Conference Playbill

INNOVATE, STRATEGIZE,
FACE THE FUTURE,
AND ACT
ISFFA NATIONAL CONFERENCE
EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S LEADERS TODAY
CONFERENCE GUIDE
AUGUST 20, 2016
Page 1
CERRITOS CENTER FOR
THE PERFORMING ARTS
CERRITOS, CA
www.ISFFA.org
www.ISFFA.org
EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S
LEADERS TODAY!
Mission Statement:
ISFFA is a nonprofit 501(c)3 public benefit corporation
whose primary goal is to assist, educate, train, and
mentor emerging professionals, both domestically as
well as globally. We live by a set of shared values and
adhere to the highest ideals of professionalism and
ethical behavior in the spirit of integrity, commitment to
social responsibility, discipline, and solidarity.
www.ISFFA.org
www.ISFFA.org
Welcome to the
Conference.
www.ISFFA.org
www.ISFFA.org
TAB L E O F C O N T E N T S
Table of Contents
5
Conference CPE Credit
5
Jannelle So-Perkins, Moderator
26
Welcome to the Conference
6
Philomena Pena, Panelist
26
Sponsor Acknowledgements
7
Vincent Ofrecio, Panelist
26
Conference Program
8
Jeff “Nino” Lim, Panelist
27
About ISFFA
10
Miguel Sangalang, Panelist
27
Keynote Presentation
Toni Ko
11
Catherine Rodriguez, Panelist
27
Against All Odds Panel
15
Mentor Circle Leaders
28
Giselle Tongi, Moderator
16
A Message from the Outgoing Chair, 2014-2016
MaryAnne Sabido Werner
30
Joseph Cruz, Moderator
16
Outgoing Executive Board 2014-2016
31
Honorable
Mark Pullido, Panelist
17
A Message from the Incoming Chair, 2016-2018
Dr. Edith Winterhalter
32
Mia McLeod, Panelist
18
Outgoing Executive Board 2016-2018
33
David Tupaz, Panelist
19
A Message from the Founders of ISFFA
Benel Se-Liban
34
Faith Bautista, Panelist
20
The Advisors and Founders of ISFFA
35
ISFFA & AICPA Scholarship
21
Past and Current Chapter Officers
36
Due Diligence in Reporting and
Asset Management
Doug Foreman
22
ISFFA Advisors
37
24
Conference Volunteers
38
ISFFA National Conference 2018
39
Why Mentoring and Networking Matter
Vivian Ramos
Mentor Circle Panel
26
ISFFA National Conference
August 20, 2016
CPE Credit
This conference is eligible for eight hours of
CPE Credit. To claim CPE hours for this,
please input the CPE URL into your phone
browser or use a QR reader for easy access.
www.laisffa.org/cpecredit
www.ISFFA.org
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W leclocm
o em teo t he
o tChoenfCe roennc
f eer e n c e
We
Mary Jane Aquino
Chair, 2016 INC National Conference
Welcome to ISFFA! On behalf of the Conference Organizing Committee, it is my
honor and privilege to welcome all attendees and guests to the 2016 ISFFA
National Conference on August 20, 2016. Our conference is hosted at the Cerritos
Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA), the Southland's premier performing arts
and conference facility.
We are also celebrating ISFFA's 10th year anniversary! What a journey it has been
for the founders to see their initial efforts and dedication contribute towards their
members' success and transformation into leaders within the Filipino and the
greater pan-Asian communities.
The theme of this year's Conference is "Innovate, Strategize, Face the Future, and
Act". Who else to showcase this theme than our Keynote Speaker, Toni Ko,
Founder of NYX Cosmetics. Her story has captivated the world so much so that she
was featured on the cover and pages of the June 2016 Forbes Magazine!
I am certain that the stories and the crucial lessons from the exceptional assembly
of panelists, speakers, moderators and leaders will resonate with everyone.
Building relationships and maximizing personal involvement is important to our
personal and professional lives, so please join us to meet and speak with our stellar
guests at a networking event right after the conference.
We appreciate all the attendees, no matter how far or close the travel, and would
like to give a special greeting to those from the Chicago and San Francisco
Chapters. The members of the Conference Organizing Committee, the Los Angeles
Chapter, the incoming and outgoing members of the National Executive Board and
I, wish you an outstanding conference experience and a memorable stay in
Cerritos, California!
Welcome to the 2016 ISFFA National Conference!
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www.ISFFA.org
Sponsor Ackno wledg em e nt s
To the Sponsors:
On behalf of all of ISFFA, we would like to thank all the community partners, companies,
firms, and outstanding individuals who have contributed to make this conference, and ISFFA’s
mission, happen. It is their support that allows us to carry out the mission of the organization,
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today.
PLATINUM SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSORS
OTHER SPONSORS
ALBERT YEO
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Michael Aquino
Associate, Architecture
Studio William Hefner
www.ISFFA.org
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C o nf e r e nc e P r o g r a m - Aug us t 2 0 , 2 0 1 6
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
REGISTRATION AND CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
WELCOME
Maryanne Sabido Werner, USC Assistant Professor
Chair - 2014-2016 ISFFA National Executive Board
INTRODUCTION OF KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Mary Jane Aquino
Chair - 2016 ISFFA National Conference
National Executive Board Member
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Toni Ko, NYX Cosmetics Founder
Entrepreneur & Philanthropist
10:00 – 10:15 a.m.
BREAK
LOS ANGELES
Lorenzo Moran, CPA; ISFFA Los Angeles Chapter President
Assurance Manager at EY, LLP
10:15 – 12:00 p.m.
PANEL - AGAINST ALL ODDS
Moderated by:
Giselle Tongi, Host of Kababayan Today on Channel 18
Joseph Cruz, Partner at EY, LLP
LUNCH and CEREMONY
AICPA SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDS
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Carmelita O’Neil
ISFFA Founding Advisor and National Executive Board Member
INDUCTION - NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD 2016-2018
Honorable Mark Pulido, Former Mayor and Current Council
Member, City of Cerritos
CHICAGO
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Arvin Floresca, CPA; ISFFA Chicago Chapter President
SOX PMO Global Lead at AbbVie
DUE DILIGENCE IN REPORTING & ASSET MANAGEMENT
Doug Foreman, CFA
Chief Investment Officer at Kayne Anderson Rudnick
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www.ISFFA.org
C o nf e r e nc e P r o g r a m - Aug us t 2 0 , 2 0 1 6
2:00 – 2:15 p.m.
