MEGA 2026 - Florida Institute of CPAs

General Session

7:00am - 7:30am EDT Ethics Check-In

To attend Ethics please select the Ethics add-on option during registration.

This session is available to registrants only.

Optional Session

7:30am - 12:00pm EDT Ethics: Protecting the Integrity of Florida CPAs (0004980)

Paul Brown, Vice President, Professional and Technical Standards, Florida Institute of CPAs

Paul Brown

Paul Brown joined the FICPA in November 1992 and is the Vice President of Professional and Technical Standards for the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA). One of Paul’s main duties is to serve as the technical reviewer in Florida for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Peer Review Program. The program administers approximately 300 reviews annually in Florida and oversees approximately 85 peer reviewers. Paul also assists members in the areas of professional ethics and professional standards. As part of his role with the FICPA Paul has instructed and authored continuing education programs for the AICPA and FICPA, for which he has received several outstanding discussion leader and author awards. Paul is serving on the AICPA’s Peer Review Standards Task Force, Technical Reviewers Advisory Task Force to the Peer Review Board, and former chair of the Audit Committee for the City of Tallahassee.
Prior to joining the FICPA, Paul was an audit manager with the regional firm of Williams, Cox, Weidner & Cox (now Carr, Riggs & Ingram) in Tallahassee, Florida. Paul holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and finance from Florida State University and has been licensed as a CPA since 1988.

This Florida Board of Accountancy-approved ethics course, developed by the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA), provides CPAs with a comprehensive understanding of their ethical and professional responsibilities. Designed for CPAs in various professional roles and industries, this course explores ethical principles, regulatory requirements and emerging issues affecting the profession.

Participants will gain insight into the Florida Statutes (Chapters 455 & 473) and Florida Administrative Code (FAC) (61H1), AICPA’s Code of Professional Conduct and general ethical behavior. The course includes discussions on professional integrity, independence, objectivity, conflicts of interest fraud detection and prevention, compliance requirements, and equipping CPAs with the knowledge needed to navigate ethical dilemmas while maintaining public trust.

This course meets the biennial ethics CPE requirement for Florida licensed CPA’s.

This course is an add-on event to the 2026 MEGA Conference.

Credits: 4 - Ethics

This session is available to registrants only.

Registrant Price: $200.00

Optional Session

1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT Learning Labs

Join us for a comprehensive 4-hour session designed specifically for CPAs, featuring 15-minute conversation-style learning labs packed with valuable insights. We’ll explore the latest advancements in technology, innovative practices, and essential cybersecurity measures. This dynamic format ensures you stay engaged and informed on how to implement smart business strategies throughout the entire session.

Credits: 4 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Optional Session

5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT MEGA Kickoff

For all you early birds out there, start your MEGA experience strong and stop by MEGA registration area during the MEGA Kick-off! Participating in early check-in enables you to avoid long lines and wait times during regular check-in times on Monday morning. Additionally, take this time to connect with fellow attendees, speakers, committee members, sponsors, and FICPA staff as you prepare for the week ahead!

This session is available to registrants and their guests

Guest Price: $50.00

Optional Session

6:00am - 6:45am EDT Mega Wellness Zen Walk

Meet in lobby
Description: Start your morning off right with a walk, jog, or run at your own pace. Come solo or partner up, enjoy a curated playlist, and connect along the way.

This session is available to registrants and their guests

General Session

7:00am - 7:45am EDT Registration & Breakfast

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

7:45am - 8:10am EDT Opening Remarks & Women to Watch Awards

Andrew Carrick, Digital Content Producer & Strategist

Andrew Carrick

After creating the viral “Public Accounting Anthem” music video under his persona, The Rapping CPA, while working for a national firm in New York, Drew Carrick began his endeavors as an accounting evangelist and thought leader through content creation. Over the last decade, his career has taken him from traditional audit work over to budgets and finance, and then across the aisle to content marketing and edutainment. All throughout this journey, he has been an active digital content creator for both his personal and professional brands, and contributed to the content development of a variety of projects for fintech and accounting software companies.
Most recently, he produced the accounting comedy web series “PBC” for FloQast Studios on YouTube, built the free online learning platform “FloQademy” (where his album “Audit Jamz” is available for CPE credit, in addition to Spotify/Apple), and has been featured on several podcasts. As an accounting media contributor, he’s been an advocate for the rebrand of the accountant persona, and he continues to speak, write, and perform for the accounting profession as well as the broader business world. He continues to be a general public personality, offering entertainment, insights, and inspiration for finance professionals.

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

8:11am - 9:00am EDT Voice>Echo: Leadership, Credibility, and the CFO's Expanding Role

Timothy Naddy, CFO, The Savannah Bananas

Timothy Naddy

Wait…he’s a CPA?!? Oh, you better believe it…and then some ;-) An entrepreneur, college professor, financial professional and author (EDYM, available early 2026!), this guy’s looking to start another Renaissance! Simply, whether in the boardroom, classroom, or locker room, his passion is to help others make better decisions by translating tedious technical topics into tangible intelligence useful for personal and professional success. And if you thought THAT was a mouthful, check out his personal formula for success: (Big 4 + Private equity + Franchising + Internet startups + Fraud Examiner + CFO Consulting + 18.5“ Biceps) / (Humility + Faith + Family) = Accounting Badassery in motion. I mean, it’s just math, right?!? Living his personal mantra of Integrate, Educate, Elevate…and Entertain, Dr. Tim Naddy abhors complacency and doesn’t believe in settling for less because a good day consists of helping folks understand their value (and yes, you’re worth it). An alchemist of precision, professionalism, and panache, his secret sauce is using storytelling to mix all the things he loves…entertaining, speaking, writing, sumif functions, and jazz hands…into the wonderful world of Accounting and Phinance. Shadow Ops is his domain, but he ain’t shy of the spotlight either, so if you’re down to collab, he’s ready to rock n roll! Connect with him on LinkedIn and tune in to him on his Business Biceps & BS podcast (LI: Business Biceps & BS | IG: @bizbisnbs ) #cpaevolved #respectthegrind

We all know that familiar moment in finance when something just doesn’t quite add up, but when you bring it up it gets pushed aside… only to come back later as the “right answer.” This session Dr. Tim Naddy will walk attendees through how ideas actually move inside organizations, from early subtle signals to the eventual decision, and what that means for finance professionals. It’s not about being louder or getting credit; it’s about stepping into the conversation sooner, with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Register early for a complimentary copy of EDYM (Every Decision You Make): What's the Cost of the Dream with two book signing opportunities.

Credits: 1 - Behavioral

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

9:10am - 10:00am EDT AI is Changing the Risk Game: Opportunities, Compliance, and What's Ahead

Scott Hagizadegan, Founder and CEO, Shield IT Networks, Inc.

Scott Hagizadegan

Scott Hagizadegan is the CEO and Founder of Shield IT Networks, a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions for businesses of all sizes. With over 27 years of experience helping clients—from startups to Fortune 500 companies like Ernst & Young, Guitar Center, and Don Roberto Jewelers—Scott has built a strong reputation for delivering innovative solutions tailored to the needs of his clients.

