a snapshot of the overall wellbeing of the state based on 35 indicators the organization has been tracking over the last three years. Issue areas include education, the economy, health and wellbeing, infrastructure, and energy and environment.8:50 – 9:50Louisiana State and Local Tax UpdateRobert S. Angelico, CPA, JD • Liskow & Lewis, APLC • New Orleans, LAThis presentation will cover recent developments in Louisiana state and local taxation including caselaw items as well as regulatory matters from the Department of Revenue.  Coverage will also include highlights from the recent state tax reform, particularly in the sales and use tax area.  9:50 – 10:10 am Break10:10 – 11:10 amRecent Tax Developments in Compensation and Benefits – One Big Beautiful Bill and BeyondStephen Tackney • KPMG LLP • Washington, DCThis session will address recent legislative and regulatory developments on the taxation of compensation and benefits.  Anticipated topics include recent legislative changes impacting Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), employee tips and overtime income (including employer reporting responsibilities), the section 162(m) $1 million deduction limitation on certain employees of public corporations, the section 4960 excise tax on tax-exempt organizations for compensation in excess of $1 million and certain severance arrangements, Trump accounts including potential employer contributions, the 100% deduction limitation on certain employer expenses for employee meals, as well as other recent developments. 11:10 am – 12:00 pm Current Environment for the Insurance Market and Effective Risk ManagementWill Garcia • HUB International • Baton Rouge, LAIs the 2026 insurance outlook better than 2025?  What does a “best in class organization” really mean in the insurance marketplace?  How can I position my company to get the most attention from underwriters?  Will the tort reform bills passed have in impact on our insurance rates?  What are creative ways to structure our insurance program to save money?  These are all topics we will address in this presentation.12:00 – 1:00 pm Lunch (provided)1:00 – 2:00 pmFrom Breach to Defense: Lessons from Today’s Cyber LandscapeAllison Ward, CPA, CISA, CISSP, CISM • CRI Advisors, LLC • Baton Rouge, LACybersecurity threats continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace, and organizations must remain vigilant to protect their data and operations. In this session, we’ll explore the current state and future outlook of the cybersphere, focusing on real-world breach scenarios that highlight the risks businesses face today. Attendees will gain insight into emerging trends, practical mitigation strategies, and how to adopt a hacker’s mindset to strengthen defenses and reduce organizational risk.2:00 – 3:00AI Practical Application: Case Study at Stuller JewelersLori Carter, CPA • Stuller, Inc. • Lafayette, LASumit Saha • Stuller, Inc. • Lafayette, LAStuller, Inc. will demonstrate AI practical use cases within their organization through their adoption of widely available tools. They will provide insight and information on ways to use AI in the workplace to improve efficiency and reduce administrative costs.3:00 – 3:20 Break3:20 – 4:20 pmNIL & Revenue Sharing: The New Era of College AthleticsTaylor Jacobs • LSU Associate Athletic Director • Baton Rouge, LAIn July 2021, the collegiate sports landscape was forever changed when Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) rules went into effect, allowing student-athletes to profit off their own personal brands.  Fast forward to July 2025 and the introduction of revenue sharing.  College athletics experiences yet another drastic change.  In this session we will talk about the new world in which college athletics operates, the impact NIL and Revenue Share have on the student-athlete experience, recruiting, corporate partnerships and more.

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In today’s fast-paced world, controllers and finance leaders must navigate constant change while driving innovation and success. The Controllers Conference is your chance to tackle key challenges, explore emerging trends, and build a stronger future for your organization. Connect with industry peers, sharpen your strategy, and walk away with tools to elevate your leadership and financial expertise. AGENDA 7:30 – 7:55 amRegistration and Continental Breakfast7:55 Opening Remarks8:00 – 8:50 amState of the StateBarry Erwin • Leaders for a Better Louisiana • Baton Rouge, LA Leaders for a Better Louisiana will provide a snapshot of the overall wellbeing of the state based on 35 indicators the organization has been tracking over the last three years. Issue areas include education, the economy, health and wellbeing, infrastructure, and energy and environment.8:50 – 9:50Louisiana State and Local Tax UpdateRobert S. Angelico, CPA, JD • Liskow & Lewis, APLC • New Orleans, LAThis presentation will cover recent developments in Louisiana state and local taxation including caselaw items as well as regulatory matters from the Department of Revenue.  