UNews - Sonya von Heyking

Dhillon School of Business partners with MNP and CPAEF for new Insight Series micro-course seminar program

trevor.kenney — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:44:26 +0000

Seeking to further meet the needs of the ever-changing nature of the business world, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Dhillon School of Business (DSB), with support of MNP and the CPA Education Foundation (CPAEF), is introducing the Insight Series micro-course seminar program.

A six micro-course program, the Insight Series is designed to enhance what DSB faculty member Sonya von Heyking (CPA, CA, CIA, BMgt '03 Great Distinction) calls “human skills”, and an added emphasis in the business world on critical thinking, creativity, adaptability and collaboration.

“This was born out of us looking at the CPA profession in Canada evolving its competency map for the future of accounting,” says von Heyking, who engaged subject matter experts and professionals from a variety of disciplines to build the courses. “If artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic process automation are going to take over the more mechanical and technical parts of the job, what is a future ready, CPA? What does a CPA of 2025, 2030, 2035 need to exemplify?”

The series addresses skills above and beyond the technical requirements to be a professional accountant and taps into the competencies of critical thinking, curiosity, creativity, communication and emotional intelligence in a professional context. MNP and CPAEF contributed a combined $200,000 to help initiate the program.

“In speaking with the MNP leadership team as we were beginning to put this together, we understood the value they placed on employees who are client centred, good communicators, attentive listeners and clear thinkers,” says von Heyking. “Likewise, the CPA Education Foundation is committed to strengthening the future of the accounting profession through innovative and impactful education. That played a major role in the development of the courses.”

David Muryn, MNP’s regional managing partner, Lethbridge, says the partnership with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and CPA Education Foundation is an excellent fit, benefitting students today and the profession for years to come.

“As the pace of change continues to accelerate in the accounting profession, so does the need for adaptability and self-directed life-long learning,” says Muryn. “We’re proud to partner with the U of L and CPA Education Foundation to equip CPAs with the skills they need to recognize opportunities, manage risks, and deliver value-added insight in the dynamic and unfamiliar terrain.”

That the Insight Series enhances the student experience while also connecting southern Alberta businesses to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is an added value to the program.

“It’s also exciting to collaborate with local and regional businesses on this initiative,” adds Muryn.

The proposed seminar courses include: Curiosity and Creativity (individual and organizational resilience is reinforced through curiosity and creativity in individuals and among teams); Disruption or Distraction (knowing which distractions require attention, and how to leverage them for organizational benefit, will be the key to survival for businesses of the future); Problem Identification and Definition (problem discovery requires a questioning mindset, the ability to synthesize information, and a well-designed approach); Attitudes, Ethics and Stewardship (Stewardship, ethics and a governance mindset are critical to decision-making); Inquiry Based Insights (Applying an inquiry based approach to critical thinking can result in better decision-making, transform analysis into insight, and differentiate between success and luck); Critical Thinking in Industry (Leveraging expertise in sectors such as agriculture, Indigenous Nations, dealerships, and food and beverage processing, participants explore deductive and inductive reasoning, fallacies of adequacy and relevance, and argument assessment techniques as they study organizational missteps and successes).

“What I'm hoping is that we give students an opportunity to build personal and professional habits that, when faced with a problem, allow students to pause and reflect more, and not see it as simply black and white,” says von Heyking. “We would like to provide them with a toolkit to support their nascent professionalism particularly in terms of communication, personal efficacy, and problem-solving skills. If they can have that moment, in ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ or work, where they sit back and think about mapping out all the possible outcomes of a situation and think through the best way to move forward, then I think we’ve given them a valuable skill.”

New certificate options from Dhillon School of Business create pathways for foreign-trained accountants

trevor.kenney — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 16:33:06 +0000

A suite of three certificate options created by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Dhillon School of Business is designed to help foreign-trained accountants resume their professional careers in Canada.

Accounting and finance professionals are recognized worldwide for their strategic thinking, financial expertise, business insights and leadership.

