The University of Baltimore's Thumel Business Center Atrium buzzed with energy on Nov. 5 during the annual “Back to UBalt Night.” The signature event gives accounting students a chance to network with alumni and learn about career paths in the profession.
The evening began with a lively networking reception where students connected with alumni from banking, government and public accounting sectors. Later, attendees gathered in the auditorium for an alumni panel moderated by Farhan Aslam, (M.S. '24), staff auditor at SB & Company.
Panelists included Christopher Lawn, (B.S. '13) talent acquisition manager at CFG Bank; Zia Maqsood, (M.S. '21, B.S. '20) auditor at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; Oluwafemi Ogundolie, CPA, (B.S. '19), accounting manager at Maryland Stadium Authority; and Renata Reis, CPA, (MBA '24, B.S. '18), assurance manager at SB & Company. They shared candid stories about their careers and offered practical advice on preparing for the CPA exam and succeeding in the field.
This year’s theme focused on technology’s impact on accounting. Alumni discussed how AI, data analytics and emerging tools are reshaping the profession. While automation is changing some roles, they emphasized that accounting still requires a human touch. Today’s accountants, they said, must be strong communicators, tech-savvy analysts and lifelong learners—not just number crunchers.
Student feedback reflected the event’s impact. “I thought about how much communication really matters in accounting,” said Ulyricia Pittman, an accounting certificate student. Dmitry Gurvits, a senior accounting major attending for the second year, called the event “a chance to celebrate the power of the hive” and see the value of a UBalt degree.
“Inspiring our students to envision their future begins with showcasing the success of our alumni,” said Dr. Jan Williams, professor of accounting. “Exposure is key.”
The event was made possible through the support of SB & Company, which sponsored the networking reception. UBalt extends its gratitude to all alumni who shared their time and wisdom.
See you next year!
