Agenda
Wednesday, August 26
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM
100: Inside What’s Shaping Today’s CPA Profession
AI driven transformation versus future workforce needs. Outside investment versus independence. Innovation versus regulation. Gain an insider’s perspective as the Society’s thought leaders share their insights on the issues, opportunities, and challenges driving the profession’s future. Learn how to connect the disconnects emerging in a rapidly evolving environment and strategically lead your teams, clients, and companies forward.
Geoffrey Brown, CAE
President and CEO, Illinois CPA Society
Mark W. Wolfgram, CPA, MST
Chairperson, Illinois CPA Society and Tax Director, Bel Brands USA Inc.
4:20 PM – 5:10 PM
125: Structuring Your Team for Success: Talent, Culture, and Capability
AI is reshaping what high-performing teams look like—changing leadership expectations, workforce structures, and the skills needed to succeed. Unpack how to build talent strategies, development paths, and cultures that thrive in an AI-augmented business environment.
Valeria Gutowski, CPA
SVP, Finance and Chief Accounting Officer, Norstella
TAX & STRATEGIC ADVISORY TRACK SESSIONS
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM
103: Tax Incentives: Turning Complexity Into Opportunity
Navigate today’s evolving tax landscape and uncover strategic opportunities hidden within key federal tax incentives. Explore practical applications of R&D tax credits, renewable energy incentives, cost segregation, Sections 179D, and 45L, and other planning strategies that can deliver value and support firm growth.
Randy Crabtree, CPA | President, The Brainstorm Group
10:35 AM – 11:25 AM
107: Not-for-Profit Tax Update
Stay current on key federal and state tax developments impacting tax-exempt organizations, including recent court decisions, IRS priorities, and compliance trends. Explore evolving standards for tax-exempt status, Form 990 redesign efforts, and group exemption rules, while gaining practical insights into how these changes impact governance, planning, and compliance.
Jess Wagener, CPA | Senior Manager, EY LLP
11:35 AM – 12:25 PM
111: Tax Deferred Mitigation of Business: Understanding the 831 (b) Tax Code
Session Sponsor: SRA 831 (b) Admin
Review IRC 831(b) micro-captive insurance, including its legislative history, qualification requirements, tax and accounting implications, investment guidelines, and IRS enforcement actions. Learn how to evaluate opportunities and risks, identify compliant plan structures, and position yourself as a trusted advisor in this increasingly important area of tax planning.
Peter Dawson | Tax Attorney and Advisor, SRA 831 (b) Admin
1:10 PM – 2:00 PM
115: The U.S. Cannabis Industry: Growth, Regulation, and Reality
Hear from leaders at one of the cannabis industry’s leading publicly traded multistate operators for a timely update. Gain a high-level overview of the evolving regulatory landscape and the key trends shaping the industry today.
Aaron Miles | Chief Investment Officer, Verano Holdings Corp.
Rich Tarapchak, CPA | Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Controller, Verano Holdings Corp.
2:10 PM – 3:00 PM
119: SALT Update
Identify the key sales and use tax trends shaping compliance and audit risk in 2026. Discover practical strategies for managing multistate exposure, controlling costs, and identifying recovery opportunities.
Bill Flick | Managing Director, EisnerAmper
Robert T. Tighe, CPA, MST, CVA | Partner in Charge-Chicago Northwest, EisnerAmper
3:15 PM – 4:05 PM
123: Inside the Latest SSTS Updates
CPAs must adhere to the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the Statements on Standards for Tax Services (SSTSs), including updated guidance on technology use and protecting client data. Explore how technology can improve efficiency while maintaining professional judgment, ethical responsibilities, and data security.
Luis V. Plascencia, CPA, MST | Principal, Luis V. Plascencia, CPA
LEADERSHIP & WORKFORCE TRACK SESSIONS
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM
102: Maintaining Ethical Objectivity and Independence
Independence challenges can arise in even the most routine client relationships. Hear cautionary tales of when lines were crossed, review guidance from the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and Circular 230, and explore safeguards that help maintain objectivity and integrity.
