SUMMIT26 Details

ICPAS SUMMIT26

August 26-27, 2026
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, IL

and Online

Fresh thinking starts here.

At SUMMIT26, ignite new possibilities! Sharpen your perspective and gain the insights, strategies, and connections you need to lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving profession.

Click the image on the right to view the brochure.

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Innovative Learning Tracks
Customize your experience with sesions built to inspire innovation,
strengthen leadership, and help you stay ahead.
A&A and Finance

Leadership and Workforce

Tax and Strategic Advisory

Technology and Transformation

CPE Credits and More
Earn up to 16 CPE hours over two days, plus a variety of specialty credits, including:
10.25 CLE (pending) | 13.5 CFP (pending) | 8 EA (pending) | 2 Ethics

Networking Reception

Wednesday, August 26, 2026 | 5:10pm-6:00pm

In-person attendees are invited to continue the conversation after day one of SUMMIT26. Connect with peers, speakers, and exhibitors while building relationships that can spark new ideas and opportunities.

Registration Options

Choose the experience that works best for you - in person or virtual, one day or two.

In-Person Option

2-Day Option

Member $525
Non-Member $625

1-Day Wednesday

Member $425
Non-Member $525

1-Day Thursday

Member $425
Non-Member $525

Virtual Option

2-Day Option

Member $525
Non-Member $625

1-Day Wednesday

Member $425
Non-Member $525

1-Day Thursday

Member $425
Non-Member $525

Pre-Conference Option

August 25, 2026

Quality Management Workshop

(In-person only. Separate registration required)

Member $210
Non-Member $260

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
GENERAL SESSIONS

8:30 am - 9:20 am

Inside What's Shaping Today's CPA Profession

AI driven transformation versus future workforce needs. Outside investment versus independence. Innovation versus regulation. Gain an insider's perspective as the Society's thought leaders share their insights on the issues, opportunities, and challenges driving the profession’s future. Learn how to connect the disconnects emerging in a rapidly evolving environment and strategically lead your teams, clients, and companies forward.

Accounting | 1.0 CPE

Geoffrey Brown, CAE

President and CEO, Illinois CPA Society

Mark W. Wolfgram, CPA, MST

Chairperson, Illinois CPA Society and Tax Director, Bel Brands USA Inc.

4:20 pm - 5:10 pm

Structuring Your Team for Success: Talent, Culture, and Capability

AI is reshaping what high-performing teams look like—changing leadership expectations, workforce structures, and the skills needed to succeed. Unpack how to build talent strategies, development paths, and cultures that thrive in an AI-augmented business environment.

Personnel/ Human Resources | 1.0 CPE

Valeria Gutowski, CPA

SVP, Finance and Chief Accounting Officer, Norstella

EDUCATIONAL TRACK SESSIONS

A&A and Finance

9:30 am - 10:20 am

FASB Update

Stay ahead of the latest accounting developments by exploring the FASB's near-term priorities and projects. Review recently issued standards and understand their impact on financial reporting and disclosures.

Noah Antonneau, CPA, Manager, National Office - Accounting and Reporting Services, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Accounting | 1.0 CPE

10:35 am - 11:25 am
Auditing Update: Key Developments Shaping 2026

Keep pace with the latest auditing developments impacting year-end audits, including SAS No. 146 and SAS No. 149. Gain insight into current AICPA Auditing Standards Board projects and what they could mean for future audit standards and practice.

Melanie Barthel, CPA, CPCU, Partner, Johnson Lambert LLP

Auditing | 1.0 CPE

11:35 am - 12:25 pm

Trends in Financial Crimes

Tax professionals are increasingly on the front lines of financial crime risk. Examine emerging tax-related financial crime trends, evolving federal enforcement priorities, and the practical red flags practitioners should recognize during client engagements.

Lauren Darwit, JD, Attorney, Moore Tax Law Group LLC

Kathy A. Enstrom, MBA, EA, CFE, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Investigations, Moore Tax Law Group LLC

Specialized Knowledge | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)

1:10 pm - 2:00 pm

Beyond Compliance: NFP Accounting and Auditing in 2026

Stay current on the developments shaping the not-for-profit sector, including emerging accounting standards and recently issued auditing guidance. Gain practical insights into implementation challenges and best practices to strengthen compliance and financial reporting.

Paul Preziotti, CPA, Partner, Johnson Lambert LLP

Auditing | 1.0 CPE

2:10 pm - 3:00 pm

Between the Books and the Mission: Audit Culture and NFP Realities

Examine how regulatory and donor-driven requirements shape not-for-profit operations, funding decisions, and the balance between mission integrity and financial accountability. Explore how auditors can better partner with organizations to support more effective, collaborative outcomes.

