Leadership
Beta Alpha Psi
Beta Alpha Psi is an international honors organization for students in Accounting, Finance, and Information Systems, built for those who are serious about their careers. More than just a line on a resume, it's a professional network that opens doors.
Founded in 1919, Beta Alpha Psi recognizes and encourages scholastic and professional excellence in the financial information field. As an honors society, it places a strong emphasis on ethical, social, and public responsibility, while fostering meaningful professional development. Its mission centers on building technical and professional skills, connecting students through networking events, and giving back through community service. All of which cultivate lifelong relationships and lasting impact.
With over 300 chapters worldwide and more than 300,000 members across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and beyond, Beta Alpha Psi is a truly global community dedicated to shaping the next generation of financial professionals.
Kappa Mu
The Kappa Mu Chapter has been proudly established at Sam Houston State University for over 25 years. In that time, it has cultivated a strong community of highly motivated, high-achieving students who push one another to excel and reach their full potential. Our growth shows no signs of slowing as we continue to expand, our commitment to excellence only grows stronger.
If you are a student serious about your professional development and eager to surround yourself with like-minded individuals, Beta Alpha Psi may be exactly what you are looking for. Reach out to our Vice President of Recruitment to learn more and take the next step toward becoming part of our community!
Faculty Advisors
Leslie Blix
Faculty Advisor - lhb010@shsu.edu
Leslie Blix is an Associate Professor of Accounting at Sam Houston State University, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate auditing courses and has served as the Beta Alpha Psi Kappa Mu Chapter faculty advisor since 2018. She was recognized with the Beta Alpha Psi Outstanding Faculty Advisor Award in 2026 for her commitment to student mentorship and chapter excellence. Originally from Pennsylvania, Dr. Blix earned a B.A. in Economics from the University of Connecticut, a B.S. in Accounting from Hodges University, an M.S. in Accounting from Queens College, City University of New York, and a Ph.D. in Accounting from Southern Illinois University. Prior to entering academia, she spent seven years in the audit practice at KPMG in Tampa, Florida. Outside of academics, Dr. Blix enjoys exploring The Woodlands, trying new restaurants, attending concerts, and reading. She especially enjoys serving as the faculty advisor for Beta Alpha Psi because it allows her to mentor students beyond the classroom, build meaningful relationships, and watch them grow both personally and professionally. Watching students develop into leaders, secure internships and full-time positions, and launch successful careers in the accounting profession is one of the most rewarding aspects of her role at Sam Houston State University.
William Strawser
Faculty Advisor - wxs018@shsu.edu
William Strawser is an Assistant Professor of Accounting at Sam Houston State University, where he teaches ACCT 2301: Principles of Financial Accounting, ACCT 3313: Intermediate Accounting I, ACCT 4317: Advanced Accounting, and ACCT 5333: Financial Statement Analysis. Originally from Bryan, Texas, Dr. Strawser earned a B.A. in Economics from the University of Texas at Austin, an M.S. and Ph.D. in Accounting from Texas A&M. in Accounting. His research interests include financial reporting and disclosure, capital markets, and accounting education. Dr. Strawser has served as a Faculty Co-Advisor for the Kappa Mu Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi for the past two years. When asked what he enjoys most about working with Beta Alpha Psi students, he shared: "Beta Alpha Psi allows me to connect and engage with students outside the classroom. Some of the most important professional skills aren’t delivered through coursework but in the experiences that students have in organizing and facilitating meetings and events. The result is students making connections with each other and with firm representatives that will last a lifetime, and its my privilege to watch it all unfold." Outside of academics, Dr. Strawser enjoys weightlifting, viewing it as a rewarding way to challenge himself and stay disciplined.
Executive Cabinet
Gabriel Enriquez
President - gde005@shsu.edu
Gabriel Enriquez is a senior Accounting major at Sam Houston State University, with an expected graduation date of May 2027. Originally from Magnolia, Texas, he has served in his role with Beta Alpha Psi since December 2025. Gabriel previously gained hands-on experience as a Student Intern in the SHSU Controller's Office and will continue building his professional experience through upcoming audit internships with M&K CPAs in Spring 2027 and BDO in Summer 2027. He is interested in pursuing a career in Public Accounting, with a focus on Audit, and also holds a strong interest in teaching, hoping to one day give back to the academic community that has shaped his own education. Beyond his role in Beta Alpha Psi, Gabriel is involved on campus as a COBA Ambassador, a Smith-Hutson House Coach, an Intermediate Accounting (I and II) Tutor at the Academic Success Center, and a UWorld Campus Ambassador, reflecting his dedication to both academic support and professional development.