BREAK
SAN FRANCISCO
2:15 – 2:45 p.m.
Shirley Bayani, ISFFA San Francisco Chapter President
COO at Silicon Valley Applied Behavioral Analysis
WHY MENTORING & NETWORKING MATTER
Vivian Ramos
Director at Factset Research Systems, Inc.
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD
PANEL - LEADING YOUR WAY TO THE TOP
2:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Moderated By:
Janelle So-Perkins, Fil-Am Media Pioneer, TV Host
Producer and Entrepreneur
Benel Se-Liban, Partner at Vasquez & Company, LLP
ISFFA Founder and National Executive Board Treasurer
3:30 – 3:45 p.m.
BREAK
MENTORING CIRCLE - LEADING YOUR WAY TO THE TOP
3:45 – 5:00 p.m.
Moderated by:
Socorro Padua, ISFFA National Executive Board Member
Senior Manager, Consolidation-Corporate Controllership at
Ingram Micro
Vivian Ramos
Director at Factset Research Systems, Inc.
CLOSING REMARKS
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
MaryAnne Sabido Werner
Dr. Edith Winterhalter
Director Administrative Services at CSUN
Incoming Chair - ISFFA National Executive Board 2016-2018
NETWORKING SOCIAL
Master of Ceremonies - JL Garcia, ISFFA NEB Vice Chair 2014-2016
This conference is CPE Credit Eligible.
Claim your credit – see page 5 for details
www.ISFFA.org
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A b o u t I S F FA
International Society of Filipinos
In Finance and Accounting
Founded in 2006, ISFFA is a nonprofit 501(c)3
public benefit corporation whose primary goal is
to assist, educate, train, and mentor emerging
professionals, both domestically as well as
globally. We live by a set of shared values and
adhere to the highest ideals of professionalism
and ethical behavior in the spirit of integrity,
commitment to social responsibility, discipline,
and solidarity.
Volunteers
ISFFA is operated by volunteers, both at the
national level and chapter level. The chapter
officer boards are composed of professionals and
students who collaborate on several projects and
events. At the national level, the board members
consist of well experienced executives who
volunteer their time to the mission of ISFFA.
There are also committees comprised of
member volunteers who help ISFFA achieve its
mission of Empowering Tomorrows Leader’s,
Today.
ISFFA Objectives:
 Provide Assistance and Support to Professionals
 Provide Scholarships to Deserving Students
 Provide Financial Support to Victims of Calamities
 Provide resource for transitioning professionals
 Provide Social and Business Networking Activities
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www.ISFFA.org
K e y n o t e S p e a k e r – To n i K o
Keynote Presentation
Toni Ko
Keynote Speaker
Toni Ko is a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record
in developing, launching, and building highly successful
global brands. Ko launched her second company in Spring
2016, a sunglasses company called PERVERSE. She is most
often recognized as the founder of the multi-million dollar
cosmetics brand NYX, which was acquired by L’Oreal, the
largest beauty company in the world, in 2014.
In 2016, Toni Ko was featured on the cover of Forbes June
2016 magazine as part of America’s Richest Self-Made
Women.
Continues on next page
www.ISFFA.org
Page 11
To n i K o – K e y n o t e S p e a k e r
Continued
Discovering a gap in the cosmetics market
between prestige brands sold in
department stores and mass brands sold
in drugstores, Toni Ko created NYX in
1999, with the goal of delivering
professional, richly pigmented products at
affordable prices. Working as a onewoman show from a 600 square foot
show room in California, Ko began selling
a single item – makeup pencils. She
impressively generated two million dollars
in sales during her first year, and quickly
grew to become a leader in the color
cosmetics industry, gaining the respect of
such retail giants as Target, CVS and Ulta.
Last summer, Ko started the Toni Ko
Foundation, where she lends support to
organizations that help children in need
and those that empower women.
Although the cosmetics industry is
marketed towards women, Ko found that
the majority of top executives are men.
Therefore, she wants to empower women
to have the courage to start their own
businesses, and set higher goals to be the
executives. Ko states, “The only way for
many women around the globe to be
more liberated is to become financially
independent. I think it's incredibly
important to lead women in the right
direction to achieve independence.”
Ko credits her family as the primary
influence on her education in the beauty
business, having worked in their familyowned beauty supply store in Los Angeles,
which her mother opened shortly after
they immigrated from Korea when she
was 13 years old. By the time Ko was 25,
she had amassed over a decade of
experience in the beauty industry, and
was ready to find her own niche. At the
time of sale, NYX had revenue growth of
well over 100 million dollars and is
currently available in thousands of
retailers in over 70 countries.
Ko has received numerous awards,
including most recently, being named
Entrepreneur of the Year from the Asian
Business Association, the 2015 Leadership
Award from NAWBO, and the Lifetime
Achievement Award by the Beauty Bus
Foundation in 2013. Also in 2013, NYX was
the WWD Beauty Inc. pick for Brand of the
Year, a moment Ko heralds as one of her
greatest defining moments within the
industry.
Page 12
www.ISFFA.org
Toni Ko
Founder of NYX Cosmetics
Entrepreneur & Philanthropist
Keynote Speaker of the Second ISFFA National Conference
www.ISFFA.org
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Agains t All Odds Panel
Los Angeles
Against All Odds
Panel Segment Moderated by Joseph Cruz and Giselle Tongi
The "Against All Odds" panel will provide an opportunity to
listen to diverse stories and challenges from successful
individuals
from
industries
such
as
government,
entertainment, and real estate. You will be able to leave with
the strategies taken by these panelist and apply it to your own
career.
The first section will be story telling and getting to know the
panelists and how they went “against all odds” in their
respective careers.
