A Special Message from the INCOMING AND OUTGOING CHAIRS
The only constant is change.
Heraclitus, ancient Greek philosopher
This oft-quoted phrase feels more relevant these days than ever before, particularly in the accounting and information systems world. While change is often associated with uncertainty, it also presents opportunities for creativity and innovative problem solving. It is in this spirit that we bring you the Department newsletter for the 2024-25 academic year.
This issue represents a time of transition for our department, as Michael Peters steps down as chair after providing over 17 years of exceptional leadership and service. The faculty, students and staff that call our department home are very grateful for his time and thoughtful guidance and look forward to the new ways that he will continue to share his talents with us.
Stepping into the role of chair will be Jennifer Altamuro. Jennifer has been a VSB faculty member for over 10 years and has previously served as the faculty director of the Master of Accounting program. She is looking forward to meeting with current students, alumni and prospective employers to learn about the challenges and opportunities available for the next generation of VSB Accounting and MIS graduates.
In this issue, we provide some updates about several of our successful department initiatives, highlight the achievements of our students, and feature the contributions of our faculty in addition to recognizing some new additions. We specifically recognize Bill Wagner for his service as associate chair for MIS.
While many changes are occurring within the department, we are also being responsive to the changing business and regulatory environment in which we operate. Our MIS curriculum is constantly evolving, and our faculty are working with others across VSB to bring opportunities for our students to better understand and work with AI in a variety of ways. Our Accounting faculty are focused on the ever-changing pathways for CPA certification, and they are working together and with members of our Accounting Advisory Council to make sure that our students have the skillsets that they need to excel professionally and earn the CPA, regardless of which pathway they choose.
We hope you enjoy reading the newsletter and welcome your feedback. Please share what more you would like to see and how your experiences could be valuable to our faculty and students. To make this easier, we have included a QR code on page 16 that will take you right to a form you can use to share your news with us. While many things around us are changing, we hope that the VSB Accounting and IS department will continue to be a constant source of pride for you!
Regards,
Jennifer and Mike
Jennifer Altamuro Chair, Accounting & Information Systems jennifer.altamuro@villanova.edu
Michael Peters
Alvin A. Clay Professor of Accounting michael.peters@villanova.edu
PLACEMENT INFORMATION
UNDERGRADUATE ACCOUNTING
There were 113 undergraduate accounting students that graduated in May 2025. As in past years, it continues to be a strong job market for accounting professionals, with 98% of students placed by date of graduation. The chart to the left shows the undergraduate placement results broken down by career path.
GRADUATE ACCOUNTING
All but one graduate accounting student received and accepted a job offer by the time of graduation in May 2025, with the one student accepting an offer within three months of graduation. Career outcomes data is based on self-reported student data collected by the Graduate Programs Office. This data reflects a 100% knowledge rate of the 25 MAC and MBT graduates, with a degree conferral date of May 2025.
There were 23 students who graduated with an MIS major in May 2025. At the time of this writing, the placement results of the MIS majors were not available. However, based on what we know, we expect these results to be in line with prior years—specifically, a very high placement rate by graduation and most being placed in IT consulting and other positions in the field of information systems.
FACULTY NEWS
WELCOME NEW
FACULTY
Brian Grant, PhD, CPA , earned his BS in Business Administration (Accounting) and his Master of Accountancy degrees from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and he completed both his MBA and PhD in Accounting from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University-Bloomington. He joined VSB’s Accounting & Information Systems Department in the fall of 2024 as an assistant professor. Professionally, Dr. Grant was a manager at both PwC and KPMG in New York City and managed consulting and tax reform projects for prominent multinational companies.
Dr. Grant’s research focuses on international tax issues faced by multinational firms, and he currently teaches federal income tax.
FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS
Denise Downey, PhD, ’05 VSB, ’08 MAC, the KPMG Endowed Professor of Accounting, was promoted to full professor effective Fall 2025. Dr. Downey is currently the associate chair of Accounting and holds the KPMG Endowed Professorship in Accounting. She teaches auditing and financial accounting in our undergraduate program. Dr. Downey previously worked as an auditor at PwC and a financial analyst at Johnson and Johnson, served as senior Economic Research fellow at the PCAOB, and recently completed her role as a KPMG faculty fellow. As a faculty fellow, Dr. Downey worked with senior partners across the national office to evaluate research requests, identify research topics of interest, and evaluate metrics to help audit engagements. Dr. Downey served in this role for two years, ending what was a once-in-a-career experience that enhanced our national research reputation.
