Research, News and Thought Leadership

National Honour Roll

Congratulations to our 2020 National Honour Roll Recipients

The National Honour Roll recognizes candidates who demonstrated academic excellence and exceptional abilities in the Common Final Exam. CPA Ontario congratulates the future leaders of the accounting profession who made the National Honour Roll.

Michelle Per

Governor General’s Gold Medalist
KPMG LLP, Toronto
Schulich School of Business, York University
Bachelor of Business Administration with Honours, 2018

Michelle was drawn to the CPA designation because it offers opportunities to work with multinational companies or internationally, focusing on a career path in corporate tax. Hardworking and organized, Michelle encourages other students to not lose sight of the big picture and focus on how the designation will allow them to achieve their goals. Originally from British Columbia, Michelle enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking and boating.

Robert Barkin

Ernst & Young LLP, Toronto
Schulich School of Business, York University
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Business Administration, 2019

In Robert’s view, the path to the CPA designation isn’t easy, but it is rewarding. Inspired by big picture thinkers who not only see situations as they exist, but for what they can be, Robert pursued the designation because of the various career pathways it offers. Insightful and committed, Robert recommends finding a good study buddy to learn and grow with. In his spare time, Robert can be found trying a new recipe in the kitchen, reading a good book or spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Andrea Bauschke

Ernst & Young LLP, Waterloo
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Mathematics, 2019

To Andrea, the CPA is more than a designation—it’s a demonstration of a well-rounded mind and someone that can plan for the long term. Self-described as diligent and conscientious, the CPA designation allows her to tap into her strengths. When asked for advice for aspiring CPAs, Andrea noted studying for the CFE was a marathon, not a sprint and taking breaks was as important as hitting the books. When she’s taking one of those well-deserved breaks, you can find Andrea hiking, baking or travelling the world.

Kristian Borean

KPMG LLP, Vaughan
York University
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Business Administration, 2019

Kristian is grateful to his family, friends and professional mentors, who have supported him on his academic and professional journeys. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Kristian aspires to make significant strategic and financial decisions as a business leader and the CPA designation is critical to that dream. His immigrant grandparents taught him the enduring importance of hard work and determination, values that he believes are important to aspiring CPAs. In his free time, Kristian enjoys reading, especially about history and finance, and plays tennis, golf and hockey.

Nicki Butkowsky

Ernst & Young LLP, Toronto
McGill University
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019
University of Toronto
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, 2019

Nicki was keen to pursue the CPA designation because of the doors it would open for her, and is grateful to her parents who empowered her to follow her passions, academically and personally. Some of those passions include physical fitness, sports and travel. Nicki has visited two of the wonders of the world and hopes to cross the remaining five off her list in the future.

Louise Choi

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Vaughan
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2019

Determined and practical, Louise is inspired by her parents to do her best, and takes pride in her recent CFE success. Louise aspires to work as a tax professional and hopes the CPA designation will continue to provide opportunities for learning and growth, which she always welcomes with open arms. A self-described introvert, Louise explores her artistic side with an impressive set of hobbies including building models, drawing and playing the piano.

Toby Chung

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2019

Toby has a simple mantra for aspiring CPAs: Work hard and believe in yourself. So it’s unsurprising that Toby’s own diligence earned him a place on the Honour Roll, an accomplishment that both astonished and delighted him. Though he’s uncertain where his career will lead him, Toby is confident that the versatility and prestige of the CPA designation will open doors to many exciting industries. His hobbies include sports, chess and guitar playing, but his true obsession is basketball statistics and fantasy leagues.

Emily Gillespie

McGovern Hurley LLP, North York
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Mathematics, 2020

Earning a place on the Honour Roll was the perfect ending to Emily’s academic journey, which included mathematics and accounting degrees. With her sights now set on a career as an auditor, Emily is grateful for the example her parents set in their personal and professional lives. Emily is compassionate, enthusiastic and adventurous, especially when it comes to sports—she’s part skier, hiker, softball player and figure skater. Setting the right goals and accepting failure, without fear, are key to her recent successes.

Christie Hall

Ernst & Young LLP, London
Western University
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019
University of Windsor
Bachelor of Commerce - Honours Business Administration Co-operative Education with Distinction, 2018

After months of studying, earning a place on the National Honour Roll is a feat Christie will forever cherish. Excited about her future as a CPA, Christie pursued the designation because of the countless opportunities it can provide and doors it can open. An avid reader, hiker and traveller, Christie looks forward to visiting New Zealand and Australia once it is safe to travel.