Coverage will also include highlights from the recent state tax reform, particularly in the sales and use tax area.  9:50 – 10:10 am Break10:10 – 11:10 amRecent Tax Developments in Compensation and Benefits – One Big Beautiful Bill and BeyondStephen Tackney • KPMG LLP • Washington, DCThis session will address recent legislative and regulatory developments on the taxation of compensation and benefits.  Anticipated topics include recent legislative changes impacting Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), employee tips and overtime income (including employer reporting responsibilities), the section 162(m) $1 million deduction limitation on certain employees of public corporations, the section 4960 excise tax on tax-exempt organizations for compensation in excess of $1 million and certain severance arrangements, Trump accounts including potential employer contributions, the 100% deduction limitation on certain employer expenses for employee meals, as well as other recent developments. 11:10 am – 12:00 pm Current Environment for the Insurance Market and Effective Risk ManagementWill Garcia • HUB International • Baton Rouge, LAIs the 2026 insurance outlook better than 2025?  What does a “best in class organization” really mean in the insurance marketplace?  How can I position my company to get the most attention from underwriters?  Will the tort reform bills passed have in impact on our insurance rates?  What are creative ways to structure our insurance program to save money?  These are all topics we will address in this presentation.12:00 – 1:00 pm Lunch (provided)1:00 – 2:00 pmFrom Breach to Defense: Lessons from Today’s Cyber LandscapeAllison Ward, CPA, CISA, CISSP, CISM • CRI Advisors, LLC • Baton Rouge, LACybersecurity threats continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace, and organizations must remain vigilant to protect their data and operations. In this session, we’ll explore the current state and future outlook of the cybersphere, focusing on real-world breach scenarios that highlight the risks businesses face today. Attendees will gain insight into emerging trends, practical mitigation strategies, and how to adopt a hacker’s mindset to strengthen defenses and reduce organizational risk.2:00 – 3:00AI Practical Application: Case Study at Stuller JewelersLori Carter, CPA • Stuller, Inc. • Lafayette, LASumit Saha • Stuller, Inc. • Lafayette, LAStuller, Inc. will demonstrate AI practical use cases within their organization through their adoption of widely available tools. They will provide insight and information on ways to use AI in the workplace to improve efficiency and reduce administrative costs.3:00 – 3:20 Break3:20 – 4:20 pmNIL & Revenue Sharing: The New Era of College AthleticsTaylor Jacobs • LSU Associate Athletic Director • Baton Rouge, LAIn July 2021, the collegiate sports landscape was forever changed when Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) rules went into effect, allowing student-athletes to profit off their own personal brands.  Fast forward to July 2025 and the introduction of revenue sharing.  College athletics experiences yet another drastic change.  In this session we will talk about the new world in which college athletics operates, the impact NIL and Revenue Share have on the student-athlete experience, recruiting, corporate partnerships and more.

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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. Notable changes are ahead with a newly proposed CPA licensure pathway in Louisiana, making it essential for educators to understand both new and existing options to better guide students’ career decisions. This workshop explores licensure pathways and implementation timelines, updates to the CPA Exam, and how AI is being integrated into classrooms and the workplace. This event, open to full-time, part-time, and adjunct educators 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. AGENDA8:30-8:55 am Registration & Continental Breakfast 8:55-9:00am Welcome Christine Smith, CPA, MBA, MACCT • Senior Professor of Practice, A.B. Freeman School of Business - Tulane University • New Orleans, LA Chair, LCPA Accounting Education Issues Committeee9:00-9:50amNew 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 OrleansKandace Mauldin, CPA, CGMA, Member, State Board of CPAs of Louisiana and CFO at Terrebonne Parish Consolidated GovernmentIn 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 Break10:10-11:00amNavigating the CPA Examination (panel)Moderator: Jennifer Zerangue Mistretta, CPAJoe 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-12:00pmAI in the Classroom: Trends, Tools, Techniques & Trust (panel)Moderator: Christine Smith, CPABlaine 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 Lunch12:30-2:00pmAI Deep Dive – The Profession’s Response (panel)Moderator: Adena LeJeune, CPADerek 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 Break2:10-3:00pm AI Deep Dive – The Profession’s Response (continued) ETHICS FOR LOUISIANA CPAs (Non-Public)We're offering an ethics course the afternoon before (March 26, 3:00-5:40pm) so you can knock out your 2026 ethics CPE requirement in the same trip. Separate registration and fee required. Location TBA. EVENT LOCATION City Club at River Ranch 1100 Camellia Blvd. Lafayette, LA 70508NEED A ROOM?Carriage House Hotel 603 Silverstone RdLafayette, LA 70508Call 337.769.8400 to make a reservation.

