Business & Industry Conference
Agenda, Materials & More
Welcome to the Business & Industry Conference!
Session Materials | Top
Thursday, May 22
6:30 – 8 a.m.
Registration & Continental Breakfast
Colony Foyer
8 – 8:15 a.m.
Welcome
Colony ABCD
8:15 – 9:05 a.m.
1. Driving Organizational Change
Colony ABCD | Materials
We’ve shifted from a complicated to a complex global operating environment, which means negotiating systems, decision-making, and accountability have become evermore critical in delivering results in our organizations.
In this interactive keynote session, Ace Callwood draws from his experience as Envoy’s executive mediator to share frameworks for navigating change — starting with being grounded leaders and understanding team dynamics through to concepts of subsidiarity, delegation protocols, decision-making systems, briefing rules, and clear communication of leadership goals. Pragmatic, practical and contemporaneous to today’s rapidly shifting work environment, this session provides the tools to define the rights and responsibilities of your organization in a style that provides deep accountability and motivating incentives for performance.
Credit: Personal Development — 1
9:05 – 9:20 a.m.
Break
9:20 – 10:35 a.m.
2A. The Leader's Imperative: Acting Now on Succession Planning
Colony ABCD | Materials
Succession planning is on everyone’s list as well as meeting agendas at every level of our industry. The dilemma with this critical topic is there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution. The uniqueness of each organization’s cultural and performance expectations creates different lenses by which we view solutions. Clarity and action, however, is a must. In this session we’ll have group discussion around best practices, principles common to effective plans, recent findings and case studies surrounding this impactful topic.
Credit: Specialized Knowledge — 1.5
2B. Mastering Cash Flow Management: Techniques & Best Practices
Colony E | Materials
In this interactive session, we will delve into the essential techniques and best practices for effective cash flow management. Understanding the dynamics of cash flow is crucial for the financial health and sustainability of any business. Attendees will gain insights into the cash conversion cycle, a key metric that illustrates how efficiently a company manages costs, inventory and collects receivables while paying its suppliers.
Credit: Finance — 1.5
10:35 – 10:50 a.m.
Break
10:50 a.m. – 12:05 p.m.
3A. Federal & Virginia 2025 Income Tax Update
Colony ABCD | Materials
This session will provide an update on the latest developments in federal and Virginia income taxes affecting businesses. Topics include passed and pending legislation.
Credit: Taxation — 1.5
3B. What Now? 2025 Employment Law Update
Colony E | Materials
The old maxim “the more things change, the more they stay the same” certainly does not apply in the workplace. Employment laws seem to change every day. Businesses must keep up with new laws and regulations, new court decisions, and new agency policies and agendas. During this session, we will look at recent legal developments in the labor and employment realm, including the current state of non-compete and unfair competition law, actions from the new administration that impact HR, recent decisions from the courts on HR issues, new and pending legislation, and the enforcement priorities of various federal agencies to enable you navigate our constantly changing business world.
Credit: Personnel/Human Resources — 1.5
12:05 – 12:50 p.m.
Networking Luncheon
Tidewater
12:50 – 1:40 p.m.
4A. Nexus ... Know Your Triggers!
Colony ABCD | Materials
This session will be a mix between sales and use tax and remote employees. We will go over some basic general descriptions before we dive into what triggers nexus. We will finish with a discussion on what to do once you have triggered nexus.
Credit: Taxation — 1
4B. Analytics in Action: Techniques, Trends & Tools
Colony E | Materials
In today’s data-driven world, finance and accounting professionals must go beyond traditional analysis to extract meaningful insights from data. This session provides a comprehensive guide to effective data analytics, covering key methods and techniques, factors that impact reliability and effectiveness, and the process of developing strong analytics — from assessing suitability to investigating variances. Explore common deficiencies in analytics, learn how AI and technology are transforming the field, and discover how visualization and storytelling can enhance communication of financial insights. Through practical case studies and activities, you'll gain the skills to apply analytics confidently in your role.
Credit: Information Technology — 1
1:40 – 1:50 p.m.
Break
1:50 – 3:30 p.m.