Under Scott’s leadership, Shield IT Networks has helped CPA firm leaders strengthen their cybersecurity posture through proactive measures, ensuring compliance and protection against evolving threats. Guided by his philosophy of “Profit with Purpose,” Scott reinvests business profits into philanthropic projects worldwide, supporting orphanages and children’s education through computer labs and leadership programs.

AI adoption is accelerating. Cyber insurers are tightening requirements and denying claims. Regulators are issuing fines. The risk landscape for CPA firms has changed, and many leaders don’t yet realize how vulnerable their firms may be. In this fast-paced keynote, cybersecurity expert Scott Hagizadegan reveals the major shifts happening right now, and what CPA firm leaders must understand to safeguard their firms, clients, and operations.

In this fast-paced keynote, trusted cybersecurity expert Scott Hagizadegan breaks down what is changing right now and what CPA firm leaders must understand to protect their firms, clients and operations. Attendees will learn:

How AI is reshaping risk inside CPA firms.
What FTC Safeguards Rule enforcement looks like today.
Why cyber insurance claims are being denied — and how to avoid it.
The most common gaps firms discover too late.
Immediate steps to strengthen protection and reduce exposure.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

10:00am - 10:25am EDT Book Signing #1: EDYM (Every Decision You Make): What's the Cost of the Dream

Timothy Naddy, CFO, The Savannah Bananas

Timothy Naddy

Wait…he’s a CPA?!? Oh, you better believe it…and then some ;-) An entrepreneur, college professor, financial professional and author (EDYM, available early 2026!), this guy’s looking to start another Renaissance! Simply, whether in the boardroom, classroom, or locker room, his passion is to help others make better decisions by translating tedious technical topics into tangible intelligence useful for personal and professional success. And if you thought THAT was a mouthful, check out his personal formula for success: (Big 4 + Private equity + Franchising + Internet startups + Fraud Examiner + CFO Consulting + 18.5“ Biceps) / (Humility + Faith + Family) = Accounting Badassery in motion. I mean, it’s just math, right?!? Living his personal mantra of Integrate, Educate, Elevate…and Entertain, Dr. Tim Naddy abhors complacency and doesn’t believe in settling for less because a good day consists of helping folks understand their value (and yes, you’re worth it). An alchemist of precision, professionalism, and panache, his secret sauce is using storytelling to mix all the things he loves…entertaining, speaking, writing, sumif functions, and jazz hands…into the wonderful world of Accounting and Phinance. Shadow Ops is his domain, but he ain’t shy of the spotlight either, so if you’re down to collab, he’s ready to rock n roll! Connect with him on LinkedIn and tune in to him on his Business Biceps & BS podcast (LI: Business Biceps & BS | IG: @bizbisnbs ) #cpaevolved #respectthegrind

This session is available to registrants only.

10:00am - 10:25am EDT Open Exhibition/Coffee & Snacks

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

10:25am - 11:15am EDT HR Analytics & Strategy: Maximize Your CAS Impact

Jessica Battaglia, HR Services Area Manager, Paychex

Jessica Battaglia

Jessica is an accomplished HR Services Area Manager with over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and consultative sectors. Her extensive background in human resources is complemented by her certifications as a SHRM-CP and PHR professional.
Jessica’s strengths lie in Training, Employee Relations, and Organizational Development. She is passionate about developing teams to reach their full potential, fostering both organizational growth and individual development.
Outside of her professional life, Jessica enjoys going to the beach, traveling, and indulging in the magical world of Harry Potter.
Jessica’s dedication to her field and commitment to continuous improvement underscore her professional excellence

In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, accountants and CPAs have the opportunity to expand their role as trusted advisors by integrating HR analytics and strategic HR advisory services into their Client Advisory Services (CAS) offerings. As organizations face a transformed workplace, shifting employee/employer dynamics and ongoing human capital challenges, accounting professionals can leverage HR insights to help clients make more accurate financial forecasts, optimize talent management and minimize risk.

This session will provide actionable strategies for developing and scaling an HR advisory practice within an accounting firm. Explore effective service offerings, technology solutions and advisory models, and gain practical tools to elevate your advisory expertise, enhance client value and generate new revenue streams.

Discuss how digital transformation and HR analytics are creating new opportunities for accountants and CPAs in advisory services.
Identify effective HR advisory service offerings, pricing, staffing strategies and technology solutions relevant to CAS practices.
Explore common HR challenges faced by clients and apply actionable insights to improve talent optimization, control costs and reduce risk.
Apply scalable models and best practices for integrating HR advisory into your accounting firm’s CAS practice to drive growth and competitive advantage.

Credits: 1 - Behavioral

This session is available to registrants only.

10:25am - 11:15am EDT State Tax: Florida Documentary Stamp Tax - Essentials and Pitfalls

Logan Gans, Partner, Holland & Knight, LLP

Logan Gans

Logan E. Gans is a private wealth services and tax attorney in Holland & Knight’s Miami office and co-chair of the State and Local Tax Team.

Mr. Gans advises clients, such as real estate developers, lenders and borrowers, on state and local tax matters, including sales and use tax, Florida documentary stamp tax, Florida non-recurring intangible tax, and property tax issues and state tax residency planning. In addition, Mr. Gans advises clients on the use of Qualified Opportunity Funds for investments in Opportunity Zones and Qualified Opportunity Zone Businesses. He also counsels high-net-worth private clients on business aviation tax planning and controversy issues as well as general estate, trust and gift tax matters. A Florida certified public accountant, Mr. Gans has a significant background in advising clients on income tax matters, partnership tax planning, pre-immigration tax planning, expatriation matters, 1031 exchanges, tax due diligence, transfer pricing and tax compliance.

Prior to joining Holland & Knight, Mr. Gans was a tax attorney at a Florida-based Am Law 200 law firm in its Miami office. He previously served as an international tax senior consultant with a multinational accounting firm.

James Sutton Jr, Shareholder, Moffa, Sutton & Donnini, PA

James Sutton Jr

James H. Sutton, Jr is both an attorney and CPA and a Shareholder of Moffa, Sutton, & Donnini, PA. James concentrates in the area of Florida tax matters, with an almost exclusive focus on Florida Sales and Use Tax. He joined the firm in 2011 and has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant since 1994 and a licensed member of the Florida Bar since 1998.

This course provides an overview of the many Florida documentary excise taxes that can apply on Florida real estate and lending transactions.

This course provides an overview of the documentary excise taxes applicable to Florida real estate transfers and financing transactions. Participants will learn how the rules apply in common deal scenarios, calculate tax exposures, and how to spot frequent pitfalls that can create potentially significant additional tax liability.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

11:25am - 12:15pm EDT 2026 Florida Legislative Session Update: What CPAs need to know

Jason Harrell, Chief External Affairs Officer, Florida Institute of CPAs

Jason Harrell

Jason Harrell is the FICPA Chief External Affairs Officer responsible for leading all aspects of the Institute’s public policy, advocacy, governmental affairs and regulatory affairs. He serves as the liaison to the DBPR and Board of Accountancy and is responsible for all advocacy-related external communications and campaigns to increase the value of the CPA license. Jason brings numerous years of experience to this role, previously serving as director of government relations for Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers Association and budget and communications director for the Clerks of Court Operations Corporation, serving in key roles under two Speakers in the Florida House, and serving in the Executive Office of the Governor in the Office of Policy and Budget and Chief Inspector General’s Office.

