
Cristina Kappmeyer, MPA ’25

Ryann Wall, MPA expected Dec ’25
The Financial Accounting Standards Board, which establishes accounting and financial reporting standards for U.S. companies, sponsors a one-year postgraduate technical assistant (PTA) program for recent accounting graduates interested in working at the intersection of accounting and standard setting. Annually, this prestigious program accepts six students each for its summer and winter cohorts. Two Texas McCombs MPA students – Cristina Kappmeyer (BBA ‘24, MPA ’25) and Ryann Wall (BBA ‘24, MPA expected December 2025) – were recently appointed as PTAs. Ryann will begin her PTA term in Winter 2026 and Cristina in Summer 2025.
The PTA program offers recent accounting graduates the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge conversations and research about topics that are top of mind for standard setters and leaders in practice. PTAs are chosen based on their academic aptitude as well as their communication and professional skills. Both MPA students credit the support of the Program, its faculty and alums in helping them stand out among the applicants. As Cristina notes, “It’s an incredible honor to be selected for the PTA program. I was inspired to pursue this opportunity after hearing about another MPA’s (Meredith Bullock ’22) meaningful experience in the role.”
The PTA program refines participants’ critical thinking skills and exposes them to the intricacies involved in accounting standard-setting not many accountants are privy to. As Ryann shared, “I am most looking forward to collaborating with experienced professionals, analyzing emerging accounting issues, and gaining insights that will shape my future career and the profession.”
As we always say, what starts here does change the world. Congratulations to our MPA PTAs!
To learn more about the Master in Professional Accounting program at Texas McCombs, click here