Rutherford, NJ – Felician University hosted the inaugural Future Accountants AI Challenge this past Friday, May 8, welcoming students from four Bergen County high schools to test their knowledge of accounting and business fundamentals and explore how artificial intelligence can ethically enhance creativity and productivity across professional industries. The event was created in collaboration with the NJ Society of Public Accountants, Lighthouse Leaders of the Future Foundation, and Felician University’s AI Task Force. 

Participating high schools included: 

• Rutherford High School 

• Lyndhurst High School 

• Hasbrouck Heights High School 

• Ridgefield Park High School 

Replicating the popular game show Jeopardy!, each team faced off head-to-head over two rounds, collaborating to answer questions in categories such as ethics, AI literacy, and finance and AI. Dr. Anthony Scardino, Associate Dean of the School of Business and AI Task Force co-chair, moderated the nearly three-hour-long competition alongside judges Dr. Deanna Valente, Dean of the Center for Information Technology and AI Task Force co-chair and John M. Szczomak, CPA, President of the NJSCPA. 

The winning team from Hasbrouck Heights High School is set to receive formal recognition at the NJ Society of CPAs convention and will be celebrated through various media outlets and other recognition opportunities in the weeks ahead. 

“An AI challenge creates a fun, competitive environment where high school students can build AI knowledge, strengthen problem-solving skills, and experience the energy of learning on a university campus,” said Dr. Valente. “By encouraging students to challenge themselves, embrace learning, and enjoy the journey, events like this bridge the gap between education and the profession, reflecting Felician University’s unwavering commitment to innovation, integrity, and leadership.” 

John M. Szczomak, CPA, concluded the event with a heartfelt speech to the students, reminding them that their skills, dedication, and curiosity will remain critical to the trustworthiness of the accounting profession for years to come. 

Joseph A. Lizza, MBA, CPA, CGMA, President of the NJ Society of CPA’s Bergen Chapter, founder of the Lighthouse Leaders of the Future Foundation, and an alum and adjunct professor at Felician University, shared his vision for why events like this matter: 

“Engaging the next generation of accounting professionals in the classroom is critical because the profession is evolving faster than ever before. Today’s students won’t just be future accountants — they’ll be technology leaders, strategic advisors, and innovators who understand how to combine financial expertise with emerging tools like AI. The Future Accountants AI High School Competition gives students an early opportunity to see accounting as a dynamic, forward-thinking career path rather than a traditional back-office function.” 

“AI is already transforming how firms analyze data, automate repetitive tasks, and deliver insights to clients. Events like this highlight where the profession is going by showing students that success in accounting will increasingly depend on creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to work alongside intelligent technology. By introducing these concepts early, we’re helping build a generation of professionals who are prepared to lead the future of the industry, not simply adapt to it.” 

“It was a privilege to be part of Felician University’s AI in Accounting Competition,” said Blake Spence, Teacher/Head of Lyndhurst’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Chapter. “The students involved were engaged, curious, and ready to have real conversations about how AI is shaping the profession. The organizing team’s passion was evident in every detail, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with the next wave of accounting professionals.” 

“The AI Challenge Event was a ‘fun’ way to show our accounting knowledge!” said Judith Leonard, Business & Technology Teacher at Rutherford High School. 

About the AI Task Force 

The AI Task Force at Felician University is dedicated to guiding the responsible, ethical, and innovative integration of artificial intelligence across institutional policies, administration, teaching, and curriculum. It evaluates current AI practices while identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, learning outcomes, and workforce readiness in alignment with Felician’s mission of student-centered learning and academic excellence. Committed to equity, transparency, and data security, the task force ensures AI is implemented in ways that support the Felician community and prepares students for success in an evolving, AI-driven world.

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Felician University is committed to supporting academic success at any stage of life. With over 2,700 undergraduate, graduate, and adult education students enrolled across the Schools of Arts & Sciences, Business & Information Sciences, Nursing, and Education, Felician provides diverse learning experiences that equip all students with the skills to meet the demands of today’s society. Over the past five years, Felician University has consistently ranked 3rd among private institutions in New Jersey for best value according to payscale.com and has been recognized as the #1 Safest College Campus in New Jersey according to niche.com. Our Master of Science in Nursing program is ranked one of the best online graduate nursing programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. We are proud to be designated as a Military Friendly School (Gold Status) for the thirteenth year, a testament to our dedicated support of Veteran students. Our diversity as an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution) and MSI (Minority Serving Institution), with underrepresented students comprising more than half of the student population, reflects our inclusive and supportive environment. With campuses in Rutherford and Lodi, New Jersey, our Franciscan values of respect for human dignity, compassion, and social justice are woven into the very foundation and development of tomorrow’s leaders. Felician University is proudly sponsored by Felician Sisters International (FSI). For more information, please visit https://felician.edu.