Tax season is over and the 2026 Florida Legislative Session is too. Join FICPA Chief External Affairs officer Jason Harrell for a boots on the ground review of the most impactful changes to the profession, the demise of failed bills, the impact of new developments on CPAs and what the future holds.

Jason and the FICPA's Tallahassee team have spent the last six months preparing, reviewing bills and meeting with legislators to advocate for the Florida CPA. Register today to learn what's in store for the year ahead.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

12:15pm - 1:25pm EDT Book Signing #2: EDYM (Every Decision You Make): What's the Cost of the Dream

Timothy Naddy, CFO, The Savannah Bananas

Timothy Naddy

Wait…he’s a CPA?!? Oh, you better believe it…and then some ;-) An entrepreneur, college professor, financial professional and author (EDYM, available early 2026!), this guy’s looking to start another Renaissance! Simply, whether in the boardroom, classroom, or locker room, his passion is to help others make better decisions by translating tedious technical topics into tangible intelligence useful for personal and professional success. And if you thought THAT was a mouthful, check out his personal formula for success: (Big 4 + Private equity + Franchising + Internet startups + Fraud Examiner + CFO Consulting + 18.5“ Biceps) / (Humility + Faith + Family) = Accounting Badassery in motion. I mean, it’s just math, right?!? Living his personal mantra of Integrate, Educate, Elevate…and Entertain, Dr. Tim Naddy abhors complacency and doesn’t believe in settling for less because a good day consists of helping folks understand their value (and yes, you’re worth it). An alchemist of precision, professionalism, and panache, his secret sauce is using storytelling to mix all the things he loves…entertaining, speaking, writing, sumif functions, and jazz hands…into the wonderful world of Accounting and Phinance. Shadow Ops is his domain, but he ain’t shy of the spotlight either, so if you’re down to collab, he’s ready to rock n roll! Connect with him on LinkedIn and tune in to him on his Business Biceps & BS podcast (LI: Business Biceps & BS | IG: @bizbisnbs ) #cpaevolved #respectthegrind

This session is available to registrants only.

12:15pm - 1:25pm EDT Lunch Hosted by Engineered Tax Services

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

1:25pm - 2:15pm EDT Investigating a Fraud Case

Philip Burns, Owner, Space Coast Forensics

Philip Burns

Justin is the Managing Partner of Space Coast Forensics. He has been a Certified Public Accountant since 2014 and a Certified Fraud Examiner since 2016. His experience in the accounting industry is diverse, spanning a wide range of roles. Justin was the controller of a private company and has worked in public accounting. He served as the director of operations for one of the nation’s top privately owned forensic accounting practices before opening Space Coast Forensics.

Walk through a fraud investigation with a forensic accountant. Topics covered in this session will include:

How to create a plan for your investigation
Data gathering
Some common analyses used in investigations
Communicating your findings

Credits: 1 - Accounting and Auditing

This session is available to registrants only.

1:25pm - 2:15pm EDT State Tax: Department of Revenue Panel - Today's Hot Topics

Susan Coxwell, Revenue Program Administrator, Informal Dispute Resolution, Florida Department of Revenue

Susan Coxwell

I have worked for the Florida Department of Revenue for 27 years in a variety of roles, including Auditor, Tax Law Specialist, and Revenue Program Administrator. Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with Florida’s miscellaneous taxes, including corporate income tax, insurance premium tax, documentary stamp tax, intangible tax, motor fuel tax, and communications services tax. My primary area of expertise is Florida corporate income tax, particularly in the areas of audit, technical tax analysis, refund claims, and administrative protest matters.

Florida’s tax landscape moves fast, and the Department of Revenue’s interpretations often shape how businesses operate long before formal guidance is published. This panel brings together senior DOR officials to break down current hot-button issues, emerging compliance risks, and practical insights that Florida CPAs need right now.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

2:25pm - 3:15pm EDT State Tax: State & Local Tax Planning for Aircraft Ownership and Operations

Michael Grim, Director, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLP

Michael Grim

Mike Grim is a Director in Cherry Bekaert Advisory’s SALT group, specializing in SALT planning, audit, and controversy matters in income/franchise, tangible personal property, and sales & use taxes. In addition, Mike was former Tax Director for the UPS Airline with responsibilities for all areas of federal and state/local taxation.

The session provides a general overview of the key issues at the state and local level for aircraft ownership and/or operation.

Identify the key issues in the state & local area for aircraft
Understand the various exemptions available to aircraft
Avoid possible pitfalls in aircraft structuring

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

2:25pm - 3:15pm EDT The New Moat: Connected, Global, AI-Ready Finance

Business growth and global ambitions demand deep, real-time insights and the agility to act on them. This has made technology—particularly AI—central to modern finance. However, disconnected finance tools and context-deficient data create complexity, slow decision-making, and leave significant value untapped. This session explores what finance looks like when it is:

AI-native from the ground up
Integrated across functions
Compliant across markets
Backed by trusted payments infrastructure

The cost of staying disconnected is not just inefficiency—it’s the insight never uncovered and the decision never made.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

3:15pm - 3:40pm EDT Open Exhibition/Coffee & Snacks

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

3:40pm - 4:30pm EDT Risk Management Mantras for Daily Practice

Kevin Hayes, Risk Control Consultant, CNA Insurance

Kevin Hayes

Kevin Hayes is a Risk Control Consultant for the Accountants Professional Liability Insurance Program of Continental Casualty Company, a CNA company and the underwriter of the AICPA Professional Liability Insurance Program. He previously served audit clients for six years with both national and regional public accounting firms. Hayes currently provides risk control consulting services for CPA firms in the AICPA program. He participates in the development and delivery of risk management training and education products including the live risk management seminar and self-study programs, as well as other tools to assist CPA firms in managing their professional liability risk. Kevin earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Dayton. He is a member of the AICPA and the Illinois CPA Society

The Accountants Risk Control team at CNA, the underwriter of the AICPA Professional Liability Insurance Program, speaks with thousands of CPAs every year and provides advice and guidance to help them navigate tricky and challenging client situations. While each situation is unique, certain catchphrases are shared with CPA firms more frequently than others. These common catchphrases have become risk management mantras.

Learn the risk management mantras to help mitigate professional liability risks.
Identify common situations in which professional liability risk is increased.
Apply the risk mantras to your firm's everyday practice.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

3:40pm - 4:30pm EDT State Tax: Multi-State Nexus Update

Kenneth Rios, Principal, Kaufman, Rossin & Co, PA

Kenneth Rios

Ken is a leader in Kaufman Rossin’s tax practice, with more than 25 years of state and local tax experience. He assists clients with his expertise in state and local tax, franchise tax, sales and use tax, as well as property tax and unclaimed property.

He works with client’s on state and local tax consulting projects, including state tax minimization strategies, restructurings, tax simplification, sales sourcing studies, state voluntary disclosures and more.