Kathy A. Enstrom, MBA, EA, CFE | Chief Operating Officer and Director of Investigations, Moore Tax Law Group LLC
Lauren Darwit, JD, Attorney | Moore Tax Law Group LLC
10:35 AM – 11:25 AM
106: Built Differently: The Future of Leadership in the Accounting Profession
The accounting profession is evolving, yet many organizations still rely on leadership models that contribute to burnout, disengagement, and talent loss. Explore how vulnerable leadership, intentional culture design, and a people-first mindset can strengthen trust, improve engagement, and align accountability and performance to support sustainable growth.
Randy Crabtree, CPA | President, The Brainstorm Group
11:35 AM – 12:25 PM
110: The CPA Advantage: Why Public Accounting Talent Is Driving Today’s Job Market
Session Sponsor:
Public accounting remains one of the profession’s most valuable training grounds, but the expectations and opportunities it creates are evolving. Explore how employers value public accounting experience today, why those skills are so transferable, and how to position yourself for future career opportunities.
Doug Lowery | Chief Revenue Officer, Brilliant
1:10 PM – 2:00 PM
114: Junk Drawer Leadership: Clear the Clutter and Lead With Purpose
Strong leaders regularly reassess the tools, habits, and assumptions shaping how they lead. Use a structured self-assessment to evaluate what’s working, identify what’s outdated, and develop a more intentional and adaptable leadership approach.
Jason Wyatt | CEO and Founder, 1LEAD Consulting
2:10 PM – 3:00 PM
118: The Human Factor: Why Smart People Miscommunicate, Misjudge, and Make Bad Decisions
Explore the hidden forces that shape communication, behavior, judgment, and decision-making. Discover why people often react unpredictably, how environments influence outcomes, and why even highly intelligent professionals can make poor decisions under pressure.
Adam J. San Juan | Managing Director, Retirement and Wealth Strategies
3:15 PM – 4:05 PM
122: The Pattern Series: How Silence is Manufactured and What to Do About It
Uncover the patterns that suppress feedback, discourage healthy disagreement, and erode trust and collaboration. Discover practical ways to respond without shrinking, escalating, or sacrificing dignity when conflict enters the room.
Adam J. San Juan | Managing Director, Retirement and Wealth Strategies
A&A & FINANCE TRACK SESSIONS
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM
101: FASB Update
Stay ahead of the latest accounting developments by exploring the FASB’s near-term priorities and projects. Review recently issued standards and understand their impact on financial reporting and disclosures.
Noah Antonneau, CPA | Manager, National Office – Accounting and Reporting Services, Deloitte & Touche LLP
10:35 AM – 11:25 AM
105: Auditing Update: Key Developments Shaping 2026
Keep pace with the latest auditing developments impacting year-end audits, including SAS No. 146 and SAS No. 149. Gain insight into current AICPA Auditing Standards Board projects and what they could mean for future audit standards and practice.
Melanie Barthel, CPA, CPCU | Partner, Johnson Lambert LLP
11:35 AM – 12:25 PM
109: Trends in Financial Crimes
Tax professionals are increasingly on the front lines of financial crime risk. Examine emerging tax-related financial crime trends, evolving federal enforcement priorities, and the practical red flags practitioners should recognize during client engagements.
Kathy A. Enstrom, MBA, EA, CFE | Chief Operating Officer and Director of Investigations, Moore Tax Law Group LLC
1:10 PM – 2:00 PM
113: Beyond Compliance: NFP Accounting and Auditing in 2026
Stay current on the developments shaping the not-for-profit sector, including emerging accounting standards and recently issued auditing guidance. Gain practical insights into implementation challenges and best practices to strengthen compliance and financial reporting.
Paul Preziotti, CPA | Partner, Johnson Lambert LLP
2:10 PM – 3:00 PM
117: Between the Books and the Mission: Audit Culture and NFP Realities
Examine how regulatory and donor-driven requirements shape not-for-profit operations, funding decisions, and the balance between mission integrity and financial accountability. Explore how auditors can better partner with organizations to support more effective, collaborative outcomes.
