Rooted in its mission to promote accounting education in Colorado, the Educational Foundation of the COCPA provides outreach, support, scholarships, mentorships, and awards to accounting students across the state. 

As part of those initiatives, in the ever-evolving world of education where opportunities can feel elusive, it’s essential to celebrate the achievements and milestones of outstanding accounting students who are pursuing academic and professional excellence. Among the highlights of the Foundation’s year is its Gold Key Awards program, which recognizes the accounting major with the highest cumulative grade point average at each Colorado college or university. This prestigious award, given earlier this month to its 2024 class, celebrates students’ hard work and dedication, and provides motivation to continue pursuing success. 

“When I began my educational journey with Regis, I had no idea this would be the outcome,” says Lucinda Macias, a Regis University graduate and 2024 Gold Key Award winner. “I am honored to be a Gold Key Award recipient.” Macias, who is continuing her education as she pursues a master’s degree in accounting at Regis, recently accepted a full-time position as a senior analyst for RTX Corporation.

Congratulations to all of the 2024 Gold Key Award recipients:

• Adams State University: Sophia McConnell
• Colorado Christian University: Ashley Renee Kyle-Johnson
• Colorado Christian University: Victoria RyAnne VanVorst
• Colorado Mesa University: Stephanie Box
• Colorado Mesa University: Misty Osmundsen
• Colorado Mountain College: Lorena Martinez Sanchez
• Colorado State University-Fort Collins: Emmett Pelissier
• Colorado State University-Pueblo: Eric Phillip Maez
• Fort Lewis College: Samuel Dennington
• Metropolitan State University of Denver: Asya Kosolap
• Regis University: Lucinda Macias
• University of Colorado-Boulder: Cassandra Shetler
• University of Colorado-Colorado Springs: Beth Backora
• University of Colorado-Colorado Springs: Riley Hand
• University of Denver: Ben Boxell
• Western Colorado University: Brock Hardison

The Educational Foundation could not provide its awards, scholarships, mentorships, or outreach programs without generous donations from members of the accounting community. Donations are accepted year round. Please consider giving today to help shape the future of the profession and empower those who aspire to a career in accounting. 

Click here to learn more about the Educational Foundation or to make a donation, Please contact Executive Director Abbey Aguirre for more information.