He earned his Juris Doctor degree from Fordham University School of Law and master’s degree in business administration in professional accounting from Fordham Graduate School of Business. Ken also has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University

Credits: 1 - To Be Determined

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

4:40pm - 5:10pm EDT Profession Opportunities Update

Mark Koziel, CEO, Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, President and CEO, AICPA, AICPA

Mark Koziel

Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, is the President and CEO of the American Institute of CPAs, and CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the most influential body of professional accountants in the world with 600,000 members, candidates, and registrants. Formed in 2017, the Association combines the strengths of The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the AICPA.

Koziel was named to this role by the Association’s Board of Directors in October 2024 and began his tenure on January 1, 2025. He brings a wealth of leadership experience, having served the profession for decades. Most recently, he was President and CEO of Allinial Global, an association of independent accounting and advisory firms with 268 member firms worldwide. He began that role in 2020 after 14 years with the Association (previously AICPA), where he served in a number of roles, including executive vice president, Firm Services.

Koziel began working in the profession at a large accounting firm, Lumsden McCormick, based in Buffalo, New York. Throughout his career he has been a consistent advocate for accountants, developing a strong global understanding of the accounting and finance profession.

He is known for his commitment to key values, such as strategic growth, teamwork, innovation, and excellence, and has been recognized with many notable awards. He regularly appears on Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting and in 2017, Koziel received the Dr. Joseph R. Coppola ‘40 Outstanding Alumnus Award from Canisius University’s Accounting Department. Among his many accolades, Koziel was also named to CPA Practice Advisor’s Top Thought Leaders in Public Accounting and the International Accounting Bulletin and The Accountant’s list of the Global Accounting Power 50.

Originally from Buffalo, NY, Koziel graduated from Canisius University in 1991 with a BS, accounting degree. He now resides in North Carolina with his family.

The CPA Profession is heating up, from private equity and artificial intelligence to expanding client advisory services and the global community. Join AICPA President and CEO Mark Koziel for a frank discussion about the challenges facing today’s profession and the opportunities worth seeking.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Optional Session

6:00pm - 8:00pm EDT MEGA Celebration & Newly Certified Ceremony

Join us for the MEGA Celebration Reception - an evening designed to bring everyone together! Enjoy great music, delicious food, and plenty of time to connect, unwind, and celebrate a fantastic conference. Don't miss this change to mingle, relax, and make memorable moments with fellow attendees!

Guest tickets can be added for $140.

This session is available to registrants and their guests

Guest Price: $140.00

Optional Session

6:00am - 6:45am EDT Mega Wellness Zen Walk

Meet in lobby
Description: Start your morning off right with a walk, jog, or run at your own pace. Come solo or partner up, enjoy a curated playlist, and connect along the way.

This session is available to registrants and their guests

General Session

7:00am - 8:00am EDT Breakfast & Networking

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

8:00am - 9:00am EDT Keynote: State of the Profession

Shelly Weir, President & CEO, Florida Institute of CPAs

Shelly Weir

Shelly Weir is President & Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA), the statewide professional association for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Florida. In this role, Weir serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the FICPA and FICPA Scholarship Foundation and works in partnership with the FICPA Council to develop and execute the Institute's strategic vision. Weir leads a staff of 40 professionals responsible for carrying out the missions of the FICPA and FICPA Scholarship Foundation.

Weir is actively engaged in legislative and advocacy efforts representing the CPA profession at the state and national level, serving as a Trustee for Florida TaxWatch. As a member of the Board of Trustees for the Florida Chamber Foundation, she advocates for the business and tax interests of CPAs. As President & CEO, Weir represents all Florida CPAs with the state's Board of Accountancy and the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. As a member of the CPA Society of Association Executives, she collaborates with other association leaders to address regulatory and legislative agendas affecting CPAs across the nation.

An association executive with nearly 20 years of experience, Shelly has the unique ability to foster excitement, commitment and vision in others to the benefit of the organization and its goals.

Weir began her tenure as President & CEO of FICPA in April 2021. Prior to joining FICPA, she spent 10 years with the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), where she was most recently the Senior Vice President of Career Development. In this role, she designed and executed programs that delivered career advancement opportunities and competency attainment for professionals in the hotel industry.

Throughout her time at AHLA, Weir represented the hotel industry on multiple task forces with the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor under Presidents Obama and Trump. She was appointed Co-Chair of the Presidential Task Force on Expanding Apprenticeship in the United States from 2017-2018. In 2020, her work was recognized by the White House with the Pledge to America's Worker Presidential Award for outstanding career development.

Weir earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida State University. She resides in Orlando with her husband and two sons and is an avid college sports fan.

Hear from President & CEO Shelly Weir about the FICPA’s advocacy efforts and legislative priorities following Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session. Learn about the key issues that will drive this year’s Session and their impact on the CPA profession. From pathways to deregulation, this is a comprehensive look at licensure in the Sunshine State

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

9:10am - 10:00am EDT State Tax: Demystifying Software Taxation: Your Roadmap to Multistate Success

Amanda Ribeiro, Partner, The Ribeiro Law Firm

Amanda Ribeiro

Amanda is a tax professional in KPMG’s state and local tax group, specifically focused on indirect tax. She serves as a technical resource for her expertise in Florida sales tax and administrative procedure.

Amanda has over a decade of state indirect tax experience, including extensive work in the consulting and state tax controversy space. Prior to joining KPMG, Amanda was with a boutique law firm that focused exclusively on Florida state and local tax. Her work ran the gamut from white collar criminal defense to sales and use tax audit defense and litigation. Throughout her career she has served numerous clients ranging from the Fortune 500 to the middle market and has strong experience in a variety of industries including manufacturing, distribution, retail, transportation, hospitality and healthcare. Amanda is based out of Fort Lauderdale and serves clients throughout the state with technical Florida tax issues.

Cory Van Arnum, Manager, State and Local Indirect Tax, KPMG LLP

Cory Van Arnum

Cory is a tax professional in KPMG’s state and local tax group, specifically focused in indirect tax. Practicing since 2018, he assists private and public companies with a wide range of indirect tax consulting and controversy needs. His experience spans across the construction, ecommerce, healthcare, manufacturing, power and utilities, technology, and telecommunications industries. Cory is a frequent speaker and author for KPMG on state and local indirect tax issues

Mary Beth Campbell, Senior Manager, SALT, BDO USA

Demystifying software taxation is more important than ever as businesses evolve in a digital-first economy. From sourcing rules and nexus triggers to indirect and income tax implications, the multistate landscape is complex and constantly shifting. In this session, our experts break down the key challenges surrounding software and digital services and provide clear, practical insights to help tax professionals navigate compliance with confidence.

Understand state tax treatment of software, digital goods, and related services across multiple jurisdictions.
Identify how software and digital goods can create or expand nexus for multistate taxpayers.
Discuss sourcing methodologies and multiple-point-of-use considerations applicable to software transactions.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

9:10am - 10:00am EDT Stay Ahead of the Curve in Auditing & Accounting

Erik De Vries, Director, Audit Quality Group, CohnReznick LLP

Erik De Vries

Erik De Vries is a Director in CohnReznick’s Audit Quality Group and contributes to the development and implementation of the Firm’s audit methodology and quality initiatives.