Ruth O. Udoh | Donor Relations Assistant, Northern Illinois University Foundation (REMOTE PRESENTER)
3:15 PM – 4:05 PM
121: Becoming a More Effective Board Member
Review key board responsibilities and fiduciary duties, including policy oversight, conflicts of interest, and confidentiality safeguards. Explore the board and CEO relationship, along with the role of forensic audits in organizational oversight and accountability.
Larry H. James | Managing Partner, Amundsen Davis Law
TECHNOLOGY & TRANSFORMATION TRACK SESSIONS
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM
104: The Future of Tax Prep: Automation, AI, and the Evolving CPA Firm
Session Sponsor: 
Automation and AI are transforming tax preparation workflows, client expectations, and firm operations. Examine where technology creates efficiency, where human expertise remains essential, and how organizations can adapt to remain competitive.
Jaideep Singh | Co-Founder and CEO, FlyFin
10:35 AM – 11:25 AM
108: Unlocking New Revenue Opportunities for Independent CPAs
Discover practical, revenue-generating strategies to help independent CPAs expand services, deepen client relationships, and increase profitability. Learn how charitable giving strategies, life insurance planning, and investment credits can create new opportunities for client value.
Delante Greer, ChFEBC | Financial Planner, Opulentia LLC
11:35 AM – 12:25 PM
112: AI Adoption Paradox: Why We Struggle to Scale AI
Session Sponsor: 
AI adoption in accounting is no longer about awareness—it’s about execution. Examine why many organizations remain stuck in pilot programs instead of achieving meaningful business impact. Learn how those leading the way are redesigning workflows, overcoming resistance, and building AI-ready teams.
Varun Jain, CPA, CMA | Founder and CEO, Miles Masterclass
1:10 PM – 2:00 PM
116: AI-Enhanced Spreadsheet Transformation for Accountants
Discover how AI tools can enhance everyday workflows, streamline complex spreadsheet processes, and transform existing Excel workbooks into dynamic and interactive web applications for everything from tax calculations to client deliverables.
James Harmon | AI Consultant, XoSelf AI
2:10 PM – 3:00 PM
120: AI Cyber Threats in 2026: The SMB Security Playbook
Cybercriminals are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, creating new cybersecurity and governance risks for organizations of all sizes. Examine emerging threats, practical safeguards, and evolving approaches to securing AI systems and business data.
Jerry Irvine, CISSP, CISM, CeH, CISA, CRISC, GICSP, CGEIT, CASP, CBCP, CIPT, ITIL, CNE, MCSE, CCNA, CCNP, CCDA, CCDP | CIO and Partner, Prescient Solutions
3:15 PM – 4:05 PM
124: Let’s Taco Bout Relationships and Service
Define the client experience lifecycle and explore the role human connection plays in business success. Develop practical strategies to strengthen relationships, build trust, create meaningful experiences, and drive long-term loyalty.
Stephanie Z. Gandsey | Founder, Leadership Extension Consulting
Thursday, August 27
8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
200: U.S. Economic Outlook: A New Landscape
The U.S. economy has demonstrated resiliency in the face of volatile tariff and foreign policy. But what does the future hold? As inflation continues above the Fed’s target, and structural challenges persist, discuss the likely path of the economy, the opportunities and risks of AI, labor market challenges, and the direction of interest rates.
Jeffrey Korzenik
Chief Investment Strategist, Fifth Third Bank
David Snyder
President and CEO, The Economic Club of Chicago
3:45 PM – 5:00 PM
221: Tech Update: Navigating What’s Next
Receive a clear, practical look at the technologies shaping the future of accounting, from AI and SaaS innovation to APIs, automation, and cybersecurity. Cut through the noise and focus on actionable trends that can improve efficiency, client service, and competitiveness.
