The Louisian community gathered on 7 December 2025 at the Audio Visual Room of Saint Louis University Maryheights Campus for “The Enchanted Matinée: Louisian CPAs’ Tales of Becoming,” a celebration crafted to honor the newest Certified Public Accountants and to reflect on the journeys that brought them to this milestone. With its enchanting garden theme accented by hues of blue, the event created an atmosphere of elegance and wonder—symbolizing growth, resilience, and the flourishing dreams of every Louisian CPA.
From the moment the matinée began, the venue glowed with the vibrance of the theme. Lush floral décor, illuminated centerpieces, and enchanted-garden attire filled the space with a soft magic that blended seamlessly into the program’s flow. This sense of enchantment served as a backdrop to the heartfelt stories, recognitions, and celebrations shared throughout the afternoon.
One of the most anticipated moments was the address of Angel V. Secerio Jr., CGMA, CMA (U.S.), CPA (U.S.), President and CEO of Insights Financial Review Services, whose message centered on perseverance, gratitude, and the responsibility carried by every CPA. In a touching highlight, he also awarded a scholarship to Louisian topnotcher Jun II Macario, whose remarkable success brought renewed pride and distinction to the entire SLU community. Jun’s achievement marked a celebrated moment for the university, continuing SLU’s legacy of excellence and reaffirming its enduring place among institutions that produce outstanding CPA board performers.
The matinée was further graced by the presence of representatives from RG Manabat and Co., Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Philippines, and the SLU School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies (SAMCIS) Alumni Association, along with faculty members from the Department of Accountancy and a vibrant assembly of alumni and students. Their attendance strengthened the sense of solidarity and partnership that has long connected the Louisian accounting community.
Throughout the program, the newly passed CPAs were formally recognized through the awarding of certificates, the recitation of both the PICPA and Louisian CPA pledges, and the signing of a commemorative canvas bearing their names as emerging professionals. Heartfelt testimonies filled the hall, with each CPA sharing their struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs. Among these stories, the testimony of topnotcher Jun II Macario stood out—an inspiring reminder of the determination, humility, and faith woven into the journey toward the CPA title. A fine banquet, wine toasting, fun raffles, and themed recognitions such as Best Testimony and Mr. and Ms. Enchanting added warmth and festivity to the afternoon.
In its essence, The Enchanted Matinée was deeply rooted in values aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development goals, particularly SDG 4, Quality Education, which was reflected through the program’s emphasis on lifelong learning, professional development, and the recognition of academic achievement. By gathering stakeholders from review institutions, professional organizations, alumni networks, and the university, the matinée advanced SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating that the path toward educational and professional excellence is strengthened by collaboration and shared commitment. The event also supported SDG 16, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by fostering ethical awareness and reaffirming integrity through the CPA pledges, cultivating a community grounded in transparency, accountability, and service. Moreover, the enchanted garden theme subtly echoed the CICM advocacy of Integrity of Creation, using symbolic elements of growth and harmony to honor the responsibility of Louisian CPAs to contribute not only to their profession but also to the well-being of the communities and environments they serve.
More than a simple recognition ceremony, the matinée became a testament to becoming—becoming professionals, becoming stewards of integrity, and becoming contributors to a larger purpose. Through celebration, storytelling, and collective hope, the event reaffirmed the spirit of the Louisian accounting community: one that flourishes through faith, unity, and the ever-growing garden of dreams fulfilled. (Article and Photos by SLU JPIA)
