Hosted by Dr. Yan Gibson, Assistant Professor of Accounting, the visit brought together current accounting students from both the principles and upper-level accounting courses for two engaging sessions in the Center for the Environment, Room 301. Bornkamp and Talboys shared insights from their academic journeys, professional experiences, and lessons learned since graduating from Catawba.
Both alumni currently work at Grant Thornton LLP, the seventh-largest accounting firm in the world by revenue and the sixth largest by number of employees. Ashley Bornkamp serves as a Tax Manager in Grant Thornton’s Raleigh office, while Carson Talboys is a Senior Audit Associate in the firm’s Charlotte office.
During the sessions, students heard firsthand about the evolving landscape of public accounting, the importance of professional networking, and strategies for navigating early career development. Following the classroom sessions, attendees joined Bornkamp and Talboys for an informal lunch with faculty members from the Ketner School of Business.
The visit was part of the Ralph W. Ketner School of Business’s ongoing commitment to fostering professional engagement and real-world learning experiences for its students.