Ruth O. Udoh, Donor Relations Assistant, Northern Illinois University Foundation

(REMOTE PRESENTER)

Auditing | 1.0 CPE

3:15 pm - 4:05 pm

Becoming a More Effective Board Member

Review key board responsibilities and fiduciary duties, including policy oversight, conflicts of interest, and confidentiality safeguards. Explore the board and CEO relationship, along with the role of forensic audits in organizational oversight and accountability.

Larry H. James, Managing Partner, Amundsen Davis Law

Specialized Knowledege | 1.0 CPE

Leadership and Workforce

9:30 am - 10:20 am

Maintaining Ethical Objectivity and Independence

Independence challenges can arise in even the most routine client relationships. Hear cautionary tales of when lines were crossed, review guidance from the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and Circular 230, and explore safeguards that help maintain objectivity and integrity.

Kathy A. Enstrom, MBA, EA, CFE, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Investigations, Moore Tax Law Group LLC

Regulatory Ethics | 1.0 CPE

10:35 am - 11:25 am

Built Differently: The Future of Leadership in the Accounting Profession

The accounting profession is evolving, yet many organizations still rely on leadership models that contribute to burnout, disengagement, and talent loss. Explore how vulnerable leadership, intentional culture design, and a people-first mindset can strengthen trust, improve engagement, and align accountability and performance to support sustainable growth.

Randy Crabtree, CPA, President, The Brainstorm Group

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

11:35 am - 12:25 pm

The CPA Advantage: Why Public Accounting Talent Is Driving Today’s Job Market

Sponsored by: Brilliant

Public accounting remains one of the profession’s most valuable training grounds, but the expectations and opportunities it creates are evolving. Explore how employers value public accounting experience today, why those skills are so transferable, and how to position yourself for future career opportunities.

Doug Lowery, Chief Revenue Officer, Brilliant

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

1:10 pm - 2:00 pm

Junk Drawer Leadership: Clear the Clutter and Lead With Purpose

Strong leaders regularly reassess the tools, habits, and assumptions shaping how they lead. Use a structured self-assessment to evaluate what’s working, identify what’s outdated, and develop a more intentional and adaptable leadership approach.

Jason Wyatt, CEO and Founder, 1LEAD Consulting

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

2:10 pm - 3:00 pm

The Human Factor: Why Smart People Miscommunicate, Misjudge, and Make Bad Decisions

Explore the hidden forces that shape communication, behavior, judgment, and decision-making. Discover why people often react unpredictably, how environments influence outcomes, and why even highly intelligent professionals can make poor decisions under pressure.

Adam J. San Juan, Managing Director, Retirement and Wealth Strategies

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

3:15 pm - 4:05 pm

The Pattern Series: How Silence is Manufactured and What to Do About It

Uncover the patterns that suppress feedback, discourage healthy disagreement, and erode trust and collaboration. Discover practical ways to respond without shrinking, escalating, or sacrificing dignity when conflict enters the room.

Adam J. San Juan, Managing Director, Retirement and Wealth Strategies

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

Tax and Strategic Advisory

9:30 am - 10:20 am

Tax Incentives: Turning Complexity Into Opportunity

Navigate today’s evolving tax landscape and uncover strategic opportunities hidden within key federal tax incentives. Explore practical applications of R&D tax credits, renewable energy incentives, cost segregation, Sections 179D, and 45L, and other planning strategies that can deliver value and support firm growth.

Randy Crabtree, CPA – President, The Brainstorm Group

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

10:35 am - 11:25 am

Not-for-Profit Tax Update

Stay current on key federal and state tax developments impacting tax-exempt organizations, including recent court decisions, IRS priorities, and compliance trends. Explore evolving standards for tax-exempt status, Form 990 redesign efforts, and group exemption rules, while gaining practical insights into how these changes impact governance, planning, and compliance.

Jess Wagner, CPA – Senior Manager, EY LLP

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

11:35 am - 12:25 pm

Tax Deferred Mitigation of Business: Understanding the 831 (b) Tax Code

Sponsored by: SRA 831 (b) Admin

Review IRC 831(b) micro-captive insurance, including its legislative history, qualification requirements, tax and accounting implications, investment guidelines, and IRS enforcement actions. Learn how to evaluate opportunities and risks, identify compliant plan structures, and position yourself as a trusted advisor in this increasingly important area of tax planning.

