2026 Economic Outlook

Philip Rich, Chief Investment Officer
United Community Bank

Prior to joining United Community, Philip was a Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Trusco Capital Management, SunTrust’s Registered Investment Advisor subsidiary. In this role, Philip was responsible for institutional investment sales in Florida, including sales of endowments, foundations services, and retirement services. From 2001 to 2005, he was responsible for the development of SunTrust’s Rollover Solution Center, a specialized advisory group designed to serve the needs of participants transitioning out of 401(k) plans. From 1994 to 2001, Philip managed SunTrust Bank’s Central Florida Trust & Investment Management Group, including its Trust Division and its retail investment services unit. This group administered many significant non-profit relationships throughout Florida. During his career, he managed SunTrust’s Corporate Trust Division and its Retirement Services line of business across all of SunTrust’s markets. From 1979 until 1984, he served as Assistant Director of Tufts University’s European Center. Philip has a total of 35 years of experience in the trust and investment management business. He serves on the Board of Directors of Orlando Health Foundation and chairs the Investment Committee. He also serves on the Advisory Board of Rollins College’s Graduate School of Business and has served on the Boards of the MacJannet Foundation, the Hamilton Holt School of Rollins College, and the United Arts Standards and Allocations Committee. Philip received a Bachelor of Arts from Rollins College and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the Crummer Graduate School of Business. He currently serves as an adjunct Professor of Finance at the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College.

Ethical AI Practices for CPAs: Ensuring Responsible Use

John H. Higgins, CPA.CITP, Higgins Advisory, LLC

Explore the ethical implications of using generative AI. This course addresses potential risks and dilemmas, providing guidelines to ensure responsible and compliant integration. Learn how to balance innovation with ethical obligations to maintain trust and integrity.

About John:
As a seasoned entrepreneur, John Higgins, founder and CEO, has experience with local CPA firms and as well as serving as a technology advisory practice leader partner in a national CPA firm. John founded, managed and grew two separate accounting technology advisory firms, both of which were successfully acquired by larger organizations. John shares his expertise as a nationally recognized thought leader, strategic advisor, and speaker on accounting technology through coaching and speaking engagements. His primary contribution is his passion for helping the profession move forward through the understanding and adoption of emerging technologies.