Greetings from Boston and the wicked awesome NACUBO Higher Education Accounting Forum!
Representatives from Schneider Downs are attending the NACUBO Higher Education Accounting Forum, as we have for nearly 20 years, demonstrating our commitment to being partners and investing in our knowledge in higher education. It is always energizing to learn from and connect with institutions of all shapes and sizes: public and independent, large and small and many traveling from well beyond Boston. The buzz in the room today was electric, despite the challenges and uncertainties these institutions and their dedicated professionals are currently navigating.
Day one began with a keynote on navigating a multigenerational workforce and turning differences across generations into opportunities for collaboration, growth and shared problem-solving. The session also addressed recruitment and retention, focusing on the importance of ensuring each group feels valued, supported and engaged within the organization.
The next session focused on doing more with less and how AI can be part of the solution. This theme also surfaced in the annual list of the top five business issues identified by higher education business officers. Panelists emphasized the importance of managing tools thoughtfully, developing clear policies and procedures and creating space for responsible experimentation while safeguarding the data being used.
The final session addressed several common business issues facing institutions today. Conversation centered on budget pressures, the challenge of standardizing business processes across campuses and the realities of recruiting and retaining talent. Panelists also spoke candidly about partnering effectively with colleagues who do not have a finance background and the practical work of building bridges across functions.
The evening reception included a send-off for Sue Menditto, whom I have leaned on as a valued resource and who is heading into a well-deserved retirement from NACUBO after more than 20 years as Senior Director of Accounting Policy. Sue was critical to serving all institutions over the past few years on advising the FASB on how topics such as the financial reporting model changes, revenue recognition, and the lease standard impacted institutions of higher education. She will be missed, and it was wonderful to celebrate her career and the impact she has had on the higher education industry.
After a great evening of networking and hearing from a number of different institutions, I wrapped up the day reflecting on my experiences over a bowl of chowdah
Stay tuned for Day 2 updates.
About Schneider Downs Higher Education Services
The Schneider Downs Higher Education industry group is a dedicated team of experienced professionals specializing in serving institutions from high schools to universities. Our experience in audit and assurance, tax advisory, technology and data and more allow our professionals to stay ahead of the latest trends, developments and challenges within the education sector and provide timely and practical solutions to our clients.