Thomas Hewitt

Deloitte LLP, Toronto
Brock University
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting, 2019

Upon learning of his Honour Roll achievement, Thomas was thrilled to know his hard work had finally paid off. His dedication and passion for accounting and finance stem from a belief, instilled in him by his family, that the keys to success are collaboration and grit. When he’s not travelling the globe or speaking in front of an audience, Thomas spends his time hiking, kayaking, camping and swimming. His advice to would-be accountants? Say “yes” to opportunity.

Emily Huang

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2019

As someone who describes herself as adventurous, dynamic and proactive, it’s no surprise Emily is oriented toward the future. Asked for advice for future generations of CPAs, she stresses the need for adaptability and a future-oriented mindset noting the business world is in constant flux that can only be managed by learning, growth and creativity. Now that she’s done with the CFE, Emily will be honing her skills in accounting and audit with the hope that the international cachet of her CPA will lead to work abroad.

Nan Jiang

Deloitte LLP, Toronto
Queen’s University
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019
McGill University
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019

When Nan needs a jolt of inspiration, he looks to his peers’ success to push him further. Now that he’s passed the CFE, his attention is on progressing his career in financial reporting. Outside of work, Nan enjoys singing, skating and watching movies. His advice for aspiring CPAs? Don’t skip class.

Michael Kay

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Toronto
Wilfrid Laurier University
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019
Honours Bachelor of Business Administration, 2019

The faces behind Michael’s CFE success are varied and many. Parents, friends, coaches, mentors and colleagues all inspire him to work hard, persevere and pursue his goals—so it’s no surprise he’s a self-described team player. Michael relishes the opportunity to use his diverse CPA competencies as a trusted advisor to clients on their strategic decisions. When he’s not busy honing his accounting craft, he can be found keeping fit, kiteboarding and reading about the global markets.

Jayla Kennedy

Timbercreek Capital Inc., Toronto
McGill University
Honours Bachelor of Commerce, 2013

Jayla plans to leverage the technical knowledge and soft skills she developed in the CPA program to tailor her CPA journey on her own terms, wherever it leads. The Penticton, B.C., native was surprised to hear about her CFE success, but glad for the instant recognition it brings. Drawing inspiration from friends and family, Jayla boasts a set of attributes worthy of any accountant: analytical, reliable and friendly. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, gastronomy and taking in a good novel.

Imran Kheraj

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2019

Imran is eager to apply his CPA knowledge and experience to a variety of fields, though real estate makes his early short list. Imran describes himself as easy-going, thoughtful and adaptable, so he’s confident he can find success wherever his career takes him—especially with the support of his inspiring parents and a strong network of friends. During the lockdown, Imran developed a keen interest in cooking, which naturally complements his passion for personal fitness and sports.

Alexander Kowalski

Bell Canada, Toronto
York University
Bachelor of Commerce, 2017

Initially unsure of which career path to take after receiving his degree, Alex took the advice of some respected mentors and chose to become a CPA. Despite the exam being one of the toughest and most rigorous experiences of his life, he has no doubt that he made the right choice. When not working or studying for the CFE, Alex used his free time to become an expert chef during the pandemic perfecting his sushi, fish and chips, and chili recipes.

Eric Laurin

Banyan Capital Partners, Toronto
University of British Columbia
Honours Bachelor of Commerce, 2019
University of Toronto
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, 2019

Armed with the CPA foundation of ethics, knowledge and skills, Eric aspires to be a private equity investor. Outgoing, honest and driven, Eric credits his success to his supportive mother and his inspiring father, who is an FCPA in Quebec. While he encourages budding professionals to solicit advice from trusted sources, Eric also knows to trust his instincts, particularly when it comes to embarking on the right career path. He enjoys recreational sports, especially skiing, and spending quality time with friends.

Sabrina Léger

Ernst & Young LLP, Toronto
Western University
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019
Bachelor of Management and Organizational Studies, 2019

Staying motivated, focused and organized allowed Sabrina to reach this level of success on the CFE. While she has not decided on a specialty yet, she is excited about all the opportunities the CPA designation will offer her. Inspired by her family, Sabrina spends her free time perfecting her Scrabble skills with her grandma.

Samuel Li

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Vaughan
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Mathematics, 2019

Samuel looks forward to maximizing the robust network and skills of the CPA designation to explore diverse opportunities within the wealth management industry. Grateful to have earned a place on the Honour Roll, Samuel points to the values instilled in him by his immigrant parents as the source of his tireless drive and motivation. His advice for aspiring CPAs is to be adventurous and open-minded, because you never know what you might discover.

Rachael Lidstone

GGFL LLP
Carleton University
Master of Accounting, 2020
University of Ottawa
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019

Determined and thoughtful, Rachael loves a challenge—as evidenced by her outstanding results on the CFE. She credits her success on the exam to setting healthy boundaries. Rachael hopes to continue a career in public accounting, specifically focusing on assurance. Outside of the office, Rachael is a thrill seeker and can be found sky diving, hang gliding or bungee jumping.

