OAN- Message from the Chair

Dear Alumni and Friends, 

As I begin my second year as chair of the Department of Accounting, I am proud to share some of the remarkable progress our community has made this past year. From welcoming new faculty and updating our curriculum to celebrating student achievements and growing enrollment, the department is thriving. 

Faculty Highlights 

We were delighted to welcome Anywhere (Siko) Sikochi, who joined us from Harvard University as an associate professor with tenure. This spring, he taught ACC 485: Financial Statement Analysis and earned a teaching innovation grant to develop Global Corporate Performance: Accounting Perspectives, a forward-looking course expected to launch as early as spring 2026. 

Curriculum Innovation 

Our curriculum continues to evolve in response to the profession’s future. In fall 2024, Sebastian Tideman-Frappart introduced ACC 383: ESG Reporting, covering the frameworks and reporting standards shaping sustainability reporting. Strong student demand led to another offering in spring 2025. 

We also introduced MIS 325: Information Technology for Business this spring, taught by Joyce Zadzilka. In fall 2025, Mike Chin will launch ACC 425: Accounting Information Systems. Together, these courses strengthen the technological foundation of our undergraduate curriculum. 

At the graduate level, New York State approved revisions to our master’s program, including new required coursework in advanced financial accounting. The program is also re-registered as licensure-qualifying, reinforcing our commitment to preparing graduates for professional success. 

Enrollment Growth 

Our momentum is reflected in enrollment numbers. Accounting majors grew from 156 in fall 2023 to 208 in fall 2024. Although part of this growth comes from a large class of Whitman juniors, we also enjoyed an increase in the share of Whitman students choosing an accounting major. Junior-level courses ACC 356 and ACC 363 are full for fall 2025, signaling continued strong demand for our program. 

Student Success and Career Development 

The Accounting Career Explorations program, now in its third year, continues to inspire students by connecting them with professionals in New York City. Applications surged this year, with 41 students applying and 28 participating. This program is vital to showing students the breadth of accounting careers and strengthening their professional aspirations. 

Five accounting students were named Whitman Scholars this year (we always seem to be overrepresented in this group. Adam Best, Jame Crane, Gianna Davis, Joseph Justic and Michael Pellizzari.

Gratitude and Recognition 

I want to thank my colleagues for their extraordinary contributions. Kofi Appiah Okyere accompanied students to the National Association of Black Accountants conference. Ginger Wagner has been tireless in her work with Beta Alpha Psi and stepped in to fill a crucial teaching need. And Joyce Zadzilka has not only launched MIS 325 but also played a central role in updating our curriculum. 

On a personal note, I want to thank my colleague and friend, Joe Comprix. Since I arrived at Whitman in 2011, Joe has been a patient mentor, generous with his time and wise in his counsel. As chair, he guided the department with distinction, and it flourished under his leadership. His friendship and support have been invaluable to me. 

Looking Ahead 

Our department is on an exciting path defined by innovation, growth and student achievement. I am grateful to our alumni and friends, whose support continues to inspire and sustain us. Together, we are preparing the next generation of leaders in accounting. 

With best wishes, 

 
Craig Nichols