Officers
Faculty Advisors
Dr. Jennifer Cainas
Professor Cainas originally grew up in a small town outside of Ithaca, New York. After attending a small university in Pennsylvania for one year, she decided to pack all of her belongings into her car and move to Tampa in 1988.
She attended the University of South Florida from 1991-1996, was a member of Beta Alpha Psi Delta Gamma Chapter, earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree and a Master’s Degree in Accounting, and is a licensed C.P.A. in the State of Florida. During her professional career, she worked in the financial services and insurance industries and most recently was a controller for a Fortune 500 company prior to returning to USF full time as a faculty member.
Dr. Luke Richardson
Luke Richardson is an Associate Professor of Instruction and Kerkering Barberio Fellow in the Lynn Pippenger School of Accountancy. He teaches courses in taxation of individuals and business entities and is a past recipient of the Advisory Council’s Outstanding Teaching Award. He also serves as a faculty advisor for the Delta Gamma chapter of Beta Alpha Psi.
Richardson, a licensed CPA and lawyer in Florida, worked with Deloitte prior to taking his position at the university. He serves as an editor and author on Pearson’s Federal Taxation textbook and has been featured as a tax expert in many print and television news media outlets. He also teaches as an adjunct professor at the Stetson University College of Law.
Richardson completed a juris doctorate at the Stetson University College of Law and bachelor’s and graduate degrees in accountancy at the University of South Florida.
Officer Team
President
Chloe Snow
Office Hours: Thursday, 1 – 2 PM
Email: president@usfbap.org
Hello everyone! My name is Chloe Snow, and I am excited to serve as the President for Spring 2024. I am in my final semester of the MSAA program with an Assurance concentration. I have previously graduated from USF in Fall 2022 with my Bachelor’s in Accounting and a Criminology minor. I completed an internship with PwC in Summer 2022, and I have been working full-time for the firm as a Digital Assurance & Transparency (DAT) Associate since July 2023. Beta Alpha Psi has allowed me to create lasting connections and wonderful memories with both my peers and accounting professionals, and I am looking forward to giving back to a wonderful organization. Outside of working and studying, I enjoy gardening, crocheting, traveling, learning new languages, baking, scrapbooking, and building Lego sets. I hope to get to know each of you a little better, so do not hesitate to reach out with questions or have a chat during my office hours!
Vice President
Aldo Jimenez Valdez
Office Hours: Tuesday, 3:30 – 4:30 PM
Email: vp@usfbap.org
Hello! I’m Aldo Jimenez Valdez, a senior at USF Muma College of Business, pursuing a dual degree in Accounting and Business Analytics and Information Systems (BAIS). My academic focus blends rigorous accounting principles with cutting-edge analytics. In 2023, I interned with the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority at Tampa International Airport’s Internal Audit Department. This experience was pivotal in applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, especially in internal auditing. Coming up in summer 2024, I’ll be interning at Grant Thornton in audit, eagerly anticipating this opportunity to further my practical knowledge. After graduating in Spring 2024, my goal is to pursue a master’s degree in Accounting and earn my CPA License, underpinning my commitment to a future in accounting. Being part of Beta Alpha Psi has enriched my journey, offering key networking, leadership development, and a deeper insight into the accounting profession. I’m enthusiastic about guiding new members and candidates in Beta Alpha Psi, sharing my experiences, and contributing to our collective growth in accounting and analytics. I’m always open for a chat or to provide advice related to our field.
Chief Financial Officer
Yash Patel
Office Hours: Wednesday, 12:30 – 1:30 PM
Email: treasurer@usfbap.org
Good day everyone! My name is Yash Patel, and I am really excited about serving as the treasurer for Spring 2024. I will be graduating in the summer of 2025 with my bachelor’s degree in accounting. I completed my associate degree in art from Saint Pete College, and being a part of Bed Alpha Psi has been a wonderful experience for me. Not only did it help me improve my communication skills, but it also allowed me to make amazing connections with my peers and professionals. It has been instrumental in helping me figure out what I want to do with my life. When I am not studying or working with BAP, I love spending time working out and hanging out with my friends and family. So please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about BAP or accounting in general. I cannot wait to get to know all of you!