Erik has extensive experience helping engagement teams interpret and apply professional standards and regulations to real world situations, including group audits, alternative investment portfolios, revenue recognition, leasing, agreed-upon procedures, and Single Audits. He also supports Firm training, including methodology implementation and proficiency, through curriculum development and teaching sessions.

Prior to joining CohnReznick in 2023, Erik spent more than a dozen years at a global network firm overseeing the execution of audits of public and private companies and not-for-profit organizations with total assets in excess of $4 billion and revenues of $6 billion under AICPA, ISA, Government Auditing and PCAOB standards. He also served a two-and-a-half-year rotation to that firm’s National Professional Standards Group in Audit Training and Knowledge Resources.

For his work on the Illinois CPA Society’s Audit & Assurance Services Committee, Erik has been honored with the Distinguished Service Award. Erik earned his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Calvin University and his Master of Business Administration from Indiana University. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Illinois and Indiana.

The standards are always changing, are you ready? This timely, practical session delivers a concise update on the most important developments in auditing and accounting so you can prepare for upcoming audits and financial reporting. We’ll break down the latest guidance from the FASB, AICPA and PCAOB, translating complex updates into clear overview to help you identify issues promptly. Designed for professionals in public practice and industry, this session focuses on what’s new and considerations on how to prepare.

Credits: 1 - Accounting and Auditing

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

10:00am - 10:25am EDT Open Exhibition/Coffee & Snacks

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

10:25am - 12:05pm EDT FASB Update

Jacob Rodman, FASB Practice Fellow, Financial Accounting Standards Board

Jacob Rodman

Jacob is a Practice Fellow with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), where he leads and collaborates on U.S. GAAP standard-setting activities. He is also an Audit Managing Director in KPMG LLP’s national office within the Department of Professional Practice. With more than 18 years of experience in public accounting, Jacob specializes in advising clients and consulting with engagement teams on complex technical accounting, reporting, and auditing matters and contributes to the development of accounting and auditing guidance. Earlier in his career, he served in KPMG’s U.S. Accounting and Reporting Group in Amsterdam. Jacob is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and is a licensed CPA in Connecticut, Missouri, and Kansas. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in accounting from Kansas State University.

This session provides an overview of recent and current standard-setting activities of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, including newly issued Accounting Standards Updates and active projects that may affect financial reporting under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.

Recall key recent Accounting Standards Updates and active projects on the agenda of the Financial Accounting Standards Board.
Identify the objectives and key provisions of recent and proposed changes to U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (US GAAP).
Recognize potential financial reporting and implementation considerations arising from recent and upcoming US GAAP standard-setting activities.

Credits: 2 - Accounting and Auditing

This session is available to registrants only.

10:25am - 12:05pm EDT From CPA to Financial Advisor: Expanding Your Role and Revenue

Michael Riskin, Vice President/Partner, CPS Investment Advisors

Michael Riskin

Michael is a seasoned financial professional and Florida native with a career marked by a deep commitment to financial planning and practice management. Initially driven by an interest in white-collar crime investigation and an aspiration to join the FBI, Michael’s path shifted during his tenure at a prominent public accounting firm, where he discovered his true passion: personal financial planning. Here, he found fulfillment in helping individuals and families navigate complex financial landscapes.
Michael holds a degree in Business and Economics from Lehigh University and a Master’s in Taxation from Florida International University. He is a Florida CPA, Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) through the AICPA, reflecting his dedication to excellence in his field.
With comprehensive expertise in financial planning, Michael guides clients through all stages of wealth management, from accumulation to preservation and legacy planning. His approach combines technical proficiency with an understanding of the unique goals of each client. In practice management, Michael has successfully led teams and developed strategies that enhance client satisfaction and operational efficiency.

CPAs are uniquely positioned to become their clients’ most trusted financial advisors; yet many firms are leaving this opportunity untapped.
This session explores how expanding into financial planning can strengthen client relationships, generate new revenue streams, and increase long-term firm value. You’ll gain a clear understanding of how financial planning fits within the CPA role and how to begin integrating these services into your practice.
We’ll cover key business models—including brokers, CFPs, and RIAs—along with the advantages, requirements, and steps to becoming licensed.
You’ll leave with practical insights and a clear, actionable path to adding financial planning services in a compliant, client-focused way.

Outcomes:
• Identify the primary reasons CPAs expand their services into financial planning and investment advisory work.
• Distinguish between the main financial services business models (broker, financial planner and RIAs).
• Explain the regulatory definition and responsibilities of an RIA.
• Recognize licensing and credential pathways for CPAs entering financial planning, including Series 65 and credential-based exam waivers (CFP, CPA/PFS, etc.).
• Outline the high-level process for registering an advisory firm and becoming an Investment Advisor Representative.
• Describe key operational and compliance considerations when integrating financial planning services into a CPA practice.

Credits: 2 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

10:25am - 12:05pm EDT State Tax: Nation, State and Local Tax Update

Kevin Herzberg, Chief Financial Officer, RealAdvice

Kevin Herzberg

Kevin Herzberg is a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience advising for Federal income tax, state and local tax (SALT), and merger and acquisitions. He has had numerous high-profile roles over his career. Most recently, as the former National Indirect Tax Leader at Grant Thornton LLP, Kevin played a pivotal role in helping businesses navigate complex tax landscapes while optimizing their operational efficiency and financial outcomes. His Grant Thornton leadership roles extended to serving as the Tampa Office Managing Partner, the Central Region SALT Regional Leader and Florida SALT Practice Leader, where he specialized in providing strategic tax solutions tailored to meet business and tax imperatives.
In addition to his tenure at Grant Thornton, Kevin held key leadership roles at Deloitte Tax LLP, Arthur Andersen, and True Partners Consulting. His extensive background includes advising clients on mergers and acquisitions, tax planning, and compliance, making him a trusted advisor to organizations seeking growth and innovation.
Kevin holds an M.B.A. in Finance & Accounting from the University of South Florida and a B.S. in Accountancy from Northern Illinois University. He has further refined his expertise through advanced training from Kellogg Executive Education, earning certifications in Leading Across Generations, Advanced Strategy & Scenario Planning, and Enterprise Decision-Making.

