SIU’s Emani James wins national accounting scholarship

Merit-based award is a “blessing”

James said when her mentor, Marc E. Morris, director of the School of Accountancy, told her that she won the scholarship she was very excited and grateful.

It is “the blessing I needed,” James said.

Morris said the School of Accountancy are appreciative of the PCAOB and its “generous support.”

“The financial impact that the program has on a student can be life changing,” Morris said. “The PCAOB Scholars Program is merit-based, and having Emani James selected speaks highly of her accomplishments.”

Outstanding Saluki

James, the daughter of Syidah Sabur-James and Derrick James, earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting at SIU. She was very active on campus as an undergraduate, participating in numerous activities as well as being a triple jumper and long jumper on the Saluki women’s track and field team.

She was fundraising chair for the National Association of Black Accountants, treasurer for the Women’s Business Association and also involved with the Fatal Fusion Dance Team and other activities. Community service is important to her as well and she volunteered with the Boys and Girls Club of Carbondale and as a math tutor at Parish Elementary School.

“We are proud of Emani and applaud her scholastic achievement,” Morris said. “She is a talented accounting major who is very deserving of the PCAOB scholarship. We believe that Emani will be an excellent MAcc student and will serve the profession well throughout her career.”

Business plans

James anticipates completing her master’s degree by summer 2021. She then plans to take the CPA exam. Her goal is to open her own business.

“I have a lot of talents I would like to turn into a business,” she said.