Peter Dawson, Tax Attorney and Advisor, SRA 831 (b) Admin

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
1.0 EA (pending)

1:10 pm - 2:00 pm

The U.S. Cannabis Industry: Growth, Regulation, and Reality

Hear from leaders at one of the cannabis industry’s leading publicly traded multistate operators for a timely update. Gain a high-level overview of the evolving regulatory landscape and the key trends shaping the industry today.

Aaron Miles, Chief Investment Officer, Verano Holdings Corp.

Rich Tarapchak, CPA, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Controller, Verano Holdings Corp.

Specialized Knowledge | 1.0 CPE

2:10 pm - 3:00 pm

SALT Update

Identify the key sales and use tax trends shaping compliance and audit risk in 2026. Discover practical strategies for managing multistate exposure, controlling costs, and identifying recovery opportunities.

Bill Flick, Managing Director, EisnerAmper

Robert T. Tighe, CPA, MST, CVA, Partner in Charge-Chicago Northwest, EisnerAmper

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)

3:15 pm - 4:05 pm

Inside the Latest SSTS Updates

CPAs must adhere to the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the Statements on Standards for Tax Services (SSTSs), including updated guidance on technology use and protecting client data. Explore how technology can improve efficiency while maintaining professional judgment, ethical responsibilities, and data security.

Luis V. Plascencia, CPA, MST, Principal, Luis V. Plascencia, CPA

Regulatory Ethics | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

Technology and Transformation

9:30 am - 10:20 am

The Future of Tax Prep: AI, Automation, and the Modern CPA Firm

Sponsored by: FlyFin

Automation and AI are transforming tax preparation workflows, client expectations, and firm operations. Examine where technology creates efficiency, where human expertise remains essential, and how organizations can adapt to remain competitive.

Jaideep Singh, Co-Founder and CEO, FlyFin

Information Technology | 1.0 CPE

10:35 am - 11:25 am

Unlocking New Revenue Opportunities for Independent CPAs

Discover practical, revenue-generating strategies to help independent CPAs expand services, deepen client relationships, and increase profitability. Learn how charitable giving strategies, life insurance planning, and investment credits can create new opportunities for client value.

Delante Greer, ChFEBC, Financial Planner, Opulentia LLC

Business Management & Organization | 1.0 CPE

11:35 am - 12:25 pm

AI Adoption Paradox: Why We Struggle to Scale AI

Sponsored by: Miles Masterclass

AI adoption in accounting is no longer about awareness—it’s about execution. Examine why many organizations remain stuck in pilot programs instead of achieving meaningful business impact. Learn how those leading the way are redesigning workflows, overcoming resistance, and building AI-ready teams.

Varun Jain, CPA, CMA, Founder and CEO, Miles Masterclass

Information Technology | 1.0 CPE

1:10 pm - 2:00 pm

AI-Enhanced Spreadsheet Transformation for Accountants

Discover how AI tools can enhance everyday workflows, streamline complex spreadsheet
processes, and transform existing Excel workbooks into dynamic and interactive web applications for everything from tax calculations to client deliverables.

James Harmon, AI Consultant, XoSelf AI

Information Technology | 1.0 CPE

2:10 pm - 3:00 pm

AI Cyber Threats in 2026: The SMB Security Playbook

Cybercriminals are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, creating new cybersecurity and governance risks for organizations of all sizes. Examine emerging threats, practical safeguards, and evolving approaches to securing AI systems and business data.

Jerry Irvine, CISSP, CISM, CeH, CISA, CRISC, GICSP, CGEIT, CASP, CBCP, CIPT, ITIL, CNE, MCSE, CCNA, CCNP, CCDA, CCDP, CIO and Partner, Prescient Solutions

Information Technology | 1.0 CPE

3:15 pm - 4:05 pm

Let's Taco Bout Relationships and Service

Define the client experience lifecycle and explore the role human connection plays in business success. Develop practical strategies to strengthen relationships, build trust, create meaningful experiences, and drive long-term loyalty.

Stephanie Z. Gandsey, Founder, Leadership Extension Consulting

Communications & Marketing | 1.0 CPE

Thursday, August 27, 2026
GENERAL SESSIONS

8:30 am - 9:45 am

U.S. Economic Outlook: A New Landscape
The U.S. economy has demonstrated resiliency in the face of volatile tariff and foreign policy. But what does the future hold? As inflation continues above the Fed's target, and structural challenges persist, discuss the likely path of the economy, the opportunities and risks of AI, labor market challenges, and the direction of interest rates.

