Portland State University’s accounting program is proud to announce that three students have been awarded prestigious scholarships by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). Each recipient, recognized for their academic excellence and potential in the accounting field, will receive $15,000 as part of the scholarship award.
Highly competitive, the PCAOB scholarship seeks to identify students who demonstrate a strong potential to become leaders in the accounting profession. Recipients are selected based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and a commitment to pursuing a career in auditing.
“The PCAOB Scholarship program is crucial for accounting students as it alleviates financial burdens, allowing them to focus on academic excellence and future contributions to the integrity of the profession,” says Elizabeth Almer, professor of accounting.
This year's recipients include Gabriel Salgado-Reyes, an undergraduate student known for his dedication to the accounting field and strong academic record. Madelyn Parsons, senior accounting instructor, spoke about the candidate’s deserving nature for the scholarship and his impressive commitment to accounting. She says, “As a first-generation honors student, he not only excelled in my classes, but also showed a genuine passion for the field. His consistent presence at career events, coupled with his outstanding academic performance, really shows how dedicated he is to building a successful career in accounting.”
Joining him is Uriel Torres, a transfer undergraduate student whose passion for accounting has been evident since joining PSU. “It definitely has been a challenging path, but with tenacity and persistence, I have accomplished milestones and am excited to see what the future holds,” says Torres.
Lastly, Jontaya Ward, a master's student, rounds out the trio of recipients with her advanced knowledge and commitment to the profession. Ward reflects, “As a black woman who grew up in the foster care system, I have dedicated my life to helping those who not only look like me but anyone who may need some guidance. Receiving this scholarship has significantly impacted my family and my life substantially. Not only will I be able to focus on my studies, but I will also be able to graduate from the Master of Taxation program with very little debt. The stability that one's education provides is irreplaceable. When it comes to accounting, not only do I find enjoyment, but I get inspired. Thank you, PCAOB, and to the accounting faculty that gave me a chance and chose me as one of the school’s nominees.”
The PCAOB scholarship, traditionally awarded to one student at PSU annually, was extended this year to accommodate three deserving individuals. Alongside the increase in the number of awards, the scholarship amount was also raised to $15,000 per recipient, reflecting the selection process’s high standards and competitive nature.
Almer states “By supporting a pipeline of new accountants through the PCAOB Scholarship program, we strengthen the mission of protecting the integrity of financial markets, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the skills and ethical foundation to uphold transparency and trust.”
As PSU continues to excel in preparing its students for successful careers in accounting and auditing, the recognition from PCAOB is a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and professional development.