I feel like I can add value to students’ career opportunities — maybe help them land that perfect internship or that dream job.”
Bio
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
These words, spoken by Benjamin Franklin, have had a profound impact on Elizabeth Cannata's teaching approach and passion.
As a JWU faculty member for the past 13 years, Cannata prides herself on involving her students in the leaning process and guiding them on the path to successful careers.
Spending 25 years as a Certified Public Accountant — many as an auditor — has provided her with a wealth of real-world knowledge and industry contacts that directly benefit her students.
While technical skills are critical in the accounting and finance disciplines, the field is evolving at a rapid pace, and skills such as information technology, communication and leadership abilities are very important.
Cannata's focus has always been on developing the whole student. While teaching will always be her passion, she has enjoyed serving as the Accounting department chair for the last couple of years, as this has given her increased opportunity to champion curriculum changes, develop internships and service learning opportunities, and connect with a greater number of students outside of the classroom.
Certifications
Rhode Island Board of Accountancy, Certified Public Accountant
Professional Memberships
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, 1991–present
Rhode Island Society of Certified Public Accountants, 1991–present, Past Board Member, Committee Member, Cooperation with Educational Institutions Committee
Rhode Island Association of Accounting Professionals, 1995–present
Rhode Island Association of Fraud Examiners, 1996–present
Professional Development
2017: CPA Academy Choosing the Right Apps for You and Your Clients
2017: Rhode Island Association of Accounting Professors Robotic Processing Automation 101 for Accounting Professionals and Teaching Slams
2016: Global Asset Management Education Forum 3-day seminar in New York City focusing on asset management and finance education
2016: Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Understanding Employee Theft and Identifying the Warning Signs
2016: Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Excellence Awards and CPE The Blindspot Zone and Managing Client Emotions
2016: Association of Accounting Professors Data Analytics and University Classroom Perspectives
2016: Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Investigative Analysis: Elder Financial Abuse and Insurance Industry Fraud
2016: Institute of Internal Auditors Fraud & Ethics
Presentations
“Hot Topics and Careers in Finance” Securities Industry & Financial Markets Association (SIFMA) Foundation, 2016 Authors: Elizabeth Cannata
“Careers in Finance and Impact Investing” Securities Industry & Financial Markets Association (SIFMA) Foundation, 2017 Authors: Elizabeth Cannata