All part of the Dhillon school’s CPA Bridging program, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary, two of the certificate options allow students to upgrade their skills in accounting to either prepare them to become a CPA in Canada or elevate their career options with a university credential. The third certificate option combines the other two certificates into one, two-year program, enabling students the opportunity to acquire co-op positions within the industry.

“The Dhillon School of Business is committed to providing high-quality, accessible programming and removing barriers for newcomers,” says Kerry Godfrey, dean of the Dhillon School of business. “In the past, the pathway for internationally educated professionals was long and offered inadequate recognition of prior education. This made it financially inaccessible for many.”

The original concept of the CPA Bridging program was to provide an alternative path or bridge to the CPA designation for students with a four-year undergraduate degree but who don’t have the specific prerequisite courses required for the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP). Now, 10 years later, that still rings true, but the program has evolved to make it easier for students to accomplish their goals faster, and with more support: financially, academically and with career development opportunities.

For those who have a degree unrelated to accounting but are keen to advance their career by adding accounting and business skills to their resumé, the Post-Bachelor Certificate in Accounting Fundamentals has been created.

“This program provides students with both the breadth and depth of knowledge in accounting they will need, including courses such as Business Law, Introduction to Microeconomics and Introduction to Tax,” says Sonya von Heyking (CA, CIA, BMgt '03 Great Distinction), director, Accounting Program Development at the Dhillon School of Business.

For those who already have a degree in accounting (or substantial university-level coursework in accounting), or have completed the Post-Bachelor Certificate in Accounting Fundamentals and want to sharpen those skills and fill gaps, the Post-Bachelor Certificate in Advanced Accounting is a customizable, six-course program to get them to their goals. It offers intermediate and advanced-level courses such as Advanced Financial Accounting, Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics, and Management Policy and Strategy.

Finally, the Post-Bachelor Combined Certificates in Accounting allow students to take both the Accounting Fundamentals and Advanced Accounting certificates in as little as two years on a full-time basis. Students are also eligible for paid work experience through the co-operative education program.

“Accounting and finance professionals are recognized worldwide for their strategic thinking, financial expertise, business insights and leadership,” adds von Heyking. “It’s not all about tax and number crunching. These certificates and the CPA Bridging program offer excellent avenues for career advancement.”

Von Heyking recognized with merit award

trevor.kenney — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 20:33:19 +0000

Sonya von Heyking (CA, CIA, BMgt '03 Great Distinction) is one of 22 Alberta-based chartered accountants being honoured with a 2012 Merit Award from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta (ICAA) for making significant contributions to charitable and community causes, as well as to the CA profession.

An internal auditor with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge since May 2006, von Heyking is being awarded an Early Achievement Award, presented to CAs who, within the first 10 years since qualifying, have demonstrated excellence in professional, civic, charitable, community or other services. Von Heyking received her CA designation in 2006, and prior to joining the U of L, worked at KPMG in Lethbridge.

Reporting to the Audit Committee of the Board of Governors, von Heyking has worked on numerous projects that have helped to streamline processes or affect savings or efficiencies for the U of L, including H1N1 preparedness, supplier selection processes and analysis of various activities related to strategic priorities.

Internal auditor Sonya von Heyking is a 2012 Merit Award winner.

"We are extremely proud of Sonya's achievement," says Bob Turner, the U of L Board of Governors Chair. "Sonya is a valuable member of our administrative team, and has an excellent working relationship with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community. In her position, she looks at many different aspects of our business and financial environment, and has a varied skill set that enables her to advise the Board and our senior administrative group with a high level of confidence. This recognition by the ICAA affirms what we already know, and appreciate, about her service to the U of L."

Von Heyking has also earned her CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) designation, making her one of the few CAs in the province with that distinction. As well, she presents at numerous conferences, recently earning a trip to the Institute of Internal Auditors 'All Stars' international conference – an opportunity based on positive feedback from colleagues, audiences and conference organizers.