Andrew Locke

Ernst & Young LLP, Toronto
Western University
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019
Bachelor Management and Organizational Studies, 2019

An aspiring entrepreneur, Andrew hopes to leverage his CPA designation to one day run his own business or be part of a start-up. He is inspired by other entrepreneurs, especially those who have built successful businesses they are passionate about. Adventurous, curious and driven, Andrew looks forward to travelling in the future.

Simon Lu

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Toronto
University of Toronto
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, 2019
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019

The talent and determination of his fellow CFE writers makes Simon’s Honour Roll achievement that much sweeter, and simply making the cut was enough to bring a smile to his face. Outside of work, Simon loves playing basketball (he is a massive Los Angeles Lakers fan) and counts snowboarding and cooking among his favourite hobbies. Drawing inspiration from the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant, Simon aims for excellence in everything he does, whether on the court or in the classroom.

David Martins

Ernst & Young LLP, Ottawa
Carleton University
Sprott School of Business, Carleton University
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019

Trust the process and work hard. That’s David’s advice for aspiring CPAs confronting a daunting series of courses and exams. In the end, the experience will be an invaluable resource to draw upon throughout your career. David plans on putting his experience to good use with the goal of working his way up in the firm or taking on a financial oversight role at a private or public company. When he’s not climbing the career ladder, David enjoys sports, exercise and finding adventure on his travels.

Hallie Maxmen

BCE Inc., Toronto
Ivey Business School
Honours Business Administration, 2019
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019

Madison McCarty

Charcoal Group of Restaurants, Kitchener
University of Guelph
Bachelor of Commerce, 2018

Madison describes learning she earned a place on the National Honour Roll as being an unbelievable moment. She pursued the CPA designation because of the unlimited career opportunities it offers. Her advice to aspiring CPAs is to look for opportunities to apply the knowledge they learned; it will pay off throughout their careers. While studying for the CFE, Madison took an interest in growing and taking care of plants. When possible, she hopes to celebrate her success with a trip to Trinidad and Tobago.

Kartiki Pandya

Walmart Canada, Mississauga
York University
Bachelor of Business Administration, 2018

Kartiki is humbled and gratified to rank among the finest CFE writers of 2020, an accomplishment she keenly shares with her supportive family. Hailing from Baroda, India, Kartiki credits her CPA journey for imparting financial acumen and key leadership skills to explore career opportunities within FP&A, financial strategy and advisory. An avid traveller, outdoorswoman and student of contemporary Indian dancing, she firmly believes in embracing change and ambiguity at work, regardless of the career path.

Claire Peng

KPMG LLP, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Mathematics, 2020
Diploma in French Language II, 2020

Earning a place on the National Honour Roll has made Claire feel more confident in her skills and abilities, as well as demonstrating that hard work and dedication can go a long way. She hopes to advance her career within tax advisory and credits the skills she’s developed for making her a well-rounded public accountant. Drawing inspiration from her parents, Claire aspires to make meaningful contributions within her community and to her clients.

Helen Peng

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, London
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Mathematics, 2019

Currently employed at PwC in London, Ontario, Helen is gaining the crucial technical and soft skills to launch a promising accounting career with the CPA designation. Excited to be among the nation’s top CFE writers, Helen looks forward to overcoming diverse professional challenges with the unique CPA skill set and her idiosyncratic blend of happiness, optimism and energy. Helen enjoys hiking, baking, and exploring new restaurants and cuisines. Her major source of inspiration is her parents.

Emily Poli

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Windsor
University of Windsor
Honours Bachelor of Commerce, 2018

Inspired by tackling a major challenge, Emily stresses the importance of not getting overwhelmed by the size of a goal. Instead, it’s important to break things down into smaller, more achievable goals and slowly work your way through. Before you know it, you’ll be there. Emily hopes to put that approach to good use for her clients by becoming a respected tax accountant and business advisor.

Emily Potvin

Rewind, Ottawa
Queen’s University
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, 2019
University of Ottawa
Honours Bachelor of Commerce, 2018

For Emily, making the Honour Roll was a rewarding experience and a fitting culmination to years of hard work. Driven by a desire to learn new skills and consistently expand her knowledge, Emily relies on the versatility and breadth of her CPA training. She hopes to one day work in the tech industry as an accountant, with a focus on data analytics. An avid biker, reader and CrossFit enthusiast, Emily stresses the value of perseverance and organization for all aspiring CPAs.

