The St. Louis Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) recently held a closing banquet for students who participated in its fourth Annual Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP). The weeklong conference, which targets minority high school students, took place on the campus of Harris-Stowe State University from July 20 to July 25.
“This program was started by NABA to recognize the need to recruit ethnic minorities to the accounting field,” said Arica Harris, ACAP program chair.
ACAP is a free summer residency program that aims “to increase the number of high school students from underrepresented ethnic groups that attend college and major in accounting and finance,” Harris said.
Harris said that over the course of the week, students learned that accounting is a multifaceted industry, contrary to what people may think.
“Accounting is a little more than math; it’s not as boring as it sounds,” she said jokingly.
The program also prepares students for college by increasing their understanding of student loans and strengthening their public speaking skills.
“Through ACAP’s efforts, students receive educational enrichment experiences and practical help needed for college preparation and careers in accounting,” said Harris.
At the closing banquet, community leaders praised the program for its efforts and emphasized the importance of financial literacy.
“We’re thankful to have had the opportunity to host ACAP for the last four years,” said President of Harris-Stowe Dwaun Warmack. He said the program encourages “the holistic development of students.”
Tishaura Jones, treasurer for the City of St. Louis, echoed Warmack’s sentiments and added, “By investing in students’ financial knowledge, we’re investing in our future.”
The 31 student participants also presented what they gained from the seminars and workshops they attended.
“I learned that every business needs an accountant,” said participant Ibrahim Shabazz.
Toward the end of the evening, 13 corporate sponsors were also recognized for their involvement in the program. “Thanks to Ernst & Young, we learned the ins and outs of résumé writing,” said participant Judah Tate.
ACAP St. Louis started in 2011. Since then, over 100 students have gone through the program, Harris said.
Students Judah Nixon, Christen Davis and Tony Scott learned how critical networking and branding are in the business world.
“We learned about the importance of networking,” said Nixon.
“It’s not what or who you know but who knows you,” said Davis.
“I learned how important my brand is,” said Scott.
Participant Kai Carlock said listening to ACAP mentor Dwan LaMar Prude’s seminar called “Defining Your Passion” had a huge impact on her future career plans. Carlock said, “You have to have a passion for your career and do what you love.”
For more information, visit http://naba-stl.org/students/acap/.
