LEXINGTON, Ky., March 14, 2025 — The Gatton College of Business and Economics recently hosted Brad White, defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach for UK Football, as the keynote speaker for this year's Honesty, Integrity, and Professionalism (HIP) event for students, faculty, staff and alumni held Feb. 28.
This year's event focused on the critical theme of ethical leadership. White's extensive background in the accounting field, including completing his master’s degree at Wake Forest as a student athlete and a successful career at Bank of America before his transition to coaching, makes him uniquely qualified to address the importance of ethics in the business world. His diverse experiences have provided him with a deep understanding of how to build and lead successful teams — emphasizing the significance of character and ethical conduct.
In addition to his presentation, White sat down with Ben Commerford, associate professor, and Landon Marcum, current accounting student and UK Football team member, for a conversation about the importance of balance when juggling multiple high-demand responsibilities. For both White and Marcum, they understand how staying flexible and maintaining integrity is the key to success in this area.
“Coach White’s journey — from earning a master's in accounting to thriving in coaching —shows that no matter your major or first job, the knowledge and skills you gain in college can open doors you never expected,” Ben Commerford, Arthur Andersen Associate Professor said. “I hope our students better understand that getting your degree not only provides knowledge and skills but also builds character, all of which are transferable to wherever life takes you."
White’s accomplishments demonstrate the importance of strategic decision-making, teamwork and integrity in achieving success, which are principles that are equally applicable to the business world. His insights provided students, faculty, staff and alumni with valuable perspectives on how to effectively navigate complex ethical challenges, while inspiring them to establish and maintain habits of honesty and professionalism.
“Beyond thankful for the opportunity to speak with our UK business students on a topic that resonates so deeply with me. Integrity is the foundational element on which all successful organizations and cultures are built,” White said. “ I hope my journey from accounting student to SEC football coach helped provide a little tangibility to a less than tangible topic.”
The HIP event aims to be a comprehensive platform for students to not only enhance their ethical leadership skills but also to navigate current trends in the professional landscape. This year, approximately 400 individuals participated in the learning experience. The conference explored topics such as:
Identifying in-demand skills and the hottest jobs in finance and accounting, helping professionals stay ahead in a competitive market.
Strategies for organizations to attract top talent, and for accounting professionals to position themselves as leading candidates.
Besides the Keynote presentation, the event included 16 other breakout sessions for attendees.
Presenters came from many different backgrounds and companies and spoke on topics ranging from CPA informational sessions to AI and data to personal branding. Other speakers included: Tara Bilby, Alvarez and Marsal; Mark Whelan and Sarah Meehan, TRS; Stacey Bowman, Robert Half; Paige Dauparas and Brian Buchanan, PwC; Bob Gayhardt, Uworld; Ashley Williamson & Thomas Carver, Forvis Mazars; Dan Mitzenmacher, Cherry Bekaert; Ali Strohm, EY; Bekah Erickson, RFH; Aaron Brewer, Diane Isdith, Logan Carlisle, Kyle Nutgrass, and Chancellor Caldwell, Yum!