The second section of the panel focuses on what strategies
they took to overcome the odds against them, bridging how
the issues our panelists faced heavily mirror the issues that we
accountants and finance professionals we, accountants and
finance professionals, face. The third part of the panel will be
a Q&A with the audience.
www.ISFFA.org
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Agains t All Odds Panel M oder ator s
Giselle Tongi
Panel Moderator
Host of Kababayan Today
Channel 18
Giselle Töngi, known to her fans simply as
“G,” is a familiar and respected figure in
the Filipino community. She has long been
active in the entertainment industry with
over two decades of television experience
in both the Asian and American market.
Primarily recognized for her acting in film,
television and theater in the Philippines,
winning several awards for her work, Töngi
is also an accomplished writer and
producer. Her past work includes the short
film “Pinoy Grease,” “Pinoy Tango,” as well
as “The Balikbayan Project: With the
Bascos,” a 13-part travel series about a
second
generation
Fil-Am family’s
experience in the Philippines . G Töngi now
hosts and produces the only daily talk show
in North America for FilAms on FREE TV
called Kababayan Today. She continues to
establish a new energy that will further the
relationship with the Filipino American
community with her daily presence in
media where she covers topics that are
relevant to the FilAm experience.
Joseph Cruz
Panel Moderator
International Tax Partner
EY LLP
Joe Cruz has over 15 years of experience in
public accounting. He advises on crossborder mergers and acquisitions, foreign
expansion, supply chain restructuring, and
repatriation and deferral of offshore
earnings. His clients include Fortune 500
companies based in Southern California.
Mr. Cruz received a B.A. from the
Page 16
University of California, San Diego and a
J.D. from the University of California, Davis,
School of Law. He is a member of the State
Bar of California, and a frequent speaker at
both EY and non-EY international tax
conferences.
www.ISFFA.org
Agains t All Odds Panel
Honorable Mark Pulido
Former Mayor and
Current Council Member
City of Cerritos
Council member Mark E. Pulido was elected
to the Cerritos City Council in March 2011.
He served as Mayor Pro Tem in 2013-2014
and as Mayor in 2014. He was re-elected to
the City Council in 2015.
A proud Cerritos resident since 1972,
Councilmember Pulido has an extensive
history of local community service and
professional work experience in local, state
and federal government. He was elected to
the ABC Unified School District Board in
2001 and was re-elected in 2005 and 2009.
He served as Board President in 2007-2008
and concluded his service in March 2011.
Councilmember Pulido also served as the
Board Liaison for the ABC Federal Head Start
and State Preschool programs for seven
years. In 2009, the Los Angeles County
Office of Education honored Council
member Pulido with its "Board Member of
the Year" award. In 2013, Governor Edmund
G. Brown Jr. appointed him to serve on the
CaliforniaVolunteers Commission.
Council member Pulido is a Council liaison to
the ABC Unified School District and the
liaison to Cerritos Community College. He
serves on the City's Performing Arts and
Library committees. Council member Pulido
is the Council's delegate to the Gateway
Cities Council of Governments – 91/605/405
Corridor Cities Committee and an alternate
delegate to the League of California Cities,
Sanitation Districts 2, 3, 18 & 19/Waste
Management and the SELACO Workforce
Development Board – Policy Board.
Council member Pulido is the District
Director for Congressman Alan Lowenthal.
He previously worked for the California
Legislature for more than a decade, serving
as District Director to State Senator Alan
Lowenthal. Prior to that, he served as a
legislative consultant with the California
State Assembly in the Los Angeles offices of
Assembly Speakers Robert M. Hertzberg,
Herb J. Wesson Jr. and Fabian Núñez. In the
1990s, Councilmember Pulido worked for
the City of Long Beach in the City Manager's
Office, the Long Beach Redevelopment
Agency, the Budget Bureau, the Parks,
Recreation and Marine Department and the
Gang Intervention/Prevention Program.
Council member Pulido graduated with
honors from Whitney High School in the
ABC Unified School District. He received his
bachelor's degree in History and Asian
American Studies from the University of
California, Los Angeles, where he served as
UCLA Student Body President. He received
his Master of Public Policy degree from The
University of Chicago as a Woodrow Wilson
National Fellow. Additionally, during his
graduate studies, he served as a graduate
fellow of the Congressional Asian Pacific
American Caucus Institute at the U.S.
Department of Justice, Bureau for Justice
Assistance in Washington, D.C.
Council member Pulido and his wife Gloria
have two children.
www.ISFFA.org
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Agains t All Odds Panel
Mia McLeod
Entrepreneur
Founder of McLeod &
Associates
Mia believes in providing a service that is
delivered so well that people cannot help
themselves but to rave about it, creating
"Raving Fans" for life. This philosophy
garnered her to be recognized by the
National Association of Realtors and by
Realtor Magazine in 2008, at the
seasoned age of 25, as one of the 30
under 30 honorees.
through her involvement with one of her
greatest passions: Gawad Kalinga (GK).
"It's not about the number of homes we
sell, it's about the difference we make in
people's lives." - Mia McLeod - President
of McLeod & Associates.
As reflective of Mia, McLeod &
Associates' mission is to provide every
client the same unparalleled quality
representation by one of its licensed
professionals or teams, consistently
delivering real estate and mortgage
services through a People First versus
profit philosophy. Having opened her
company at the age of 22, freshly after
graduating UC Berkeley in 2004, she just
recently celebrated the company's 10th
year anniversary, along with having over
50 real estate agents and affiliates.
She is currently in collaboration with
Channel 18 KSCI's Kababayan Today with
Giselle Tongi for "The Real Estate Buzz", a
segment that helps educate viewer about
relevant news and trends in the real
estate and mortgate world. Mia's social
activism for the poor can be found
Page 18
www.ISFFA.org
Agains t All Odds Panel
David Tupaz
Haute Couture Designer
Founder of Las Vegas
Fashion Design Council
The charismatic and gregarious David,
who was trained in New York, said he
moved to Los Angeles because "I needed
a change in environment. I love New York
but I wanted more. Hollywood dictates
fashion in America. New York might be
the center of fashion but Hollywood is the
window. People want to wear what they
see on the stars."
