Investing in tomorrow’s fraud fighters

Twenty-three students from the U.S., Canada, Europe, Asia and Africa are recipients of the ACFE Foundation’s 2025–2026 Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship. The award honors students with academic achievement in a fraud-related field of study and a desire to pursue a career in fraud examination or a similar anti-fraud profession.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Foundation awarded $85,000 in funds to a promising group of 23 students from around the world for the 2025–2026 academic year. Each year, the ACFE honors the legacy of two fallen anti-fraud professionals — Larry Jennings, CFE, and Tracy Ritchie, CFE — by granting students passionate about pursuing careers in fraud detection and prevention with the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship. Jennings and Ritchie were among five Union Texas Petroleum Inc. employees killed in a terrorist attack in Karachi, Pakistan, in 1997. The scholarship program awards students who’ve declared a major or minor in accounting, business administration, finance, criminal justice or a similar fraud-related subject. In addition to financial awards, each scholarship recipient receives a full year of ACFE membership, which connects them to a global network of mentors, peers and professional development resources.

Mary Breslin, CFE, CIA, chair of the ACFE Foundation Board of Directors, says it’s vital that the ACFE invest in future fraud fighters. “By equipping students with the tools, knowledge and encouragement to pursue careers in fraud examination, the ACFE helps ensure that organizations and communities worldwide are protected. The more capable fraud fighters we prepare today, the less damage fraud can inflict tomorrow,” Breslin says.

Breslin emphasizes that the scholarship program serves as a catalyst for students, furthering their fraud examination careers by reducing financial barriers, increasing access to education, validating students’ passion for the profession, and connecting them to a global community of mentors and peers. “That recognition can inspire confidence, open doors and accelerate careers, ensuring that more talented individuals are empowered to join the fight against fraud,” she adds.

ACFE members play a vital role in sustaining the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship fund by making financial donations, encouraging others to do the same, attending and supporting chapter events, and spreading the word. “Every contribution, regardless of size, strengthens the future of our profession,” Breslin explains.

The application period for the 2026–2027 academic year opened Sept. 1, 2025, and will end Feb. 2, 2026. Eligible students interested in applying must be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university through the 2026–2027 academic year. The Foundation will announce the 2026–2027 winners in April 2026 and distribute the awards in May 2026. Students who’ve won in the past aren’t eligible to reapply. For more information about the scholarship and the application process, visit ACFE.com.

Here are the 2025–2026 recipients of the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship:

Hilary Williams, West Virginia University – $10,000 scholarship (United States)

With a background investigating fraud cases in federal law enforcement, Williams’ passion for the anti-fraud profession is evident. In her role as a health care fraud analyst at Evernorth Health Services, she’s managed high-profile cases. Williams earned a master’s degree in forensic accounting and fraud examination at West Virginia University. Among her many career achievements, Williams uncovered a substantial fraud scheme and contributed to a considerable health care fraud investigation that led to indictments.

Sandra Okyere, George Mason University – $10,000 scholarship (United States)

Okyere’s interest in forensic accounting and fraud prevention emerged in high school when she wrote a report about Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme. Her work as an audit liaison with KPMG’s external auditors while interning at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) earned her an outstanding performance award from the agency’s chief financial executive. She accepted a part-time position at the NGA following her internship. Okyere contributes to her community by volunteering with Community Residence Inc. every weekend while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She aspires to work for the FBI financial crime unit or launch a fraud examination firm.

Daria Hyworon, University of Toronto – $7,500 scholarship (Canada)

Hyworon’s passion for fraud investigation blossomed during her nine-year career as an excise tax auditor at the Canada Revenue Agency. While pursuing a master’s degree in forensic accounting, Hyworon volunteers at the Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre, where she educates the board of directors on financial literacy and fraud prevention. Until last year, she served as treasurer for the Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Foundation Inc., where she monitored, updated and researched investment information. She continues to serve as a financial advisor for the foundation, ensuring the accuracy of financial statements and audits. Hyworon desires to fight fraud by leveraging her expertise to ensure financial integrity and transparency, particularly in Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts.

Phillip Mendoza, Methodist University – $7,500 scholarship (United States)

Witnessing the impact of fraud on older adults firsthand inspired Mendoza to pursue a career in the anti-fraud profession. With a deep desire to protect vulnerable members of society and maintain financial system integrity, he’s pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management. During Mendoza’s 13 years in the military, he gained experience in procedural compliance. He interns with H&R Block and has an internship lined up with EY’s corporate tax practice. Mendoza has his sights set on working as a corporate fraud investigator, focusing on tax law compliance and fraud detection.

Jaden Robinson, Utah Tech University – $5,000 scholarship (United States)

While working as a manager for the City of St. George aquatics department in Utah, Robinson discovered that an employee exploited a glitch in the time card system and stole the Social Security numbers of five colleagues. Seeing the impact on the victims’ lives motivated Robinson to pursue a career in the anti-fraud field. He’s working toward a master’s degree in accounting and has completed projects that provide hands-on experience in fraud detection and prevention. His goal is to complete law school and apply for forensic accountant positions with the FBI or IRS.