Gabriel values the opportunities these roles provide to connect with and support fellow students, whether through tutoring, mentorship, or campus engagement. Outside of academics, he enjoys going to the movies, using it as a way to unwind and recharge amid his busy schedule.
Syed "Zain" Zaidi
Vice President - szz001@shsu.edu
Zain Zaidi is a senior Accounting major at Sam Houston State University, with an expected to graduate in Spring 2027. Born in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, he currently resides in Conroe, Texas. Zain has served as a Beta Alpha Psi officer since the Spring 2026 semester and is actively involved across campus through organizations including Beta Alpha Psi, VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), the High Finance Association, Phi Chi Theta, and the Student Alumni Association. Professionally, Zain completed an Accounting Internship with Munich Re during the summer of 2026, where he gained valuable experience in the accounting and finance field. He is interested in pursuing a career in either Audit or Finance after graduation. Outside of academics and professional development, Zain enjoys playing various sports including basketball, and pickleball. One of the reasons he enjoys being involved with Beta Alpha Psi is the opportunity to connect with students who share similar goals and mindsets. He appreciates the collaborative environment, where members are driven to succeed, support one another, and are among the most motivated and talented students in the business school.
Ximena Gante
Secretary - xxg015@shsu.edu
Ximena Gante is a senior Accounting major at Sam Houston State University, expecting to graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in Fall 2026. Originally from Palestine, Texas, she currently serves as Secretary for the Kappa Mu Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, a position she has held for the past year. Prior to this role, she served as a Committee Officer, where she became more involved in the chapter and developed her leadership skills.
As Secretary, Ximena maintains the chapter's membership and point tracking system, ensuring members receive accurate credit for their professional, service, and fundraising activities. She also supports executive board operations and helps maintain chapter records to keep the organization running smoothly. Ximena currently works as an Accounting Tutor at the SHSU Academic Success Center, where she helps students strengthen their understanding of financial accounting concepts, and also supports donor relations and university initiatives through her role in the Office of University Advancement. Her career interest is in Audit, and she plans to pursue a Master of Accountancy after completing her bachelor's degree. Outside of academics, Ximena enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new coffee shops.
Patrick Womack
Treasurer - paw026@shsu.edu
Patrick Womack is a junior at Sam Houston State University, majoring in Accounting with a minor in Finance and an expected graduation date of Spring 2028. Originally from Lovelady, Texas, Patrick will be stepping into the role of Treasurer for Beta Alpha Psi for his first semester, taking on new responsibilities within the chapter's executive board. Patrick is interested in pursuing a career in tax and is committed to engaging in every opportunity available to build the skills and experience needed for his future career. He approaches his professional development with intention, actively seeking out programs, connections, and experiences that will prepare him for success in the accounting field. On campus, Patrick is also an active member of ALPFA, the High Finance Association, and the Honors College, reflecting his dedication to both professional development and academic excellence. His involvement across these organizations has allowed him to build a well-rounded network of peers and professionals while continuing to challenge himself academically. Outside of academics, Patrick enjoys learning about the history and cultural impact of music, exploring how it has shaped and connected communities throughout time.
Committee Chairs
Gavin Guillen
Chair of Outreach - glg042@shsu.edu
Gavin Guillen is a sophomore Finance major with a minor in Accounting, on track to graduate in Spring 2029. Originally from Santa Fe, Texas, he is now heading into his second semester as Chair of Recruitment, continuing to build on the foundation he set in his first term. Gavin's professional experience includes an investment banking externship with Macquarie Group and an unofficial shadow internship with Bank of America Merrill Lynch during the summer of 2026. Outside the classroom, he co-founded The Houston Prosperity Project, a nonprofit dedicated to improving financial literacy across Houston, and serves in a leadership role with the High Finance Association at Sam Houston State University. Looking ahead, Gavin is exploring a career in wealth management, with private wealth management as one potential path he's considering. When he's not studying or working, you can find Gavin at the rec center, playing pickup sports or working out with friends.
Jeremiah Avalos
Chair of Engagement - jxa306@shsu.edu
Jeremiah Avalos is a senior Accounting major at Sam Houston State University, expected to graduate in Spring 2027. Originally from the Humble area of Houston, Texas, he is passionate about building a career in advisory and finance while continuously developing his leadership and technical skills.