However, breaking into Hollywood was an
uphill battle. "It was intimidating," he
said. "Being a minority and an Asian, I felt
that my chances of making it here in
Hollywood were slim. But I believed that
the Filipino talent is at par with the best
of the world and that was my inspiration
to keep on going. So I went beyond the
brand and created a distinct rebirth of old
Hollywood." Today, David is living his
dream.
Among his clients are William and
Elizabeth Shatner, Alan and Tanya Thicke,
Patti Austin, Trisha Simmons, Jane
Seymour, Mitzi Kapture, Lisa Rinna,Kris
Kardashian Jenner, Etta James, Christine
Baranski, , Mariel Hemingway, Rain Pryor,
Kelly LeBrock,Bo Derek, Cheryl Ladd, and
Tracy Hamilton just to name a few.
Other clients include former First Lady
Imelda Marcos and former Miss Japan
Keiko Ibi who wore a purple peaux de soix
that he designed and created for the
1999 Oscar Awards night where Ibi
received the Best Documentary Film
Award from Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.
People magazine dubbed David's creation
as one of the evening's most memorable
gowns.
The humble David quipped, "I guess I am
not famous but famous people know me.
They love the simple sophistication and
they feel appropriately dressed when
they wear my clothing. I make sure their
individual taste and personal style stand
out.“
David does not only designs luxurious
gowns, he completes the look with his
own custom-designed jewelry, beaded
accessories, shoes and intricately
handcrafted veils.
Asked what drives him to pursue his
passion for fashion, the talented David
said, "I think being an artist somehow
makes one feel responsible! Without
artistry, we would have never discovered
and understood the value of history and
humanity from the prehistoric paintings
inside cave walls to the writings of
ancient Greece, to the hieroglyphics of
ancient Egypt. Art and culture drive me!
The little difference that I as an artist can
contribute to make life beautiful keeps
me motivated and going...and I like to
share that." David sees himself not just a
fashion designer but someone who's
passionate about art, culture and history.
www.ISFFA.org
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Agains t All Odds Panel
Faith Bautista
President and CEO
National Asian
American Coalition
Faith Bautista is the President and CEO
of National Asian American Coalition, a
HUD-approved homeowner, small
business and consumer advocacy
organization serving our nation’s 18
million Asian Americans.
Through Faith’s dedication and hard
work, the NAAC has expanded to a
national
organization
with
its
headquarters in the San Francisco Bay
Area,
a
regulatory
office
in
Washington, DC and a housing office
in San Diego. Faith advocates in the
halls of Congress, in the California
legislature and in front of key federal
legislators, such as the Federal
Reserve, FDIC, OCC, FHFA, FTC, FCC
and SEC and among America’s Fortune
500 corporations, as a major voice for
the Asian American community.
lending, technical assistance
consumer protection.
Through her leadership, she has
gained the support of Corporate
America in reaching out to minority
groups and has been a leading
advocate
for
low-income
and
underserved communities.
Faith Bautista is a member of the
Office of Thrift Supervision Minority
Depository
Institutions
Advisory
Committee and sits on the LowIncome Oversight Board for the
California Public Utilities Commission.
Faith is the host of a prime time news
show on The Filipino Channel, “Asian
News in America” that discusses
issues, such as the future of
homeownership,
small
business
Page 20
and
www.ISFFA.org
Scholarships – 2016
ISFFA, in cooperation with the AICPA, is awarding a total of $10,000 of merit-based scholarship
to four outstanding accounting students who show great potential of becoming certified
public accountants. Scholarships will be distributed to the university/college-of-attendance of
the respective awardees.
One scholarship for each tier is awarded in the following amounts:
1. $4,000
2. $3,000
3. $2,000
4. $1,000
Recipients are to be announced at
lunch during the conference.
ISFFA and Scholarships
ISFFA has provided over $35,000 in scholarships to future certified public accountants. Since
inception, ISFFA has provided over 30 students the opportunity to attend the annual AICPA
Leadership Conference by partnering with the AICPA in its mission.
About the AICPA
The American Institute of CPAs is the world’s largest member association representing the
accounting profession, with more than 412,000 members in 144 countries, and a history of
serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice,
including business and industry, public practice, government, education and consulting.
The AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession and U.S. auditing standards for private
companies, nonprofit organizations, federal, state and local governments. It develops and
grades the Uniform CPA Examination, and offers specialty credentials for CPAs who
concentrate on personal financial planning; forensic accounting; business valuation; and
information management and technology assurance. Through a joint venture with the
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, it has established the Chartered Global
Management Accountant designation, which sets a new standard for global recognition of
management accounting.
www.ISFFA.org
Page 21
Due Diligence in Reporting and Asset Management
Chicago
Due Diligence in Reporting and Asset Management
Presented by Doug Foreman, CFA
Chief Investment Officer Kayne Anderson Rudnick
In this special CPE segment, Doug Forman, CFA, will share
his insight on how finance and accounting plays a critical
role in financial reporting.
Beyond the diligence of financial reporting, Foreman will
share how a Chief Investment Officer selects companies for
investment as well as what are the triggers for exit on
existing holdings. Investment strategies rely on the financial
health of businesses, management, leadership strength, and
competitive positioning.
Page 22
www.ISFFA.org
Chicago
Due
Diligence in Reporting and Asset Management
Doug Foreman
Chief Investment Officer
Kayne Anderson Rudnick
Doug Foreman is chief investment officer
at Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment
Management (KAR), where he is
responsible for leadership of the equity
team and day-to-day oversight of KAR’s
investment operations, including portfolio
management and research. In addition, he
is a member of the firm’s executive
management committee.
and an M.B.A. from Harvard University. He
holds the Chartered Financial Analyst
designation. He began working in the
investment industry in 1986.
Over his investment career history, Mr.
Foreman has been a regular contributor to
leading business and investment news
media, including CNBC and The Wall Street
Journal.