5A. Emerging Developments & Issues for the Economy & Business
Colony ABCD | Materials
It feels as if no country, economy or industry around the globe has seemingly been spared in some way from the impacts stemming from: price inflation fluctuations; energy or environmental shocks; a rising and uncertain interest rate environment; pre-and-post-pandemic-era labor market changes; the perils and prospects for AI and the advancements in other technologies; or record levels of human migration. While at the same time, these impacts have impelled governmental, business, financial and personal innovation and resilience ... and fostered opportunities. Let’s explore these developments and discover what may lie ahead!
Credit: Finance — 1 & Economics — 1
5B. What's Going on at the FASB
Colony E | Materials
Although the pace of FASB's standard-setting has slowed, the changes that have been issued can significantly impact organizations across sectors. This session begins with an overview of the standards effective in 2025 for public, private and nonprofit organizations. We'll then explore what's on the horizon, including standards effective after 2025, key exposure drafts, and ongoing FASB projects. Equip yourself with the insights you need to stay informed and up-to-date in financial reporting.
Credit: Accounting — 1 & Auditing — 1
3:30 – 3:40 p.m.
Break
3:40 – 5 p.m.
6. National & Regional Economic Update
Colony ABCD | Materials
Discuss the current state of the national economy and the state of Virginia.
Credit: Economics — 1
5 – 6 p.m.
Happy Hour
Lodge Courtyard
After a day’s worth of learning, you deserve a break. Get to know other attendees over hors d’oeuvres and drinks.
6 – 7:40 p.m.
Optional: Regulatory Ethics 2025 (VBOA-Approved)
Colony ABCD | Manual | Handout
Fulfill your 2025 ethics requirement in person!
The CPA profession in Virginia, like in many other states, is governed by a complex framework of laws, regulations and ethical standards. As a CPA, you are expected to adhere to these guidelines, maintain the highest level of professional integrity, and act in the public interest.
This Virginia Board of Accountancy (VBOA)-approved ethics course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory and ethical landscape of the accounting profession in Virginia. We will explore the key principles of professional ethics, the role of the VBOA, and the specific regulations that govern the practice of public accounting in the state.
Credit: Regulatory Ethics — 2
Friday, May 23
6:30 – 8 a.m.
Registration & Continental Breakfast
Colony Foyer
7 – 7:50 a.m.
Corporate Accounting Networking Group
Tidewater
Join us for an engaging morning of knowledge sharing and networking at our second annual Corporate Accounting Networking Group breakfast. Connect with experts and colleagues to explore topics like financial reporting, internal controls, budgeting and team management strategies. Gain valuable insights, share expertise and gain actionable takeaways to enhance your role in corporate finance. This session is worth 1 CPE credit.
Credit: Personal Development — 1
7:50 – 8 a.m.
Break
8 – 8:05 a.m.
Opening Remarks
Colony ABCD
8 – 8:55 a.m.
7. VSCPA Update
Colony ABCD | Materials
The CPA profession is always changing and moving fast. In this session, we'll learn the latest professional developments, both nationally and within Virginia. This session will offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the CPA profession.
Credit: Personal Development — 1
8:55 – 9:10 a.m.
Break
9:10 – 10:25 a.m.
8A. Leadership Resilience in a Time of Chaos & Change
Colony ABCD | Materials
Leadership is the backbone of an organization, providing direction, stability and motivation — especially in times of chaos and change. During uncertain times, employees look to their leaders for guidance, reassurance and a sense of purpose. Effective leadership fosters resilience, ensuring that teams can adapt and thrive despite challenges. This session covers ways leaders can provide clarity amid uncertainty, instill confidence and stability, and foster adaptability and innovation.
Credit: Personal Development — 1.5
8B. Top Technology Trends Including AI Opportunities
Colony E | Materials
Staying up to date with advances in today's technology has never been more vital. This comprehensive session is designed for accountants who want to understand the evolving technological landscape and its implications for the accounting profession.
- Which technology trends are worth monitoring?
- What are the proper hardware and software products for your strategic and tactical plans?
- How do artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, Software-as-a-Service and productivity suites like Microsoft 365 influence practice — especially since this year marks the 40th anniversary of the release of Excel?
Separate vendor hype from reality and discover how to achieve a two times or more return on investment from your technology expenditures. Leave with actionable insights, including ideas you may not have previously considered.
Credit: Information Technology — 1.5
10:25 – 10:40 a.m.
Break
10:40 – 11:55 a.m.
