News

Graduate studies aren’t just about earning a degree — they’re about asking deeper questions, gaining new perspectives and shaping conversations that reach far beyond the classroom.

This month, we’re spotlighting Jillian Adams (PhD ’24), a School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) alum whose passion for tax policy and pursuit of a PhD shows how curiosity can be turned into impact.

This year’s Fusion Conference highlighted the growing connection between the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) and the Faculty of Science.

With interdisciplinary teams combining scientific insight, business strategy, and financial thinking, Fusion was a clear showcase of how these two academic worlds strengthen one another.

Benjie Thomas (PDAcc '98), CEO of KPMG in Canada returned to the University of Waterloo's School of Accounting and Finance where he was recognized for his longstanding generosity to the University and shared valuable career insights with the next generation of accounting and finance professionals. 

Seven graduates from the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) Master of Accounting program have earned a spot on Ontario’s 2025 CFE National Honour Roll.

Representing nearly one-third of all Honour Roll writers in the province, this achievement highlights our students' strong technical foundation and confidence to navigate the complexities of today’s accounting landscape.

In honour of World Teachers’ Day this month, the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) is celebrating alumni who have returned to the classroom—bringing the lessons they’ve learned in industry back to where their own journeys began.  

Balancing careers in both business and academia, our alumni bridge theory and practice, offering their insights and experiences to give our students a firsthand look at how classroom concepts come to life in real-world settings. 

SAF undergraduate programs are evolving in response to advancements in technology and sustainability. AFM is the first to implement these changes, but soon all programs will adopt this new model to embrace future-ready, experiential learning. 

The end of summer means back to school and back to routines with the spirit of learning in full swing. For SAF alumni, crossing the stage at Convocation isn't the end of their educational journey, but the start of a new chapter. Many decide to give back and share their knowledge by mentoring students, guest lecturing and promoting financial literacy in their communities. These alumni create a ripple effect that inspires and support future generations. 

Mentorship shaped his student experience, and now Dean Ah Sen (MAcc ’16) has come full circle, giving back to the SAF community as a Fellowship Honouree. While leading financial reporting at CAPREIT, he continues to help students navigate challenges and step outside their comfort zones.

School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) alumni are finding success early in their careers, proving that with the right mix of curiosity, courage and foundation, great things can happen fast.

Whether they’re helping launch startups or preparing expert reports for high-stakes litigation, these young professionals are already leaving a mark on their industries.  

Three faculty members from the School of Accounting and Finance — Lisa Pynenburg, Dr. Timothy Bauer and Dr. Krista Fiolleau — have been recognized with University of Waterloo Outstanding Performance Awards, celebrating their exceptional contributions to teaching and research.