Randy Johnston, MCS
Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises
TAX & STRATEGIC ADVISORY TRACK SESSIONS
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
203: The Retirement Readiness Roadmap
Gain a practical roadmap for retirement planning—from maximizing workplace retirement plans and lifetime income options to navigating withdrawals, taxes, health care costs, and long-term financial sustainability.
Rita Fiumara, CIMA, CRPS | Senior Vice President, Investments, UBS
Bruce Lanser, CIMA, CRPC, CPRS, AIF | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant, UBS
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
207: International Tax Update
Explore the sweeping international tax changes introduced under H.R. 1 and what they mean for planning, structuring, and compliance. Gain practical insights into new rules, reporting obligations, and the risks and opportunities facing closely held businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and their advisors.
Mark S. Gallegos, CPA, MST | Partner, Porte Brown LLC
12:35 PM – 1:25 PM
211: Business Tax Update
Receive a timely update on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and other key tax, regulatory, and administrative changes impacting businesses. Analyze developments affecting deductions, credits, entity planning, and compliance, along with key considerations for advising clients in a shifting tax landscape.
Jessica Egenasi, CPA | Tax Director, Aprio Advisory Group LLC
Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST | Midwest Region Tax Lead and Partner, Aprio Advisory Group LLC
1:35 PM – 2:25 PM
215: Transaction-Driven Tax Planning Strategies
Hear an update on transaction-driven tax planning strategies, including Type F reorganizations and Section 1202 qualified small business stock. Explore how recent changes impact entity structure, ownership, and long-term tax planning opportunities and risks.
Jason Luksis, EA | Tax Director, Aprio Advisory Group LLC
Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST | Midwest Region Tax Lead and Partner, Aprio Advisory Group LLC
2:40 PM – 3:30 PM
219: Individual Tax Update
Get a timely update on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and other key individual tax changes impacting deductions, credits, planning, and compliance. Walk away with practical insights and action steps for helping clients navigate an evolving tax landscape.
Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST | Midwest Region Tax Lead and Partner, Aprio Advisory Group LLC
Alfredo Vitaller Liria, CPA | Senior Tax Manager, Aprio Advisory Group LLC
LEADERSHIP & WORKFORCE TRACK SESSIONS
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
202: Age in Action: How Generations Work (and Sometimes Collide) Toward Innovation
Every generation brings a different workplace style and perspective. Take a humorous look at the defining traits of generations from the Silent Generation to Gen Alpha while exploring common friction points—and the innovation diverse teams can unlock together.
Becky Gabany, M.A., CDE, CDP, CPCHE, Owner and Principal Consultant, ChangeBridge Consulting
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
206: Overwhelmed to Organized: Tools for Thriving in a Fast-Paced World
Turn workplace chaos into clarity with practical strategies for managing emails, calendars, notes, and projects more efficiently. Learn actionable techniques—from filing systems and color coding to AI-powered tools—to streamline workflows and reduce workload stress.
Becky Gabany, M.A., CDE, CDP, CPCHE, Owner and Principal Consultant, ChangeBridge Consulting
12:35 PM – 1:25 PM
210: Full Throttle Leadership: The Ultimate KPI to Ignite Elite Performance
Move beyond outdated leadership models and learn how to become a visionary servant leader who inspires stronger team performance. Explore strategies for unlocking full potential through a powerful focus on meaningful KPIs.
Dennis Mellen, M.S., Owner/Founder, Full Throttle Leadership
1:35 PM – 2:25 PM
214: The Realities of Adopting New Systems and Processes
Take a candid look at why accounting and finance transformations succeed or stall. From cultural resistance to system sprawl, understand how to navigate change with greater clarity, alignment, and strategy.
Dan Rinaldi, CPA | Enterprise Account Executive, Workday
2:40 PM – 3:30 PM
218: Building the Workforce That Builds the Business
Talent strategy has become central to finance leadership. Explore how leading organizations align workforce planning with digital transformation to build agile teams that grow with the business and advance finance priorities.
