September 18, 2024

TXCPA Thanks Our Faculty and Student Ambassadors!

Faculty and student ambassadors help us strengthen TXCPA’s presence on Texas campuses and learn more about what we can do to support Texas educators and students as we focus on growing the pipeline of CPAs in Texas. Learn more in the Be An Ambassador section of TXCPA's website. Many thanks to these ambassadors for their support and engagement in 2024-2025!

Faculty Ambassadors

Linda Acevedo, CPA, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Dr. Susan Anders, CPA, CGMA, Midwestern State University

Pamela Ansboury, CPA, M.Ed, San Antonio College

Michelle Avila, CPA, Our Lady of the Lake University

Madhuri Bandla, CPA, CFE, University of North Texas

Helen Bassett, Lone Star College – University Park

Okera Bishop, CPA, Austin Community College – Highland

Tara Blasor, CPA, Texas A&M University

Kelli Blount, CPA, Austin Community College – Northridge

Derrick Bonyuet-Lee, CPA, CGMA, University of Texas at Austin and Huston-Tillitson University

Regina Brown, Dallas County Community College District – Eastfield

Ricardo Colon, JD, LLM, CPA, Lamar University

Ginger DeLatte, CPA, Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi

Tiffany DeLuze, DBA, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

Dennis Elam, CPA, Texas A&M University – San Antonio

Mary Beth Goodrich, CPA, University of Texas at Dallas

Dr. Marina Grau, CPA, Houston Community College

Jessica Hazel, CPA, McLennan Community College

Narita Holmes, CPA, University of Texas Permian Basin

LaPortia Hurse, Dallas County Community College District – Brookhaven

Selena Jefferies, CPA, Texas A&M University – Texarkana

Dr. Michael Kraten, CPA, University of Houston

Anne-Marie Lelkes, Ph.D., CPA, CMA, Texas A&M University – Kingsville

Yongli Luo, Houston Christian University

Kristy McDermott, CPA, Austin Community College – Round Rock

Dr. Arpita Shroff, CPA, University of Houston – Downtown

Kathleen Moffitt, CPA, CIA, Texas State University

Celinda Moore, CPA, Texas Tech University,

Dr. Renee Olvera, CPA, Texas Christian University

Julia Frink, Tarrant County College – Connect

Patrick Grewe, Tarrant County College – Northeast

Marsha Peters, Dallas County Community College District – Mountain View

Jacqueline Pierson, CPA, CFF, Lone Star College – CyFair

Dr. Richard Pitre, CPA, Texas Southern University

April Poe, CPA, University of the Incarnate Word

Daniel Puhl, CPA, Sam Houston State University

Dr. Laci Richardson, CPA, Lubbock Christian University

Sarah Robertson, CPA, University of Texas at El Paso

Jawanna Sanderson, CPA, Sul Ross State University

Stacie Smith, Kilgore College

Shanshan Pan, University of Houston – Clear Lake

Larry Stephens, CPA, Austin Community College – South Austin

Stephanie Swaim, CPA, Dallas County Community College District – North Lake

Jay Thibodeaux, II, CPA, Austin Community College – Eastview

Charles Thomas, Jr, CPA, CGMA, Tarleton State University

Linda R. Vaello, CPA, University of Texas at San Antonio

Dr. Robert Walsh, CPA, University of Dallas

Dr. Kimberly Webb, CPA, Texas Wesleyan University

Denise White, Austin Community College – Cypress Creek

Sunita White, CPA, Trinity University

Veronda Willis, CPA, CGMA, University of Texas at Tyler

Patricia Wynn, CPA, CMA, CGMA, CFE, CSCA, University of North Texas at Dallas

Ziyun (Calvin) Yang, University of Houston – Victoria

Jaye Simpson, Tarrant County College Northwest

Student Ambassadors

Abdul Aweda, Texas State University – San Marcos

Erica Acosta, Texas A&M University – San Antonio

Gabriela Benavides, University of Texas at San Antonio

Noel Casino, St. Mary's University

Emilio Castaneda, University of Texas at Austin

Gail O’Banner, University of North Texas at Dallas

Nelson Rose, Trinity University

Vaishnavi Jayaraman, University of Houston

Rosa Son, Houston Christian University

Amanda Perrin, Schreiner University

Ninelle Gutierrez, University of Texas at El Paso

John Varghese, Dallas County Community College District

Lenora Williams, Midwestern State University

Alma Martinez, Del Mar College

Ashley Bynum, Texas Wesleyan University

Ayham Rached, University of Texas at Dallas