**Hotel reservation link will be sent in your Conference Registration Confirmation email. Open to all CPAs, featuring a diverse range of hot topics to keep you informed and ahead in the field.All CPAs are invited to join the Alabama, Arkansas,Florida, Louisiana, and Texas CPA Societies for the Summer Education Conference in Gulf Shores, AL. Pack up the family and enjoy 4 hours of CPE each morning, with the rest of the day free to relax on the beach, kayak, or explore local attractions. It’s the perfect blend of vacation and professional growth, offering a unique chance to network with CPAs from across the SEC!Sunday, July 194:00 pm Conference Registration 6:00 - 7:30 pm   SEC Networking Reception Tailgate Show your school spirit by wearing your team colors and join us for a lively tailgate reception to kick off the conference! Network with fellow state societies, enjoy delicious food, and connect before the sessions begin. The reception is complimentary for registrants, with adult guests at $25 and children at $10. Please remember to rsvp and pre-pay for any reception guests before arriving in Gulf Shores to secure your spot.Monday, July 208:00 - 9:40 am  Professional Opportunities Update (Rise to the Future Together)Mark Koziel Join Mark Koziel, President & CEO of the AICPA and CEO of the Association of Certified Professional Accountants, as he looks to the future and provides an update on the challenges and opportunities facing the profession. Discover how the profession is rising to meet the moment and how the Association is working to empower innovation, leadership, and inspiration for the next generation of CPAs and CGMAs.9:40-10:00 Break10:00 - 11:40 amDo You Smell Something Burning? Dr. Angela White Bazile, Esq. • Judges & Lawyers Assistance Program, Inc. • Mandeville, LABurnout is a form of chronic stress that stems from prolonged workloads, tight deadlines, and intense pressure to maintain accuracy and compliance. It can result in mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, emotional exhaustion, and a reduced sense of personal effectiveness. The cyclical nature of peak seasons and the demand for precision can make it difficult for accountants to find work-life balance, contributing to long-term mental and emotional strain.Tuesday, July 218:00 - 11:40amTax Update Lisa McKinney, CPA • University of Alabama, Culverhouse School of Accountancy • Tuscaloosa, ALThis workshop will cover recent legislative, administrative, and judicial developments that affect tax compliance and consulting. CPAs from all levels can benefit from the workshop.Wednesday, July 228:00 - 9:40 amUpdate on AI for the Accounting Profession Paul M. Perry, FHFMA, CDPSE, CISM, CITP, CPA • Warren Averett • Birmingham, ALAs artificial intelligence quickly becomes part of our everyday lives, it brings with it more comprehension needs, risk, and capabilities.  IT almost requires a daily refresh on what was and what will become.  Simply, AI is a powerful tool and, at times, a crutch – but never a replacement for human judgment, context, or accountability. Participants will explore where AI adds real value (content creation, summarization, efficiency gains), where it creates new exposures (data leakage, false confidence, over reliance), and how accountants must apply professional skepticism, governance, and security controls to use AI safely. The session will explore every aspect of our professional life and the abilities that we can (and should) turn over to AI and those that should remain firmly human responsibilities.9:40-10:00 am Break10:00 - 11:40 amMergers and Acquisitions, Business Valuations Robert P. Gray, CPA, ABV, CFF, CGMA, CFE • Gray Schrupp & Associates • Dallas, TXThursday, July 238:00 - 11:40 amAccounting and Auditing Update Kurt Oestriecher, CPA • Oestriecher & Company • Alexandria, LAThis session will cover new standards issued by the FASB, Auditing Standards Board, and AICPA Accounting and Review Services Committee. Hot topics in peer review will also be covered, along with emerging issues in the accounting and auditing field.Friday, July 248:00-9:40Wall Street, Washington, and West Coast: An Economic UpdatStephen Morgan • Senior Vice President, Investment Director – Hancock Whitney Asset Management • New Orleans, LAPolicymakers are reshaping global trade and upending international relations as the U.S. Federal Reserve enters a new era. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence and other factors are rewriting labor force dynamics. We’ll examine the new economic and financial market landscape in light of these developments.9:40-10:00 am Break10:00 - 11:40The CPA as Connector: Adding Value Without Being the Forensic Expert Ralph A. Litolff, Jr., CPA/ABV/CFF, CVA, MBA • RAL Forensics, LLC • Metairie, LAForensic accounting is often treated as a single specialty, but it encompasses multiple distinct disciplines, each designed to address different client needs and situations. This session is designed for CPAs across all practice areas and focuses on helping attendees understand how forensic accounting differs from traditional CPA services and how to identify which type of forensic expertise best fits a client’s circumstances. The session emphasizes the CPA’s role as a trusted advisor and connector. Attendees will learn how to recognize when matters move beyond traditional CPA services, what information is helpful to gather early, and how to manage client expectations before a forensic specialist is engaged. The goal is for CPAs to leave feeling more confident adding value by connecting clients with the right forensic expertise at the right time. Learning ObjectivesUpon completion of this session, participants will be able to:•                    Identify major forensic accounting disciplines and their common use cases•                    Recognize client scenarios where forensic expertise may be appropriate•                    Understand how CPAs add value by serving as connectors  Important Note: Starting June 30th, a $200 cancellation fee will apply due to commitments with the hotel, catering, and event planning. We appreciate your understanding.