Jordan Goodman, Partner, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP

Jordan Goodman

Jordan Goodman is co-leader of the firm's Tax Practice Group. He focuses his practice on resolving complex state and local tax controversies for Fortune 1000 corporations and wealthy families, nationwide. Jordan represents operationally complex companies in manufacturing, retail, financial services, e-commerce, broadcasting, and telecommunications. As an attorney and CPA with decades of experience, he has successfully resolved tax controversies in nearly every state and has counseled clients on the full range of tax issues and organizational structures affecting their businesses. Jordan also represents numerous clients in multistate unclaimed property litigation and advises on a wide range of compliance issues.
Clients seek Jordan's help on a full range of tax issues including corporate income, sales and use, franchise, local licenses, gross receipts, business and occupation, single business, capital stock, and unclaimed property matters. He regularly advises on nexus, apportionment, business income, unitary business groups and residency, credits, losses, exemptions, and the tax base. He represents clients in all facets of unclaimed property issues-from audit notifications and audit defense to protecting sensitive information and resolving legal challenges. Further, Jordan regularly partners with businesses to establish compliance through the voluntary disclosure process and strategic planning.
Prior to joining the firm, Jordan was a partner in the Local Tax (SALT) Group at HMB Legal Counsel, a well-established, tax-focused law firm based in Chicago, Illinois.
A sought-after lecturer and author on multi state tax issues, controversies, and planning, Jordan is very active in the SALT community as a frequent staple to many major SALT institutions' conferences and publications. Jordan is listed in the 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 editions of Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business as a leading lawyer in Tax Controversy. He as recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Jordan was recognized as an Illinois "Super Lawyer" for Tax Law by Super Lawyers magazine. He was named a "Leading Lawyer" in 2024 and 2025 for Business Tax Law by Leading Lawyers magazine.

During these sessions Kevin Herzberg and Jordan Goodman will provide an update on recent developments in the world of State and Local Tax.

Identify key court decisions that define modern SALT principles.
Assess how technological and economic change influence future SALT tax trends.
Apply historical context to anticipate emerging issues in state and local taxation.
Knowledge level: Intermediate

Credits: 2 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

12:15pm - 1:25pm EDT Lunch Hosted by Engineered Tax Services

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

1:25pm - 2:15pm EDT AI Automation in Tax Preparation: What CPAs Can Adopt Right Now

Jaideep Singh, Co-founder & CEO, FlyFin AI Inc.

Jaideep Singh

Jaideep is the Co-founder & CEO with 20 years of experience in building Ai companies, and a proven track record of creating successful startups that have created over $3 Billion in value. He is passionate about combining AI/ML with CPAs to build a game-changing tax solution. He has a BS and MS in Computer Engineering from the University of Arizona, and an MBA from the Wharton School.

This session explores how recent advances in AI are transforming tax preparation workflows for CPA firms. Participants will learn how modern AI technologies such as machine learning, reasoning models and workflow automation are improving document processing, data extraction and automatic tax return preparation.
The session will also discuss how automation can significantly reduce manual data entry, improve accuracy and increase productivity within tax practices. Attendees will gain insights into practical automation strategies that can be adopted during the current tax season to improve efficiency and scalability in their firms.

Outcomes:

Understand recent advancements in AI and machine learning relevant to tax preparation.
Learn how AI can automate document identification, data extraction and tax return preparation workflows.
Identify key technologies that enable automation in tax practices, including reasoning models, rules engines, AI chain-of-thought models and integrations with tax software.
Evaluate how automation can improve CPA productivity, reduce manual work and increase firm capacity and learn some of its limitations.
Explore practical steps CPA firms can take to begin adopting automation during the current tax season.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

2:25pm - 3:15pm EDT Introduction to Fraud Detection with Excel: Tools and Techniques

Christina Solomon, Director, Wipfli LLP

Christina Solomon

With over twenty-five years of experience working in public accounting firms, Christina focuses on providing litigation consulting and performing forensic accounting analysis. In these roles, she performs analyses, research and investigation, quantifies damages, writes reports, and provides expert witness testimony. In addition, she provides internal audit, financial modeling and data analysis services to her clients. Christina has a broad base of industry experience, including school districts and higher education.

Angela Abfall, Senior Consultant, Wipfli LLP

Angela Abfall

Angie Abfall is a Senior Consultant with more than 40 years of experience in the accounting profession. She is a member of Wipfli's Forensic and Litigation Services team, where she specializes in forensic investigations involving allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse, as well as litigation consulting engagements. Angie works closely with clients, attorneys, courts, and other stakeholders to analyze complex financial matters and provide clear, well-supported findings.

This interactive session introduces the use of Excel-based data analytics to identify fraud risk factors and indicators of potential misuse or misstatement. Participants will learn foundational data preparation techniques to cleanse and normalize data, address common data challenges, and apply key analytic tests such as gap detection, duplicate testing, outlier analysis, and trend analysis. The session emphasizes interpreting analytic results to identify unusual patterns, relationships, and transactions that may warrant further inquiry.

Prepare data for analysis in Excel by cleansing, normalizing, and organizing datasets to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Apply Excel-based data analytic tests to identify anomalies, patterns, trends, errors, and potential
Interpret analytic results to recognize fraud risk factors and other indicators requiring further investigation.

Credits: 1 - Accounting and Auditing

This session is available to registrants only.

2:25pm - 3:15pm EDT QMS Reverse Interactive Panel

Margaret Hampton, Partner, Frazier & Deeter CPAs & Advisors

Margaret Hampton

Meg is a Partner leading the Audit & Assurance practice in Anglin Reichmann Armstrong’s Pensacola, Florida office. She pursued her higher education at the University of Alabama from 2004-2009, achieving a Master of Accountancy and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Meg specializes in offering audits, reviews, examinations, compilations, and preparations of financial statements to clients spanning various industries. Additionally, she is passionate about consulting with clients on financial strategy and understanding key performance indicators. As a Peer Review Captain, Meg collaborates closely with Anglin’s peer review team to provide valuable assistance to firms across the nation, to comply with the program requirements and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their practice.

Apart from her professional commitments, Meg dedicates her time as a volunteer instructor and coach at the Catalyst Center for Business and Entrepreneurship. She actively delivers training on accounting and auditing topics for several organizations. Furthermore, Meg plays an integral role in both internal and external training programs conducted by Anglin for our staff and clients.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time in the pool or at the beach with her husband, collecting Lego sets, traveling, and lounging around with their dog and cat.

Paul Brown, Vice President, Professional and Technical Standards, Florida Institute of CPAs

Paul Brown

Paul Brown joined the FICPA in November 1992 and is the Vice President of Professional and Technical Standards for the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA). One of Paul’s main duties is to serve as the technical reviewer in Florida for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Peer Review Program. The program administers approximately 300 reviews annually in Florida and oversees approximately 85 peer reviewers. Paul also assists members in the areas of professional ethics and professional standards. As part of his role with the FICPA Paul has instructed and authored continuing education programs for the AICPA and FICPA, for which he has received several outstanding discussion leader and author awards. Paul is serving on the AICPA’s Peer Review Standards Task Force, Technical Reviewers Advisory Task Force to the Peer Review Board, and former chair of the Audit Committee for the City of Tallahassee.
Prior to joining the FICPA, Paul was an audit manager with the regional firm of Williams, Cox, Weidner & Cox (now Carr, Riggs & Ingram) in Tallahassee, Florida. Paul holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and finance from Florida State University and has been licensed as a CPA since 1988.

Randall Wilson, Wilson CPA Services, LLC

Randall Wilson

Randall Wilson, CPA, CFE is a technical and quality management consultant providing support to multiple CPA firms. Providing audit and attestation services for over twenty-five years, his experience stretches over a wide breadth of industries and niches and includes serving as the director of quality control and the director of the audit and assurance department, while a partner at a local CPA firm. Through his dedication to the profession, Randall often facilitates professional training, has been an audit peer reviewer, serves on the Florida Peer Review Committee, volunteers with the FICPA, and authors technical articles. Randall graduated from Florida State University with bachelor’s degrees in accounting and finance, is a licensed CPA with the State of Florida, and is a Certified Fraud Examiner.

