Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have almost 30 unique student groups that they can choose to join. In each installment of this series, an executive member of one of these student groups will share their first-hand experience choosing, participating in and eventually leading their group.
Iyanna McCoy, Class of 2020 management information systems major, is the president of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) at the Lerner College. McCoy shared why she joined NABA, what makes this group unique and more!
When and why did you choose to join this student group?
McCoy: My accounting professor Debra Dragone recommended for me to join NABA as she believed I would benefit from being in the organization as I had recently changed directions from computer science into accounting. The organization helped me transition by providing resources and support and eventually I was appointed secretary of the group. Throughout the years, I have worked my way up in hopes of cultivating NABA into an organization for minorities and advocates of minorities and to create a safe space for all.
What is the mission of your student group?
McCoy: NABA is a nonprofit membership association dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for black professionals in accounting, finance, management information systems and related business professions. NABA provides support for advocates of minorities and welcomes people from diverse backgrounds regardless of race. NABA advances people, careers and the mission by providing education, resources and meaningful career connections to both professional and student members, fulfilling the principle of our motto: “Lifting As We Climb.”
What is your best memory from this student group?
McCoy: Last year was the first year we were able to attend the Annual East Region Student Conference. The entire executive board was able to secure job offers from companies including PwC, TD, American Express, Boeing and Dupont.
What is unique about your student group?
McCoy: We are unique in the sense that we guarantee that our students will graduate with jobs and within four years.
What has been your proudest moment leading your student group?
McCoy: This year I was able to connect my students with opportunities from Vanguard and JP Morgan Chase, two students even received offers to return. At the most recent conference, I was able to convince Exelon and DGH to come and speak to our members about opportunities within business.
What are your goals for the future of your student group?
McCoy: Our goal is to increase members as we only have 20 students.
How has your student group helped you grow?
McCoy: Collaborating with other organizations that have a similar mission to ours.
NABA has 20 members and has an event every month, as well as general body meetings twice a month.