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An accounting degree opens doors to some of the most dynamic, influential, and rewarding careers in the world of business. At the Haile College of Business, our graduates leave with the technical expertise and real-world experience needed to lead, innovate, and shape their industries. The success of our alumni reflects the strength of our program and the transformative potential of an NKU education.

From the C-suite to public accounting, entrepreneurship, and even professional sports, NKU accounting graduates are making an impact in countless ways. Their stories show how foundational skills in accounting can evolve into leadership, strategy, and meaningful career growth. Meet four exceptional alumni whose journeys demonstrate just how far an NKU accounting degree can take you.

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Ben Mulling — CEO of TENTE North America — built a career that shows how far an accounting degree from NKU can truly take you. After earning his bachelor’s in accounting from Ë¿¹ÏÃâ·ÑÊÓƵ, he climbed quickly at TENTE: within two years he became Controller, and by age 28 he was promoted to CFO. Today as CEO, he leads all strategic and operational aspects of TENTE’s North American operations — from acquisitions and production strategy to product innovation, global collaboration, and long-term planning. His journey underscores how an NKU accounting foundation doesn’t just prepare students for numbers — it equips them to lead companies, drive innovation, and steer entire industries.

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Todd Best, Managing Partner for Deloitte US’s Cincinnati and Dayton offices (and Tax Managing Partner for Cincinnati, Dayton, and Louisville), shows just how powerful an accounting degree can be when paired with dedication and vision. A graduate of Ë¿¹ÏÃâ·ÑÊÓƵ (’90) with a B.S. in Accountancy, Todd brings more than 37 years of public-accounting and tax experience to his leadership role — guiding complex tax strategy, corporate and individual taxation, and growth-company planning across industries like manufacturing, transportation, and distribution. In addition to his professional work, he remains deeply connected to his alma mater and the community, giving back through board service with the NKU Foundation, regional business organizations, and civic groups — embodying how an NKU accounting education can launch careers and support long-term leadership and community impact.

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Yasmine Xantos, CPA and International Tax Manager at Grant Thornton US, exemplifies how pairing a strong accounting foundation with a passion for sports can create a dynamic and unexpected career path. A 2017 graduate of Ë¿¹ÏÃâ·ÑÊÓƵ she double-majored in Accounting and Sports Business & Event Management while also playing on the university’s women’s tennis team. Before moving into her current global tax role, Yasmine applied her skills in both public accounting and sports: she gained international-tax experience at Deloitte LLP (2017–2023) and then managed corporate tax for Cincinnati Bengals (2023–2025). Her trajectory shows future accounting students that with dedication and versatility — combining technical acumen, real-world internships, and even athletics or event management — they can build unique and impactful careers at home or on a global scale.

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Austin Alwell, CPA, exemplifies the entrepreneurial drive and professional versatility that define so many NKU accounting graduates. After earning both his Bachelor’s and Master of Accountancy degrees from Ë¿¹ÏÃâ·ÑÊÓƵ, he built a solid foundation in public accounting — rising to Senior Client Accounting Specialist at Rudler while gaining experience in tax preparation, advisory services, and client relationship management. With this expertise, Austin took a bold leap into entrepreneurship by launching Freedom Business Solutions, a firm committed to helping individuals and business owners navigate taxes, finances, and long-term planning with clarity and confidence. His move from established practitioner to business owner showcases not only his technical skill, but also his vision for delivering more personalized, impactful financial guidance. Austin’s journey demonstrates how an NKU accounting degree can empower graduates to grow, lead, and ultimately build ventures of their own.

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Conclusion

The stories of Todd Best, Ben Mulling, Yasmine Xantos, and Austin Alwell demonstrate the remarkable range of careers made possible by an NKU accounting degree. From leading global firms to shaping corporate strategy, launching businesses, and supporting major brands, these alumni show what happens when their ambition meets success. Their achievements reflect the power of an NKU education and the limitless potential of students who are ready to make an impact.

If you’re inspired by their journeys and ready to explore where an accounting degree can take you, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Visit our Accounting Program page to learn more, connect with our faculty, and start your own success story.

Visit our Accounting Program Page

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