A reverse interactive panel is a facilitated session on quality management standards where audience members lead the discussion by asking questions, raising concerns, and challenging existing quality processes. Presenters respond in real time, providing clarification, justification, and insight into how standards are applied. The goal is to surface gaps, strengthen understanding, and drive continuous improvement through open, two-way engagement.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

2:25pm - 3:15pm EDT State Tax: SALT M&A

Eric Castineira, State and Local Tax Manager, Crowe LLP

Sherry Lam, State and Local Tax Managing Director, Crowe LLP

Sherry Lam

Sherry is a Managing Director in Crowe LLP's Fort Lauderdale office, and has over 20 years of experience providing tax and business consulting services, specializing in state and local sales and use tax matters. Sherry's client service experience includes assisting clients in tax process improvement studies, refund analysis, audit defense, voluntary disclosure negotiations, nexus studies, mergers and acquisitions, transactional consulting, product and service taxability reviews, procedures documentation, ASC 450 reviews, exemption certificate reviews, sales tax outsourcing, and bankruptcy matters. Sherry has extensive experience with public and private companies in numerous industries including retail, manufacturing, technology, information services, professional services, construction contracting, telecommunications, and utility.

State and local tax (SALT) considerations can materially impact M&A transactions by affecting deal structure, valuation, risk allocation, and post-transaction tax efficiency. Proactive analysis of nexus exposure, tax liabilities, transaction structuring, and integration planning helps mitigate risk, preserve tax attributes, and optimize long-term state tax outcomes. In this session attendees will:

Identify key state and local tax risks
Evaluate the state tax implications of transaction structuring decisions
Recognize post-transaction planning opportunities

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

3:15pm - 3:40pm EDT Open Exhibition/Coffee & Snacks

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

3:40pm - 4:30pm EDT State Tax: Beyond the Tipping Point- Insights from the 2026 AI Tax Research Solution Outlook

Naufil Rasheed, Director of Sales, BLUE J LEGAL

Naufil Rasheed

As Director of Sales at Blue J, Naufil Rasheed leads sales and business development, helping tax professionals adopt AI-powered tax research that cuts research time and frees them to focus on client advice.

AI-powered tax research has evolved from being experimental to being an essential part of tax practitioners’ workflows. At the same time, this technology is reshaping the role of those practitioners and the future of their firms. Drawing on fresh data from Blue J and CPA.com’s 2026 AI Tax Research Outlook Report, this session explores trends in AI-powered tax research adoption, the advantages this technology poses over legacy tools and how AI-powered tax research is fundamentally transforming the way tax experts work

Outcomes:

Recall current adoption trends in AI-powered and legacy tax research tools.
Define the competitive advantage AI-powered tools are creating for firms.
Understand how AI invites new ways of working and how to adapt accordingly.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

3:40pm - 4:30pm EDT What Really Happens After a Cyber Breach: The Financial Fallout Inside FBI Investigations

Jonathan Trimble, CEO, Bawn

Jonathan Trimble

Jonathan Trimble is a former FBI cyber executive and co-founder of Bawn, a cybersecurity firm that helps CPA firms and financial professionals strengthen compliance and reduce cyber risk. During his career with the FBI, Jonathan led cyber and intelligence modernization initiatives and worked on investigations involving threats to sensitive financial and operational systems. In that role, he saw firsthand how preventable cyber incidents could disrupt—or even force the closure of—small and mid-sized businesses when basic safeguards were not in place.
Today, Jonathan focuses on helping CPAs and their clients translate complex cybersecurity and regulatory requirements into practical, defensible actions. His approach emphasizes simple, repeatable frameworks that align with how CPAs already think about risk, controls, and documentation. He regularly speaks to professional associations on topics including the FTC Safeguards Rule, IRS data security requirements, and how CPAs can play a more active role in guiding clients on cyber risk.

Cyber incidents are often approached as technical events; however, their most significant impacts are frequently financial, legal, and operational. Drawing on experience leading FBI cyber investigations, this session examines a real-world breach scenario from initial compromise through long-term resolution. Attendees will gain insight into how incidents unfold in practice and how associated costs and liabilities develop over time.

Topics will include:

How breaches are identified and factors that influence response timelines
Key actions and challenges in the first 72 hours following an incident
Legal, regulatory, and litigation considerations that may arise
Financial impacts related to business interruption, recovery, and reputational harm
Common areas where organizations underestimate exposure

This session is designed to provide CPAs with a practical understanding of how cyber incidents translate into financial and operational consequences, and how they can better support clients in assessing and managing related risks.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

4:40pm - 5:30pm EDT Closing Keynote: Congressman Byron Donalds (FL-19) on Serving the People and Businesses of Florida

Byron Donalds, Congressman, State of Florida

Byron Donalds

A graduate of Florida State University with professional experience in finance, insurance and banking, Donalds was first elected in 2016 to the Florida Legislature, where he went on to serve as Chair of the House Insurance and Banking Subcommittee.

He has been a member of the U.S. House since 2021, representing Florida's 19th congressional district, and currently sits on both the Oversight and Accountability and Financial Services committees.

Congressman Byron Donalds, U.S. House of Representatives (FL-19)

Congressman Byron Donalds is confirmed for MEGA 2026. Congressman Donalds will serve as our closing keynote speaker on Tuesday, June 16. A graduate of Florida State University with professional experience in finance, insurance and banking, Donalds was first elected in 2016 to the Florida Legislature, where he went on to serve as Chair of the House Insurance and Banking Subcommittee. He has been a member of the U.S. House since 2021, representing Florida’s 19th congressional district, and currently sits on both the Oversight and Accountability and Financial Services committees. The FICPA is honored to host Congressman Donalds and excited to hear his remarks from our main stage on Tuesday afternoon at MEGA.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

5:30pm - 6:30pm EDT MEGA Happy Hour sponsored by CPA/PAC

This session is available to registrants and their guests

Guest Price: $50.00

Optional Session

6:00am - 6:45am EDT Mega Wellness Zen Walk

Meet in lobby
Description: Start your morning off right with a walk, jog, or run at your own pace. Come solo or partner up, enjoy a curated playlist, and connect along the way.

This session is available to registrants and their guests

General Session

7:00am - 8:00am EDT Breakfast & Networking

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

8:00am - 9:00am EDT Click Less Advise More

Deborah Defer, Director of CAS Consulting, Woodard

Deborah Defer

Deborah Defer is a visionary leader in Client Advisory Services (CAS) and serves as Director of CAS at Woodard. With more than two decades of experience in accounting, financial management, and strategic advisory, she is dedicated to helping small and mid-sized businesses gain financial clarity, strengthen operational efficiency, and build sustainable growth models. In recognition of her impact on the profession, Deborah was named one of Accounting Today's Top 100 -People to Watch in 2026.

