The Student Accounting Association (SAA) held the largest ever recognition dinner in IUP history to honor its members and network with professionals at the Rustic Lodge in Indiana, Pa., on May 3, 2013.

The event held an impressive 87 students, 12 accounting faculty and administration members, and 45 professionals from 19 different companies.

At the dinner, SAA was officially presented its chapter membership for the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), a worldwide association for accountants and financial professionals working in business. With over 65,000 members, IMA is a prestigious association that works to better member’s professional skills, organization management, and career paths for its members.

The primary speaker of the event was Tracey Lusk, a 1988 IUP Accounting graduate and vice president and senior trader of Federated Investors. She spoke about her career path and gave beneficial advice to students about job hunting and careers.

Additionally, the PICPA award was presented to IUP alumnus Dan Broadbent, who graduated in December 2012.

“The dinner provided a great opportunity for students to learn more about the accounting field,” said Megan Morris, president of SAA.

Student attendees exhibited impressive discussions and professional manners throughout the event, which was deemed a success by everyone in attendance. 

—By Katlyn Glaser and Megan Morris