Karen Ton, PhD, CPA , was promoted to associate professor with tenure effective Fall 2025. Dr. Ton has previous experience as an assistant professor at Emory University and a visiting professor at Indiana University-Bloomington. She taught financial accounting to freshmen while at Villanova and Intermediate and Managerial Accounting at her previous institutions. Dr. Ton previously worked at PwC in both the audit and transaction services practices.
Q Chung, PhD, professor of MIS, was named the interim associate chair of MIS effective Fall 2024 and will be the associate chair of MIS effective Fall 2025. Dr. Chung brings a wealth of academic experience to this role. He has served the department in various leadership positions and will continue to do so but at a higher level in this role. Dr. Chung has also served in leadership positions in the broader academic community.
Bill Wagner, PhD, professor of MIS, has completed his role as the associate chair of MIS. Dr. Wagner was the first occupant of this role and has been an outstanding leader over this tenure. He guided the MIS unit to be on the cutting edge of changes in the field of systems, technology and most recently artificial intelligence. His work ethic was second to none, and his entrepreneurial instincts will be missed. We’re grateful for the endless amount of time and effort on behalf of the chair, the department and especially our students. Most importantly, we thank Dr. Wagner for being an outstanding colleague and an overall wonderful person.
VSB FACULTY AWARD WINNERS
DANIEL J. O’MARA AWARD
Q Chung, PhD, professor of MIS, is the 2025 recipient of the Daniel J. O’Mara Award for outstanding teaching in VSB’s graduate and executive programs. Dr. Chung is in rarified company, having now won both the O’Mara Award and the Gerald A. Dougherty Endowed VSB Faculty Award for Undergraduate Teaching Excellence.
FACULTY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR
Stasia Morlino, PhD, CPA , assistant professor of practice of accounting, is the 2025 recipient of the Faculty Advisor of the Year Award for her dedicated service as the advisor to the Villanova Accounting Society.
FACULTY RESEARCH GRANTS & AWARDS
The Accounting & Information Systems Department is proud to showcase the impactful work of our research faculty.
VITAL Minigrant Recipients in Support of Teaching and Learning:
Stephen Andriole, PhD
Denise Downey, PhD, ’05 VSB, ’08 MAC
Dean’s Summer Research Awards, in recognition of outstanding research activity over the most recent five-year time period:
Jennifer Altamuro, PhD
Stephen Andriole, PhD
Noah Barsky, PhD
James Bierstaker, PhD
James Borden, PhD
Lucy Chen, PhD
Denise Downey, PhD
Brian Grant, PhD
Yiwen Li, PhD
Danielle Lombardi, PhD
Wenhong Luo, PhD
Janice Sipior, PhD
Karen Ton, PhD
William Wagner, PhD
Luke Watson, PhD
Daniel Way, PhD
Dean’s Teaching Innovation and Development Grant Awardees:
Stephen Andriole, PhD
Denise Downey, PhD
Danielle Lombardi, PhD
BLAST FROM OUR GLORIOUS PAST
Recently, Professor Noah Barsky came across an old Villanova yearbook from 1967. While the entire yearbook is a blast from the past, we cherish this particular picture of those that laid the foundation of what continues to be an outstanding department. For many of our readers, the most notable names are Professor Gerald Dougherty, who was one of our best over many decades, and Professor Alvin Clay, who later became our dean and was honored as the namesake of our undergraduate Clay Center.
Front row: Mr. George J. Chorba, Mr. Conal J. Byrne, Mr. Charles F. Kelly, Mr. Gerald A. Dougherty
Back Row: Mr. John J. De La Cour, Mr. Alvin A. Clay, Mr. Harry L. Gelman
STUDENT NEWS
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS
Molly Nide ’25 VSB Bartley Medallion Excellence in Accounting
Reflecting on her Villanova experience, Molly Nide says one of her most valuable lessons came outside the classroom. When faced with a difficult career decision, several professors encouraged her to “make the decision that was best for me.” Their advice taught her to trust her own instincts and to take pride in forging her own path.
Nide’s favorite part of Villanova has been the people who shaped her four years on campus. She’s grateful for the exceptional faculty, the collaborative learning environment and the friendships that will last well beyond graduation.
