Atlantic City, N.J. — Stockton University’s School of Business continued its tradition of student engagement at the New Jersey Society of CPAs (NJCPA) Convention & Expo, giving Accounting students a valuable opportunity to step outside the classroom and connect directly with the profession.

Stockton was the first institution in New Jersey to bring students to the NJCPA Convention & Expo — a tradition that began in 2017 when Stockton alumnus Dan Barbera partnered with Associate Professor Barry Palatnik and generously committed financial support to ensure student participation. This year, Stockton brought 30 students, contributing to a record-breaking 110 student attendees overall at the convention, which was held at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa from June 16-19.

“Stockton was the first institution to bring students to the NJCPA Convention, and it is exciting to see how that original involvement has grown into more than 100 student attendees,” said Christopher M. Lovasz, president of the NJCPA.

With more than 500 attendees and 80 vendors, the convention offered students a firsthand look at career pathways in finance, auditing, taxation, advisory services and other areas of accounting. The event highlighted how impactful early professional involvement can be for students preparing to enter the field.

One of the most valuable aspects of the convention was the opportunity to network with a wide range of professionals.

“I had the chance to connect with past presidents of the NJCPA, emerging leaders from firms such as Deloitte, CLA and Withum, and other students who are also preparing to enter the accounting profession,” said senior Elizabeth Jafolla. “This is my third year coming, and each time I’ve left feeling like I made growth in starting my career.”

Breakout sessions tailored for students provided insight into the profession’s many pathways. A panel of CPAs discussed their career journeys, offering candid perspectives and advice. Another session featured Peter Olinto, one of the most recognized CPA review instructors, who shared exam strategies and guidance for students considering or preparing for the CPA exam. These sessions helped students build confidence, ask meaningful questions, and better envision their future careers.

Students also benefited from two keynote speakers. Diana Kander, New York Times best-selling author and innovation consultant, delivered “Unleash Your Curiosity,” emphasizing curiosity, innovation and organizational culture as drivers of long-term success. Morris Morrison presented “Disrupting Growth and Owning Opportunity,” inspiring students with messages of leadership, resilience, personal ownership and growth.

Both speakers reinforced that success in accounting requires not only technical expertise but also adaptability and curiosity. This opportunity would not have been possible without the continued support of Barbera and Palatnik. Their efforts helped give students access to an event that was not only educational but also motivating and impactful for those beginning their careers in accounting.

Other student officers of the Accounting and Finance Society who attended include John Meli, Stella Beliaeva, Christina Baldosaro, Liz Jafolla, Jackson Van, Evan Zita, Kevin Esposito and Mohammad Hassan.