Connor Seymour, Boston University – $5,000 (United States)

Seymour is a Certified Fraud Examiner pursuing a Master of Business Administration from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business. He has experience in financial crime prevention and worked as a police officer for the City of Dover, Massachusetts. He’s currently a financial crimes officer with Allspring Global Investments, where he led the creation of the firm’s fraud program. He’s also an active member of the Boston Chapter of the ACFE.

Jean Marc Kensly Pierre, Université du Québec à Montréal – $5,000 (Canada)

Pierre is pursuing a master’s degree in accounting control and audit. While overseeing financial controls and preparing financial reports at Baboun Boissons Nationales S.A. in Haiti, he developed a passion for forensic accounting and data analytics. He saw firsthand the importance of transparency and accuracy in financial reporting. Pierre is an active member of the Order of Chartered Professional Accountants of Haiti and the Haiti Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors. He plans to earn the Certified Fraud Examiner credential and play a major role in combating financial fraud and corruption in Haiti.

Ryan Groves, University of Virginia – $2,000 (United States)

Groves, a Certified Fraud Examiner and a Certified Public Accountant, is highly motivated and accomplished, with a strong commitment to the anti-fraud profession. His current role as a senior associate at a litigation consulting firm involves assisting in fraud investigations for various organizations. Groves’ career goal is to lead fraud investigations and help charitable organizations prevent fraud. He’s pursuing a Master of Business Administration to advance his career.

Ryan Ferguson, Montpellier Business School – $2,000 (Canada)

Ferguson is undertaking research in fraud and accounting while working as a lecturer at Lakehead University in Ontario, Canada, where he teaches courses in assurance, accounting, fraud and ethics. His interest in fraud prevention began during his time at the Canada Revenue Agency working as an income tax auditor. He’s a Certified Fraud Examiner and a Certified Public Accountant, and he donates his time in the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program at Lakehead University, preparing tax returns for international students who are unable to afford tax services. His goal is to become a full professor in the accounting faculty at Lakehead University, specializing in fraud- and accounting-related research.

Cailey Gibson, Franklin University – $2,000 (United States)

Gibson is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in forensic accounting while working at a credit union, where she helps to safeguard members from becoming victims of fraud. During her time at the credit union, she has received accolades for spotting and preventing fraud. She is an ACFE Central Ohio Chapter member and volunteer. Her goal is to work in a bank’s fraud prevention unit. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in fraud and forensics at Carlow University in Pennsylvania.

Ekam Kochhar, Simon Fraser University, Canada – $2,000 (India)

Kochhar is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminology with a certificate in legal studies. She works as a teaching assistant at Simon Fraser University’s Beedie School of Business in Canada and at the BC Financial Services Authority in Canada, where she has conducted investigative research while supporting the legal team in fraud cases. She has volunteered as a French translator for Canada Confesses, a nonprofit organization that provides a platform for marginalized communities to share stories of injustice. Through this role, she helped translate personal accounts of systemic discrimination, gaining insight into the frauds and struggles that marginalized groups encounter. Her career goal is to specialize in corporate fraud prevention and investigation.

Lisa Pilgrim, Columbia University – $2,000 (United States)

Pilgrim is a Certified Fraud Examiner who has dedicated her career to risk management in the public and private sectors. She’s pursuing a master’s degree in enterprise risk management while working as a manager of audit and fraud risk for a global hotel franchisor. In this role she leads investigations into fraudulent activities and oversees the fraud risk management program for the company’s loyalty program. Previously, she managed fraud investigations within a federally funded program, designing controls to prevent fraud, waste and abuse.

Nicholas Orek, University of Nairobi – $2,000 (Kenya)

Orek is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting, which includes a core program in forensic accounting and investigation. He’s a Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors. He’s passionate about the anti-fraud profession and wants to contribute to the fight against organizational fraud. His goal is to join the internal audit department at his organization to help contribute to the efforts of curbing payroll schemes, billing schemes and financial statement fraud.

Stephanie VonFintel, West Virginia University – $2,000 (United States)

VonFintel is a second-year Doctor of Business Administration student focusing on accounting and an associate professor at Northwood University in Michigan, where she integrates fraud discussions into her courses. Her dissertation explores fraudulent activity within the U.S. federal government and its impact on taxation attitudes. Recognized for her skill in teaching with the Dale Haywood Faculty Excellence Award, VonFintel is a Certified Fraud Examiner committed to advancing the anti-fraud profession.

