Schedule

Speakers

Danger Deactivated

In this thought-provoking presentation, we delve into the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), privacy, and intellectual property. Discover how the rapid advance of technology has challenged our control over personal and customer information and creative works, and how AI's capabilities blur the line between innovation and intrusion. We will examine the impact on our fundamental survival skills, questioning whether our reliance on technology has made us more or less secure in an increasingly connected world.

Speaker: Alexandra Panaretos

Alexandra Panaretos, Proofpoint's Director of Professional Services - mPSAT
University of Kentucky, 2000, Broadcast Journalism & Communications

Alexandra Panaretos is a highly sought-after speaker for cybersecurity events and a leading expert in human behavior-based cyber risk management and education. Her background in broadcasting and operational security, along with her expertise in secure communications, awareness program development, and behavior analytics, make her one of the foremost thought leaders in the industry.

With over 15 years of experience, Alex has successfully implemented executive personal security, operational security planning, insider threat and incident response programs, and security awareness, communication, and education strategies for Fortune 50/100 companies and other global enterprises. She holds an OPSEC Manager II certification from the U.S. Army and the Joint Information Operations Warfare Center (JIOWC).

In addition to her professional work, Alex volunteers with local law enforcement agencies to educate parents, community groups, and youth organizations on information security and social media safety.

The Future of a Career in Taxation

The discussion will cover how technology may impact the future of the tax profession.

Speaker from FORVIS: Chris Kramer

Chris has more than 35 years of public accounting experience, assisting clients with tax compliance, planning, entity restructuring, mergers and acquisitions structuring and consulting and other tax matters. He is the East Region tax leader for BKD National Manufacturing & Distribution Group and also works with clients in health care, construction, real estate development, professional services, retail and other industries. He provides leadership for Forvis's tax merger and acquisition practice, providing tax diligence for both buyers and sellers, structuring and transaction consulting.

He is a licensed CPA in Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky and a member of the American Institute of CPAs since 1987. He has spoken at national and local seminars and authored numerous articles relating to various aspects of taxation and tax mergers and acquisitions.

Chris currently serves on the board of directors for the Kentucky Humane Society and served as the past chairman on the board of directors for Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana.

Chris is a graduate of George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, with a B.S. degree in accounting.

Private Equity and the Role of Accounting

This breakout session will be an exploration of Private Equity and the multifaceted roles that accounting plays in this finance-driven domain. In a panel-style presentation representing MiddleGround, four seasoned professionals from our firm will share diverse perspectives on how their profound accounting expertise has significantly contributed to their individual and collective success.

Speakers from MiddleGround Capital: David Walden, Kelly Myers, Jose Acevado, Tanner Thompson

David Walden

David is a Vice President on the Transaction Team based in Lexington, KY. He was MiddleGround's first hire on the Transaction Team and was critical in helping MiddleGround close the acquisition of Alco Manufacturing, where he serves on the Board. David joins us from J.P. Morgan where he spent three years as a Consumer investment banker focused on M&A transactions. David received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Accountancy from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina.

Kelly Myers

Kelly is a Managing Director, Operations based in our Kentucky Office. Kelly has been working in private equity since 2016, when she first started at Monomoy Capital. While driving value and strategic growth across parts of Monomoy's portfolio as an Operating Executive, Kelly served as the Chief Financial Officer of a Monomoy portfolio company, a $150 million wire harness and cable assembly business focused on low volume, high complexity, customized solutions for OEM customers. Prior to her time in PE, Kelly led the Internal Audit departments of Tempur Sealy International, Inc., a $5 billion manufacturer of mattresses and bedding products, and Zep Inc., an $800 million manufacturer of cleaning and maintenance products for industrial, institutional, food and beverage, vehicle care and retail customers. While in these roles, Kelly was responsible for acquisition integration, enterprise risk management, corporate governance, and Sarbanes Oxley compliance. Kelly spent the first 11 years of her career in public accounting with Big Four firms. While working in public accounting and industry, Kelly was an adjunct professor in the Colleges of Business at Eastern Kentucky University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga teaching Auditing and Principles of Accounting.

Jose Acevedo

Jose is the Management Company Controller based in our Kentucky office. Originally from Venezuela, Jose moved to the States to attend the University of Kentucky where he received his Bachelor degree in Accounting. While at UK, Jose was a student-athlete on the track team, eventually going on to represent his home country of Venezuala in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Jose joins MiddleGround from a Controller/CFO position at the National Thoroughbred Racing Association!

Tanner Thompson

Tanner Thompson is a Fund Accountant in our Lexington office and currently a CPA candidate. Tanner graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2022 with a B.S. in Accounting, BBA in Finance, and BBA in Management. Tanner also worked towards an International Business Minor while studying at Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand. Prior to joining the MiddleGround Fund Accounting team full-time, Tanner held internships with UBS Financial Services, Blue & Co., and MiddleGround!

