Accounting for Acts of Nature
Natural disasters, from forest fires and floods to extreme temperatures and hurricanes, left homes, businesses and communities upended throughout 2024. Assess the risk associated with unexpected natural and geopolitical events, including how to factor such considerations into SAS 145 as it relates to an entity’s environment, and more.
Allison Calkins, CPA - Assurance Senior Manager, BDO, Troy
Nichole McNabb, CPA - Assurance Senior Manager, BDO, Troy

Identifying and Implementing the Proper Balance of Internal Controls (Virtual Presentation) (1.0 Accounting & Auditing)
Over the past several years, the concepts of internal controls have undergone a change. They are still as important as ever but with all the new technology and work habits, it is even more critical that individuals have a strong understanding of controls and how to identify and use them. Internal Controls (IC) are in place for a reason. They help maintain the control environment and establish efficient and effective processes. They also serve as a mitigation technique for identifying when processes have changed and when procedures need to be adjusted. In today’s business world, all personnel must understand the concept of internal control, how they should be utilized and their benefits. The purpose and value of internal controls are often misunderstood and misapplied by management. Internal controls should be viewed as a value-oriented activity that assists the organization in the effective execution of its objectives. Properly designed and executed controls are the key to ensuring this view.
Lynn Fountain, CPA, CGMA, CRMA, MBA – Consultant, Fountain Consulting, Overland Park, KS

AI Accountability Begins with Ethics
While artificial intelligence (AI) presents accounting professionals and firms with new ways to augment the financial function, AI also introduces its own risk areas, including bias, security, accuracy and transparency, to name a few. Identify ethical concerns regarding AI in accounting and explore techniques for ensuring accountability and responsible use.
Dr. Christopher J. Harper, CPA, MBA – Director of Education & Assistant Professor, Grand Valley State University Seidman College of Business, Grand Rapids

Performance of High-Quality Reviews, Compilations and Financial Statement Preparation Engagements
Discuss the requirements and best practices for the performance of high-quality reviews, compilations and financial statement preparation engagements with a heavy focus on planning and performing analytical procedures in a review engagement including developing and documenting expectations. Examine effective documentation with respect to designing and performing review procedures based on the accountant’s risk awareness. Review the recent issuance of SSARS No. 27, Applicability of AR-C Section 70 to Financial Statements Prepared as Part of a Consulting Services Engagement and the clarification regarding when an accountant is required to perform a preparation engagement in accordance with AR-C Section 70.

David Duckwitz, CPA - Partner, Citrin Cooperman & Company, LLP, New York City

QMS Final Stretch Goals
The new AICPA quality management standards (QMS) effective date is just a few months away, on Dec. 15, 2025. Review the initial steps critical to implementation and examine common issues so far in order to determine an effective, personalized strategy for your own firm.
Moderator: Duane Reyhl, CPA, CGMA – Audit and Accounting Partner, AHP, Midland
Kareyna Miller, CPA – Founder & CEO, LEACIF, Otter Lake
Joseph Verlin, CPA, CGFM – Principal in Charge of Audit Services, Gabridge & Company PLC, Grand Rapids
Jason F. Clausen, CPA – President, Jason F. Clausen, P.C., Fraser

Investigating Supply Chain Risks Inherent to Tariffs and International Trade
Supply chain disruptions have dominated risk assessment conversations since 2020 and, with recent international tariffs imposed, these risks are only heightening. Learn strategies for determining the key factors of an entity’s supply chain risk in the current geopolitical landscape and determine strategies to mitigate areas of exposure.
Tyler Potter, LCB - Senior Manager, International Tax, BDO, Troy

Creating Audit Risk Assessment Procedures of Scale
Entities of different sizes will have different considerations when applying AICPA Statement on Accounting Standards (SAS) No. 145, Understanding the Entity and Its Environment and Assessing the Risks of Material Misstatement. Discuss the key changes introduced by SAS No. 145, including effective strategies for developing risk assessment procedures.
Kurt Oestriecher, CPA – Partner, Oestriecher & Company, Alexandria, LA