Dan Rinaldi, CPA | Enterprise Account Executive, Workday
A&A & FINANCE TRACK SESSIONS
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
201: The Hidden Compliance Crisis: How 2026 Changes to CPA Licensing and Mobility Laws Will Impact Firms
Session Sponsor:
Translate complex licensing changes into practical business guidance while uncovering key compliance risks, operational blind spots, and trends from recent state board enforcement actions. Discover actionable steps to strengthen governance, protect growth plans, and future proof your firm.
David Duckwitz, CPA | Partner-in-Charge of Assurance Quality, Citrin Cooperman
Julia Woislaw | VP – Strategic Partnerships & Regulatory Affairs, CPA QualityPro
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
205: Operational vs. Technical Financial Reporting
Explore the critical differences between operational and technical accounting—and why both are essential to modern finance. Learn how to balance decision-making insights with the precision required for compliance, revenue recognition, M&A activity, and financial reporting.
Matt Murray, CPA | Co-Owner, Prairie Forge LLC
12:35 PM – 1:25 PM
209: From Exit to Execution: Strategic Planning and M&A for Long-Term Value
Analyze the CPA’s role in guiding clients through business exits, including strategic preparation and transition planning. Learn what to expect during the sell-side M&A process and how proactive planning can maximize value and support a smoother transaction.
Edwin J. Brooks, CPA | Principal, DHJJ Ltd.
Richard Burke, CPA, CGMA, CM&AA, MBA, LBB | Outsourced CFO and M&A Advisor, DHJJ Ltd.
1:35 PM – 2:25 PM
213: Corporate Fraud and Embezzlement: Detection and Mitigation Strategies
Delve into the latest fraud risks from procurement fraud to embezzlement schemes involving trusted personnel. Discover practical strategies for mitigating risk, identifying red flags, and using data analytics to detect irregularities earlier and strengthen organizational safeguards.
Stuart G. Berman, CFE, CAMS, PSP | Principal and Co-Founder, RSA Risk Management & Investigations
2:40 PM – 3:30 PM
217: ESOP Transactions: Structuring Ownership Transitions for Long-Term Value
Examine how employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) support ownership transition, liquidity, and long-term value creation. Gain a practical understanding of ESOP transaction structures, financing, and stakeholder roles to help evaluate their fit within broader succession planning.
Ashley Kirchner, Director, Corporate Advisory, BMO
TECHNOLOGY & TRANSFORMATION TRACK SESSIONS
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
204: Transactions to Transformations: Redefining Business in the Age of Aspiration
Explore how organizations are moving beyond fee-for-service models to help customers achieve outcomes like greater well-being, purpose, understanding, and prosperity. Learn how transformation-driven strategies can elevate both business performance and personal impact.
Ed Kless | Founder, THRESHOLD
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
208: Measure What Matters to Customers: Key Predictive Indicators
Discover why traditional efficiency metrics no longer fully capture value in today’s knowledge economy. Learn the difference between key performance indicators and key predictive indicators, and how to better measure human and intellectual capital.
Ed Kless | Founder, THRESHOLD
12:35 PM – 1:25 PM
212: Better Productivity Through AI and Automation Tools
Learn how tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Power Automate, and Zapier can streamline workflows and boost productivity. Explore key implementation risks and gain practical ideas for using automation to strengthen accuracy, controls, and team effectiveness.
Randy Johnston, MCS | Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises
1:35 PM – 2:25 PM
216: Strategic Outsourcing for Business Growth
Consider how outsourcing can help transform your practice and better serve middle-market clients. Hear how to streamline operations, improve client service, and maintain quality while determining what to outsource and how to manage it effectively.
Lisa Hanlon, CPA | Senior Managing Director, CBIZ
Amanda Pictor, CPA, M.A. | Director, CBIZ
2:20 PM – 3:30 PM
220: Agentic AI vs. Generative AI
Understand the differences between generative AI and emerging agentic AI systems, ranging from content creation to autonomous planning and execution. Discover how these technologies may reshape accounting workflows, controls, risk management, and advisory services.
Randy Johnston, MCS | Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises
Copyright, Illinois CPA Society
Powered by Sunflower Development Solutions