Ana Rusu

KPMG LLP, London
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2019

Inspired by her parents’ drive and sacrifice, Ana is determined to make the most of every opportunity—which is why she pursued the CPA designation. She describes earning a place on the National Honour Roll as surreal and believes in the power of community and collaboration to achieving success. Inquisitive and analytical, Ana loves to try new things in the kitchen, such as making chocolate bonbons and nurturing her own sourdough starter.

James Sendel

MNP LLP, Toronto
Carleton University
Master of Accounting, 2020
Queen’s University
Bachelor of Commerce, 2015

James’ place on the Honour Roll is his reward for many hours of study and years of practice, but it’s only the beginning. Inspired by the inherent promise of tomorrow, he plans to leverage his financial knowledge and technical acumen to help others and solve humanity’s toughest challenges. Dedicated and outgoing, James enjoys hiking, travelling and taking in a good hockey game. His commitment to learning reflects a profound trust in the educational process, a value he preaches to anyone who wants to change the world.

Jennifer Shu

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Waterloo
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, 2020

Earning a place on the National Honour Roll has given Jennifer a greater sense of confidence in her work, allowing her to tackle challenges with more certainty and conviction. With a desire to create value for clients and their businesses, she hopes to use her designation to build a career in tax consultancy and credits the CPA designation for helping her develop the core competencies to do so. Jennifer enjoys learning new KPOP dances, playing Avalon and Werewolf and spending time with friends and family.

Samuel Siu

KPMG LLP, Vaughan
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2020

Samuel hopes to use his CPA designation to pursue meaningful work where he can add value to people’s lives. His Christian faith motivates him to act with integrity and diligence in everything he does. Samuel feels humbled to have earned a place on the National Honour Roll and is proud to share this achievement with those who supported him on his journey. A social butterfly, he is passionate about building new and meaningful friendships.

Mohammed Surti

Ernst & Young LLP, Toronto
University of Toronto
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, 2019
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019

As a first-generation immigrant, Mohammed is grateful for all the sacrifices his parents made. They have inspired him to realize his full potential and give back to his community. Mohammed looks forward to unlocking all the opportunities the CPA designation offers. In his free time, Mohammed enjoys a variety of sports, including ultimate frisbee, basketball, soccer and biking.

Russell Sweeney

Deloitte LLP, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2020

When looking for role models, Russell never needed to look very far. His family has always pushed him to be the best person he could be and showed him how to get there by providing a template for poise and a general good attitude. Russell is focused on a career in finance with the long-term goal of taking on a controllership/CFO role with a company that shares his values. In his spare time, Russell plays piano and participates in choir where his amazing relative pitch helps him consistently hit the right key.

Tatiana Tsoi

Toronto Dominion (TD) Bank, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Master of Taxation, 2019
York University
Schulich School of Business, York University
Bachelor of Business Administration, 2017

When asked about her success on the CFE, Tatiana was quick to give credit to the teachers, mentors and CPA staff who supported her on her journey. However, there’s one mentor who clearly stands above: her mother. Through her mother, Tatiana learned about the importance of constant self-improvement and the value of always striving to learn more. She plans to embark on a career in cross-border tax planning and compliance. When she wants a break, Tatiana enjoys playing RPGs and co-operative games with friends.

Mario Vujinovic

KPMG LLP, Toronto
York University
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Business Administration, 2019

Currently employed at KPMG, Mario aims to be an expert in his field, and with the Honour Roll distinction under his belt, he’s well on his way. Dedicated, adaptable and loyal, he’s inspired by those who show grace under pressure and he values self-confidence more than anything else. In his spare time, Mario enjoys watching sports and reading about history, which might explain why he can name every Canadian prime minister and U.S. president in chronological order.

Samantha Wong

Ernst & Young LLP, Toronto
University of Toronto
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, 2019
Bachelor of Commerce, 2019

No matter where her career takes her, Samantha knows it will be near a mountain. An avid skier and hiker, Samantha retreats to nature when she needs to recharge after a long stretch of hard work. Samantha learned about perseverance from her grandparents, who immigrated to Canada with two small children and set to work building a life for their family. Inspired by their example, Samantha attributes her success to hard work applied consistently over time.

Gordon Yee

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Toronto
University of Waterloo
Master of Accounting, 2020
Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management, 2019

Gordon recognizes the tremendous positive impact the support of his family, friends and colleagues has had on his achievement. He is interested in applying his knowledge to mergers and acquisitions, valuations, and advisory services within a client-oriented environment. Passionate about learning, Gordon desires to always expand his skill set. In his spare time, Gordon can be found cheering on his favourite professional sports teams or hitting the green on the golf course.

Hong Jie Xu

Hong Jie Xu also earned a place on the National Honour Roll. Congratulations, Hong.