Tiger Tactics 2025
A publication of the LSU Department of Accounting
Welcome from the Chair
Greetings, alumni and friends.
I am proud to present Tiger Tactics as a robust, digital publication. Although the format has changed, our emphasis on showcasing Department of Accounting students, faculty, and alumni remains strong. We are eager to share these stories with you.
For the best experience, look for the table of contents icon on the right side of your screen as you scroll through the page.
We hope this edition of Tiger Tactics fosters pride in the department and your alma mater. To support our future success, please consider donating to the department. Whatever you give, we are always sincerely grateful.
Geaux Tigers and best wishes for the year ahead!
Thomas J. Phillips Jr.
Department Chair & Professor
Thomas H. Daigre Endowed Chair
Feature: Beta Alpha Psi Earns Top Honors Again
The Phi Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) once again distinguished itself on the international stage, securing a repeat victory in the Best Practices Competition sponsored by Deloitte.
This consecutive win highlights the chapter's continued commitment to excellence in leadership, innovation, and professional development.
The winning project, "Impacting Connections in Your Chapter: Breaking Barriers through Collaboration and Transformation," focused on improving engagement through collaboration and a more inclusive programming approach.
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Beta Alpha Psi (BAP), an international honors organization for accounting, finance,
and information systems majors, continues to uphold excellence. Since its founding
in 1939, the Phi Chapter has championed academic achievement, professional development,
and community service.
The group retained its international Gold Chapter recognition last year. Wonder what
sets the chapter apart? Keep reading.
Weekly meetings feature professional development sessions, industry speakers, and networking opportunities. Members also benefit from workshops hosted by EY, Becker, and the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants, which cover financial wellness, CPA exam preparation, and licensure advantages.
Service remains at the heart of BAP's mission. Members volunteer at events such as the Krewe of Mutts parade, LSU Ag Magic, and Keep Tiger Town Beautiful. "The organization encourages academic excellence and community service, aligning with my goals," said Brent York, BS Accounting '26 and 2024–25 treasurer.
Social events—including the annual Winter Soirée, a mixer at Zippy's Tacos, and a Topgolf sponsor night with the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) at LSU—strengthen connections. "The Topgolf Gold Sponsor Social was all about great swings, big laughs, and meaningful connections," said member Ashley Delorimier, BS Accounting '27.
BAP also partnered with NABA, the LSU Center for Internal Auditing & Cybersecurity Risk Management, and Shell for Careers in Accounting Night, giving students access to industry leaders and career insights. Collaboration with other student groups continues to enrich the member experience and strengthen the college community.
With 117 members and candidates, 17 professional meetings, and support from 20 sponsors, the Phi Chapter continues to grow while staying true to its mission of connection, development, and service.
"Beta Alpha Psi has opened incredible opportunities for me to grow both personally and professionally," said alumna and former president Katherine Whatley, BS Accounting '24, MAcc '25. "I've built relationships and leadership skills that will serve me for life."
Student Success
Ourso Outstanding Eight
Mary Caroline Wilcox (BS Accounting '25) was selected for the 2025 Ourso Outstanding Eight cohort. In its second year, this prestigious honor recognizes LSU business undergraduates demonstrating success in at least two of the following categories: academics, leadership, professional development, and campus/community service.
As a member of the Roger Hadfield Ogden Honors College, Wilcox conducted research and completed a capstone project focused on AI in external audit. She also served in leadership for Beta Alpha Psi, playing a key role in helping the group earn first place in the 2024 Best Practices Competition.
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National Association of Black Accountants: Expanding Our Reach
Following an exceptional year, the LSU student chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) is poised to sustain momentum through increased student engagement, community service projects, and professional development opportunities. NABA serves all business students by providing access to networking, scholarships, and internships. Members express gratitude for the career readiness resources and professional connections made possible through NABA.
Supporting Student Success Through Professional Development
Thanks to the chapter's generous sponsors, NABA's professional development meetings have a tangible impact on students across the Ourso College. These companies actively seek NABA members for internships and full-time roles due to their ambition, achievement, and knowledge, providing members with a competitive edge as they enter the business world.
NABA thanks Deloitte, KPMG, EY, and PwC for their ongoing support and is proud to welcome Faulk & Winkler as a sponsor.
Fostering Community and Connection
Beyond a focus on professional growth, NABA recognizes the importance of community service and social engagement. Over the past year, students participated in Geaux Big, volunteered at the Baton Rouge Food Bank, and supported financial literacy events. Social gatherings also offered opportunities for students to connect in a fun and relaxed environment. NABA teamed up with Beta Alpha Psi to host an end-of-year event at Topgolf, sponsored by Deloitte, KPMG, EY, and PwC. The event provided students with a chance to network and learn from professionals in a fun environment.