An Overview of Environmental, Social, and Governance Reporting

This session will furnish a comprehensive overview of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), encompassing essential regulations, reporting standards, and frameworks. Furthermore, it will delve into the proactive measures companies are presently undertaking to ensure compliance with impending reporting requisites.

Speakers from Crowe: Stephanie Garrison, Kristin McDonner

Stephanie Garrison is a Financial Services Senior Audit Manager in the Lexington, Kentucky office with over nine years of public accounting experience. During her career, Stephanie has spent the majority of her time focusing on public and private financial institutions ranging from $50 million to $45 billion in assets, providing financial statement audits, 10Q quarterly SEC reviews, and FDICIA, HUD, and Sarbanes Oxley compliance audits. Stephanie graduated from the University of Kentucky with both Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in Accounting. She is a CPA licensed in the state of Kentucky and is a member of the AICPA and KYCPA.

Kristin McDonner

Kristin McDonner is a Financial Services Audit Partner in the Louisville, Kentucky office with more than 20 years of public accounting experience. Kristin is a member of the Kentucky Society of Certified Public Accountants in on the Board of the Financial Institutions Industry Sub-Committee. Kristin frequently speaks on topics such as audit committee effectiveness, the current expected credit loss model for loans and leases and debt modifications. Kristin is a graduate Western Kentucky University with a B.S. degree in Accounting and a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a M.S. degree in Accounting. Kristin is also the parent of a current Wildcat.

2024 Hiring and Compensation Trends

Discover the innovative tactics hiring managers are employing to attract top-tier candidates and fortify retention strategies in the midst of this intricate employment landscape. Additionally, gain insights into the trajectory of salaries, spot the hottest jobs in the finance and accounting domains, and pinpoint the most sought-after skills. The demand for skilled professionals remains fiercely competitive. While some employers are adopting more strategic hiring approaches, and the recruitment process is getting more extensive, job openings remain at nearly record-breaking levels. Companies are aggressively growing their teams to bridge skill gaps and advance projects.

Speakers from Robert Half: Lisa James, Stacey Bowman

Lisa James

Senior Vice President, Practice Director

Stacey Bowman

Recruiting Manager

Unlock Opportunities with CPA and CMA Certification

Explore the World of Accounting: Unraveling the CMA vs. CPA Distinction.

Dive into the realm of accounting and unravel the differences between two prestigious designations: CMA (Certified Management Accountant) and CPA (Certified Public Accountant). Discover the educational prerequisites for each, and gain a succinct overview of the exams associated with these sought-after qualifications.

Speaker from Becker: Angie White

Angie is an experienced account manager at Becker, specializing in helping college students navigate the world of accounting exams and careers. With her understanding of the CPA and CMA exams, she speaks to college students about the intricacies of these exams and the various career opportunities in the field of accounting.

Angie is dedicated to ensuring that college students are well-prepared to take the CPA and CMA exams. She reviews state-specific requirements, along with the educational prerequisites needed to excel in these exams. Her passion lies in guiding students towards achieving their professional goals in accounting and helping them understand the pathway to becoming certified professionals.

Keynote Panel: “The Future is Here: How technology has changed the way we do business and what's on the horizon”

This dynamic panel will discuss the transformational power of technology that has revolutionized business practices, profoundly impacting the field of accounting. These changes have resonated across all sectors. The panel will feature a diverse group of professionals who will offer invaluable insights into the ongoing transformation, their visions for the future, and how, as a student, you can equip yourself for what lies ahead.

Speakers: Anne J. Brooks, David E. Tate, Greg Jordan, Kira Mingua, Stephanie White, Travis Frick

Anne J. Brooks

Anne is an Assurance Partner in PwC's Trust Solutions' Private practice recently relocated to Boston from Louisville with experience providing financial statement audit services and audits of internal control to both private and publicly held clients. She has more than 17 years of experience with PwC serving clients across a broad spectrum of industries including manufacturing, software & technology, retail & consumer, professional services, and distribution. Her experience includes private equity portfolio clients, family-owned businesses, and inbound operations.

Anne spent 3 years focused on developing and delivering digital products tailored for the franchise space. In this role, she has had experience in an extensive customer development process, technological feasibility assessment, product fit / roadmap studies, and go to market strategy development as well as gained a deep understanding of the overall franchise model and ecosystem.

Anne graduated from the University of Kentucky with both a Bachelor's and Master's of Science degree in Accounting. She is a CPA currently licensed in the states of Massachusetts and Kentucky and is a member of the AICPA, KYCPA, MassCPA and NABA. She serves on the Kentucky State Board of Accountancy, United Way of the Bluegrass Board, and on the Von Allmen School of Accountancy Advisory Board. She is active in recruiting and professional development activities for the firm as well as committed to helping others discover accounting at the high school and college level.

