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<\/a>\nFirst launched in 2011 as a one-day workshop, the summit has grown into a premier multi-day regional conference and reflects BerryDunn\u2019s continued commitment to supporting financial institutions through meaningful, real-world engagement. Designed to help banking leaders navigate rapid industry shifts, this year addressed pressing issues such as federal policy and regulatory changes, the evolving tax landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, and the future of finance.<\/p>
\n\u201cEVOLVE offered banking leaders from across the Northeast an unmatched opportunity to learn from experts in the field,\u201d said BerryDunn Principal Rob Smalley<\/a>, CPA, leader of the firm\u2019s Financial Services Practice Group<\/a>. \u201cParticipants heard from and connected with BerryDunn\u2019s banking industry specialists who have a deep understanding of today\u2019s challenges and the strategies leaders need in order to adapt and grow their organizations.\u201d<\/p> \nEVOLVE opened with an \u201cEconomic Outlook\u201d presented by Stifel Chief Economist Dr. Lindsey Piegza, who examined the changing global and political environment and discussed what it means for overall growth, interest rates, and monetary policy going forward.<\/p> \nFollowing Piegza\u2019s remarks, BerryDunn Senior Manager David Stone,<\/a> Senior Manager Ryan King<\/a>, and Manager Rashon Edgerton<\/a> provided insights on navigating the increasingly complex tax and financial reporting landscape in a session titled, \u201cAccounting and Tax Update: Financial Institution Edition.\u201d Another session, presented by Ryan Henley, Head of Financial Institution Strategy at Stifel, covered emerging strategies for improving performance in 2026 in \u201cBalance Sheets: Maximizing Benefits and Minimizing Risks for Financial Institutions.\u201d<\/p> \nBerryDunn Principal Tucker Cutter<\/a> and Senior Consultant Philip Pitcock provided an executive lens on value, risk, and readiness related to technology modernization in their session on \u201cTechnology Modernization and AI as a Balance Sheet Strategy.\u201d<\/p> \nThe summit concluded with a panel discussion on the \u201cFuture of Finance: How AI and Tech Can Transform Finance.\u201d BerryDunn Senior Manager Leah Clair<\/a>, Principal Tucker Cutter<\/a>, Risk Officer and Senior Corporate Counsel Clare Lizotte, and Senior Manager David Stone<\/a> provided best practices and a forward-looking vision for creating a more efficient, transparent, and impactful finance function.<\/p> \nSusan Weber<\/a>, a Senior Manager in BerryDunn\u2019s Financial Services Practice Group, said, \u201cSummit attendees gained a wealth of actionable insights, best practices, and strategic guidance designed to help their organizations thrive in a tech-driven landscape.\u201d<\/p> \nBanking institutions across the country depend on BerryDunn\u2019s trusted advisors to help navigate complex operational and finance challenges. With deep experience supporting banks with accounting, tax, risk management, and consulting services, the firm\u2019s financial institutions team delivers high-quality and personalized attention to clients as well as exceptional learning opportunities through industry events like the EVOLVE Banking Summit.<\/p> \nAbout BerryDunn<\/b><\/p> \nBerryDunn is the brand name under which Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC and BDMP Assurance, LLP, independently owned entities, provide services. Since 1974, BerryDunn has helped businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies throughout the US and its territories solve their greatest challenges. The firm\u2019s tax, advisory, and consulting services are provided by Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC, and its attest services are provided by BDMP Assurance, LLP, a licensed CPA firm. BerryDunn is a client-centered, people-first professional services firm with a mission to empower the meaningful growth of our people, clients, and communities. Led by CEO Sarah Belliveau, the firm has been recognized for its efforts in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, and for its focus on learning, development, and well-being. Learn more at berrydunn.com<\/a>.<\/p>