Accounting Students Gain Real-World Experience at Convention
July 2, 2026
Thirty Stockton Accounting students attended the New Jersey Society of CPAs Convention
& Expo at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa from June 16-19.
Atlantic City, N.J. — Stockton University’s School of Business continued its tradition of student engagement
at the New Jersey Society of CPAs (NJCPA) Convention & Expo, giving Accounting students a valuable opportunity to step outside the classroom and connect directly
with the profession.
Stockton was the first institution in New Jersey to bring students to the NJCPA Convention
& Expo — a tradition that began in 2017 when Stockton alumnus Dan Barbera partnered
with Associate Professor Barry Palatnik and generously committed financial support
to ensure student participation. This year, Stockton brought 30 students, contributing
to a record-breaking 110 student attendees overall at the convention, which was held
at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa from June 16-19.
“Stockton was the first institution to bring students to the NJCPA Convention, and
it is exciting to see how that original involvement has grown into more than 100 student
attendees,” said Christopher M. Lovasz, president of the NJCPA.
With more than 500 attendees and 80 vendors, the convention offered students a firsthand
look at career pathways in finance, auditing, taxation, advisory services and other
areas of accounting. The event highlighted how impactful early professional involvement
can be for students preparing to enter the field.
One of the most valuable aspects of the convention was the opportunity to network
with a wide range of professionals.
“I had the chance to connect with past presidents of the NJCPA, emerging leaders from
firms such as Deloitte, CLA and Withum, and other students who are also preparing
to enter the accounting profession,” said senior Elizabeth Jafolla. “This is my third
year coming, and each time I’ve left feeling like I made growth in starting my career.”
Breakout sessions tailored for students provided insight into the profession’s many
pathways. A panel of CPAs discussed their career journeys, offering candid perspectives
and advice. Another session featured Peter Olinto, one of the most recognized CPA
review instructors, who shared exam strategies and guidance for students considering
or preparing for the CPA exam. These sessions helped students build confidence, ask
meaningful questions, and better envision their future careers.
Students also benefited from two keynote speakers. Diana Kander, New York Times best-selling
author and innovation consultant, delivered “Unleash Your Curiosity,” emphasizing
curiosity, innovation and organizational culture as drivers of long-term success.
Morris Morrison presented “Disrupting Growth and Owning Opportunity,” inspiring students
with messages of leadership, resilience, personal ownership and growth.
Both speakers reinforced that success in accounting requires not only technical expertise
but also adaptability and curiosity. This opportunity would not have been possible
without the continued support of Barbera and Palatnik. Their efforts helped give students
access to an event that was not only educational but also motivating and impactful
for those beginning their careers in accounting.
Other student officers of the Accounting and Finance Society who attended include
John Meli, Stella Beliaeva, Christina Baldosaro, Liz Jafolla, Jackson Van, Evan Zita,
Kevin Esposito and Mohammad Hassan.
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