Mr. Foreman joined Kayne Anderson
Rudnick in 2011 as director of equities. He
has since assumed co-management of
several KAR strategies, overseen the
launch of KAR’sfirst non-U.S. small-cap
portfolio, and enhanced the firm’s equity
research capabilities. In 2013, he served as
co-chief investment officer and became
chief investment officer in 2014.
Previously, Mr. Foreman was director of
equities at HighMark Capital Management,
and before that, he was group managing
director and chief investment officer of
U.S. equities at Trust Company of the West
(TCW) in Los Angeles. Mr. Foreman began
his investment career at Putnam
Investments as an equity research analyst
and portfolio manager.
Mr. Foreman earned a B.S. in marine
engineering from The U.S. Naval Academy
Page 23
www.ISFFA.org
Page 23
Why M entor ing and Networ ki ng M atter
San Francisco
Why Networking and Mentoring Matter
Presented by Vivian Ramos
Director of Factset Research Systems
Join us for an insightful session to understand what is
networking and its major advantages to your professional
and personal life. Learn practical and useful tips that you
can immediately apply on how to network and build
relationships that fit your personal style.
Have a walk through on how to use your relationship
building skills in finding and fostering mentor
relationships. Learn to understand the steps to prepare you
for a mentor-mentee relationship, driven by you, the
mentee.
Become the best person you can be and reach your utmost
potential by having mentors who are committed to your
success in life.
Page 24
www.ISFFA.org
Why M entor ing and Networ ki ng M atter
Vivian Ramos
Director
Factset Research Systems
Vivian Ramos is a dynamic business
leader with over 25 years of experience
in the financial services and investment
management industry. Vivian is currently
the Director of Factset Research Systems
leading Factset Revere's product
strategy, growth in sales of its offering
across Factset's global clients and market
segments.
Prior to Factset, Vivian was a COO/CFO of
Revere
Data.
She
pursued
transformation management strategies
to grow the firm responsible for business
operations , sales and financial oversight
of Revere.
Prior to Revere, Vivian served as Director
of Investment Operations at Franklin
Templeton Investments and Director of
Operations at Research Affiliates, LLC.
She also served as a VP and Director at
Charles
Schwab
Investment
Management Co., Assistant Treasurer of
the Schwab Funds as well as VP of Cost
Basis Operations and Client Reporting at
Charles Schwab & Co.
She holds an MBA in Finance from
Golden Gate University and a BA in
Economics from the University of the
Philippines.
Mentor Circle Panel
Up next is a great opportunity to connect with partners, CFOs, and other executives!
You will learn the best practices from highly established individuals as well as share
experiences with your peers. You will be able to capitalize on the unique skills of other
participants.
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www.ISFFA.org
Page 25
Mentoring Circle Panel
Moderator - Mentor Circle Panel
Jannelle So-Perkins
Media Pioneer and TV Host/Producer
Entrepreneur
Jannelle So-Perkins is a Filipino-American media pioneer who created,
hosted, and produced America’s first and only daily show about Filipinos,
“Kababayan LA”, KSCI-TV LA18. Since then she started her own production
company and works with media giants such as EcoMedia/CBS. In 2013,
Jannelle received the Outstanding Community Reporting award from New
America Media, on her story about human trafficking. In the same year,
she received the “Bayanihan” spirit award from the historic Filipinotown
neighborhood council.
Mentor Circle Panelists
Philomena Peña
Assistant Director of Cash and Liquidity Management
Office of the Chief Investment Officer of the Regents of the University of California
Philomena Pena works for the Office of the Chief Investment Officer of
the Regents, University of California. She had previously worked at
several multi-national corporations before her current position at the
University of California.
► Responsible for cash flows (roughly $60
► Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the
billion annually), UC’s Operational Bank
University of California, Berkeley, and a
Relationships, PCI Compliance, bank and
MBA in management from San Diego State
cash flow analyses and forecasts
University
► Previously employed at several multinational corporations such as Oracle,
Peoplesoft, and Fair Isaac
Vincent Ofrecio
Vice President
AIG Japan
Vincent Ofrecio has over 20 years of US and international experience as an
information technology senior executive in the insurance and retirement services
industries. He currently holds the title of Vice President in AIG Japan, focusing on
running large scale transformation projects and leading digital conversations with
leaders, internal /external partners and employees.
Head of IT – overseeing 450 staff from at
least 30 companies and 20+ nationalities
and 4 countries
► Vice President, Chief Information Officer
and member of the Board of Directors for
Fuji Fire & Marine, a 97-year old Japanese
insurer acquired by AIG Japan in 2010
► Regional Vice President and Chief
Technology Officer, Japan and Korea
Region - Established the enterprise IT
►
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architecture and systems roadmap as the
foundation for AIG Japan’s current merger
activities
► Various leadership roles from 1999 – 2008
for SunAmerica, an AIG company
specializing in retirement services based in
Los Angeles, CA
► Started in 1995 as a programmer in a
mortgage lending project led by Arthur
Anderson Consulting
www.ISFFA.org
Mentoring Circle Panel
Jeff “Nino” Lim
Founder and CEO
Island Pacific Supermarket
Jeff “Nino” Lim is what some would call a born entrepreneur. Right after
he graduated from USC, he opened his first Island Pacific Supermarket
which not only survived the recession, but thrived to 18 stores across
California, as well as stores in Seattle and Las Vegas. His company
employees over 1,000 employees
Opened the first Island Pacific Supermarket ► From the ages of 10-21, he was an
store in 2000
undocumented immigrant
► Chair of the National Asian American
► Bachelors of Science in Accounting from
Coalition; Member of National Diversity
Marymount College; USC’s Leventhal
Coalition
School of Accounting
►
Miguel Sangalang
Executive Officer - Budget & Innovation
Office of Los Angeles - Mayor Eric Garcetti
Miguel Sangalang began his career with the City of Los Angeles as a
systems analyst. Since then, he has progressed through his career as a
policy analyst, Director of Finance, Director of Innovation, and now his
current role, Executive Officer for Budget and Innovation
Coordinates general functions on the city
budget, performance management,
sustainability, technology, data, and
innovation
► Manages five city department with over
3,000 personnel
► Awarded the inaugural Moneyball Fellow
►
for LA in September 2014 – a national
initiative led by Results for America to
expand the use of data evidence in
government
► Bachelor’s degree in Japanese and Public
Policy from the University of California, Los
Angeles – Was active on the Men’s Sabre
Team
Catherine Rodriguez
County Chief Financial Officer
County of Ventura
Catherine Rodriguez has over 20 years of senior Finance Management
including private and public hospitals. Her career has allowed her to be
involved in several advisory boards and committees related to the
County of Ventura.
