2026 Beyond Conference

Overview

Leadership doesn't begin with a title. It begins with a willingness to grow.

The Beyond Conference was created by the Strategic Planning Committee for professionals who are ready to think bigger, lead boldly, and prepare for what's next. This conference will bring together emerging professionals, experienced CPAs, finance leaders, and firm teams.

As technology transforms the profession and the pace of change continues to accelerate, the organizations that thrive will be those that invest in developing leaders at every level. Through conversations on leadership, AI, communication, strategy, and personal growth, attendees will leave with fresh perspective, stronger connections, and renewed confidence to make an impact wherever they are in their careers.

Bring one person and they'll return with new ideas. Bring your team, and you'll build a shared vision for what's next.

Rise. Lead. Inspire.

We are still busy finalizing the amazing agenda for 2026 but below you can see a preview of what is in the works.

8:30–9:20 a.m.
7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Joe Zanco
Joe revisits the principles for personal and professional effectiveness from Stephen Covey’s best-selling book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

9:20–10:10 a.m.
Having a Growth Mindset
Jeremy Thibodeaux

10:10–10:30 a.m.
Break

10:30–11:20 a.m.
Building Your Personal Brand: Including Social Media
Bridget Kaigler

11:20 a.m.–12:10 p.m.
Leading Across Generations: Bridging Perspectives, Expectations, and Communication Styles
Mag Bickford

12:10–1:10 p.m.
Lunch

1:10–2:00 p.m.
Leading Through AI, Automation & Change
Jan Lewis
Explore leadership in a rapidly changing profession, including:
• Strategy in a changing market: adapting to consolidation, specialization, and competition
• What the next five years will demand: talent, technology, and client expectations
• Navigating through change

2:00–2:50 p.m.
Relationship Building
Julie Couret

2:50–3:10 p.m.
Break

3:10–4:25 p.m.
Leadership Panel: Lessons Learned Serving in Leadership
Moderator: Julie Couret
Panelists: Craig Stevens, Michael Hecht and Catherine Roe

4:25–4:50 p.m.
Words of Wisdom

Notice

HOTEL INFORMATION
Beyond Conference attendees get exclusive rates on rooms for this event starting at $236/night:

The Ritz Carlton New Orleans
921 Canal St.
New Orleans, LA 70112
504.524.1331

Book by November 25!

RESERVE ONLINE

SPONSOR THIS EVENT

Sponsorship is a great way to connect with CPA professionals and increase your visibility within the community. To learn more or recommend a sponsor, contract Diedra Allen at dallen@louisiana.cpa or click here for more information.