College of Business Hosts Semi-Annual Accounting Town Hall, Connecting Students with Industry Experts

East Texas A&M University's Accounting and Finance Department recently hosted its semi-annual Accounting Town Hall on March 5, 2025, offering students valuable opportunities to engage with professionals in the accounting and finance industries.

The event welcomed more than 75 students eager to explore diverse career paths and gain insights from seasoned professionals representing public and governmental accounting sectors. Esteemed panelists from The CJ Group, Saville and East Texas A&M shared their expertise on various aspects of the field, including governmental accounting, taxation, auditing, financial accounting and managerial accounting.

Through dynamic discussions, industry representatives provided firsthand perspectives on essential topics such as professional growth, industry expectations and the evolving landscape of accounting. The Accounting Town Hall serves as a vital resource for students preparing to excel in Certified Public Accounting (CPA), corporate finance and governmental roles.

Dr. Caroline Hartmann, Department Head of Accounting & Finance, said, “The Accounting Town Hall provides an incredible platform for students to network with professionals, gain career guidance, and explore different pathways in accounting. These engagements are essential for developing future industry leaders.”

Students also shared their enthusiasm and valuable takeaways from the event. Andrea Hernandez, a senior accounting major, remarked, “I enjoyed meeting new people and learning from their experiences. Attending the Town Hall gave me the opportunity to network with professionals and gain insights beyond what textbooks can provide.”

Reflecting on the event, Kay Marie James, a junior accounting major, commented, “After attending the accounting town hall meeting, I gained valuable insights that prompted me to reflect on my experiences. One key takeaway was that lacking the ‘required experience’ doesn’t mean I can’t contribute to a firm. The speakers emphasized the importance of unique perspectives and transferable skills, such as problem-solving, initiative and collaboration.”

By fostering connections between students and industry professionals, the College of Business continues to enhance its commitment to providing hands-on learning experiences and valuable networking opportunities for those pursuing careers in accounting and finance. The semi-annual Accounting Town Hall remains a cornerstone event aimed at equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and relationships necessary for long-term success and transforming lives.