James D. Martin, CPA, CGMA, MAcc
Owner / Martin & Co, CPA, PC , Dunwoody, GA

Karen B. Fortune, CPA, CFF, CGMA, MAc
Managing Partner / IAG Forensics & Valuation , Atlanta, GA

Richard Walker
Greenberg Traurig, LLP , Atlanta, GA

Focus on the critical topic of conducting internal investigations of fraud within organizations. Led by industry experts with extensive experience in fraud detection and prevention, discuss the different types of fraud and common red flags; best practices for conducting internal investigations; legal considerations and compliance requirements; utilizing technology and data analysis in fraud detection; case studies and real-world examples and strategies for preventing fraud in the future.

Boyd E. Search, MBA, CAE
The Georgia Society of CPAs , Atlanta, GA

Kevin Wang, CPA, CITP, CGFM
Warren Averett, LLC , Birmingham, AL

Elizabeth Peuster
South Carolina Association of CPAs , Cayce, SC

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring leading experts as we delve into AI's exciting and sometimes disruptive advancements in accounting. Gain insights from experienced professionals at the forefront of AI integration in accounting. Uncover how AI is impacting practice operations. Learn how AI can boost efficiency, enhance accuracy and unlock new strategic capabilities for your firm. Discuss potential disruptions and how accountants can adapt and thrive in the evolving landscape.

Melisa Galasso, CPA, CSP, CPTD
Galasso Learning Solutions LLC , Charlotte, NC

Examine the effective GASB standards this year, including GASB 100, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections and GASB 101, Compensated Absences. Study the NFP side of the house, looking at the Accounting Standard Updates issued by the FASB that impact nonprofit entities, focusing on CECL. Review the 2024 Yellow Book changes impacting nonprofit and governmental entities.

Hale E. Sheppard, J.D., LL.M.
Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry , Atlanta, GA

The IRS is increasing scrutiny in many areas, including conservation easements, Employee Retention Credits, self-employment taxes for limited partners, foreign assets and activities, high-income taxpayers, abusive trusts, tax insurance, and elsewhere. Identify and discuss recent tax cases, administrative rulings and other key developments.

Leah Donti, CPA, MBA
President & Founder / Advantage Montreal Seminars Inc. , Laval (Quebec), ZZ

The top disruptors facing the CPA profession are Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics. Explore these topics and how the work of the CPA in industry and public practice is changing in today's fast-paced business environment. Using intelligent automation, learn how organizations reshape traditional finance processes to drive efficiency and insights.

Stephen Bione
CrossCountry Consulting , McLean, VA

Modern data governance requires a holistic approach across finance, risk, IT and other departments. It can be a daunting, unattractive pursuit. However, with the correct methodology and a laser-focused approach to creating value for the business, data governance can be achieved in manageable phases that generate a return on investment at every step.

Senior Manager Todd Cooper
CPA.com , New York, NY

Delve into the dynamic realm of Client Advisory Services (CAS) and explore proven strategies to elevate your firm's capabilities. Cover the essential components of CAS, from building client relationships to leveraging technology for maximum efficiency. Learn how to position your firm as a trusted advisor, offering valuable insights and guidance to your clients. Discover innovative approaches to delivering proactive and strategic advice that drives growth and profitability.

Johnny Lee
Forensic, Investigative & Dispute / Grant Thornton LLP , Atlanta, GA

Discuss digital assets and the skills required to understand blockchain transactions, ownership, custody, and existence. Cover the basic architecture of blockchains, valuable insights into how blockchain technologies are appropriately applied, and how to interrogate the distributed ledgers intrinsic to these blockchain architectures.

Arthur Auerbach, CPA, CGMA
Arthur Auerbach CPA , Atlanta, GA

Frank O'Connell, J.D., LL.M
Of Office Tax Policy / Georgia Department of Revenue , Atlanta, GA

Darcy Pyle
Assistant Director, Taxpayer Services / Georgia Department of Revenue , Atlanta, GA

Stay ahead with the latest insights and updates from the Department of Revenue. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, accounting professionals must remain informed and equipped to navigate the complexities of taxation effectively. Join us for an in-depth exploration of recent developments, updates, and initiatives directly from the Department of Revenue representatives.

Tim Naddy, CPA, CFE
CFO and Professor / Savannah Bananas , Savannah, GA

Examine the thinking and practices of the Savannah Bananas' Fans First culture for ways to integrate into your professional space (Solve). Generate innovative initiatives from which creative business leadership will thrive across your client spectra (Evolve). Employ alternative methods to connect with those you serve daily (Entertain). Understand the importance of "being seen" to recognize the value of a moment.

Ann Campbell, CPA, CIA
Drake Accounting Software , Franklin, NC

Explore the change in the scope of security within the tax office landscape, the obligation tax professionals have to protect taxpayer data, and what this looks like in the form of a Written Information Security Plan, or WISP. Understand the FTC Safeguards Rule; identify the basic steps to data security; outline how to create a WISP; examine signs of data theft; and examine steps to take if you are a victim.

