On Friday, Dec. 6, the Odette School of Business welcomed more than 200 local Grade 11 and 12 students to the second annual Accounting Showcase Day, as the culmination of a week-long accounting case competition.

Students were mentored in their classrooms through the case analysis process by members of the Odette Accounting Society and evaluated on their efforts by a panel of judges, including faculty members, accounting alumni, and professionals in the field.

“Our goal is to showcase the accounting profession as a viable career path for someone who aspires to be a business leader and decision maker,” say Alaa Madi and Natalie George, who assisted in planning the event as co-presidents of the Odette Accounting Society.

“This event is designed to challenge students to go beyond theory and dive into real-world problem-solving skills and collaborate to develop meaningful solutions as a team.”

The event featured as keynote speakers Master of Business Administration – Managers & Professionals alumni Katelyn Dryden, chief financial officer and vice-president outpatient services of Erie Shores HealthCare, and Devin Sturdy, vice-president corporate services and chief financial officer at Middlesex Hospital Alliance. Dryden and Sturdy returned to Odette to discuss their own accounting journeys, career highlights, and why they believe young people should pursue careers in accounting.

Students also had the opportunity to network with representatives from eight accounting firms in attendance.

The top team from each high school was recognized with members of the overall winning team, from École secondaire catholique E.J. Lajeunesse, each awarded a $1,000 Odette scholarship. The event was sponsored by BDO Canada.