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AI is changing how organizations operate, but its impact on people is just as important as its impact on processes. How can companies adopt AI responsibly while protecting employees, fostering trust, and supporting workforce growth? Join MACPA CEO Rebekah Olson, CPA, in conversation with Karl Ahlrichs, Senior Consultant at ExpertSpeaks, for a people-first look at AI in the workplace. You’ll gain practical insights into balancing innovation with employee well-being, creating ethical safeguards, and preparing your teams for the future—using AI to empower people, not replace them.
AI is transforming the way we work, but how do we embrace it responsibly while keeping data secure, teams productive, and the human element front and center? Join MACPA CEO Rebekah Olson, CPA, in conversation with Nicole Graham, Risk Consultant at Aon for a practical look at AI’s impact on risk, compliance, and the future of the profession. You’ll walk away with actionable insights to strengthen safeguards, enhance decision-making, and prepare your organization for what’s next—while using AI as a tool to make us more, not less, human.
SEE Clearly: Realigning Purpose Through Passion, Play, and Phinance Burnout isn’t just about exhaustion, it’s a crisis of disconnection. In this energetic session, we’ll borrow from the Savannah Bananas’ “Fans First” mindset and blend it with a tactical burnout recovery framework. Discover how to realign your purpose, reignite your passion, and resupply your mission using strategy, story, and a bit of playful “Phinance” (that’s ‘finance’ with a Ph—for alliteration and attitude).

Rebekah Olson, CPA, is the CEO of the Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA) and a bright, energetic force in the accounting world. She was named one of Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting in 2022, and continues to shape the profession with passion and curiosity. A true champion for the next generation of accounting leaders, Rebekah has an incredible gift for seeing potential in others and helping them to grow into the leaders they’re meant to be.
Rebekah joined the MACPA in 2012 and quickly became known for her gift for building community and inspiring engagement. She held various leadership roles before stepping into the Chief Executive Officer role in 2022, where her mix of vision, heart and “let’s make it happen” spirit continues to guide the association forward.Rebekah is a proud graduate of The Ohio State University, where she earned her degree in Business Administration with specializations in Accounting and Sports Management. She became a CPA in 2011 and began her career at a Top 100 firm before discovering her true passion. Today she pours everything she has learned into helping Maryland’s accounting and finance community grow, evolve and thrive, one bold idea at a time.
We reach thousands of forward-thinking accounting, finance, and business professionals every month, and we have an extensive network of connections to some of the most influential firms and thought leaders in the industry.
Contact the MACPA Sponsorship Team to learn more about available opportunities.

To learn more about Beyond the Bottom Line, or think you have a great idea for an upcoming guest, contact Michelle Brown michelle@macpa.org.