Among other projects, von Heyking designed assurance engagements that allowed U of L students to conduct actual audit work under her guidance, and present their reports to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's Audit Committee. This project was extremely successful and benefitted both the students and Internal Audit.

As an Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta Centennial Ambassador, von Heyking also volunteered extensively in 2010 to establish a long-term fund supporting academic awards in local high schools. Through contributions by Lethbridge and area chartered accountants, the project ultimately raised sufficient funds to provide 60 annual awards to local high school students.

"The ICAA is, once again, honouring a tremendous class of Merit Award recipients," says Blair Nixon (Q.C. FCA), president of the ICAA. "Each of this year's recipients, including Ms. von Heyking, have left a positive impression on those around them. Throughout the profession's history, CAs have been known for making a difference in Alberta's communities – and within the profession. As always, this year's recipients live up to that reputation."

In total, 22 Alberta recipients will be officially recognized at the 2012 Merit Awards Gala, which takes place June 22 at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton.

This story first appeared in the March 2012 issue of the Legend. For a look at the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Von Heyking recognized with merit award

trevor.kenney — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:40:34 +0000

Internal auditor Sonya von Heyking is a 2012 Merit Award winner.

In total, 22 Alberta recipients will be officially recognized at the 2012 Merit Awards Gala, which takes place June 22 at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton.

This story first appeared in the March 2012 issue of the Legend. For a look at the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Internal Audit can find an easier way

trevor.kenney — Fri, 14 May 2010 15:34:17 +0000

By SONYA VON HEYKING

Sunny summer air is sweeping over Lethbridge but many people are struggling to release their worries and bask in the warm optimism of the new season.

There have been a lot of changes to our ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ landscape over the last year and shaking off the frost is going to take time. The natural world is budding more enthusiastically than the economic world – budgets are leaner and departments are smaller.

Experience tells us that these conditions are temporary, but the pressures of doing more with less remain. So how can we make the most of what we have? Maybe we need to look at how we're using our resources.

Sometimes finding a more efficient way to do things is easier than you think. An example I experienced recently serves as illustration. To prevent my curious toddler from playing in the garbage can by her change table I would place heavy objects on the lid after each use, or run interference whenever she approached. She isn't strong enough to pop the can open with the foot pedal when there is something on the lid, and I can outmaneuver her with ease, so I felt this method was an excellent solution. That is, until my 13-year old walked into the room and turned the can around so that my stubby-legged munchkin simply couldn't reach the foot pedal. Voila, baby quickly lost interest, and I could still use the can with ease.

How much time and energy had I spent removing and replacing the obstacle, or clipping my little girl at the knees before she reached the can? It was a simple reminder that a second perspective can pay dividends, even when things seem to be working fine.

Most people can identify at least one process affecting their job that they feel is cumbersome, over-controlled or inefficient. The challenge is finding the best resolution without going too far in the other direction. Engaging Internal Audit to assist might be your fastest route to the resources you need.

Internal Audit can provide advice, checklists or process ideas for almost any area, leaving you with more time to enjoy the sunshine.

If you would like more information about Internal Audit's services, or would like to request assistance or ask for tips, please visit www.uleth.ca/audit

Sonya von Heyking is the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's internal auditor

There might be an easier way

trevor.kenney — Fri, 07 May 2010 21:48:51 +0000

Sunny summer air is sweeping over Lethbridge but many people are struggling to release their worries and bask in the warm optimism of the new season.

Internal Audit can provide advice, checklists or process ideas for almost any area, leaving you with more time to enjoy the sunshine.

If you would like more information about Internal Audit's services, or would like to request assistance or ask for tips, please visit www.uleth.ca/audit

Sonya von Heyking is the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's internal auditor

Wellness Week at the U of L

trevor.kenney — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 16:36:16 +0000

Wellness Week begins Monday at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, with a number of events designed to bring health and wellness issues to the forefront of everyone's mind.

Following is a list of Wellness Week activities, beginning with Monday's mini health fair at Andy's Place (AH100).