Anne is a proud parent of a current University of Kentucky Wildcat, Niya Gates. She loves trying new things - at least once. She enjoys boxing, ballet, and Orange Theory fitness and is currently taking lessons to learn how to play tennis and golf. Anne is passionate about continually developing herself and helping others grow into their fullest potential.

David E. Tate

David is managing partner of the Louisville and Evansville offices of FORVIS and has more than 30 years of public accounting experience. His primary responsibilities include administration, planning and operations for more than 100 personnel serving thousands of business and individual clients.

David is a member of the FORVIS National Health Care Group and provides financial and regulatory guidance for hospitals and health care systems across the country.

David is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, a member and former board member of Kentucky Society of Certified Public Accountants and a member and former president of the Kentucky Chapter of Healthcare Financial Management Association. He was named a “Partner in Health Care” by Business First in recognition of distinguished service in support and development of the Louisville health care community. He is a graduate of both Focus Louisville and Ignite Louisville.

David serves on the Accounting Advisory Board at the University of Kentucky and currently serves as a board member for Greater Louisville Inc.

He is a graduate of University of Kentucky, Lexington, with a B.S. degree in accounting.

Greg Jordan

Greg began his career at Nationwide in 2001 and has served in several Business and Finance leadership roles. Greg is currently, Senior Vice President & Chief Audit Executive, and is responsible for overseeing the Nationwide's Office of Internal Audit activities. In this role, Greg is responsible for reviewing and communicating the results of internal audit work and serves as a business partner and strategic advisor on various business cabinets. Greg previously held the positions of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Exclusive Channel Property & Casualty Operations and Vice President, Product Management for Nationwide Financial's Fixed and Offshore Annuities.

Greg's background prior to joining Nationwide included six years at The Midland Life Insurance Company/Swiss Re where he held several roles including Vice President Strategic Planning, Vice President Operations and Controller. Greg began his career with Ernst & Young where he spent 11 years and was a Senior Manager in the Insurance and Financial Services practice group. Greg is a graduate of The Ohio State University, a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor, Fellow in the Life Management Institute and has received his Certification in Risk Management Assurance. Greg serves as a member of The Columbus City Schools Audit and Accountability Committee, Board member for Lutheran Social Services, Board of Trustees for The Central Ohio Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and a member of IIA's International Exam Development Committee. Greg also frequently serves as a guest lecturer for various colleges and universities and speaker at IIA conferences and events.

Kira Mingua

Kira Mingua graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2004 with a Bachelors in Economics and a Bachelors in Accounting. She received her Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in 2006. In 2009, she earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Anderson University. She completed the requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant in 2015.
Kira was recruited from UK for a leadership development program with the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS), which provides the Department of Defense decision makers with business intelligence, finance and accounting information. In her eight years with DFAS, she received five promotions and was able to develop a variety of skills in financial reporting, process documentation, and business analytics. She was also recognized by the Department of the Army for her work with the Wounded in Action soldiers where she ensured that while they were healing they did not have to worry about financial issues with their pay or medical expenses. This work was incredibly rewarding.
Family is extremely important to Kira, so she took an opportunity to leave DFAS and work as a government contractor to move back home to Kentucky. There she utilized the expertise that she had gained at DFAS in government accounting.
In 2015, Kira was offered a role as controller for Bates Security where she has since been promoted to CFO. She runs all elements of the finance, accounting, and human resources for the company as a member of the executive team. It has been incredibly exciting to be part of a company that has grown by 128% in her time there to become the 32nd largest security company in North America. In her time there, she has been recognized for a wellness program she developed, selected for an advisory board for their ERP system, and asked to speak on numerous topics impacting the industry.
Kira is also passionate about helping others grow in their careers and has worked as an adjunct professor at different universities to share her real-world experience as they learn. She has also had the opportunity to mentor professionals early in their careers, and it has been terrific to watch them grow into the type of career they want to have. She has also volunteered as a committee member for the Lupus Foundation of America to plan an annual fundraising walk.
Outside of work, Kira is passionate about traveling and has visited 48 states and 8 countries and counting. She has enjoyed introducing her family to her love of travel and seeing where their individual journeys are taking them.

Stephanie White

Stephanie White has 25 years of banking experience in various capacities have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the financial services industry with expertise in accounting, financial reporting, risk management, operations and leadership. Her strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate leads to positive outcomes resulting in long-lasting relationships and long-term value to the clients she serves.

Travis Frick

Travis has over 24 years of public accounting experience. His areas of specialization include manufacturing and distribution, construction and tax-exempt organizations. He has extensive experience providing audit, accounting and advisory services to closely held businesses and organizations with international operations.