Economics | 1.5 CPE
1.25 CLE (pending)
1.5 CFP (pending)

Jeffrey Korzenik

Chief Economist, Fifth Third Bank

David Snyder

President and CEO, The Econmic Club of Chicago

3:45 pm - 5:00 pm

Tech Update: Navigating What's Next

Receive a clear, practical look at the technologies shaping the future of accounting, from AI and SaaS innovation to APIs, automation, and cybersecurity. Cut through the noise and focus on actionable trends that can improve efficiency, client
service, and competitiveness.

Information Technology | 1.5 CPE

Randy Johnston, MCS

Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises

EDUCATIONAL TRACK SESSIONS

A&A and Finance

10:00 am - 10:50 am

The Hidden Compliance Crisis: How 2026 Changes to CPA Licensing and Mobility Laws Will Impact Firms

Sponsored by: CPA QualityPro

Translate complex licensing changes into practical business guidance while uncovering key compliance risks, operational blind spots, and trends from recent state board enforcement actions. Discover actionable steps to strengthen governance, protect growth plans, and future proof your firm.

Julia Woislaw, VP - Strategic Partnership & Regulatory Affairs, CPA QualityPro

Accounting | 1.0 CPE

11:00 am - 11:50 am

Operational vs. Technical Financial Reporting

Explore the critical differences between operational and technical accounting—and why both are essential to modern finance. Learn how to balance decision-making insights with the precision required for compliance, revenue recognition, M&A activity, and financial reporting.

Matt Murray, CPA, Co-Owner, Prairie Forge LLC

Accounting | 1.0 CPE

12:35 pm - 1:25 pm

From Exit to Execution: Strategic Planning and M&A for Long-Term Value

Analyze the CPA’s role in guiding clients through business exits, including strategic preparation and transition planning. Learn what to expect during the sell-side M&A process and how proactive planning can maximize value and support a smoother transaction.

Edwin J. Brooks, CPA, Principal, DHJJ Ltd.

Richard Burke, CPA, CGMA, CM&AA, MBA, LBB, Outsourced CFO and M&A Advisor, DHJJ Ltd.

Business Management & Organization | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)

1:35 pm - 2:25 pm

Corporate Fraud and Embezzlement: Detection and Mitigation Strategies

Delve into the latest fraud risks from procurement fraud to embezzlement schemes involving trusted personnel. Discover practical strategies for mitigating risk, identifying red flags, and using data analytics to detect irregularities earlier and strengthen organizational safeguards.

Stuart G. Berman, CFE, CAMS, PSP, Principal and Co-Founder, RSA Risk Management & Investigations

Auditing | 1.0 CPE

2:40 pm - 3:30 pm

ESOP Transactions: Structuring Ownership Transitions for Long-Term Value

Examine how employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) support ownership transition, liquidity, and long-term value creation. Gain a practical understanding of ESOP transaction structures, financing, and stakeholder roles to help evaluate their fit within broader succession planning.

Ashley Kirchner, Director, Corporate Advisory, BMO

Specialized Knowledge | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)

Leadership and Workforce

10:00 am - 10:50 am

Age in Action: How Generations Work (and Sometimes Collide) Toward Innovation

Every generation brings a different workplace style and perspective. Take a humorous look at the defining traits of generations from the Silent Generation to Gen Alpha while exploring common friction points—and the innovation diverse teams can unlock together.

Becky Gabany, M.A., CDE, CDP, CPCHE, Owner and Principal Consultant, ChangeBridge Consulting

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

11:00 am - 11:50 am

Overwhelmed to Organized: Tools for Thriving in a Fast-Paced World

Turn workplace chaos into clarity with practical strategies for managing emails, calendars, notes, and projects more efficiently. Learn actionable techniques—from filing systems and color coding to AI-powered tools—to streamline workflows and reduce workload stress.

Becky Gabany, M.A., CDE, CDP, CPCHE, Owner and Principal Consultant, ChangeBridge Consulting

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

12:35 pm - 1:25 pm

Full Throttle Leadership: The Ultimate KPI to Ignite Elite Performance

Move beyond outdated leadership models and learn how to become a visionary servant leader who inspires stronger team performance. Explore strategies for unlocking full potential through a powerful focus on meaningful KPIs.

Dennis Mellen, M.S., Owner/Founder, Full Throttle Leadership

Personal Development | 1.0 CPE

1:35 pm - 2:25 pm

The Realities of Adopting New Systems and Processes

Take a candid look at why accounting and finance transformations succeed or stall. From cultural resistance to system sprawl, understand how to navigate change with greater clarity, alignment, and strategy.

