Two UF accounting students selected as prestigious PCAOB Scholars

University of Florida Fisher School of Accounting students Grace Gimbel (BSAc ’26, MAcc ’27) and Jaden Smith (BSAc ’27, MAcc ’27) were selected as the 2026 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholars. This prestigious scholarship has spearheaded academic achievement in accounting and auditing since 2011.

Along with the PCAOB Scholar title, award winners receive $15,000 for the upcoming school year and access to the PCAOB network.

“My initial reaction to learning that I had been selected as a PCAOB Scholar was excitement,” Gimbel said. “It felt validating of all the hard work I have put in and reassured me that I am heading down the right path.”

The PCAOB Scholars Program seeks to award undergraduate and graduate accounting students with financial aid and resources to facilitate academic and professional growth. This program is merit-based, though the PCAOB encourages universities to nominate students from populations who are historically underrepresented in the accounting profession.

“As a first-generation student with little knowledge of the professional world, pursuing an accounting degree was initially intimidating, but I am grateful to UF and the Fisher School of Accounting for making this opportunity possible and [for] providing me with a strong professional foundation.,” Gimbel said.

Smith and Gimbel were nominated by the Fisher School of Accounting based on their academic achievements, ethical standards and aptitude in accounting and auditing.

“The scholarship gives me the resources I need to pursue the final year of my degree here at UF,” Smith said. “The opportunities provided by the Fisher School have been incredibly impactful in shaping my career. The professors, staff and Fisher School have provided me so many opportunities to grow through accounting organizations, advising, teaching assistant roles, recruiting events and research opportunities.”

Through the PCAOB’s mentorship program, students are connected with PCAOB staff to strengthen their accounting and auditing skills.

“I am most looking forward to connecting with PCAOB staff and hearing their guidance on a career in auditing,” Gimbel said. “Learning from professionals with first-hand knowledge of the industry will give me valuable insight and perspective as I begin my career.”

Both students anticipate graduating with their Master of Accounting at the end of the spring 2027 term.

“Going into college, I never realized how impactful the resources provided by a college could be. I always assumed you just got a degree, and then after that, applied for jobs,” Smith said. “Something as simple as applying to a program you see an email for, joining a club, or talking to a professor can lead to opportunities you would have never imagined before.”