An active student, Nide served in multiple leadership roles at Villanova, including as a Blue Key tour guide and VSB Ambassador Outreach director on the Ambassadors Executive Board. She also chaired, volunteered at and participated in countless outreach activities on campus. Nide also contributed to departmental successes by working as an office assistant for three semesters.
Nide’s achievements have been recognized by many honorary fraternities, including Phi Sigma Pi, Beta Alpha Psi and Beta Gamma Sigma. She graduated summa cum laude with a BBA in Accountancy and a minor in Business Law & Corporate Governance.
After graduation, Nide will join Novogradac & Company, LLP as a staff accountant in the Toms River, New Jersey, office while studying for the CPA exam and working toward her CPA license.
One of the greatest honors of Nide’s Villanova journey was receiving the Jennifer Kane Endowed Memorial Scholarship during her junior and senior years. The scholarship is awarded to one female accounting major who exemplifies the many positive qualities Jennifer embodied. “To be awarded this scholarship in Jennifer’s memory has undoubtedly been the greatest honor of my life,” Nide says. “I had the privilege to meet and get to know Mr. and Mrs. Kane, who are and forever will be proud of their daughter’s impact on everyone she met. I am nothing short of honored to carry on Jennifer’s legacy in all that I do, and I am inspired by her memory every day.”
Dean McGuire ’25 VSB
Bartley Medallion Excellence in Management Information
Systems
When reflecting on his time at Villanova, Dean McGuire says the most valuable skill he’s developed is teamwork:
“Working on group projects taught me how different viewpoints can come together to produce stronger results.” He credits the support of the MIS and Business Analytics faculty as one of the
GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS
Abby Gibbons ’25 MAC
Bartley Medallion Excellence in Accounting in the Master of Accounting Program
Abby Gibbons shares that the most valuable lesson she learned during her Villanova education is the importance of networking.
“So many opportunities in the business world come from making connections and fostering them,” she notes. She also appreciates how well-rounded her Villanova experience has been, as it equipped her not only with strong accounting and data skills, but also with a broader understanding of business through coursework in risk, financial planning, analysis and operations.
Beyond the classroom, Gibbons immersed herself in campus life. She was active in an a cappella group, treble choir and several student societies. She also worked in the VSB Graduate Business Office and served as a resident assistant. Gibbons held several campus leadership roles in her a cappella group, Minor Problem, and Villanova Voices. Finally, she was honored as a McCullen Center Fellow and with the Shelley Rhoades-Catanach Award in 2024 in recognition of her outstanding achievements.
After graduation, Gibbons will move to New York City to begin her career as a Tax accountant at Crowe.
highlights of his experience, along with the flexibility to explore courses outside his major that broadened his perspective.
Outside of the classroom, McGuire participated in the Sports Analytics Club and the MIS Society, served as a peer tutor for Financial and Managerial Accounting, and played on several intramural sports teams. He is also a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, the international business honor society.
Upon graduation, McGuire will move to Washington, D.C., to join a government consulting firm, where he will work directly with federal agencies to improve their processes and services.
Catherine Blowe ’25 MBT Bartley Medallion Excellence in Business Taxation in the Master of Business Taxation program
Villanova’s emphasis on the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability resonated with Catherine Blowe throughout her college experience: “In a world that is constantly changing, the ability to keep learning, ask thoughtful questions, and challenge your assumptions and abilities is incredibly valuable,” she says. She also highlights Villanova’s strong sense of community as one of the most meaningful aspects of her education. The collaborative environment and genuine support from professors and peers have made a lasting impact on both her academic and personal growth.
Beyond the classroom, Blowe was deeply engaged in Campus Ministry’s Service & Justice Experience program, volunteered for a Habitat for Humanity trip to North Carolina, and later served as a student leader on a similar trip to South Carolina. She also contributed to the Business in Healthcare Society and the Events Committee as the DEI officer.
Blowe’s dedication to her studies and peers was recognized through the 2024 VSB Peer Tutor of the Year Award.
Following graduation, Blowe will join EY’s tax practice in Iselin, New Jersey.
RHOADES-CATANACH STUDENT AWARD WINNERS
This award was created to recognize Professor Shelley Rhoades-Catanach for her teaching excellence and dedication to the MAC program and our students. Now in its second year, the awards recognize those students who consistently bring their best efforts to the Graduate Accounting program.
The 2025 winners are Adela Kolici, Kevin Malloy, Hannah Martinson and Jake Luciani
Congratulations and thank you for representing Accounting and VSB so well!
STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS
Allison Ocelus ’27 VSB
Jennifer L. Kane Endowed University Scholarship
Giselle Guillen ’26 VSB PHSIM Award (MIS)
Kaleb Chang ’26 VSB Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholarship
Kolby McGowan ’26 VSB Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholarship
Hannah Yang ’27 VSB Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholarship
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Q&A with MAC and MBT Grads
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Kaitlyn Pine ’24 VSB, ’25 MAC
For many students, earning both an undergraduate and a master’s degree might seem like a long road, but for Kaitlyn Pine ’24 VSB, ’25 MAC, it was efficiency without compromise.
What inspired you to pursue both your undergraduate and master’s degrees in four years? Completing my undergraduate and master’s degrees in four years allowed me the flexibility to begin my career earlier and the opportunity to become more knowledgeable in various accounting topics through the comprehensive curriculum of the master’s program.
Many people think graduating early means “missing out.” How did you still enjoy all the best parts of senior year while being in the master’s program? Being a part of the master’s program made little difference in my senior year, aside from having a few too many 8:30 a.m. classes! In fact, the program made it easier to attend events and socialize with friends because of its more consistent class schedule, including my favorite part: no Friday classes.
Did you have any mentors or professors who played a key role in your success? My academic advisor, Ellen MacFarlane, and my first accounting professor, Steve Liedtka. They provided me with the tools to plan my academic journey and the encouragement to follow through with it.
I came to Villanova with three credits, and was able to graduate in four years with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Looking back, what are you proudest of about the way you approached your college experience? All the wonderful opportunities that VSB has to offer. From real estate treks to Washington D.C., to attending a data analytics seminar in NYC taught by Microsoft professionals, Villanova provided me with a range of immersive business-development tools that shaped my career goals.
What advice would you give to students considering a similar path? Talk to your academic advisor about designing a plan that works for you. Personally, I did not enter college with many AP credits but took summer classes at a college near my hometown, which put me in a position to earn an undergraduate and MAC degree in four years.
What are your plans after graduation? I have accepted a full-time position as an Audit assistant at Deloitte in their Philadelphia office.
RUNNING THE NUMBERS AND THE MILES
Michelle Kang ’24 VSB, ’25 MBT Balancing the demands of graduate school, CPA exam prep and endurance sport training, Michelle Kang ’24 VSB, ’25 MBT proves that discipline and drive can take you far, both academically and athletically.
What influenced your decision to pursue your master’s degree, and why did you choose tax? Before I knew about the program, I enjoyed Federal Income Tax with Professor Luke Watson. It wasn’t until later that I met Professor Ed Liva, the director of the MBT program. I was fascinated by how the MBT program integrated data analytics, making it highly relevant to the work I would encounter in my career. When I learned that I could finish both my undergrad and master’s in four years, I knew it was an incredible opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.
The accounting faculty at VSB played a pivotal role in shaping my undergraduate and graduate experiences, offering mentorship that extended beyond the classroom.
What did you like most about the MBT program academically? How about socially? The part I loved most was that the MBT classes are taught by VSB professors and professionals who have a high level of industry experience that bring together tax and analytics topics using real-world scenarios. Classes were done by noon, allowing me to allocate time in the afternoon to either study for the CPA exam, network or train.
What are you up to now? I recently completed my first triathlon, Ironman 70.3 NY, and competed alongside my dad. This race is comprised of a 1.2mile swim, a 56-mile bike and a 13.1-mile run. The best part of the race was crossing the finish line and being medaled by my dad, who I had medaled at the same race last year as a finish line volunteer. This summer, I also passed my final section of the CPA exam.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about yourself during this time (between graduation and starting your job)? This summer has reaffirmed my belief that I am able to not only balance multiple long-term challenges at once but also enjoy doing so. Most of my days during this summer postgraduation consisted of two to five hours of training sessions, multiple hours of CPA studying and working at a specialty running store in Princeton, all while continuing to spend time with family and friends.
What advice would you give to current accounting majors who are considering a graduate degree in tax? Go for it! I absolutely loved the flexibility the program offered both academically and socially. The professors and professionals teaching and my fellow MBT classmates make the entire experience fun and rewarding.
OTHER NEWS RADAR
In 2023, the Accounting Department organized a strategic initiative task force called RADAR, Revolutionizing Accounting to create paths for students that are Dynamic, Adaptable and Rewarding, to identify ways to highlight the value of the accounting skillset.
