The William D. Hoover School of Accounting, Financial and Information Services (SAFIS) invited students to relax and unwind at its annual back-to-school cookout. In addition to receiving a free T-shirt and food, students entered a raffle for scholarships.
CPA firm Allen Green & Williamson LLP sponsored this year’s cookout, offering $2,500 worth of scholarships to attending students. Allen Green & Williamson LLP is a local accounting business that frequently partners with ULM, offering internship slots and job opportunities.
Since 2004, the Accounting Cookout has served as a bridge between students, alums, and local accounting firms. This event helps upperclassmen connect with potential employers and provides opportunities for scholarships.
The cookout stalled during the COVID lockdown, causing a recession in networking relationships. Four years later, CPA Tim Green, partner of Allen Green & Williamson LLP, pushed to begin the annual event again.
“[Green] just said, ‘Look, we got to get this thing going again.’ Kids need to connect with employers and alumni; employers want to connect with students. This is just a good, open opportunity for networking.” Michelle McEacharn, dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences (CBSS), said.
Terry Hoover Odom, daughter of William D. Hoover, gave a speech to the students. She spoke on her father’s legacy with ULM and his wishes for students to enjoy life’s ‘important’ aspects.
“I was given the privilege of delivering his eulogy,” Odom said. “It was difficult, but I did it. So, here is a list of things he always stood by: cook less food, enjoy the party, and you can never learn too much.”
After Odom’s speech, McEacharn announced the winners of the six scholarships split between accounting and CIS majors. The event welcomed about 30 students.
Sophomore pre-nursing major Kylee-Ann Dixon spoke on her opinion of the event.
“As a pre-nursing major, I have not been invited to a single nursing event,” Dixon said. “It’s such a difficult major, and we don’t even get a hot dog for it. This environment is very welcoming, and I can see why some people major in business.”
ULM’s SAFIS will likely hold the cookout next year, having no plans to halt the recurring event.