College of Business names Baker Tilly as outstanding employer for 2011

The College of Business honored accounting and advising firm Baker Tilly as its "Business Internship Program's Honored Employer" for 2011 at the COB's 24th annual Employer Recognition Breakfast on April 20 at the Fairlane Center. Patrick Killeen (shown in above photo at left), partner at Baker Tilly, accepted the honor from COB Dean Kim Schatzel. Alumnus R.J. King ('85, CASL), who serves as editor of DBusiness magazine, provided the keynote speech at the event.

Baker Tilly currently employs three UM-Dearborn interns and one full-time hire. Last winter, the firm employed one intern and four alumni in full-time positions. The company has been providing wonderful opportunities for UM-Dearborn students for years, said Mike Callahan, director of internships/career planning and development in the College of Business.

"When a student goes to work for Baker Tilly, they get the chance to see both sides of the accounting world---auditing and tax," said Callahan. "By getting this experience, it helps our students with their future career decisions. Baker Tilly also has converted internships into full-time job offers."

Baker Tilly also was recognized for its willingness to participate in panel discussions and the COB's annual Professional Development Week. During the summer months, Baker Tilly employees often invite UM-Dearborn students to spend a day shadowing them at the firm to learn about the inner workings of the company.

Baker Tilly also has been an ongoing supporter of UM-Dearborn's Beta Alpha Psi chapter. Whether it is practicing networking or interviewing skills, or inviting Beta Alpha Psi members to tour its facilities, Baker Tilly has helped UM-Dearborn students to see the realm of possibilities available to them as future accountants.

The Employer Recognition Breakfast was sponsored by COB board of advisors members Deloitte, Masco Corporation and Valassis.

Photos by John Gambotto