Erin McSpadden, University of North Texas

Fei Song, University of Texas at Austin

Iman Raji, Huston-Tillotson University

Javier Solis Jr., Dallas County Community College District – Eastfield

Min Tan, Austin Community College

Nubia Hayes, Prairie View A&M University

Sally Simmons, Lubbock Christian University

Shalisa Smith, Tarrant County Community College

 

Thanks to the Sponsors of Today's CPA Magazine

This content was made possible by the sponsors of this issue of Today's CPA Magazine: 

Accounting Biz Brokers

Accounting Practice Sales

CPA Charge

Goodman Financial

Poe Group Advisors




  • Building the CPA Pipeline: A Faculty Perspective

    The CPA profession faces a shrinking pipeline, with fewer candidates entering the field even as demand grows. Faculty research highlights strategies to boost Exam success to better equip students, especially first-generation and future candidates under Texas’ new additional licensure pathway. Strengthening these supports is key to preparing the next generation of CPAs and securing the profession’s future.
    View Article
  • CPE: Joint Ventures and Equity Method Accounting

    Joint ventures enable organizations to combine resources under shared control to achieve strategic objectives, yet their accounting treatment has often posed challenges. To address this, FASB issued ASU 2023-05. This article examines the new guidance and its implications for equity method accounting.
    View Article
  • From Pipeline to Mobility: TXCPA Champions Two Major Wins for the Accounting Profession

    TXCPA achieved two landmark victories at the 89th Texas Legislature: an additional CPA licensure pathway for candidates and a modernized mobility law that strengthens practice standards in Texas. These wins not only expand opportunities for future CPAs but also set a precedent for other states, reinforcing TXCPA’s role as a leading advocate for the profession’s future.
    View Article
  • Finding Community and Purpose: Mariella Bosquez’s Journey in Accounting and TXCPA Houston

    Mariella Bosquez’s path to accounting was anything but traditional, but through TXCPA Houston she found both community and purpose. From psychology major to active student leader, her story shows how diverse backgrounds, mentorship and involvement can open doors and inspire the next generation of CPAs.
    View Article
  • Saved by the Byrd Rule: PCAOB Survives the One Big, Beautiful Bill

    Lawmakers looked to eliminate the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) by folding its duties into the SEC, but the effort was blocked under Senate budget rules. Supporters argued the move would save money, while critics warned it would weaken audit oversight and investor protection. For now, PCAOB remains intact.
    View Article
  • TXCPA’s 2024-2025 Outstanding Chapter Awards Recognize Leadership, Service and Impact

    TXCPA’s Outstanding Chapter Awards celebrate small and medium-sized chapters that go above and beyond in leadership, service and community impact. This year, the San Angelo, East Texas and Rio Grande Valley chapters were recognized. Together, their achievements highlight the dedication and creativity shaping the profession.
    View Article
  • Your Old Plan vs. a Better Plan: How Accounting Firms Can Attract More CAS Clients

    Many firms still rely on outdated, exhausting methods like cold calls, referrals and random networking to win CAS clients - but those days are over. By embracing SEO, accounting firms can attract a steady stream of qualified, high-value clients who are already searching for their services, resulting in more revenue, stronger client relationships and the freedom to focus on delivering value.
    View Article
  • What’s Happening Around Texas - September-October 2025

    From networking luncheons and campus connections to hospital tours and a gathering at the Rusty Axe Brewing Co., members in Brazos Valley, Dallas, East Texas, and El Paso came together in a variety of ways. Professionals and students are finding community, inspiration, camaraderie, and fresh opportunities while chapters are setting bold visions for growth.
    View Article
  • Celebrating Our 2025-2026 TXCPA Faculty and Student Ambassadors!