Dan Rinaldi, CPA, Enterprise Account Executive, Workday

Business Management & Organization | 1.0 CPE

2:40 pm - 3:30 pm

Building the Workforce That Builds the Business

Talent strategy has become central to finance leadership. Explore how leading organizations align workforce planning with digital transformation to build agile teams that grow with the business and advance finance priorities.

Dan Rinaldi, CPA, Enterprise Account Executive, Workday

Personnel/Human Resources | 1.0 CPE

Tax and Strategic Advisory

10:00 am - 10:50 am

The Retirement Readiness Roadmap

Gain a practical roadmap for retirement planning—from maximizing workplace retirement plans and lifetime income options to navigating withdrawals, taxes, health care costs, and long-term financial sustainability.

Rita Fiumara, CIMA, CRPS, Senior Vice President, Investments, UBS

Bruce Lanser, CIMA, CRPC, CPRS, AIF, Senior Retirement Plan Consultant, UBS

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

11:00 am - 11:50 am

International Tax Update

Explore the sweeping international tax changes introduced under H.R. 1 and what they mean for planning, structuring, and compliance. Gain practical insights into new rules, reporting obligations, and the risks and opportunities facing closely held businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and their advisors.

Mark S. Gallegos, CPA, MST, Partner, Porte Brown LLC

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

12:35 pm - 1:25 pm

Business Tax Update

Receive a timely update on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and other key tax, regulatory, and administrative changes impacting businesses. Analyze developments affecting deductions, credits, entity planning, and compliance, along with key considerations for advising clients in a shifting tax landscape.

Jessica Egenasi, CPA, Tax Director, Aprio Advisory Group LLC

Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST, Midwest Region Tax Lead and Partner, Aprio Advisory Group LLC

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

1:35 pm - 2:25 pm

Transaction-Driven Tax Planning Strategies

Hear an update on transaction-driven tax planning strategies, including Type F reorganizations and Section 1202 qualified small business stock. Explore how recent changes impact entity structure, ownership, and long-term tax planning opportunities and risks.

Jason Luksis, EA, Tax Director, Aprio Advisory Group LLC

Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST, Midwest Region Tax Lead and Partner, Aprio Advisory Group LLC

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

2:40 pm - 3:30 pm

Individual Tax Update

Get a timely update on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and other key individual tax changes impacting deductions, credits, planning, and compliance. Walk away with practical insights and action steps for helping clients navigate an evolving tax landscape.

Mark Mirsky, CPA, MST, Midwest Region Tax Lead and Partner, Aprio Advisory Group LLC

Alfredo Vitaller Liria, CPA, Senior Tax Manager, Aprio Advisory Group LLC

Taxes | 1.0 CPE
.75 CLE (pending)
1.0 CFP (pending)
1.0 EA (pending)

Technology and Transformation

10:00 am - 10:50 am

Transactions to Transformations: Redefining Business in the Age of Aspiration

Explore how organizations are moving beyond fee-for-service models to help customers achieve outcomes like greater well-being, purpose, understanding, and prosperity. Learn how transformation-driven strategies can elevate both business performance and personal impact.

Ed Kless, Founder, THRESHOLD

Business Management & Organization | 1.0 CPE

11:35 am - 12:25 pm

Measure What Matters to Customers: Key Predictive Indicators

Discover why traditional efficiency metrics no longer fully capture value in today’s knowledge economy. Learn the difference between key performance indicators and key predictive indicators, and how to better measure human and intellectual capital.

Ed Kless, Founder, THRESHOLD

Management Services | 1.0 CPE

12:35 pm - 1:25 pm

Better Productivity Through AI and Automation Tools

Learn how tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Power Automate, and Zapier can streamline workflows and boost productivity. Explore key implementation risks and gain practical ideas for using automation to strengthen accuracy, controls, and team effectiveness.

Randy Johnston, MCS, Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises

Computer Software & Applications | 1.0 CPE

1:35 pm - 2:25 pm

Strategic Outsourcing for Business Growth

Consider how outsourcing can help transform your practice and better serve middle-market clients. Hear how to streamline operations, improve client service, and maintain quality while determining what to outsource and how to manage it effectively.

Lisa Hanlon, CPA, Senior Managing Director, CBIZ

Amanda Pictor, CPA, M.A., Director, CBIZ

Business Management & Organization | 1.0 CPE

2:40 pm - 3:20 pm

Agentic AI vs. Generative AI

Understand the differences between generative AI and emerging agentic AI systems, ranging from content creation to autonomous planning and execution. Discover how these technologies may reshape accounting workflows, controls, risk management, and advisory services.

Randy Johnston, MCS, Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises

Information Technology | 1.0 CPE