Accounting for the Future program aims to increase diversity in accounting careers

Wake Forest University School of Business has announced the launch of Accounting for the Future (AFTF), a new program dedicated to increasing diversity in the accounting field. The program is sponsored by Deloitte, a global provider of industry-leading audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services.

Selected college sophomores, juniors, and seniors from universities around the country will travel to Wake Forest University Friday, April 22 – Sunday, April 24 to learn more about the School of Business and accounting career opportunities. Through the program, students will gain knowledge of important accounting topics, participate in collaborative team-building activities, network with Deloitte professionals and learn more about the accounting profession through the firsthand experiences of Deloitte accountants.

“Diversity and equity are important factors in all professions and accounting is no exception. Deloitte’s sponsorship is a valuable investment that will enable more students to experience what the accounting profession has to offer and help address racial and ethnic disparities as we work toward a more inclusive and diverse profession,” said Michelle Roehm, Interim Dean and Peter C. Brockway Chair of Strategic Management.

The sponsorship by Deloitte is part of Deloitte’s Making Accounting Diverse and Equitable (MADE), a $75 million commitment to fuel greater racial and ethnic diversity in accounting and tax. MADE represents a bold vision for the accounting profession, both in terms of increasing diversity and helping students see and realize their future in business through the prism and possibilities of accounting.

“The accounting profession is at a pivotal moment, and we have the opportunity to directly address the unacceptably low number of racially and ethnically diverse CPAs through decisive, bold investments. It’s through collaboration with institutions like Wake Forest that we will address the complex and transformative issues facing the profession,” said Lara Abrash, Chief Executive Officer of Deloitte’s US Audit & Assurance business.

Travel and lodging expenses for the April event will be covered for all eligible participants. AFTF participants who later apply and are admitted to any Wake Forest School of Business Master of Science program will be guaranteed a minimum $15,000 scholarship.

“The Accounting for the Future program is designed to allow students to learn more about the School of Business and receive a better understanding of accounting career options. With Deloitte’s sponsorship, we are able to provide access to top-level professionals who can share their knowledge and experience with students. We are excited to offer this program that will help prepare students for successful careers in accounting,” said Mark Evans, Dale K. Cline Associate Dean for Accountancy and Associate Professor of Accountancy.

WFU Contact: Danyelle Gary, garyd@wfu.edu, 336.582.0622

Deloitte Contact: Faith Shea, fashea@deloitte.com, 212-436-2481