The Millsaps Else School of Management’s reputation for preparing future accounting professionals was recently highlighted by a national honor earned by accounting student Evan Watson, who won a $15,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board.
Watson, a Pell City, Alabama native, pursuing a Master of Accountancy degree, earned the national scholarship in recognition of his academic achievement, leadership potential and commitment to the accounting profession.
The PCAOB Scholarship Program supports students who demonstrate exceptional promise in accounting and auditing. Since the program was established in 2011, the organization has awarded nearly $43 million in scholarships to 3,603 students from more than 500 colleges and universities across the country.
Recipients are selected through a competitive nomination process. Eligible students must attend institutions with AACSB-accredited business and accounting programs, maintain a strong academic record, rank among the top third of their class and demonstrate a commitment to high ethical standards.
For Millsaps College Accounting Program Director Dr. Guy McClain, Watson was a natural choice for nomination. “Evan is well deserving of the PCAOB scholarship,” McClain said. “He consistently excels academically, brings positivity to those around him and demonstrates an outstanding work ethic. Evan’s dedication, determination and engaging personality make him truly deserving.”
Watson said the scholarship is both an honor and a source of motivation as he continues to prepare for a career in accounting.
“Receiving this scholarship is incredibly meaningful because it recognizes the hard work I’ve put into my studies and my commitment to the accounting field,” Watson said. “I’m grateful to the faculty who have supported me throughout my time at Millsaps, and I’m excited to continue developing the skills that will help me make a difference in the profession.”
In addition to his academic success, Watson has distinguished himself through serving on the SAI executive councils of both SAE and the Finance Club. Additionally, he has interned with the Mississippi Office of the State Auditor for two summers, participated in the Meridan Millsaps Internship at the Mississippi Children’s Museum, and is an analyst for ElseWorks, experiences that have helped prepare him for the demands of the profession.
“Evan has worked hard during his time as an ELSEWORKS intern,” said Landry Lemoine, director of business analysts, ELSEWORKS at Millsaps College. “One of his projects was to assist the Millsaps football team with analytics. He and a fellow analyst created software that analyzed fourth-down and play-type situations that helped the Majors have a winning season.”
His selection continues a tradition of success for the Millsaps Else School’s accounting program, which is known for preparing students for professional careers through rigorous coursework, close faculty mentorship and opportunities for practical experience.
The scholarship will help Watson continue his education as he completes his graduate studies at Millsaps, positioning him for future success in the accounting and auditing profession.