Provides administrator oversight for the
Finance of HCA and the County’s Chief
Labor Relations Negotiator, as well as
oversees a $2 Billion Budget for the
County of Ventura
► Previously Assistant County Executive,
Director of Labor Relations and Interim
►
Chief Financial Officer for Healthcare
Agency (she maintains these
responsibilities still)
► Bachelor of Arts, Business Economics –
Emphasis in Accounting from the
University of California, Santa Barbara
www.ISFFA.org
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Mentoring Circle Leaders
About the Mentor Circle
Mentor circle leaders comprise of senior executives including Chief Financial Officers, Partners,
Vice Presidents, and Entrepreneurs spanning several industries. Shown below are the mentor
circle leaders who will be serving as mentors for each table in addition to the Mentor circle
panelists.
Cecile Galvez
Michael Sudjati
Managing Director
Deloitte LLP
Chief Financial Officer
GEARYS Beverly Hills
Eileen Fisler
Kathy Lai
Chief Financial Officer
Palmdale Medical
Regional Center
Partner
Crowe Horwath
Teresa Santamaria
Trini Catbagan
Chief Business Officer
Palmdale School District
Controller
City of Carson
Albert Yeo
Edith Winterhalter
Senior Financial Advisor
Vice President
Merrill Lynch
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Director of Administrative
Services
CSU Northridge
Salvador Sarabosing
Mario Ignacio
Senior Manager
Grant Thornton LLP
Assistant Chief Financial Officer
And Treasurer
Los Angeles Department of
Water and Power
www.ISFFA.org
Michael Aquino Associate, Architecture
Studio William Hefner Architecture, Interiors & Landscape
5820 Wilshire Blvd Suite 500 Los Angeles CA 90036
323.931.1365 Ext. 261 F 323.931.1368
www.ISFFA.org
Page 29
fro
m O
t huteg oOi ng
u t gCoha
i ni g
air
AAM M
e sessasg ae gf reo m
t he
r, ICS h
F FA
MaryAnne Sabido Werner
Outgoing Chair National Executive Board 2014 – 2016
Assistant Professor
USC
Salamat (Thank You)! I would like to thank all my fellow national executive
board members, local chapter presidents, and officers. Your energy,
passion and efforts are the source of my daily inspiration and motivation. I
would also like to thank our sponsors who have made this event possible!
I am excited about the diversity of the backgrounds of the speakers here
today, as well as the attendees. Thank you for sharing your experiences,
the secrets of your success, and the journey to leadership roles. As I reflect
back on my continuing journey, I owe my success to my mentors who were
always there to provide guidance, support and friendly ear.
The International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting provides a
wonderful network of mentors and fellow individuals who are
accomplished in their communities. This conference provides wisdom to
the young professionals who are seeking to engage themselves more in
their careers, which can be pivotal for a successful career. I hope this
conference will provide you all with the opportunity to meet the members
of our organization and their network.
Salamat!
Page 30
www.ISFFA.org
O ut g o i ng N a t i o na l E x e c ut i v e B o a r d – 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 6
MaryAnne Sabido Werner
Chair
Carmelita O’Neil
Board Member
Clariza Mullins
JL Garcia
Board Member
Vice Chair
Mary Jane Aquino
Socorro Padua
Board Member
Secretary
Benel Se-Liban
Treasurer
www.ISFFA.org
Page 31
fro
m Itnc
h eo mI n
c oC
mha
i ni g
air
AAM M
e sessasg ae gf reo m
t he
i ng
r, ICS h
F FA
Edith T. Winterhalter, Ed.D.
Incoming Chair National Executive Board 2016 – 2018
Director of Administrative Services
CSU Northridge
Empowering tomorrow’s leaders today. Yes, today we take another big
step towards empowering our ISFFA members by providing opportunities
to learn from successful entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and professionals in
the industry; by creating a safe space to network, share ideas, and expand
our respective spheres of influences; and by bringing together individuals
to create meaningful mentoring relationships.
ISFFA was founded ten years ago by a small group of young Filipino
professionals with a vision of an organization that provides a helping hand
to other Filipino professionals in the fields of finance and accounting. With
perseverance and grit, we now have grown into three chapters --- Los
Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago --- and solidified our three-pronged
program of Leadership, Mentorship, and Scholarship around our mission of
assisting, educating, training, and mentoring emerging professionals. Our
Chapters are busy getting involved with activities ranging from professional
development workshops (e.g., leadership academy, mock interviews, and
public speaking) to mentoring circles, fundraising, and community services.
And true to the Filipino spirit, we make sure to have fun along the way with
our galas, socials, and special events that help build camaraderie,
teamwork, and lasting friendships among our members.
In this conference, we focus on harnessing innovative ideas that are
applicable to our businesses and jobs, strategize pathways towards
successful careers, and create action plans towards leadership and civic
engagement to ensure that we are ready to face the future, ready to take
our places as leaders in our communities and the world. So be prepared to
learn, to get energized, and most of all, to get involved.
Mabuhay!
Page 32
www.ISFFA.org
I nc o m i ng N a t i o na l E x e c ut i v e B o a r d – 2 0 1 6 - 2 0 1 8
Edith Winterhalter, Ed. D.