One of the most successful initiatives resulting from RADAR is the Spring Speaker Series. Just completing its second year, this series introduces first-year, undeclared students to the breadth of career opportunities available with the accounting major and how the accounting skillset applies across diverse industries and roles.
Each event included interactive Q&A segments. Students responded positively, noting that the sessions clarified what an accounting career entails and increased their interest in the major.
Beyond technical skill development, the series highlighted how accounting supports long-term professional growth and expanded networks. Panelists discussed how early experience in accounting often opens doors to broader business roles and emphasized that while professionals may move beyond traditional accounting functions, the skills and mindset developed through accounting remain essential throughout their careers whether it is operations, valuation, strategic decision-making, risk assessment or financial analysis.
This year’s topics included:
• Unveiling Financial Truths: Accounting, Forensics and the FBI
• Elevating Black Voices: Social Consciousness and Allyship in the Workplace
• Strategic Role of Taxation in Enhancing Firm Value
• Auditor-Client Dynamics in Major League Baseball
• AI and Accounting: Innovate to Elevate
• Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) and Accounting
• The Value of Accounting in Corporate Success
• The Role of Accounting in Private Equity and Beyond
While the RADAR task force concluded in Spring 2025, many of the recommendations that came out of this initiative, including the Accounting Major Declaration Event; one-credit electives in Forensics, Deals Advisory, and Digital and Cybersecurity; and increased marketing and branding efforts have elevated the accounting major and improved students’ perception of the value of the accounting skill set.
The department wishes to extend special thanks to the members of the RADAR task force: Tim Boyle, Nick Francani ’00 VSB, Bob Hagemann P ’09, Bob Klemm ’90 VSB, John Mahoney ’83 VSB, Paul Pizzani ’82 VSB, Kate Reasons ’20 MAC, Margaret Mary Rilling ’18 MAC, Charles Waring ’05 VSB and Chad Winters ’00 VSB.
ACCOUNTING FOR ADVENTURE: A&IS FACULTY LEAD INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES
MAYMESTER IN IRELAND
Twenty-five students participated in the second International Accounting Maymester, earning three academic credits.
Over the course of two immersive weeks, the students engaged with 52 Irish professionals, visited nine companies, attended two guest lectures and spent an evening with the Augustinian community— building not only academic and professional insight, but also lifelong memories.
In the weeks leading up to the trip, students were introduced to key global accounting topics from recent alumni on secondment in France, Germany and Switzerland and heard from retired partner Tom Henry and Chad Winters ’00 VSB, chief Accounting officer at West Pharmaceuticals.
While in Ireland, students travelled to various local offices—including accounting firms, universities and corporations—to hear professionals speak about accounting issues from an international lens, including artificial intelligence, fraud, regulatory oversight and sustainability assurance; differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRS; global audit challenges; and alternative investments and international tax.
Despite a packed schedule filled with classroom learning and company visits, the students also had the opportunity to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Ireland, including a tour of Dublin, a sheep farm and the Cliffs of Moher. They toured the stunning Kylemore Abbey, hiked through Connemara National Park, cruised along the Corrib River while enjoying traditional Irish dancing, and took in panoramic views along the Galway Wind Way. The group also attended Mass at St. Augustine’s in Galway, deepening their cultural experience.
The program will return to Ireland in Spring 2026 with another group of 25 students, ready to learn, explore and be inspired.
GLOBAL CITIZENS PROGRAM IN SYDNEY AND SINGAPORE
The Sydney Opera House. Bondi Beach. A dinner cruise through Sydney Harbor. Kangaroos. And of course, Intro to Financial Accounting taught by Jim Borden, PhD. These were just some of the many highlights of the Global Citizens Program (GCP) trip to Sydney/Singapore this past Spring semester for VSB first-year students. After Sydney, students move to Singapore for an eight-week internship. This trip was special, as students met with several Villanova alumni working in Australia.
FALL FORUM INTRODUCES ACCOUNTING MAJOR, CAREER AND RESOURCES
In September, the Accounting Department hosted its annual Accounting Fall Forum. The event brought together more than 20 employers alongside VSB students, faculty and administrators. Current and prospective accounting majors had the opportunity to engage with organizations across a range of sectors, including Big Four and other public accounting firms, corporate firms, government agencies, consulting firms, and others.
Many first-year students participate in this event, which is important given the accelerated nature of the accounting recruiting cycle. Thank you to all participating employers for their time, engagement and continued support of accounting students!
