Three accountancy students receive $15,000 scholarship

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Three students from Western Michigan University received a competitive $15,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) for the 2024-25 academic year. Marcos Chavez-Cortez from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Ebony Faye Simpson from Allegan, Michigan, and Mary Welk from Battle Creek, Michigan, have earned the award through their academic excellence and hard work. The merit-based scholarship is intended to encourage accounting students to pursue careers in auditing.

“We are deeply thankful to the PCAOB for awarding three $15,000 scholarships, recognizing the dedication and potential of outstanding Western accounting students,” says Dr. Jim Penner, chair of the Department of Accountancy. “These scholarships celebrate the recipients’ talent and resilience. We are honored to support these future leaders as they prepare to start their careers in the accounting profession and are excited to see the great things they will accomplish.”

Three awards is a record for the number of scholarships PCAOB has given to WMU accounting students in a single year.

Marcos Chavez-Cortez

Marcos Chavez-Cortez is a recent graduate of Western, earning a degree in accounting and a minor in business analytics. During his time at WMU, Chavez-Cortez demonstrated a commitment to academic and professional development, earning multiple dean’s list honors while gaining relevant experience working part time at Cortez Tax & Accounting. He furthered his skills by participating in student organizations, including Beta Alpha Psi and the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). Currently, he is completing an internship with Plante Moran in Kalamazoo. Following the internship, he plans to return to WMU to complete his Master of Science in Accountancy and begin the process of certification as a CPA in Michigan.

“I value the journey of turning my dreams into reality,” says Chavez-Cortez. “As a first-generation college student, I initially thought I would struggle; however, the accounting curriculum and professors provided incredible support, helping me build the confidence and skills needed to succeed. WMU’s emphasis on excellence shaped my future and motivated me to keep pushing forward toward my professional career. Additionally, my involvement with organizations like Beta Alpha Psi and NABA allowed me to connect with fellow students and professionals, creating a network for my development. I’m grateful for the community that supported me, and I’m excited to continue my education and career so that one day I can give back and inspire others to reach for their own dreams.”

Ebony Faye Simpson

Ebony Faye Simpson is a graduate student in the Master of Science in Accountancy program at WMU and an accounting clerk at Greenleaf Hospitality Group. Passionate about using finance to promote equity and address financial disparities, Simpson is actively involved in NABA and the National Society for Leadership and Success. As she nears the completion of her master’s degree while sitting for the CPA exams, she is dedicated to creating pathways for marginalized communities and making a lasting impact in the finance industry.

“My most meaningful experience in the accounting program has been the unwavering support of my mentor Dr. Jim Penner,” says Simpson. “As a first-generation student, having a department chair who truly cares about not only my academic success but also my personal mission has been transformative. Dr. Penner’s support has extended beyond my education; it’s part of a movement to close the gap and empower others like me. Additionally, exposure to leaders like Dr. McCorkle-Boughton, vice president for diversity and inclusion at WMU, who advocates for the voiceless, has solidified my desire to use my financial knowledge to promote equity and opportunity for all.”

Mary Welk

Mary Welk is an accounting student who is pursuing her master’s degree in accounting while also studying for her final section of the CPA exam. She will be completing the Master of Science in Accountancy this summer with a study abroad trip to Ireland, which has a focus on environmental, social, and governance initiatives and reporting. She has participated in several student organizations including Tennis Club, Cru+ and Beta Alpha Psi. She completed a tax internship in 2023 with Seber Tans and is currently participating in an audit internship with Yeo & Yeo and will join the firm in a full-time position in May 2025. 

“My most meaningful experience at the Haworth College of Business has been the connections I’ve created,” says Welk. “As an accounting transfer student, I came into WMU Haworth feeling overwhelmed with the classes, programs and opportunities offered to students. Through a little bit of communication, I was able to find a professor that helped me through all of it: Dr. Carrie Burke. She helped me understand what WMU Haworth can provide—from career fairs, to resume critiques, to communication skills. I was able to complete two accounting internships, receive a full-time offer at a CPA firm, connect with students and professors alike, and start my CPA certification all because Dr. Burke informed me of what WMU Haworth could do for my career.”

About the award

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 states that funds generated from the collection of PCAOB monetary penalties must be used to fund a merit scholarship program for students in accredited accounting degree programs. The PCAOB Scholars Program identifies students to become PCAOB Scholars and awards funds through educational institutions. Visit the PCAOB Scholars Program for more information about the award.

To learn more about accountancy, visit WMU Accountancy online.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.