Outstanding Accounting Student Award

Each year, the Accounting Department names one graduating Accounting major the Outstanding Accounting Student, a reflection of their contributions to Aquinas and the Accounting program both in and out of the classroom. Here are recent winners of the award.

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2026 - Johnny VanderBaan

Johnny was an outstanding Accounting student, both in and out of the classroom. He has a stellar academic record and is the kind of student every professor hopes for. Beyond the classroom, Johnny contributed to the Accounting program and the college overall in many ways. He served as our Accounting tutor, participated in our annual Debits vs Credits competition, completed multiple accounting internships, competed in the ACG Cup for two years, and was a member of the men’s golf team. Even before graduation, Johnny assisted in other classes, and since graduating in December, Johnny has already been back as a guest speaker. Throughout it all, Johnny maintained a positive attitude and an infectious spirit.

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2025 - Caleb Koster

Beyond Caleb's superb academic achievements, he successfully completed multiple internships in public accounting and served as our official Accounting tutor. He was the first VP of the new Accounting & Finance Club and one of our top Debits vs. Credits players! Caleb was also an active member of Community Action Volunteers of Aquinas (CAVA). In fact, his fondest memories from his years at AQ are of volunteering: helping the Dominican Sisters and getting to know the people at Family Promise, Dwelling Place, and Well House. 

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2024 - Finlay Pittock

Throughout his time at AQ, Fin focused on developing his skills and proved himself to be a strong writer, presenter, and problem-solver. He worked internships in both tax and audit and played on the varsity soccer team. From the department’s perspective, one thing that made Fin a standout was that he supported and encouraged his fellow students in all of his classes.