MIS SOCIETY CELEBRATES A DYNAMIC YEAR
2024-2025 was a standout year for the MIS Society, marked by exciting events, career-building opportunities and well-deserved recognition. The society received the Veritas Award, distinguishing it as the top student organization across VSB.
Throughout the semester, students engaged with industry leaders from EY, Stitch and Token Dynamics.
The Society also partnered with PwC to explore a wide range of MIS career paths and hosted course registration strategy sessions, and it provided timely internship alerts for high-priority roles. Professor Q Chung, MIS chair, led a session titled “What Is MIS?” to help students better understand the major and its impact. Looking ahead to next year, the MIS Society plans to build on this momentum with even more impactful programming.
VSB GLOBAL ACCOUNTING FIRMS CASE COMPETITION 2025
The 17th annual VSB Global Accounting Firms Case Competition featured 77 students comprising 18 teams. Each team was paired with one of the five global accounting firms: Deloitte, EY, Grant Thornton, KPMG and PwC, with Janice Sipior, PhD, serving as the faculty advisor and organizer of the competition.
The kick-off meeting began with an overview of a career with a global accounting firm, followed by a question-and-answer session and networking reception. The following five teams were selected as the finalists, who are all members of the VSB class of 2028:
Beck Accounting
Lilly Ellison, William Kelly, Lauren Carlson, Emma Bison
Finance Bros
Megan Leo, Araceli Basaldua, Aryanna Muniz, Lia Frazzini
Ledger Legends
Sam Treat, Kejal Shah, Matt Behringer, Dev Patel
Stratton Oakmont
Samantha Brown, Ricardo Davila, Sarah Horwath, Tyler Mikus
Unearned Revenue
Nick Schallmo, Marina DiCristofaro, Tommy Nguyen, Brett Alexander, Katie Leahy
Congratulations to our finalists and many thanks to all who participated in the Global Accounting Firms Case Competition 2025!
MBT STUDENTS RECOGNIZED
At this year’s homecoming game, Isabella Francati ’24 VSB, ’25 MBT was presented with the game ball by Wen Mao, PhD, The Helen and William O’Toole Dean of the Villanova School of Business. Francati was a member of the varsity lacrosse team for four years, during which she completed both her undergraduate degree and master’s in business taxation.
Duane Smith ’25 MBT was recognized with the Military Salute during a Villanova Women’s Basketball game at the Finneran Pavilion. Smith served in the United States Air Force for more than 20 years. We thank Smith for his service and dedication to our country!
STUDENT CO-AUTHORED TEACHING CASE ACCEPTED FOR NATIONAL PUBLICATION
SAGE Publications recently published a teaching case co-authored by Stephanie Gaspardo, CPA, ’23 VSB, ’24 MAC; Bill Gagliardi, CPA, MBA , VSB adjunct MBA instructor; and Noah Barsky, PhD, called “Paper Tiger: Evergrande Collapse Reveals China Real Estate Market’s Hidden Risks.”
For Professor Gagliardi, the case offers a powerful teaching moment in his finance and policy courses. “This case is meaningful to me because it teaches students a skill—valuable in both business and personal life—to look beyond surface-level assumptions and identify potential risk,” he says. The case was Gaspardo’s idea; she is now an Audit assistant at Deloitte in Chicago. “It just goes to show how much the professors at VSB believe in their students,” she says. “I hope students recognize the unique experiences you can curate through VSB when you lean into passions outside of your daily responsibilities as a student.”
I hope students recognize the unique experiences you can curate through VSB when you lean into passions outside of your daily responsibilities as a student.
Stephanie Gaspardo, CPA ’23 VSB, ‘24 MAC
EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT
VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY WOMEN IN TECH: 10TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
A DECADE OF INNOVATION, INSPIRATION AND IMPACT
On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Villanova University Women in Tech proudly celebrated its 10th Annual Conference with over 180 students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends attending in person and many more joining virtually.
A highlight for all, especially our department, was hearing from Alana Hoskin ’00 VSB, Global Audit and chief Risk officer at Nike. Hoskin shared her inspiring journey from the Palisades to a partner at Deloitte and now on the executive team at Nike, emphasizing curiosity, resilience and embracing unexpected opportunities. A proud Management Information Systems alumna of Villanova, she gave a heartfelt shout-out to her class with Professor Bill Wagner, crediting his SAP ERP course as a pivotal influence in her career. Professor Wagner was in the audience to hear her praise firsthand!
