New England Society of CPAs Hosts 29 High School Students for Summer Accounting Career Exploration

The New England Society of CPAs (NECPAs), in partnership with Suffolk University, recently hosted the Accounting Careers Exploratory (ACE) Leadership Program from July 21–24. This immersive residential program welcomed 29 high school students from 20 schools across Massachusetts. More than 70 volunteers from 11 accounting firms supported the event, helping introduce students to career paths in accounting and business through hands-on learning and professional engagement.

Students participated in a full slate of interactive sessions designed to build both technical knowledge and career-readiness skills. Program highlights included:

A team-building challenge hosted by Baker Newman Noyes (BNN), where students worked alongside accounting professionals to strengthen collaboration, communication and networking skills.
The launch of the ACE Championship case study with BDO USA, P.C., giving students hands-on experience solving a real-world business challenge with guidance from professionals.
A networking workshop led by BerryDunn, where students learned how to make meaningful connections, craft an elevator pitch and build confidence in professional settings.
A Real Stories, Real Careers panel hosted by Schwartz & Schwartz, an Earned Wealth Company, featuring authentic career journeys and insights into the many paths available within accounting.
A visit to Deloitte LLP for an office tour and interactive workshop focused on communication skills, personal branding, social media and LinkedIn profile development.
A shopping experience at Macy’s, sponsored by EY, where each student received a $100 gift card to purchase professional interview attire with guidance from EY volunteers.
An accounting-themed ‘Minute to Win It’ Challenge hosted by Wolf & Company, P.C., where students built teamwork skills through friendly competition and collaboration.
An inspiring fireside chat with Castaldi CPA, where students learned about entrepreneurship, leadership and the many possibilities within the accounting profession.
A behind-the-scenes tour of Fenway Park and presentation from Tim Zue, CFO of the Boston Red Sox, highlighting the role of finance, analytics and business operations in professional sports.
Continued coaching and feedback from Floyd Advisory LLC as students refined their ACE Championship case study presentations.
An evening of bowling and networking hosted by Nash CPAs LLC, creating opportunities for students to connect with professionals in a relaxed and engaging environment.
A Breakfast of Champions hosted by PwC LLP, featuring career conversations and mentorship from accounting professionals.
Final case study presentations, professional headshots and recognition of the 2026 ACE Champions and Community Champions.

“Every year, ACE reminds me why I love the work I do,” said Upasana Prasad, manager of academic and career development at NECPAs. “Watching high school students grow in confidence, build meaningful connections and discover the many opportunities available within the accounting profession is incredibly rewarding. Seeing their transformation in just four days is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact mentorship and investing in the next generation can have.”

The program concluded with students presenting their case studies to a panel of judges from BDO USA, P.C., Deloitte LLP, Floyd Advisory LLC, NECPAs and PwC LLP. The top case study winners, Ansh Naidu of Bedford High School, Angelina Ivanova of Newton North High School, Gautham Parvathaneni of Weymouth High School, Madison Yu of Brookline High School and Eli Williams of Andover High School, were each awarded a $100 Visa gift card.

We also celebrated one of the most special traditions of ACE, the ACE Community Champion Awards, sponsored by BDO USA, P.C. This award recognizes students who went above and beyond to make others feel welcome, show kindness and support those around them throughout the program. Voted on by their fellow participants, this year’s Community Champions were Harvi Masmalaj of Newton North High School, Deymi Santa of Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School and Ansh Naidu of Bedford High School. Each student received a $50 Visa gift card in recognition of the positive impact they made on the ACE community.
 
All 29 students also received a certificate for completing the program. 

“The future of our profession depends on our ability to inspire and develop the next generation of talent, said Zach Donah, CAE, president and CEO of NECPAs. “ACE embodies that commitment by introducing high school students to the opportunities, purpose and impact of a career in accounting. Through the dedication of our volunteers and firm partners, we are not only investing in students, but we are helping strengthen the future of the accounting profession and the communities it serves.”

ACE is a cornerstone initiative in NECPAs’ efforts to expand awareness of accounting careers among high school students. In addition to the summer program, students receive year-round support through free membership, mentoring, events and scholarship opportunities, all designed to help them explore the profession and access the resources they need to succeed. “ACE was an incredible experience that helped me learn more about networking, building professional connections and the many opportunities available within the accounting profession,” said Nikhil Ponnusamy, a graduating senior at Westford Academy. I enjoyed connecting with professionals, participating in the activities and building friendships with fellow students throughout the week. I would highly recommend ACE to other high school students because it provides a unique opportunity to gain industry insights, explore potential career paths and grow both personally and professionally.”

Sponsors included Baker Newman Noyes (BNN), BDO USA, P.C., BerryDunn, Castaldi CPA, Deloitte LLP, EY, Floyd Advisory LLC, Nash CPAs LLC, PwC LLP, Schwartz & Schwartz, an Earned Wealth Company, and Wolf & Company, P.C.