MEGA
FICPA's Premier Educational and Networking Event
MEGA 2025: Where Florida’s CPAs Came to Connect, Learn & Celebrate
MEGA 2025 lived up to its name—bringing together more than 500 speakers, sponsors, students, and CPAs from across the state for four unforgettable days of learning, networking, and celebration.
From thought-provoking keynotes and cutting-edge CPE sessions to interactive demos and social events, this year’s MEGA delivered big. The annual Accounting Scholarship Leadership Symposium (ASLS) welcomed 22 standout students, adding fresh energy and future-focused perspective to the program.
We tackled the biggest issues facing the profession, including the growing threat of CPA license deregulation. During a powerful general session, Senator Joe Gruters received the Legislative Champion Award, and Marta Zaniewski, AICPA VP of State Regulatory Affairs, was honored with FICPA Chair Ed Duarte’s Special Service Award.
Celebrating Florida's New CPAs
On Tuesday night, we celebrated 28 newly licensed CPAs alongside Florida DBPR Secretary Melanie S. Griffin, Esq., Florida BOA Chair William G. Benson, and Senator Gruters during a meaningful Newly Certified Ceremony.
Passing the Gavel
Later that evening, the energy soared during our Chairs’ Celebration and CPA Confidential Speakeasy Reception, where Ed Duarte passed the gavel to the FICPA’s 98th Chair, Karen Lake.
The Women to Watch
Wednesday morning’s Women to Watch Awards honored Kristen Brand as “Experienced Leader” and Alex Welsh as “Emerging Leader.” The momentum continued into a powerful Women’s Leadership Summit, packed with insight, inspiration, and connection.
Inspiration Abounds
And in one of the week’s most moving moments, attendees rallied together to raise more than $26,000 for the FICPA Scholarship Foundation, inspired by ASLS alum and scholarship recipient Meghan Quirantes and a surprise challenge from FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir.
Take a Look Back at MEGA 2025
Mark Your Calendar
MEGA 2026 is heading to a new venue:
🗓️June 14–17, 2026 |📍Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, Orlando
Call for Presenters
Do you have experiences to share and an engaging story to tell? If so, step up and speak out as a MEGA presenter. Learn more.
Interested in Partnering With the FICPA?
MEGA is the FICPA’s premier event. If you are interested in sponsoring or exhibiting, engage with us so we can craft the perfect opportunity for you. Contact Marjorie Stone at 850-521-5950 or MarjorieS@ficpa.org for more information.