Kathy Lai
ISFFA Chair
Director, Administrative Services
California State University
Northridge
Board Member
Assurance Partner
Crowe Horwath
Eileen Fisler
Philomel Pena
Vice Chair
Chief Financial Officer
Palmdale Medical
Regional Center
Board Member
Assistant Director of Cash and
Liquidity Management
Office of the Chief Investment
Officer of the Regents of the
University of California
Maria Fides-Balita
Jennifer Bangit
Secretary
Director
Adelfia, LLC
Board Member
Senior Director
Assistant Corporate Controller
Herballife
Lyn Salvadaor
Catherine Rodriguez
Treasurer
Audit Manager
Vasquez & Company, LLP
Board Member
County Chief Financial Officer
County of Ventura
Mark Bojocan
Beth Hacia
Board Member
Advisory Manager
EY
Board Member
Owner
BJH Bookkeeping
www.ISFFA.org
Page 33
e C
n f eerresnocfe I S F FA
AWMeelscsoam
g ee f rt oomt h
t he
F oound
Maria Benel Corazon G. Se, CPA
Founder of ISFFA
Partner
Vasquez & Co, LLP
Founders’ Message - On behalf of the Founding Board of Directors, I would like to give a
big welcome to all of you in our exciting 2016 ISFFA National Conference! As the
Founding President of ISFFA, I am truly grateful to ISFFA for teaching me how to be a
leader of substance. I would like to share with you four life principles that I continue to
live by that I have learned throughout my journey with ISFFA.
First, being a leader can be challenging; but as long as you are focused on your mission
to make a difference, you are confident in your capabilities and you are humble and
honest, you will always be a winner.
Second, always try to understand your respective roles/expectations; and develop
proper communication, so that you will have an effective action plan in accomplishing
the mission and programs of ISFFA without conflicts and misunderstanding.
Third, “Service above Self” is your priority in everything you do, and set aside your
personal agenda. Caring for others is one of the most rewarding things in life.
Fourth - ISFFA is here for you. It is ISFFA’s 10 year anniversary, and it was born out of a
gathering of friends during a weekend getaway in Lake Arrowhead, California. From its
humbling beginnings, it has expanded as a national organization with four chapters in
Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Chicago that promote its mission to assist,
educate, train and mentor emerging professionals, both domestically as well as
internationally. All of this would not have been achievable were it not for the people
volunteered their time and talents at all levels of the organization.
We are very grateful to all our dedicated Board Officers, Advisors, Mentors, Sponsors,
and Members for their unwavering commitment to making a difference through ISFFA.
We are blessed to witness the dedication of the officers, mentors, and advisors who
have volunteered their time and talents to ISFFA. We would also like to commend newly
engaged members, who after receiving the benefits from the programs, have actively
participated as volunteers or officers as their way of giving back.
We are honored and privileged that you have chosen to join us in our journey to
“Empower Tomorrow’s Leaders Today!” Let ISFFA be your catalyst to inspire others and
be inspired, to teach others and be taught, to mentor others and be mentored, and to
empower others and be empowered.
Mabuhay! May our good Lord continue to bless ISFFA and its family!
Page 34
www.ISFFA.org
The Advisor s and Founder s
ISFFA Advisors
Outstanding individuals who
were there to guide the
leadership of ISFFA
Gilbert R. Vasquez
Managing Partner
Vasquez & Co. LLP
Founder of ALPFA
Washington SyCip
Founder SGV Group
Benjaming Punongbayan
Chairman
Punongbayan & Araullo
Corazen de la Paz-Bernardo
Consultant
Office of the Chairmain
Social Security Commission
Rene S. Enriquez
Executive Director,
Mitchell & Titus, LLP
Reynaldo L. Padilla
Managing Partner
Padilla & Company, LLP
10 YEARS OF ISFFA
Celebrating ISFFA’s 10th year anniversary, we want to thank all
of ISFFAs current and past officers from all the chapters and the
National Executive Boards, as well as our advisors and friends.
BENEL SE-LIBAN
PRESIDENT
CASPER CALISIN
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
E. “BONG” BATINGANA
VICE PRESIDENT – SPONSORSHIPS
HOPE CUE
VICE PRESIDENT – MEMBERSHIP
ANA MELITA “MINEL” DIAZ
VICE PRESIDENT – WEBSITE
Rowena Cipriano-Reyes
Partner
PwC
Erlinda Olalia-Carlin
Partner
KPMG
Aurora M. Rubin
Retired
Senior Partner
Deloitte & Touche
Albert Yeo
Senior Financial Advisor
Merrill Lynch
KATHERINE LAI
MARY ANTONETTE
SANTILLAN
SECRETARY
ELMER PASCUAL
TREASURER
JENNIFER “JEN” BANGIT
ASSOCIATE TREASURER
MARILYN “LYN” SALVADOR
AUDITOR
GRACE REYES
PUBLIC RELATIONS
VICE PRESIDENT – STUDENT RELATIONS
CARMELITA O’NEIL
ALBERT OCAMPO
VICE PRESIDENT – COMMUNITY SERVICE
FOUNDING ADVISOR
SECRETARY AND CHAIRPERSON OF
SCHOLARSHIPS
AIREEN M. SAGUITAN
SUSAN LEGASPI
VICE PRESIDENT – NEWSLETTER
FOUNDING ADVISOR
MARINELLA F. ZIPAGANG
GILBERT VASQUEZ
VICE PRESIDENT – CONVENTIONS AND
EVENTS
FOUNDING HONORARY ADVISOR
Webmasters of ISFFA
Raciel Diaz
Allen Au
Mailo Lagman
Erika Munoz
www.ISFFA.org
Page 35
Past and Current Chapter Officers
Los Angeles
Los Angeles
San Francisco
2009-2010
2013-2015
2012-2014
President
Jonathan Agot
Executive Vice President
Tonette Santillan
Vice President – Student Relations