John H. Higgins, CPA.CITP
Higgins Advisory, LLC , Rochester Hills, MI

Bitcoin, the original cryptocurrency, was released in 2009. After 15 years, the cryptocurrency market consists of over 5,000 unique coins/tokens, with a market capitalization of over 1.5 trillion as of January 1, 2024. Receive an update on the cryptocurrency market and the blockchain technology that supports it.

Melisa Galasso, CPA, CSP, CPTD
Galasso Learning Solutions LLC , Charlotte, NC

Quality management will have a significant impact on CPA firms. Discuss SQMS 1 and 2 and the related engagement level standards (SAS 146 and SSARS 26). The new standards will require a risk-based approach to quality management and the documentation of an information and communication process.

Arthur Auerbach, CPA, CGMA
Arthur Auerbach CPA , Atlanta, GA

Anson Asbury, J.D., LL.M.
Asbury Law Firm , Decatur, GA

Art and Anson will bring their popular podcast to SEAS. Art will discuss the latest tax preparation and tax accounting trends, and Anson will cover developing legal issues that may impact your next filing season or audits your clients might face.

Leah Donti, CPA, MBA
President & Founder / Advantage Montreal Seminars Inc. , Laval (Quebec), ZZ

Given current technology trends, accounting and finance professionals will work in vastly different finance departments in the not-so-distant future—both in terms of who will be doing the work and how that work will be done. Discover how the finance function is evolving in response to digital transformation. See what the financial close will look like in the year 2030. Using automation, learn how organizations reshape traditional finance processes to drive efficiency and insights.

Gary R. Nelson, CPA, CISA,CISSP,FIP
Principal / Schellman & Company, LLC , Tampa, FL

Dive into the pivotal implications of the SEC Cybersecurity Final Rule for CPAs, unraveling its intricate requirements and impacts on financial reporting. From data protection mandates to disclosure obligations, this session equips CPAs with essential insights and practical strategies to ensure compliance and fortify cybersecurity frameworks in an era of heightened regulatory scrutiny.

John H. Higgins, CPA.CITP
Higgins Advisory, LLC , Rochester Hills, MI

ChatGPT is the fastest-growing application in the history of technology, with over 100 million users adopting it within two months. It is a revolutionary technology that boosts the quality and efficiency of business processes in every industry and profession. As "knowledge workers," CPAs and CFOs are positioned to be prime beneficiaries of this technology. Discuss how ChatGPT can be accessed and applied to various practical accounting, finance, and tax scenarios. Bring your laptop.

Gary L. German, CPA
G.L. German Forensic Accounting, LLC , Hendersonville, NC

Fraud is big business. By some estimates, over $1 trillion is lost yearly to fraud and theft. Nevertheless, most fraud goes undetected. Or does it? Explore such topics as the "ethics" of fraud. Learn to quantify a business' appetite for fraud and why audits don't find fraud. Examine the speaker's matrix approach to forensic accounting: a combination of financial analysis and the inferential context to detect and investigate fraud.

Faye Sykes, NSSA, CLTC
Social Security Benefit Planners, LLC , Atlanta, GA

Embark on a comprehensive journey into Social Security benefits in 2024. Uncover the most recent developments, eligibility requirements and effective strategies to optimize benefits. Strategic planning for the future is crucial, whether planning for retirement, disability, or considering survivor benefits. Join us for valuable insights to empower you and your clients to make well-informed decisions regarding this vital government program.

Bruce H. Henderson, J.D.
Phelps, Jenkins, Gibson & Fowler, L.L , Tuscaloosa, AL

Cover significant updates, such as the new federal overtime minimum salary to be "exempt," the Pregnant Worker Fairness Act and the PUMP lactation law, whether employers can mandate DEI training for employees, the status of the "joint employer" and "independent contractor" rules, new federal proposals for a 32-hour work week and two weeks of paid family leave, modifications to employee handbooks, and other topics that you need to know to advise your clients.

Damyan Dimitrov, CPA, MBA
LedgerWay , Atlanta, GA

The accounting industry is shifting towards digital solutions, making a software-centric approach crucial. Learn to reduce hardware costs with cloud computing and SaaS models. Certifications in software proficiency, cybersecurity and data privacy are essential for credibility. Navigate risks with strategies for data breaches and workforce skill development. Examine a roadmap for CPA firms, including a technology audit and leadership's role in fostering innovation.

Nolan Nichols
A Million Dreams , Washington, DC

In a world where rapid technological advancements and shifting markets create constant headwinds, finding effective strategies to navigate the turbulence is crucial. Examine a framework based on five practical mindset changes designed to help you discover purpose, build "day-tight" compartments, invest in relationships, take joy in the journey and elevate peaks. By embracing these principles, you can create a more purpose-driven life and lead your teams with resilience.