Learning for Leaders
The executive board and several members attended the NABA National Convention in Las Vegas. They gained valuable insights into the power of networking and built meaningful connections. This experience and the lessons learned will help NABA better serve its members.
Geauxing Forward
NABA looks forward to another year of empowering students, developing professional skills, and fostering meaningful connections both on campus and in the community. To achieve this mission, NABA will continue to strengthen ties with campus leaders and promote the organization to reach more students.
follow NABA at LSU on Instagram
PCAOB Scholarship Recipient
In June 2025, Cayla Richard (BS '25, MAcc '26) of Ruston, LA, was awarded a $15,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). The PCAOB Scholarship Program awards funds to outstanding undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in an accounting degree program at a regionally accredited U.S. college or university. The program is merit-based and awarded to select students who demonstrate interest and aptitude in accounting and auditing while maintaining and demonstrating high ethical standards.
"Receiving this scholarship of $15,000 has been life-changing, and I am deeply grateful for the recognition and support. This award has lifted a significant financial burden, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my studies and to building a strong foundation for my future career. I am currently working as a Junior Advisor at Daigrepont Gremillion Advisors, LLC in Baton Rouge, and both my education and professional experience are invaluable in guiding me toward my goal of becoming a Certified Public Accountant. Being a part of the PCAOB Scholars Program has brought me one step closer to this dream, and I will always carry gratitude for those who nominated and supported me. The impact of this scholarship goes far beyond financial assistance, as it has empowered me to focus on growth, learning, and pursuing excellence in the accounting field."
International Experiences
January – South Africa
Junior Carlie Fajardo traveled to South Africa, visiting Cape Town, Pretoria, and Pilanesberg, where she and her travel cohort not only witnessed sweeping ocean vistas but also attended meetings with international manufacturing companies.
"What first started as a far-fetched thought turned into the best experience of my life ... getting to not only see the country and culture of South Africa but also get to see how businessmen and women do their day-to-day jobs was extremely rewarding." – Carlie Fajardo, BS'27
First picture: Carlie and the other GLO program participants at Kenvue, a healthcare manufacturing company in Cape Town, South Africa.
Second picture: Carlie (center) also had time to visit some of South Africa's dramatic landscapes and ocean-side views.
January – Europe in Winter
Senior Alex Parker, along with Master of Accountancy (MAcc) students Katherine Whatley and Anastasia Engelman, visited London, Paris, and The Hague, as part of the Global Learning Opportunities (GLO) Program.
"I loved the tour aspect ... allowing us to see an organization’s operations as well as hearing about them. It was interesting to explore the Chelsea Football Club stadium and learn [the] rich history that has led to it being one of the most successful teams in the Premier League." – Alex Parker, BS'25
First picture: Alex Parker (left), Anastasia Engelman (center), and Katherine Whatley (right) visiting Chelsea Football Club.
Second picture: GLO students also visited Paris and The Hague, seeing iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower.
March – Costa Rica
Master of Accountancy (MAcc) students spent their spring break exploring the thriving international business scene in scenic Costa Rica.
"From visiting a cacao farm and sampling various types of dark chocolate to exploring Microsoft’s office in San José, the trip was an unforgettable way to spend Spring Break. Beyond gaining insights into Costa Rica’s businesses and economy, I left with lasting connections." – Clarence Magee II, BS'24, MAcc'25
First picture: Chocolate production is a staple of the Costa Rican economy. Students visited a cacao farm and learned about the manufacturing process.
Second picture: Our full cohort went under the canopy of Costa Rica's incredible tropical rainforests, touring the famous La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
May & June – Europe in Summer
As part of the GLO Program, ACCT majors Thomas “Charlie” Hook, Ella Newton, and Chris Prihoda traveled to Europe, visiting six different countries.
"[This program] exposed me to many different concepts I could not have learned anywhere else. Learning about what else is out in the world and how people from all over run their business is valuable information. ... I look forward to using what I have learned from this program in my future career." – Ella Newton, BS'27
First picture: GLO students visited Lloyds of London to learn the history of one of the world's oldest insurance firms.
Second picture: ACCT majors Chris Prihoda (left), Ella Newton (center) and Thomas "Charlie" Hook (right) visiting a Swiss chocolatier.
December – Business in Taiwan
Coming up at the end of the year, students from across the Ourso College will take part in the inaugural Business in Taiwan program. Seven MAcc students and four undergraduate accounting students will participate in this exciting new experience.
