This June, two Katz School of Business students had the opportunity to meet with top government regulators at the highest levels of accounting oversight. Accompanied by their professor, Lacey Donley, Ph.D., the students visited the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) in Washington, D.C.
The SEC oversees $100 trillion in capital markets — roughly 40% of global markets — while the PCAOB plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of public company audits in the U.S. and abroad.
During the visit, students gained firsthand insights into investor protection, fraud detection, enforcement processes, and the use of financial penalties. A highlight of the trip was connecting with a Fort Lewis College alum, Andrew Cleve, assistant chief auditor at the PCAOB — a valuable reminder of where a Katz education can lead.
The experience concluded with a stop at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, where students witnessed U.S. currency being printed in real time.
This behind-the-scenes look at the world of financial regulation left students inspired and better prepared for the road ahead.