At Woodard, Deborah designs and leads innovative CAS strategies that empower firms to modernize their practices, streamline workflows, and deliver high-value advisory services. She is passionate about leveraging technology and automation to transform data into real-time insights that drive better business decisions. Her expertise spans CAS pricing, spend management, and stepping into controllership roles for growing organizations.

An award-winning educator and mentor, Deborah is known for her dynamic workshops, webinars, and coaching engagements. She champions change management, technology adoption, and balanced firm cultures that prioritize innovation and client success. Her mission is to inspire firms to elevate CAS beyond compliance and create measurable, lasting value for the clients they serve.

CAS success isn’t about working harder — it’s about working smarter. In this engaging and interactive session, we’ll explore what it truly takes to “click less” and create the capacity to “advise more.” Using live audience polling and real-time Q&A, we’ll uncover how technology, people, processes, and pricing either create operational drag — or unlock advisory capacity. Participants will benchmark their own practices against collective audience data, identify hidden inefficiencies, and gain clarity on where small shifts can produce meaningful improvements in margin, scalability, and client impact. This session moves beyond theory to practical application. Attendees will leave with insights grounded in live data from the room and a clearer understanding of how to align their CAS structure to reduce manual effort and elevate advisory value.

Evaluate how technology, people, processes, and pricing influence capacity and profitability within a CAS practice.
Identify common operational inefficiencies revealed through live audience data and understand their impact on advisory potential.
Determine actionable next steps to reduce manual work and increase advisory value without adding headcount.
Knowledge level: Overview

Credits: 1 - Behavioral

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

9:10am - 10:00am EDT Stop Treating Learning Like a Checkbox: Build a Strategic Talent Engine for Your Firm

Laurence Whittam, Managing Director, Global Strategy, Whitman Business Advisors LLC

Laurence Whittam

Laurence Whittam is the Practice Leader for Whitman Global Strategy, and serves as a leading advisor to the accounting industry on outsourcing strategy. With more than a decade of hands-on experience, Laurence has guided more than 500 CPA and accounting firms across the U.S., helping them design and manage high-performing offshore teams for tax, accounting and audit services.

Laurence is recognized as a Top 20 Under 40 Influencer by CPA Practice Advisor and is co-author of the AICPA Outsourcing Toolkit. As a national speaker and host of the Business Beyond Borders podcast, he provides business leaders with independent guidance on outsourcing models, compliance, integration and governance.

Jason McKeever, Practice Leader, Learning & Development, Whitman Business Advisors LLC

Jason McKeever

Jason McKeever is the Practice Leader for the Learning and Development team at Whitman Advisory, bringing more than 20 years of strategic leadership in the field, including 17 years as Chief Learning Officer at a Top 25 U.S. firm. He has driven continuous improvement and innovation by crafting and implementing learning strategies that align with organizational objectives, partnering across service lines and leadership teams to build scalable development programs covering technical, industry, sales and leadership skills. Jason is also recognized as a skilled facilitator and keynote presenter, engaging a wide range of audiences.

Accounting firms are facing a fundamental shift in how they attract, develop and retain talent. Technical training and CPE alone are no longer enough. Firms that want to remain competitive must be intentional about how they develop their people — aligning learning, career paths, leadership development and global team integration into a cohesive strategy.

In this interactive session, Jason McKeever, a learning advisor with 20+ years in the accounting industry and Laurence Whittam, an advisor to CPA firms on global talent and operational strategy, will explore how firms can transform learning from a compliance activity into a strategic advantage.

Participants will examine how leading firms are designing intentional learning tracks, developing future leaders, integrating global team members from locations like India and the Philippines and preparing for succession in an evolving profession. Through real examples, audience discussion, and interactive Q&A, attendees will leave with practical ideas to build a people strategy that strengthens their firm’s long-term growth.

Credits: 1 - Behavioral

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

10:00am - 10:20am EDT Coffee break

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

10:20am - 11:10am EDT Monetizing AI For an Additional Six-Figure Revenue

David Yu, Founder, Wealth Advisor, DTY Wealth Planning Solutions

David Yu

David T. Yu is the Founder and Wealth Advisor of DTY Wealth Planning. In addition to his work in financial services, he is an active airline pilot and a former institutional pilot pension committee member for one of the largest U.S. based airlines.
David has also served as an instructor of adult retirement planning at Broward Community College and advises individuals on how to maximize their Social Security benefits. He also counsels families on late-stage college financial planning and frequently presents on tax mitigation strategies at CPA conferences and symposiums.
David has been featured on ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC News, and recognized as one of America's Best Retirement Experts by Kiplinger's. David is the host of the podcast Jet Setting Wealth Advisory, where he shares financial insights tailored to aviation professionals and high-net-worth individuals & familes.

This presentation will focus on how CPA practices can generate additional revenue stream by strategically integrating AI into their tax and advisory services. As AI continues to reshape the accounting landscape, firms that adapt early are positioning themselves to move beyond traditional compliance work and into higher-value advisory roles.

Attendees will gain insight into how top-performing CPAs are leveraging AI to uncover new opportunities, improve client tax outcomes and increase efficiency while actually decreasing their workload.

Identify how AI is transforming tax filing and tax advisory services within CPA practices.
Recognize opportunities to generate additional revenue streams using vetted tax strategies.
Explain how to transition from compliance-focused work to higher-value tax advisory services.
Evaluate ways to integrate AI into existing workflows while reducing workload.

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

11:20am - 12:10pm EDT Lets Commit Fraud! (And Stop it!)

Andrew Renck, Root Point, Managing Director, Cybersecurity Instructor & Incident Response, ROOTPOINT

Andrew Renck

Andrew Renck is a 2003 graduate of the University of Miami with multiple degrees including Finance and Economics. While attending the University he created his computer consulting firm RootPoint. He has been providing secure systems integration long before “Cybersecurity” became a recognized term. Renck is an ethical hacker and has provided services for both offensive and defensive cybersecurity projects.

He holds multiple certifications and services both government entities and private-sector clients across a broad spectrum of industries. Renck has found and reported numerous vulnerabilities ranging from operating systems, firewall, email, content management systems, remote vehicle control, and healthcare equipment. He was the first instructor hired at HackerUSA and the University of Miami for the new cybersecurity program and wrote both portions of the curriculum as well as a cyber-defense textbook for securing Windows, Linux and network systems. Renck has served as an expert witness in both criminal courts and commercial litigation in the United States and Latin America.

Andrew is based in Miami, FL.

We saved the best for last! Return speaker and fraud expert Andrew Renck will bring you along for a journey through fraud. Andrew will break down how to stop hackers and fraudsters from attacking you and your clients. This session will cover:

How to identify attackers
How to stop attackers
What to do when attacked

Credits: 1 - Technical Business

This session is available to registrants only.

Optional Session

5:30pm - 5:32pm EDT IRS CE Credit: Please select to receive CE credit for attending the State Tax Track of the conference.

This session is available to registrants only.

Registrant Price: $50.00

Optional Session

5:45pm - 5:46pm EDT CLE Credit: Please select to receive CLE credit for attending qualified CLE courses.

This session is available to registrants only.

Registrant Price: $50.00

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