Taiwan is a global leader in the production of electronics and advanced semiconductors. The program will center on Taipei, the capital, and Tainan, the oldest settlement on the island. Participants will visit Hsinchu Science Park, the National Taiwan Museum, the National Palace Museum, and visit a variety of businesses including the AUO Corporation (display technologies), Delta Electronics, Eagle Eyes (automotive headlights), and the TTL Longtian Distillery.
PhD Program Updates
Spotlight: Chi Lam
Chi Lam joined the LSU Department of Accounting in 2023, having completed his bachelor’s
degree in finance and international business, MBA, and master’s degrees in economics
and accounting at New Mexico State University. He was recently named the inaugural
winner of the Barry C. Melancon Professional Accounting Research Fellowship by the
American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) Foundation. He also co-authored a paper with Professor
Wei-Ling Song in the LSU Department of Finance, Inefficient Lease Usage: Evidence
from Institutional Investor Responses to ASC 842, which was awarded “Best Paper” at
the 2025 Asian Finance Conference.
"Balancing rigorous doctoral research while raising two young sons has shaped my resilience
and determination ... ultimately, I aspire to become an educator and mentor, using
my life to positively impact students’ lives by guiding future accountants to use
cutting‐edge techniques responsibly as the profession evolves."
New PhD Students
Shan Xie
I'm a licensed CPA in Illinois with six and a half years of accounting and data analytics experience in higher education. I earned my bachelor's degree in accounting from Anhui University of Finance and Economics, China. I started my adventure in the United States through a fully funded exchange student program at Northern Illinois University in my senior year. I earned my master's degree in accounting science from NIU thereafter.
Inspired by the professors and mentors who genuinely care about their students, I've become deeply motivated to pursue a career that combines research, teaching, and service. My goals are to support others to succeed in the accounting profession and tackle complex problems through rigorous research. I chose this program for its strong faculty and its leadership in accounting research. I'm excited to begin this new chapter of academic and professional growth.
Hyun Lee
I graduated from Chungnam National University in South Korea and earned my master’s degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. I worked as a statistician at a government-funded research institute in South Korea for approximately seven years before moving to the United States. I enjoy café-hopping, especially finding spots that not only serve good coffee but also offer a pleasant atmosphere. I chose to study accounting because I believe that understanding the role of firms’ information in shaping the behavior of firms and investors is key to understanding society. The systematic PhD program curriculum, the professors’ outstanding academic expertise, and the learning environment that fosters student achievement led me to choose LSU.
Md Thouhid Ul Alam
I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting, then chose LSU for my PhD because of the department’s strong faculty research credentials, its innovative leadership in areas such as AI and internal audit, and the vibrant academic and professional environment that LSU fosters.
My research is focused on financial reporting, auditing, and the application of emerging technologies — such as AI and textual analysis — to corporate disclosures. I aspire to build a career as a researcher and educator in accounting, contributing to both academic scholarship and practical impact.
Alumni Spotlights
Kyle Owens at the offices of Click Here Digital.
Zero to $100M: An Unconventional Path to CPA Success
Just three years after joining the digital marketing agency Click Here Digital, Kyle Owens (BS ACCT ’19), suddenly found himself at the helm of the firm’s entire accounting department. Today, he manages an annual cash flow of up to $100 million, reports directly to the CEO, and is positioned for a strategic, operational role – a meteoric rise that began not in a classroom, but in the delivery room.
Owens’s path wasn't always so clear. After graduating, he began his career as a financial representative but quickly realized a commission-based role wasn't the right fit with his dreams of building a family. He joined Click Here Digital in April 2020, where his work ethic and attention to detail quickly gained notice. However, the true turning point in his career came two years later with the birth of his first child. For Owens, this moment crystallized his professional goals and ignited a new sense of purpose.
"I realized that in order to provide the best for my family, I would either need to lean on decades of experience or earn a professional license … [and] the deck was seemingly stacked against me in terms of time and energy with a newborn."
Kyle Owens with his family.
Despite working 50–60-hour weeks while caring for a newborn, Owens committed to earning his CPA. He developed a disciplined routine, studying in open spaces and using every spare moment. When his CEO learned of his ambition, Click Here Digital even sponsored his study materials, recognizing his potential and investing in his growth. "If asked how I did it, I would reply, 'Flashcards and talking to my employer’,” Owens recalled.
The persistence paid off. Owens passed all three core CPA exams on his first attempt and, by late 2023, was promoted to lead the accounting department. His journey came full circle in December 2024 when he received his final passing scores just as his second child was born.
For new accounting graduates weighing their options, Owens’s story is a testament to the value of the CPA credential, even on an unconventional timeline. He proves that the "perfect time" is often a myth.