Alan Vuycankiat
Vice President – Community
Outreach
Grace De Asis
Vice President – Membership
Lorenzo Moran
Vice President – Sponsorship
Jennifer Bangit
Vice President – CPE/Events
Michelle Santos
Vice President – Public Relations
Maria Montero
Secretary
Lealei Magat
Treasurer
Elmer Pascual
Auditor
Ricel Lapig
Los Angeles
2011-2013
President
Rey Puentenegra (2011-2012)
Beth Hacia (2013)
Vice-President
Lalaine Nocum
Secretary
Pamela Ruetter
Treasurer
Beth Hacia
Public Relation Officer
Pina Flores
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President
President
Pamela Irineo (2013)
Emily Enriquez-Patton
Mark Bojocan (2014-2015)
Vice President - Corporate Affairs
Executive VP
and Communications
Esperanza Arato
Shirley Bayani
Secretary
Vice President - Events and
Angel Francisco
Information Technology
VP Branding and Marketing
Ryan Dumbrique
Malve Ildefonso
Vice President - Membership and
VP Student Affairs
Student Relations
Lorenzo Moran
Melissa Garcia
VP Membership
Vice President - Media and Public
Regina Tanedo
Affairs
VP Internal Affairs
Lynmour Naira
Jerocho Naval
Vice President - Finance
Director of Website Mgmt
Evelyn Torres
Mailo Lagman-Garcia
Vice President - Operations
Director of Community Services
Control and Oversight
Jay-Ar Ballesteros
Rizza Velarde
Volunteer Staff
Riza Barron
2015-2017
Maria Luisa Jarcia
President
Lorenzo Moran
Executive Vice President
Marlon Pasamba
Vice President of Finance
Lenard Robles
Controller
Ejay Delos Reyes
2014-2016
Vice President of
President
Branding and Marketing
Shirley Bayani
Allen Au
Vice President
Director of Sponsorship
Ryan Dumbrique
Yzabel Balagtas
Media Committee Chair
Director of Public Relations
Lynmour Naira
Tien Dang
Community
Service
Vice President of
Committee Chair
Professional Affairs
Arlene Poblete
Angelica Tolentino
Membership Committee Chair
Vice President of Social Affairs
Arnel Medina
Christine Llamoso
Vice President of Education
Kyla Tamondong
Vice President of Student Affairs
Matt Thienphrapa
Secretary
Pansy Lam
Los Angeles
San Francisco
www.ISFFA.org
Past and Current Chapter Officers
Chicago
Chicago
2013-2015
2015-2017
President
Maria Fides Balita
Executive Vice-President
Arvin Floresca
VP Student Affairs
Andrew Guerrero
Treasurer
Jennifer Roan
Sponsorship
Stella Marie Santos
VP Membership
Mavie Valera
Secretary
Maribel Dore
VP Newsletter
Abi Unada
Assistant VP
Ann Abueg
Newsletter
Abi Unada
VP Community Service
Theresa Icalina
Auditor
Melvin Icalina
VP CPE and Events
Gayle Floresca
President
Arvin Floresca
Executive Vice President
Andrew Guerrero
Auditor
Patrick Alforque
Secretary
Charlene Baccay
Treasurer
Ana Ausan
VP – Sponsorship
Janpaul Ferrer
VP – Membership
Jennifer Alba
VP – Events
Melvin Icalina
VP – Student Affairs
Ricky Peralta
VP – Website
Marchesa Nieto
VP – Community Service
Katrina Chavez
VP – CPE
Emmanuel Mijares
VP - Newsletter
Carla Mae Cajalne
New York City
2009
President
Michael Gonzalez
Vice President
Marge Quimosing
Treasurer
Joan Nicholas
Secretary
Al Katigbak
VP of Membership
Marcicel Lo
VP of Marketing
Michael Alberto
National Executive Board
2009-2010
Chair
Susan Legaspi
Vice Chair
Soccoro Padua
Treasurer
Marylou Garcia
Secretary
Tonette Santillan
Director of Chapter
Development
Benel Se-Liban
Director of Scholarship
Carmelita O’Neil
Director
Casper Calisin
www.ISFFA.org
National Executive Board
2011-2012
Chair
Marylou Garcia
Vice Chair
Colleen Abang
Treasurer
Benel Se-Liban
Membership Committee CoChair
Rey Padilla
Membership Committee CoChair
Susan Afan
Student Relations Committee
Chair
Edith Winterhalter
Website Committee Chair
Socorro Padua
Members
MaryAnne Sabido Werner
Mary Jane Aqunio
Albert Yeo
Eileen Fisler
Clariza-Mullins
JL Garcia
National Executive Board
2013-2014
Chair
MaryAnne Sabido Werner
Vice Chair
JL Garcia
Treasurer
Benel Se-Liban
Secretary
Eileen Fisler
Membership Committee CoChair
Susan Afan
Website Committee Chair
Socorro Padua
Members
Mary Jane Aqunio
Clariza-Mullins
Carmelita O’Neil
Philomena Pena
Maria Fides Balita
Page 37
C o n f e r e n c e Vo l u n t e e r s
2016 ISFFA
National Conference Planning Committee
Mary Jane Aquino
Chair
Allen Au
Branding & Promotion
Andrew Guererro
Program - Chicago Chapter Presentation,
Registration & CPE Credit
Benel Se-Liban
Program - Mentoring Panel & Leaders Circle
Lenard Robles
Food & Beverage
Lorenzo Moran
Program - LA Chapter Presentation
Matt Thienphrapa
Venue Logistics & Audio/Visual
JL Garcia
Conference Program
Shirley Bayani
Program - SF Chapter Presentation
Marlon Pasamba
LA Chapter Presentation, Volunteer
Tien Dang
Newsletter, Volunteer
Beth Hacia
Volunteer
Mark Bojocan
Volunteer
Page 38
www.ISFFA.org
3 RD
I S F FA
N AT I O N A L C O N F E R E N C E
CHICAGO
AUGUST 25, 2018
w w w .ISFFA.org
www.ISFFA.org
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International Society Of Filipinos
In Finance & Accounting
ISFFA is a nonprofit 501(c)3 public
benefit corporation whose primary
goal is to assist, educate, train, and
mentor emerging professionals, both
domestically as well as globally. We
live by a set of shared values and
adhere to the highest ideals of
professionalism and ethical behavior
in the spirit of integrity, commitment
to social responsibility, discipline, and
solidarity.
Playbill prepared by Allen Au
www.ISFFA.org