    Through our Ambassador Program, TXCPA works with Texas educators and students each year to share resources and engage the next generation of CPAs, building connections on campuses across the state. TXCPA Ambassadors help us strengthen our presence and learn more about what we can do to help build and support the CPA pipeline.
    View Article
  • Stronger Together: Empowering the Next Generation

    The September/October issue of TXCPA’s magazine shines a spotlight on building the CPA pipeline and supporting future professionals. The issue is packed with ways to grow and stay connected. Most importantly, it’s a reminder that the future of our profession is built together - with your passion, time and voice.
    View Article
  • TXCPA Pipeline Resources at a Glance

    TXCPA’s Pipeline Resources offer something for everyone in the accounting pipeline — students, candidates, educators, and employers. Whether you’re exploring the field, teaching it or hiring talent, TXCPA connects you to the tools, people and opportunities that make an impact.
    View Article
  • The Statement of GreenHouse Gas Emissions

    Global standards for climate disclosure are rapidly evolving and companies are under pressure to measure and report indirect emissions across their value chains. A proposed Statement of GreenHouse Gas Emissions could give investors and stakeholders clearer, more comparable insights into corporate sustainability performance.
    View Article
  • 110 Years Strong: TXCPA Returns to Its Roots at the Tremont House

    TXCPA marked its 110th anniversary by returning to the historic Tremont House, celebrating a legacy of leadership while setting bold goals for the future. From legislative victories and a new tiered membership model to expanded student outreach and the launch of AcctoFi, the organization is driving transformation across advocacy, education and member engagement.
    View Article
  • Take Note

    In this edition of Take Note: Insurance Benefits Tailored for TXCPA Members; Enhancing Your Social Wellness; Stand Out as a Leader with the CGMA® Designation; TXCPA’s Career Center; Your Next Learning Opportunity
    View Article
  • Classifieds

    The classified ad section features listings for practice sales, firm buyers and specialized services. Whether you're expanding, selling or exploring niche opportunities, these ads connect you to valuable prospects and resources.
    View Article

CHAIR
Mohan Kuruvilla, Ph.D., CPA

PRESIDENT/CEO
Jodi Ann Ray, CAE, CCE, IOM

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Melinda Bentley, CAE

EDITORIAL BOARD CHAIR
Jennifer Johnson, CPA

MANAGER, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Peggy Foley
pfoley@tx.cpa

MANAGING EDITOR
DeLynn Deakins
ddeakins@tx.cpa

COLUMN EDITOR
Don Carpenter, MSAcc/CPA

DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Wayne Hardin, CDMP, PCM®

CLASSIFIEDS
DeLynn Deakins

Texas Society of CPAs
14131 Midway Rd., Suite 850
Addison, TX 75001
972-687-8550
ddeakins@tx.cpa

 

Editorial Board
Derrick Bonyuet-Lee, CPA-Austin;
Aaron Borden, CPA-Dallas;
Don Carpenter, CPA-Central Texas;
Rhonda Fronk, CPA-Houston;
Aaron Harris, CPA-Dallas;
Baria Jaroudi, CPA-Houston;
Elle Kathryn Johnson, CPA-Houston;
Jennifer Johnson, CPA-Dallas;
Lucas LaChance, CPA-Dallas, CIA;
Nicholas Larson, CPA-Fort Worth;
Anne-Marie Lelkes, CPA-Corpus Christi;
Bryan Morgan, Jr, CPA-Austin;
Stephanie Morgan, CPA-East Texas;
Kamala Raghavan, CPA-Houston;
Amber Louise Rourke, CPA-Brazos Valley;
Shilpa Boggram Sathyamurthy, CPA-Houston, CA
Nikki Lee Shoemaker, CPA-East Texas, CGMA;
Natasha Winn, CPA-Houston.

CONTRIBUTORS
Melinda Bentley; Kenneth Besserman; Kristie Estrada; Holly McCauley; Craig Nauta; Kari Owen; John Ross; Lani Shepherd; April Twaddle; Patty Wyatt