"If you’re a recent accounting grad wondering whether the CPA is worth the effort, let my story be your motivation … you just need to start. Don’t wait for the ‘perfect time’. Create your opportunity, just like I did, and watch your career take off."
Accounting Alumni in Leadership at USPS
In July, David Steiner, BS Accounting '82, began his tenure as the nation's 76th postmaster general.
"I believe strongly in the role of the Postal Service as a pillar of America's democracy and economic infrastructure, in the important support and services we provide at every business and residence, as a positive and competitive force in the marketplace, and in our enduring mission to bind the nation together," Steiner wrote in a July 17 letter to employees.
The USPS Board of Governors selected Steiner, the former president and CEO of Waste Management, for the role in May.
Steiner is joined by Maurice "Skip" Robichaux III, BS Accounting '83, who serves as senior executive advisor to the postmaster general.
Both Steiner and Robichaux are members of the Ourso College Dean's Advisory Council and have been inducted into the college's Hall of Distinction.
David Steiner
Maurice "Skip" Robichaux III
Center for Internal Auditing &
Cybersecurity Risk Management
Passing the Torch: Internal Auditing Leadership Transitions
After more than four decades of service to the LSU Center for Internal Auditing & Cybersecurity Risk Management (LSUCIA&CRM), Dr. Glenn Sumners is retiring. As the founding director, Sumners charted new territory, elevating the program to an internationally recognized model for audit education. Jared Soileau, associate professor in the LSU Department of Accounting, will continue the program's tradition of excellence as he takes on the director role in the new year.
LSUCIA&CRM Year in Review
The center addresses urgent business concerns, including cybersecurity, ESG topics, and now training in artificial intelligence (AI). This aligns with its strategic plan to prepare students for evolving challenges in the internal audit profession and the broader business environment. The focus is on developing well-prepared, entry-level auditors with a forward-looking perspective. Read detailed updates in the sections below.
The LSUCIA&CRM program has now placed 2,949 students in internships over its 41-year history. The program is grateful for the continued dedication and support of our sponsor companies.
"This past summer, I was lucky enough to get an internship with Vulcan Materials Company
through the program, and it was an experience that allowed me to apply what was taught
in the classroom to real-world challenges. I gained invaluable hands-on experience
in the auditing world, where I contributed to meaningful projects, including operational
audits and SOX testing, while also feeling seen and appreciated. LSUCIA&CRM significantly
developed my skills in critical thinking and professionalism, solidifying my career
goals, and I couldn't be more thankful for it."
Lillian Andino, BSc Computer Science '26
"This summer, I interned with EisnerAmper in the Advisory – RCS Division, where I
gained valuable experience in the internal auditing process. I worked on a client
site, an opportunity rarely afforded to interns. The firm's welcoming and collaborative
culture made the experience even more meaningful, and I am excited to continue working
with the team in a part-time role this fall. The LSUCIA&CRM program, along with the
guidance of Dr. Sumners, was instrumental in preparing me for this opportunity and
helping me recognize the significant impact of internal auditing within the accounting
industry."
Earl J. Chiasson III, BS Accounting and BS Marketing '26
The LSU Cybersecurity Clinic (LCC), led by Aisha Ali-Gombe, an associate professor in the Division of Computer Science and Engineering, provides hands-on cybersecurity experience through pro bono cybersecurity services for small businesses. It operates three sub-clinics: Threat and Vulnerability Assessment, Cyber Risk Assessment, and Cyber Defense. LSUCIA&CRM is represented by Cyber Risk Assessment team members Cassidy McDonald (BSc Computer Science), Jackson Randall (BS Finance), Garret Jones (Master of Accountancy), and Cyber Defense team member Dimani Richardson (BS ISDS). These students conduct detailed risk assessments and produce reports to help businesses improve their cybersecurity. The clinic also hosts seminars and counseling sessions to educate and support local businesses in managing cyber threats.
All LSUCIA&CRM students are encouraged to pursue professional certifications, such
as the IIA Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Information Systems Auditor
(CISA).
By supplementing classroom instruction with targeted resources, guidance, and support,
the program aims to equip students with the skills and credentials necessary for success
in the fields of internal auditing and information systems audit. This certification
approach not only enhances students' professional qualifications but also broadens
their expertise, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities and advancements
in their respective fields.
Natalya Meighan (BS Accounting and BS Economics '26) passed part I of the CIA exam in the summer and plans to take parts II and III before graduation.