9A. Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Communication in Remote Workspaces
Colony ABCD | Materials
Is poor communication creating bottlenecks in your productivity and causing unnecessary stress? Miscommunication is the silent productivity killer, costing companies a staggering $1.2 trillion annually and causing over 50% of workers to experience anxiety. It doesn’t have to be this way. In this session, you’ll discover practical strategies to transform your team’s communication. By mastering five key communication principles, you'll learn to prevent costly errors, build stronger connections and reduce workplace anxiety. This session will equip you with actionable tools to drive real, measurable results. Don’t let poor communication stand in the way of your team's success. Take control of your communication today!
Credit: Personnel/Human Resources — 1.5
9B. AI: Better Prompts, Better Results
Colony E | Materials | Demo File 1 | Demo File 2 | Demo File 3 | Demo File 4 | Demo File 5
Generative AI is seemingly everywhere, and business professionals are embracing the technology ... and for a good reason — generative AI provides opportunities for enormous gains in efficiency and productivity. However, those gains can be even greater if you understand best practices for issuing AI prompts.
In this session, learn the best ways to ask questions of your AI platforms so you can easily get the information you seek quickly. Stop wasting time with inefficient and ineffective prompts! Learn the best ways to get the information you seek!
Credit: Computer Software & Applications — 1.5
11:55 a.m. – 12:40 p.m.
Networking Luncheon
Tidewater
12:40 – 1:55 p.m.
10A. Economic & Market Outlook
Colony ABCD | Materials
Get up to speed on current economic conditions including interest rates, equity markets and the effect of tariffs. Also get a glimpse into expectations based on long-term trends from numerous sources.
Credit: Economics — 1
10B. Data Security, Privacy Issues & Solutions
Colony E | Materials
Data security and privacy issues continue to plague businesses of all sizes. No matter where you look, the numbers are bad — really bad! But that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to reduce these risks. In this session, you learn about the key security and privacy risks facing businesses today and the steps you can take to mitigate these risks.
This session starts with a review of how cybercriminals attack businesses of all sizes and the related costs of these attacks. From there, you will progress into discussions of practical tools, policies and other solutions you can use to mitigate cybersecurity risks to prudently acceptable levels. This is a “must-attend” session for anyone concerned about data security and how to mitigate threats to sensitive and confidential data.
Information Technology — 1.5
1:55 – 2:05 p.m.
Break
2:05 – 2:55 p.m.
11. Positive Connection in a Divided World: Finding Common Ground to Find a Way Forward
Colony ABCD | Materials | Handout 1 | Handout 2
How do we bridge the gap and truly connect in a time of deep division? In this immersive and thought-provoking talk, Eva DeVirgilis will guide you through a powerful experiment in community, communication and empathy. Through humor, storytelling and practical strategies, you'll explore how we can foster positive and productive conversations — even with those whose perspectives differ significantly from ours. Walk away with renewed inspiration and actionable tools to build common ground and move forward together.
Credit: Personal Development — 1
2:55 – 3 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Colony ABCD
CPE tracking | Top
Option 1: From a web browser
Track the sessions you attend to earn your CPE credits. Please follow these steps:
- Visit vscpa2.cnf.io on your web browser.
- Select the session you want to check in to and enter your contact information including the email address associated with your VSCPA account.
- Select the blue button that says "Check In Now." (Be sure to check in at the beginning of each session or you may not get full credit.).
- Once the session is over, you will need to check out of the session. Click the teal “Check Out” button at the top of the session you are currently in, then click the blue “Confirm Check-Out” button.
To check into other session, you will need to click “Home” and then select the next session and repeat the check-in and check-out process.
Once you are ready to submit your CPE, go to “Your Check-Ins.” Scroll to the bottom and select the “Submit Now” button. This will email you a receipt and send the information to the VSCPA.
You will receive your CPE certificate within two weeks.
Option 2: Scan QR codes with your phone
- Scan the QR code sign outside the session you are attending.
- Enter your contact information including the email address associated with your VSCPA account.
- Select "Check In Now."
- At the end of the session, select "Check Out."
- Repeat steps for all sessions you attend.
Parking information | Top
- Complimentary parking is available in the lot across from the main Lodge entrance or in the parking garage located at the back of the hotel.
- Day parkers who are not staying overnight at the Lodge may print this parking pass and place it in your car dashboard to receive free parking.
- Overnight parkers will receive a parking pass upon check-in.
Sponsors | Top
Thank you to our sponsors!