Professionally, Jeremiah has gained valuable accounting experience through roles in accounting operations, working with accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, financial reporting, and accounting systems. These experiences have strengthened his analytical abilities and reinforced his interest in helping organizations make informed financial decisions. On campus, Jeremiah serves as Chair of Engagement for Beta Alpha Psi and works as an Accounting Tutor, where he enjoys supporting fellow students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. He is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for student involvement and professional development. Outside of academics and work, Jeremiah enjoys cooking and trying new recipes, finding it to be a creative way to unwind and connect with family and friends.
Allyson Dusterhoff
Co-Chair of Service & Support - ajd098@shsu.edu
Allyson Dusterhoff is a junior at Sam Houston State University majoring in Accounting, with an expected graduation date of May 2027. Originally from Franklin, Texas, she has served as Co-Chair of the Service and Support Committee for one semester and will continue in this role for an additional semester, helping coordinate service initiatives and support efforts within the chapter. Allyson is interested in pursuing a career in Audit and Advisory and will be gaining valuable professional experience through an upcoming internship with M&K CPAs. She looks forward to applying her academic knowledge in a professional setting and building the foundation for her future career. On campus, Allyson is an active member of Beta Alpha Psi, where she has enjoyed connecting with fellow accounting students and contributing to the chapter's mission. Outside of academics, she enjoys volunteering and giving back to the community, including her work with the Montgomery County Animal Shelter.
Ryan Henson
Co-Chair of Service & Support - rah102@shsu.edu
Ryan Henson is a junior Accounting major at Sam Houston State University, with an expected graduation date of Summer 2028. Originally from Kemah, Texas, he has served as the organization's Fundraising Chair for one semester, helping coordinate fundraising efforts that support chapter events and initiatives. Ryan is currently building his professional experience and looks forward to pursuing internship opportunities that will strengthen his accounting knowledge and prepare him for his career. He is particularly interested in the field of tax and hopes to build a career helping individuals and businesses navigate tax planning and compliance. Outside of his officer role, Ryan is an active member of Theta Chi, where he enjoys connecting with fellow students and participating in campus life. When he's not studying, Ryan enjoys trying new desserts at local coffee shops and discovering new favorite treats. Ryan is excited to continue serving the organization while developing his leadership skills and preparing for a successful career in the accounting profession.
Committee Officers
Dennis Espinal
Officer of Outreach - dee012@shsu.edu
Dennis Espinal is a sophomore at Sam Houston State University majoring in Banking and Finance, with an expected graduation date of 2029. Originally from Conroe, Texas, he has served as a Committee Officer for Beta Alpha Psi since Spring 2026. Dennis currently works as a warehouse associate, where he has developed strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills. His career interests lie in finance, and he is eager to continue building his knowledge and experience within the financial industry. In addition to his role with Beta Alpha Psi, Dennis is an active member of the Banking and Finance Club and serves as Vice President of Finance for ALPFA. Through these organizations, he has had the opportunity to develop his leadership skills while connecting with other students and professionals in the business community. Outside of the classroom, Dennis enjoys staying active by working out and playing baseball and soccer.
Cris Nelson
Officer of Engagement- cmn053@shsu.edu
Cris Nelson is a junior at Sam Houston State University, majoring in Accounting with an expected graduation date of Spring 2028. Originally from Spring, Texas, he has served as a Committee Officer for Beta Alpha Psi since Spring 2026. Since 2023, Cris has worked as a cashier at Golden Corral, where he has developed strong customer service and communication skills. He has not yet completed a formal internship but is particularly interested in pursuing a career in Audit, with an openness to exploring Tax as well. Beyond his role with Beta Alpha Psi, Cris has been involved in several other student organizations. Though he has not yet held a formal leadership position, he has been inspired by peers who have taken on leadership roles and looks forward to doing the same in the future. Outside of the classroom, Cris enjoys staying active at the gym and hopes to get more involved in sports and recreational activities going forward.
Tyler Vlacich
Officer of Service & Support - txv023@shsu.edu
Tyler Vlacich is a senior accounting student at Sam Houston State University, currently pursuing his master's degree in accounting with an expected completion date of Spring 2028. Originally from Conroe, Texas, he has served as a Committee Officer for Beta Alpha Psi since January 2026. Tyler has an upcoming audit internship with KPMG in Spring 2027, and he is excited for the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and deepen his understanding of the field. He looks forward to applying what he has learned in the classroom to real-world audit engagements and building a strong foundation for his career. Beyond his role with Beta Alpha Psi, Tyler has valued the chance to connect with fellow accounting students and grow alongside his peers as they prepare for careers in the profession. Outside of the classroom, Tyler enjoys swimming and spending time outdoors, activities that help keep his mind fresh and refreshed.