Executive of Recording Operations
Nick Bennett
Office Hours: Monday, 3:30 – 4:30 PM
Email: secretary@usfbap.org
Hello, I’m Nick Bennett, a senior at the University of South Florida pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting. My academic and professional journey has been both unique and fulfilling. I began my career as a Tax Clerk and smoothly transitioned to a part-time Staff Accountant role at Prida, Guida & Perez, P.A., where I’ve demonstrated a hands-on commitment to the accounting field.
In January 2024, I took on the role of Tax Intern, allowing me to gain practical insights and apply my classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Beyond my focus on numbers, I express my artistic side as a Mellophone Player in the USF Marching Band, adding a musical dimension to my university life.
I also serve as the President of the Fishing Club at USF, building community ties among fellow fishing enthusiasts. Looking ahead, I’ve secured a tax internship at EY starting in January 2025. As I prepare for this exciting opportunity, I’m also considering pursuing a Master’s degree in either Accounting or Taxation. Moreover, my interest in exploring legal aspects has led me to contemplate a law degree, reflecting my diverse interests and ambitions.
My journey is a blend of academic rigor, professional development, and a passion for music. I enjoy weaving together the complexities of accounting, the camaraderie of the band, and the shared enthusiasm for fishing in my life.
Chief Executive of National Reporting
Zach Stoner
Office Hours: Mondays, 11 – 12 PM
Email: reporter@usfbap.org
My name is Zach Stoner, currently in my final semester as a senior Accounting major at the University of South Florida. As I near the completion of my degree, I am excited to embark on the next chapter of my professional journey, starting with an Audit internship at Ernst and Young in the summer of 2024. This opportunity is a significant step for me, offering a chance to apply my academic learning in a real-world setting.
My interest in technology, which started as a hobby, has gradually become a valuable part of my skill set. I’ve found that this interest complements my studies in accounting, providing a broader perspective in a digitally evolving world. I’m keen to see how this blend of skills will play a role in my career development.
Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy weightlifting and playing chess. These activities not only serve as a great balance to my studies but also keep me grounded. I’ve set a personal goal to reach an ELO of 1500 in chess by the end of the year, spurred by a friendly annual competition within my family.
In essence, as I approach the end of my time at university, I am grateful for the experiences and knowledge I gained. I look forward to contributing meaningfully to my future workplace and continuing to learn more every day.
Being part of Beta Alpha Psi has enriched my journey, offering key networking, leadership development, and a deeper insight into the accounting profession. I am enthusiastic about guiding new members and candidates in Beta Alpha Psi, sharing my experiences, and contributing to our collective growth in accounting and analytics. I am always open for a chat or to provide advice related to our field.
Information Systems Director
Gage Riznyk
Office Hours: Tuesday, 1 – 2 PM
Email: isdirector@usfbap.org
Hello! I’m Gage Riznyk, currently dual-majoring in Accounting and Finance at the University of South Florida, while also working towards my CPA certification. My time at USF has been filled with unique experiences that have shaped both my academic and professional path.
During my studies, I interned at PODS Enterprises LLC as a General Ledger and Treasury Accounting Intern. This role provided me with a broad perspective across various financial departments, enhancing my understanding of the intricate financial landscape.
In May 2022, I founded The Handy Intern. This venture specializes in commercial and residential sectors, offering services like construction, electrical work, handyman tasks, and pressure cleaning. In the near future, I will introduce an automated scheduling and data analysis tool, revolutionizing the way young professionals manage and optimize their time, tasks, finances, and more with personalized-learning experience and tools outside of academia.
On a personal note, I have a budding interest in database management, coding, and network communications relating to software/hardware. While I’m not an expert yet, I’m quickly gaining knowledge and skills in these areas. This humble foray into tech complements my majors, adding another layer to my professional profile.
As I look to the future, I’m excited about my journey, blending the complexities of accounting and finance with my entrepreneurial spirit and growing tech skills. I’m always open to sharing insights and learning from others, so feel free to reach out for a chat or any advice. My journey, much like accounting itself, is a blend of precision and creativity, and I look forward to every new challenge and opportunity.