8:30-9:30 a.m. | Registration & Continental Breakfast
- Check In
- Networking with firms
- LinkedIn photos
- Light breakfast available
9:30-9:45 a.m. | Opening Remarks
Aiysha (AJ) Johnson, MA, IOM, CEO and Executive Director — New Jersey Society of CPAs
John Szczomak, CPA,2025/26 NJCPA President and Partner at Smolin, Lupin & Co.
- Welcome and overview of NJCPA
9:45-10:45 a.m. | Keynote Presentation — Leadership Redefined: Finding Your Voice, Changing the World
Nicole M. DeRosa, CPA, MAcc, Director of Tax — SKC & Co. CPAs, LLC
We all know firsthand that great leaders leave a lasting impression — they inspire, they motivate, and they are always in demand. Shape your path toward growth by finding your inner voice to lead with intention and begin to set yourself apart now. It’s never too early to start blazing your trail.
- Identify the essential skills and characteristics of a great leader.
- Find your inner voice/passion to begin leading with purpose.
- Define steps to build your brand and shape your legacy.
10:45 a.m.-12 p.m. | Level Up Your LinkedIn
Deidre Rock — Career Development Advisor, Composed Career LLC
- Roadmap for transforming LinkedIn into a career-building asset
- Interactive presentation (45 minutes + 15 minutes Q&A)
- Practical tools, real examples, polls/quizzes and actionable handouts
12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. | Lunch
- Lunch provided
- Networking with firms
- LinkedIn photos
1-2 p.m. | Financial Literacy and Planning for Early-Career Professionals
Abigail Bridge, Client Service Associate — Wiss
Ben Johnson, Client Service Associate — Wiss
Hunter Kolmodin, Client Service Associate — Wiss
- Introduction to financial literacy from a comprehensive financial planning perspective
- Overview of the financial planning profession and career insights
- Foundational money habits for long-term success
- Early investing strategies and key concepts
- How Wiss supports clients beyond traditional tax and accounting services
2-3 p.m. | The Fundamentals of Becoming a Gold Medal Speaker
George Ruthauser, Certified Public Speaking and Presentation Coach — GARVO Communications
Highly interactive, fun-filled workshop focused on:
- Using voice, body language and personal space
- Communicating with confidence in presentations, interviews and one-on-one conversations
- Becoming a compelling and confident communicator
3-3:15 p.m. | Afternoon Break
- Snacks and refreshments
- LinkedIn Photos
- Networking with Firms
3:15-4:15 p.m. | CPA Exam Essentials
Peter Olinto, CFA, J.D., CPA (inactive) — UWorld
- Understanding the Exam structure and timeline
- Study strategies and preparation tips
- Demystifying the path to CPA licensure
4:15-5 p.m. | Speed Networking with CPA Professionals
- Structured, timed rotations
- Conversations with CPAs from a variety of firm sizes and career paths
5-5:30 p.m. | Certificate Presentation, Reflection and Closing Remarks
- Presentation of NJCPA Accelerating Scholars in Accounting Certificates
- Group Photo