Alumna Christy Hansen ’97 CLAS, the Artemis deputy mission manager of the NASA Moon to Mars Program, also captivated the audience with stories of training astronauts and leading polar expeditions.
There were also breakout sessions and 15 additional speakers. Here’s to the next decade of empowering women in tech at Villanova and beyond!
PIPEline PROGRAM
For ten years, we’ve united women across campus to celebrate leaders defining the future of technology. I’m so proud of what we’ve built— but this is just the beginning.
Perri Stahl ’23 VSB traveled to Charlotte, NC, this past January to participate in the American Accounting Association Auditing Section’s inaugural PIPEline program. The PIPEline (Pathway into PhD Experience) program provides opportunities and support to students with an interest in academia.
Recent VSB students who have entered academia include: Steve Dannemiller VSB ’16 VSB, ’16 MAC, ’19 MBA, assistant professor at Providence College, and Susan Rykowski ’20 VSB, PhD candidate at the University of Alabama. The PIPEline program is expected to continue in 2026, so please reach out if you are interested in further information.
Sue McFarland Metzger Professor of the Practice, Information Systems, Founder, VU Women in Tech
ACCOUNTING RESEARCH CONFERENCE
For the second consecutive year, the Accounting & Information Systems Department—led by assistant professors Karen Ton and Yiwen Li—hosted the Villanova Accounting Research Conference at the Inn at Villanova, bringing together more than 50 scholars from universities across the country and featuring four distinguished presenters: Willie Choi, PhD, University of Wisconsin–Madison;
COMMUNITY
Michelle Hanlon, PhD, MIT; Stephannie Larocque, PhD, University of Notre Dame; and Scott Liao, PhD, University of Toronto.
The conference was another success for the department and has helped to enhance its research reputation at both the local and national levels.
COLLEGE INITIATIVE
The department is proud to announce the launch of its community college initiative, Pathway to Mastery: Accounting & Taxation. The purpose of this initiative is to partner with local community colleges to provide a pathway to our graduate accounting and tax programs, Master of Accounting (MAC) and Master of Business Taxation (MBT).
Participating students will graduate with an associate degree in accounting at their community college, then earn an undergraduate degree in interdisciplinary studies at Villanova’s College of Professional Studies (CPS) while simultaneously networking with the accounting firms, and finally apply to either the MAC or MBT program.
In addition to scholarship opportunities through CPS and VSB, participating students will have access to the PwC Scholarship Fund, which supports students
with demonstrated need who are accepted and later enrolled in the MAC or MBT program via this pathway.
The department has collaborated with Montgomery County Community College and Bucks County Community College and is in conversation with several other community colleges. In February, representatives from the Accounting department, CPS and PwC held its first in-person information session at Montgomery County CC, which was attended by some of the school’s top students who were most interested in the program.
This initiative aligns with the accounting strategic plans by creating unique pipelines for a broader range of students to pursue a career in accounting.
CORPORATE SUPPORT
The department would like to thank its alums and corporate and accounting firms for all their financial and time commitment to VSB and the department. Below are some highlights of this partnership:
Deloitte
Deloitte Foundation Student Activity Fund for students to attend education conferences, professional development and leadership training, along with company visits.
EY
Scholarship support for students in the Summer Business Institute (SBI), students who become peer advisors and those attending conferences.
KPMG
Scholarships for students in financial need pursuing the Master of Accounting or Business Taxation degrees.
PwC
Scholarships for students in the College of Professional Studies that have matriculated from a community college to pursue Master of Accounting or Business Taxation degrees and funding for speaker series, conferences and hardship funds.
We would also like to provide our appreciation and thanks to all those firms not mentioned above that have participated in our speaker series, including Crowe, Eisner Amper, Grant Thornton, Johnson & Johnson, DuPont, and Cartesian Capital Group.
If you would like to learn more about how to support the Accounting Program, please contact Brendan Glackin, senior director for Major Gifts, at brendan.glackin@villanova.edu
MIS STEERING COMMITTEE
In April, the MIS Steering Committee held their fourth annual in-person meeting at Bartley Hall. The MIS Steering Committee is co-chaired by Bob Arakelian ’74 CLAS, assistant professor of the practice, and Keith Wright, assistant professor of the practice.
