Whether you're looking to stay ahead of emerging trends or simply reenergize your thinking, the CPA Summit offers a timely and engaging experience you won't want to miss.
8:30 a.m. - 8:35 a.m. | Welcome to Day, Rebekah Olson, CPA, MACPA
8:35 a.m. - 9:20 a.m.
Pulse of the Profession: Leadership Perspectives from AICPA & MACPA
Panelists: Maxene Bardwell, CCPA, CIA, CFE, CISA, CRMA, CIGA, CIGA, Chair, MACPA and Lexy Kessler, CPA, CGMA, Chair, AICPA
Join us for a candid and energizing conversation with three influential leaders at the forefront of the profession: Rebekah Olson, CPA, CEO of the Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA); Maxene Bardwell, CPA/CITP, CIA, CFE, CISA, CRMA, CIGA, CIG, MACPA Chair; and Lexy Kessler, CPA, Chairman of American Institute of CPAs and Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. Together, they’ll explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the accounting and finance landscape—from national shifts to what’s happening right here in Maryland.
This panel will dive into everything from talent pipeline and technology disruption to regulatory changes and leadership evolution. Expect honest insights, practical takeaways, and plenty of forward-thinking discussion as these leaders share what they’re seeing—and what it means for you.
9:20 a.m. - 9:25 a.m. | Break
9:25 a.m. - 9:55 a.m.
Presenter: To be announced
This session is still being finalized; more details to follow.
9:55 a.m. - 10:25 a.m.
Presenter: Luke Kiely, Chief Information Security Officer, SmartVault
Session details to come.
10:25 a.m. - 10:35 a.m. | Break
10:35 a.m. - 11:05 a.m.
Automation/AI in the Accounting Industry
Presenter: Aaron Gould, Product Lead, Remitian
This session is still being finalized; more details to follow.
11:05 a.m. - 11:35 a.m.
Strategies to Build High-Performing Accounting Teams in 2026
Presenter: Bahia Larcamon, Talent Acquisition Advisor & Organizational Psychologist, Vintti LLC
Hiring today feels harder than ever: rising U.S. salaries, shrinking mid-level talent, and a growing disconnect between what firms need and what candidates bring to the table. In this 30-minute session, we’ll break down how small CPA firms can hire smarter (not harder) by focusing on the science behind great hires and the human factors that drive retention.
You’ll learn: What makes a “successful hire” in 2026 (and why it’s less about experience and more about mindset), how to identify high-ownership, high-retention talent using simple, psychology-based frameworks, why remote teams often fail and how to build ones that actually stay, how LATAM became the sweet spot for U.S. firms in cost, communication, culture, and performance, and practical steps to hire confidently with limited information and avoid costly churn.
This session is designed for CPAs and firm owners who want to grow sustainably, reduce burnout, and build teams that feel loyal, aligned, and long-term — no matter where they’re based.
11:35 a.m. - 11:40 a.m. | Break
11:40 a.m. - 12:25 p.m.
Building a Culture of Risk Management
Presenters: Nicole Graham, Esq., Risk Consultant, and Robert Albertini, Senior Risk Advisor, Aon
This session is designed for CPAs looking to develop a comprehensive approach to risk management within their organizations. Participants will learn how to create and implement a robust risk management framework, establish clear standards, and promote a culture of transparency and accountability across all levels of the organization. Special focus will be placed on ensuring the “tone at the top” is aligned with organizational goals, as well as empowering every employee to understand and embrace their role managing risk. Participants will be given the tools and strategies to effectively integrate risk management into their organizational culture and ensure that the framework is adhered to with clarity and consistency.
12:25 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Day 1 Closing / Wrap-Up, Rebekah Olson, MACPA CEO
