About

Regina Ryan had always played soccer with her sister and knew that when she made the choice of where she would attend college, the opportunity to play with her twin sister would make a huge impact on her decision. When she visited the campus of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, she immediately fell in love with the atmosphere. She was also able to attend a dinner with the Chancellor, sponsored by the Maynor Honors College. Attending the dinner, and recognizing the character of the Chancellor and his care for the students of the university, Gina knew UNC Pembroke was the school for her.  

In May of 2020, Gina graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Gina experienced many successes during her collegiate career. Upon acceptance into the university, she received a scholarship for student athletes. She also received the Chancellor’s Distinguished Scholarship. During her time at UNC Pembroke, she earned the distinction of being listed on the Chancellor’s List and Honor’s List every semester. Gina also received awards for outstanding performances on the field. During her college soccer career, Gina took over the conference record for career shout outs, receiving thirty-six shout outs by the end of her senior season. She also received the CoSIDA All-District Academic award. Gina was also involved in numerous clubs and associations. She was a member of the Accounting Students Association (ASA), as well as Circle K, in which she served as treasurer. 

The hospitality shown to the students by the professors in the Honors College really impressed Gina. She noted that during her time in the Honors College the professors were always engaged and caring, even to the students who were no longer in their classes. Gina enjoyed meeting other students who shared her work ethic and is still friends with many of those she met during her time in the honors program. Gina believes that graduating from the Honors College will help her resume stand out among competitors because it’ll show that she cared about her education and had a drive to go above and beyond. 

For her senior project, Gina researched fraud in the accounting world. With the help of her mentor, Dr. Joseph Lakatos, she examined multiple major cases throughout the years and how they have affected the business world. Gina was inspired to conduct the research after taking auditing and studying fraud cases as part of the curriculum. She thought it would be interesting to dive deeper and help others understand how accounting affects business. 

After graduation, Gina plans to attend graduate school and study to earn her master’s degree in accounting. After her schooling, Gina wants to find a position at a good company and work her way up the ladder. She aspires to one day be a chief financial officer (CFO). 

Gina encourages future students to take advantage of the opportunity to be in the Honors College. She says to remember the professors are always here to help and to write great recommendation letters.



Senior Project

"Fraud Shaping American Business"

Mentor: Joseph Lakatos