The Steering Committee is comprised of top managers of organizations that recruit from Villanova and who have significant experience in information technology. During the meeting, the group discussed the evolving role of technology and AI in business and education, including updates to Villanova’s MIS and AI/ ML curriculum and the integration of AI into coursework. Members also explored the challenges Gen Z students and workers face in today’s digital landscape.
ACCOUNTING ALUMNI INTEREST FORM
We want to hear from you! Please use the QR code below to provide us with your current contact information, interest in engaging with the department and recent achievements.
ACCOUNTING ADVISORY COUNCIL
WORKING SESSION WITH ACCOUNTING FACULTY AND ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS
At the Spring meeting of the Accounting Advisory Council, members participated in faculty-led working groups to discuss potential impacts related to the removal of the 150 credit-hour requirement for CPA licensure. The results of this session have helped guide our outlook on the future of the accounting major, and we thank the council for sharing their valuable insight.
ACCOUNTING ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS
The advisory board membership listed includes members for the 2024-2025 academic year.
During this past academic year, we welcomed Kimberly Ellison-Taylor and John Verducci ’97 VSB to the Accounting Advisory Council (AAC). We thank them and all members for making room in their busy schedules to serve on the board. The AAC serves as a sounding board to the department and has been instrumental with their guidance on many issues, including curriculum, research, accreditation, strategy and most significant initiatives.
2024-2025 DEPARTING MEMBER
JAMES MCCUE ’86 VSB
We want to thank Jim McCue for his dedication and hard work over the many years he served on the council. McCue was one of our more active participants and consistently put forth ideas that made a difference. We wish you the best—know you are always welcome in Bartley Hall!
Timothy Boehmer ’95 VSB Partner Crowe
Timothy Boyle
Executive Vice President, Head of Global Tax Chubb
Brian Cassidy ’04 VSB Partner, Audit and Assurance Deloitte
Ann Cavanaugh ’92 VSB Managing Director Apollo Global Management
Joseph Croasdale ’85 VSB Senior Technical Advisor
LiquidNet
Michelle Daly ’97 VSB SVP, Controller and Principal Accounting Officer
NASDAQ
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor P ’26 Chief Executive Officer KET Solutions
Frank Frabizzio ’91 VSB Managing Partner - Trust Specialty Services and Audit Partner PwC
Julius Green
Retired Tax Partner Baker Tilly
Robert Hagemann P ’09
Retired Senior Vice President and CFO
Quest Diagnostics
John Kelly ’00 VSB CFO
Axonic Capital
Scott King ’92 VSB Audit Partner
Deloitte
Robert Klemm ’90 VSB Partner
PwC
Erin Laber ’02 VSB Partner – Assurance and Business Advisory PwC
Daniel Luckshire ’92 VSB Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Siga Technologies
Mark Mahar ’95 VSB Partner/Principal – Audit Services EY
John Mahoney ’83 VSB Director of Credit and Treasury BASF Corporation
Claire Marble ’10 VSB Director, Accounting Policy Apollo Global Management
James McCue ’86 VSB Vice President and Assistant Treasurer Comcast NBCUniversal
Daniel Meagher ’00 VSB Partner
KPMG
Ryan Oswald ’98 VSB Partner
EY
Kristina Parker ’94 VSB Audit Partner
KPMG
Paul Pizzani ’82 VSB Partner/CFO
Cartesian Capital Group
Michael Pramberger ’03 VSB Audit Partner
Grant Thornton
Steven Repko ’95 VSB Partner
Baker Tilly
Mark Sieb ’89 VSB
Senior Vice President and Treasurer
Assurant
Licete Snediker ’97 VSB Partner
EY
Donald Soriero ’69 VSB Retired Vice President – Taxes Merck
Michael Toscano ’93 VSB Chief Financial Officer dancker
John Verducci ’97 VSB Partner, M&A Deals Financial Services
Deloitte
Charles Waring ’05 VSB Partner – National Leader ESG
Reporting Eisner Amper
Chad Winters ’00 VSB Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
West Pharmaceutical Services
Department of Accounting & Information Systems, Bartley Hall 3019
800 Lancaster Avenue
Villanova, PA 19085-1678
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN A&IS
To make an investment in the department, please make checks payable to Villanova University – Department of Accounting & IS.
If you prefer to make a contribution online or by phone, please contact Brendan Glackin, director of Major Giving, Villanova School of Business, at brendan.glackin@villanova.edu or 610-519-7602 . Thank you for your support!