"As someone who has had the opportunity to learn under Dr. Sumners, his lectures truly prepare you for the language and cognitive structure that is used on the exam, which is extremely beneficial considering that many professionals have told me that after having experience in the field, the exam can become more difficult. I intend to complete the remainder of the exams in the near future, which is a step towards my professional development that I would recommend to anyone who intends to pursue a career in internal audit."
To promote lifelong reading and demonstrate the many benefits of engaging with a variety of genres, students volunteered to read a book and present their insights in the fall. This approach fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity and personal development, illustrating how regular reading contributes to both professional and personal growth. Examples of the books include The Black Swan (Taleb) and The Undiscovered Self (Jung).
Cayden Simmons presented on a risk book, Antifragile by Nassim Nicholas Taleb.
The LSUCIA&CRM-sponsored, student-led AI Club utilizes discussions and student presentations to explore the impact of AI on governance, risk, and controls. The flexible format includes virtual sessions with AI practitioners and educators. The goal for students is to become well-versed in the applications and future of AI.
President: Chase Henderson
Vice President – Membership: Olivia Martin
Vice President – Programs: Andrew Mickelson
Secretary: Alexander Biernacki
Treasurer: Max Biernacki
Recruiting: William LaFaye
The Internal Auditing Education Partnership Global Student Conference is an annual event hosted by the IIA in Orlando, FL. Educators and students associated with the internal audit profession are invited to connect and gain insight into how to become a competent internal auditor. Professionals provided guidance on entering the field and discussed trending topics, including artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Pictured here (from left to right) are LSUCIA&CRM representatives who attended the conference: Jewel Lewis, Andrew Sanli, Julia Sampey, Natalya Meighan, Cristiana Rogriguez Valenzuela, Amelia Marlow, Ian McManus, and Lillian Andino.
In partnership with the IIA Baton Rouge Chapter, LSUCIA&CRM hosts a two-day training conference for internal auditors to learn, network, and earn continuing professional education credits. This year's conference, held Sept. 15-16, included alumni speakers Chad Bourque (Gallagher Benefits Services), Jude Viator (EAG Gulf Coast LLC), and Wes Ladd (TrainGRC).
The E. J. Ourso College of Business honored Laust Helmig with the Outstanding Young Alum Award, recognizing his remarkable early-career achievements, leadership, and a strong bond with the college. The LSUCIA&CRM alumnus is vice president, private wealth management at Goldman Sachs.
Philanthropy in Action
Department Honors Outstanding Students & Faculty
The Department of Accounting hosted its annual Accounting Awards Banquet on April 23 at the Business Education Complex. This popular event showcases the achievements of both students and faculty. "The banquet highlights the tremendous talent within the Department of Accounting. We are grateful to the generous sponsors who make this evening possible," said Laura Wiley, the assistant chair of the Department of Accounting.
Banquet sponsors: Becker Professional Education, Hannis T. Bourgeois, Deloitte, EisnerAmper, EY, LaPorte, Society of Louisiana CPAs, WeggmanDazet, John Wiley & Sons Publishing
Faculty Awards
Jonathan "Mike" Morgan
Outstanding Teacher
Stephanie Walton
Brenner Research Award
Kenneth Reichelt
Recognized for 15 years as the department's doctoral advisor
Student Awards
Department of Accounting
$80,680
Undergraduate Awards
$42,300
Master of Accountancy Awards
$5,000
Doctoral Awards
Society of Louisiana CPAs
The President and CEO of the Society of Louisiana CPAs, Ron Gitz, presented six LSU students with a total of $20,500 in scholarships. Our students competed against students from across the state for these awards.
FY25 Giving by the Numbers
265
Donors contributed to the Department of Accounting
$115,901
Given to the Accounting Development Fund
$163,690
Given to the Accounting Scholarships
Advance Our Work
Generous contributions from alumni, friends, firms, and organizations allow us to expand the body of accounting research while serving students and the business community.
- Donor support improves the quality of graduates entering the accounting field by strengthening academic programs and initiatives that promote student success
- Contributions to the Accounting Development Fund are used to purchase research software, enhancing our overall understanding of accounting and its impact on economic decision-making.
- Thanks to our donors, we can also offer programs and services to the business community.
- Gifts to the Department of Accounting Development Fund create working capital that can be used immediately wherever they are most needed and where they can have the most significant impact. These include — among many others — experiences that enrich the quality of students’ education, resources to fuel innovation, professional development, and many other purposes.
We encourage you to make a gift to support our work.
Your gift can be fulfilled via a one-time credit card contribution or can be set up for smaller, recurring contributions charged at the pace you choose.
If you prefer, checks may be mailed directly to the address below. Use the memo line of your check to specify the Accounting Development Fund.
LSU Foundation
3796 Nicholson Drive
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802