Darwin Makhija, National Forensic Sciences University – $2,000 (India)

With an interest in financial crime and fraud detection, Makhija is pursuing a master’s degree in forensic accounting and fraud investigation. He has completed research projects on forensic analysis, money laundering typologies and the Enron scandal. A hands-on internship in liability insurance fraud investigations exposed him to real-world fraud cases. Makhija is the author of “AML Unplugged,” “Ultimate Forensic Guide to AML KYC & CFT” and “Forensic Audit in Financial Fraud Detection.” He has professional certifications in anti-money laundering, know-your-customer and forensic auditing.

Mirirai Midzi, Seattle University – $2,000 (United States)

Midzi works as a management accountant while pursuing a master’s degree in accounting and analytics with a focus on financial reporting, internal controls and regulatory compliance. His career aspirations began when he identified financial discrepancies during an internal audit that revealed significant weaknesses in the organization’s internal controls. He decided to focus on identifying inconsistencies and managing risks to improve organizational performance and stakeholder trust. He’s earned the Chartered Governance Professional credential and is a Registered Public Accountant in Zimbabwe. His goals include earning a Ph.D. in forensic accounting and the Certified Fraud Examiner credential.

Anastasija Mladenovska, Miami University – $2,000 (Macedonia)

Mladenovska is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting and political science. As an EY undergraduate research fellow, she conducted a study on academic dishonesty that examined the systemic factors contributing to unethical behavior in educational institutions. Her awareness of fraud’s toll intensified when her mother started working for a Belgian bus manufacturing company involved in money laundering. Mladenovska’s career goal is to become a global anti-fraud strategist, working to dismantle financial networks that perpetuate corruption and inequality. After graduation, she’ll pursue a degree in international law to deepen her understanding of transnational legal systems, anti-fraud legislation and the sociopolitical dynamics that enable fraud.

Kayla Cornish, Rider University – $2,000 (United States)

Cornish is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting with a concentration in fraud and forensics. Her interest in fraud examination and forensic accounting began after watching the process of uncovering financial crimes on white-collar crime shows. Cornish has gained hands-on experience as a global audit and assurance co-op at Johnson & Johnson, where she works with the compliance and investigations team. Her career goal is to earn the Certified Fraud Examiner credential and work in forensic accounting or fraud investigation. She plans to continue her education by joining Rider University’s Graduate 4+1 program in forensic accounting.

Muhammad Fandy Zainuddin, Bina Nusantara University – $2,000 (Indonesia)

As a fifth-year tax law enforcement official working in Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance, one of Zainuddin’s job duties is to combat financial crime and tax fraud through digital forensics in tax audits, preliminary investigation and criminal investigation. Zainuddin is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in information systems. His immediate goal is to be promoted from digital forensics expert to senior tax investigator. Combining his unique expertise and background in public finance and computer science, he hopes to make a significant impact in advancing fraud detection capabilities, ensuring financial integrity and shaping the future of law enforcement in Indonesia.

Sierra Matthews, Tiffin University – $2,000 (United States)

Matthews is pursuing a Master of Business Administration and Management with a focus on forensic and fraud examination. She’s interested in digital currencies and developing strategies to mitigate cyber financial crimes. She also plans to earn the Certified Fraud Examiner credential. Matthews is senior assistant manager in the central accounting office within the Office of the Controller at Michigan State University. She manages a department of transaction auditors and examines payments and general ledger transactions for compliance with policies and regulations. She’s an active member of the Lansing Chapter of the ACFE.

Bai Matarr Jaiteh, University of Illinois Springfield – $2,000 (Gambia)

Jaiteh has worked for the Gambia National Audit Office for nearly a decade. In that time, he developed a profound appreciation for fraud examination. Jaiteh is pursuing a master’s degree in accounting and plans to earn the Certified Fraud Examiner credential. He’ll return to the National Audit Office to apply what he’s learned to identify and combat fraud, ensuring accountability and ethical governance.

Danielle Sloan, The University of Texas at Dallas – $2,000 (United States)

Sloan is a focused, inquisitive, engaging, hard-working student who’s constantly striving to connect with industry professionals and further deepen her knowledge and skills. She’s pursuing a master’s degree in accounting and is a member of the UT Dallas ACFE Student Chapter. Growing up, her father’s work in corporate investigations sparked her interest in problem-solving and uncovering the truth. Sloan’s career goal is to promote ethical standards and safeguard organizations and individuals from the impacts of financial fraud.

Mohammed Bello Adam, University of London – $2,000 (Ghana)

Adam is a senior auditor at AMK & Partners Chartered Accountants. He’s pursuing a master’s degree in professional accountancy at the University of London, where he focuses on audit, internal control, financial reporting integrity, fraud detection and prevention, mergers and acquisition, and digital technologies. In 2022, Adam received the Advanced Financial Management Award from ACCA Ghana for his outstanding performance in advanced financial management. His career goal is to specialize in forensic accounting and fraud examination. After graduation, he plans to obtain the Certified Fraud Examiner designation.

Crystal Zuzek is an assistant editor of Fraud Magazine. Contact her at czuzek@acfe.com.