Join CPAs from across the Southeast for an unforgettable professional development experience that blends learning, networking and vacation vibes.
Hosted by the CPA societies of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Kentucky, and Texas, this conference delivers high-value CPE in a stunning beachfront setting. Mornings are reserved for engaging sessions on today’s hot topics—afternoons are yours to relax on the beach, kayak or explore Gulf Shores with your family.
What to Expect
Open to all CPAs
Up to 20.0 CPE credits available
Daily 4-hour morning sessions—your afternoons are free to enjoy!
Optional bonus session Sunday evening
Tailgate-style networking reception
Family-friendly lodging options available
Beach, bikes, and beautiful views!
Schedule Overview
Sunday, July 21
4:00 PM – Check-in at The Lodge & Conference Registration
5:00 PM – Bonus CPE Session sponsored by Zoho Corp (1.0 CPE | Topic TBD)
6:00–7:30 PM – SEC Tailgate Networking Reception (RSVP required)
Tailgate Networking Reception
Show your team pride! Wear your college colors and connect with fellow CPAs at this fun kickoff event.
Sunday, July 21 | 6–7:30 PM
Complimentary for registered attendees
Guests: $25 adults | $10 kids
Pre-registration required for all attendees and guests. Register here ›
Registration & Important Info
Conference Dates: July 21–24, 2025
Location: The Lodge at Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores, AL
CPE Hours: Up to 20.0
Cancellation Policy: Starting June 30, cancellations will incur a $200 fee due to hotel and catering commitments.
AGENDA
Sunday, July 20
4:40 P.M. - 6 P.M. / General Session
SEC Networking Reception Tailgate - OPTIONAL BONUS SESSION
Show your school spirit by wearing your team colors and join us for a lively tailgate reception to kick off the conference! Network with fellow state societies, enjoy delicious food, and connect before the sessions begin. The reception is complimentary for registrants, with adult guests at $25 and children at $10. Please remember to RSVP and pre-pay for any reception guests before arriving in Gulf Shores to secure your spot.
Monday, July 21
8 A.M. - 11:40 A.M. / General Session
Tax Update
Lisa McKinney, CPA, University of Alabama
This workshop will cover recent legislative, administrative, and judicial developments that affect tax compliance and consulting. CPAs from all levels can benefit from the workshop.
Tuesday, July 22
8 A.M. - 9:40 A.M. / General Session
New Quality Management Standards
Sherry Chesser, CPA, Landmark PLC CPAs
Randy Milligan, CPA, Landmark PLC CPAs
10 A.M. - 11:40 A.M. / General Session
Economic Update
Joseph Crosby, CEO, MultiState
Wednesday, July 23
8 A.M. - 9:40 A.M. / General Session
Fire side chat with Barry Melancon and Participating State Society CEOs
Barry Melancon, Retired CEO of AICPA, American Institute of CPAs
Highly audience interactive session on issues impacting the profession today and tomorrow with a taste of history and why some things are the way they are today.
10 A.M. - 11:40 A.M. / General Session
AI and Cybersecurity
Paul Perry, FHFMA, CDPSE, CISM, CITP, CPA
This session on AI and Cybersecurity will explore the disparities in understanding these critical areas and the challenges they present. We'll discuss why these issues arise and emphasize the importance of robust governance controls to safeguard both your CPA firm and your clients' businesses. Strengthening your knowledge in these domains is essential for maintaining trust and security in today's informational ecosystem.
Thursday, July 24
8 A.M. - 11:40 A.M. / General Session
Accounting and Auditing Update
Kurt Oestriecher, CPA, Partner
This course will cover recently issued standards that relate to United States GAAP and performance of auditing through preparation engagements. You will learn how to account for crypto currency and hear about the top peer review issues. Join us to get the most up to date information from the AA world.
Friday, July 25
8 A.M. - 9:40 A.M. / General Session
Current Fraud Trends from the FBI Perspective/The Randall Beane Investigation
Parker Still, FBISSA
Parker Still will present on current fraud trends from the perspective of a white-collar FBI supervisor in the field. The trends discussion will focus on business e-mail compromise, international fraudsters, virtual currency as well as emerging trends such as synthetic identity fraud. The presentation will conclude with the Randall Beane case which takes the audience from the time a complaint is received by the FBI through trial. The Beane case highlights many of the trends that will be discussed by providing a real-world example.
10 A.M. - 11:40 A.M. / General Session
Deep Work
Kenny Broom, CPA, CBP
How do you get the most out of your day and week? In this session, we will discuss the skills and strategies to become more productive and provide greater value to your place of work and those you serve. The goal of this session is to: Discuss what Deep Work is and why it is important. Provide best practices for incorporating Deep Work into your daily routine.
Share best practices for eliminating distractions.
The Lodge at Gulf State Park
Rooms at The Lodge at Gulf State Park
21196 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL | Map
- $245–$369 per night King, 2 Queen, and King w/ Bunk Bed options
- Rooms sell out fast—register early
Eagle Cottages (Ideal for groups or families)
- $595/night + tax
- 3 bed / 3 bath | 1,600 sq ft
- Sleeps 6 | Includes breakfast for 6, 6 bikes, firewood, housekeeping
Lakeside Cabins
- $410/night + $180 cleaning fee + tax
- 2 bed / 2 bath | 860 sq ft
- Sleeps 6 | Includes parking passes, Wi-Fi, DirecTV, washer/dryer 🐾 Pet-Friendly Options Available
- One-time pet fee: $175 + tax (Cottages & Cabins only)
Sponsorship Opportunities
Want to get your brand in front of over 45,000 CPAs across the Southeast?
Become a sponsor and benefit from:
Pre-event exposure
Onsite brand visibility
Direct access to CPA decision-makers
📩 Contact Lani Shepherd to learn more about sponsorship packages and pricing.