CBU Hosts Inaugural Atlantic Accounting Symposium, Bringing Students and Industry Professionals Together

Cape Breton University welcomed students, faculty and industry professionals to campus on November 5, 2026, for the inaugural Atlantic Accounting Symposium, bringing together future accounting professionals from CBU and St. Francis Xavier University (St. FX) for a day of learning, collaboration and networking.

Held in celebration of the Canadian Academic Accounting Association’s 50th anniversary, the event provided students with an opportunity to connect classroom learning with professional practice, explore career pathways and build relationships with peers and professionals working in the accounting field.

The symposium was organized by CBU Assistant Professor Kaitlyn Mesics and St. FX Assistant Professor Jane Fraser, with a focus on encouraging collaboration between institutions and strengthening connections between accounting education and industry.

Throughout the day, students participated in research presentations delivered by CBU Assistant Professor Luke Phelps and St. FX Assistant Professor Jennifer Alex. They also heard from accounting professionals representing MNP and Doane Grant Thornton, including CBU alumni Nathan MacNeil, Owen MacPhee and Rob Wadden, who shared insights into the profession.

A CPA networking panel featuring CBU alumni Karen Hatcher, Jerred Stephenson and Alisha Mombourquette offered students further opportunities to learn from graduates who have established careers in accounting. Students also put their skills to the test through a pitch competition featuring a business case based on Student Works, a business operated by CBU alumnus Tyler Oickle.

While the symposium offered opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills, the day was equally focused on building connections. Visiting St. FX students received a warm Cape Breton welcome from CBU mascot Caper, who greeted them with high-fives and fist bumps as they arrived on campus.

The event also provided an opportunity to highlight the success of CBU alumni working in the accounting profession, many of whom returned to campus to share their experiences and connect with the next generation of professionals.

CBU extends its thanks to the Canadian Academic Accounting Association, MNP, Doane Grant Thornton and CPA Atlantic School of Business for their generous support of the inaugural symposium and their commitment to creating meaningful learning opportunities for students.