Monday, Apr. 26 – mini health fair – Andy's Place – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – exhibits will include non-fasting cholesterol and glucose testing (Health Centre); how to set up your workspace (Ergonomic Connections); Smoking Cessation (AB Health Services), Healthy Recipes and Eating for Weight Loss (Diane Britton, Registered Dietitian); Straighten Up AB Stretching Program (Mcleod Family Chiropractic); find out what's involved in a personal fitness consultation (U of L Fitness Centre); Back care and stretching (Jon Doan, Kinesiology).
Light refreshments will be available. Pick up a wellness passport to enter draw prizes and make sure and register for the Bee Heart Smart challenge as well.

Monday, Apr. 26 – 10 minute chair massages (by appointment only!) offered by certified Massage Therapist Lena Winter, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Health Centre. Contact Suzanne at 5217 to register.

Tuesday, Apr. 27 – PE255 – 11 a.m. to noon - Try a free intro Yoga session – Sophie Verzosa. Please note this intro session will be accessible to all fitness conditions - limited spaces so pre-registration required. Click here to register.

Tuesday, Apr. 27 – Andy's Place - noon to 1 p.m. - Dr. Robbin Gibb will be back to repeat her presentation on Healthy Brains

Tuesday, Apr. 27 - noon to 12:45 p.m. - Join Michelle Cederberg (who was our keynote speaker for Wellness Week 2009) for her first Mid Week Motivation session entitled "Get to the Good Things Even with a Busy Schedule" Register for this free webinar at: http://www.gottoit.ca/resources/webinar.asp

Wednesday, Apr. 28 - Coulee Clean-Up - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Meet at North Entrance Level 6 U-Hall for your bag and gloves. In conjunction with City of Lethbridge and Helen Schuler Coulee Centre. Click here to register. Participating has its benefits! You will be entered in a draw to win the use of an Tent Trailer for a year (courtesy of El Dorado RV). Click here to view the poster.

Thursday, Apr. 29 – 10 minute chair massages (by appointment only) offered by certified Massage Therapist Jarvis Larson from 9 a.m. to noon in the Health Centre. Contact Suzanne at 5217 to register.

Friday, Apr. 30 – Andy's Place – 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. - Presentation on Identity Theft by Sonya von Heyking and Darren Schell

Friday, Apr. 30 – Andy's Place- 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. - "Straighten Up Alberta" stretching program demonstrated by McLeod Family Chiropractic

Wellness Week savings at the Bookstore "Run, don't walk to the Bookstore and spin for your savings"
Warning: it could be good for your health!"

So come on out and use the opportunity to explore health and wellness resources on campus and in the community. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Suzanne McIntosh, wellness co-ordinator at 403-332-5217.

Wellness Week at the U of L

trevor.kenney — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 21:37:31 +0000

April 26
• Mini Health Fair – Exhibits will include non-fasting cholesterol and glucose testing (Health Centre); how to set up your workspace (Ergonomic Connections); smoking cessation (Alberta Health Services). 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Andy's Place.

• 10-minute Chair Massages (By appointment only) – Offered by certified Massage Therapist Lena Winter. 9 a.m. to noon in the Health Centre. Contact Suzanne McIntosh at 5217 to register.

April 27
• Free Yoga Session – Yoga with Sophie Verzosa, 11 a.m. to noon, Andy's Place. Dr. Robbin Gibb presents, Healthy Brains, noon, Andy's Place.

April 29
• 10-minute Chair Massages (By appointment only) – Offered by certified Massage Therapist Jarvis Larson. 9 a.m. to noon in the Health Centre. Contact Suzanne McIntosh at 5217 to register.

April 30
• Identity Theft – Presentation by Sonya Von Heyking and Darren Schell. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Andy's Place.

• Straighten Up Alberta – A stretching program demonstrated by McLeod Family Chiropractic. 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Andy's Place.

UNews - Sonya von Heyking

Dhillon School of Business partners with MNP and CPAEF for new Insight Series micro-course seminar program

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