Her Story
About Felisha
Felisha Fret-Venten, PhD, is an accomplished accounting educator, researcher, and mentor dedicated to preparing the next generation of accounting professionals through practical, student-centered learning. With several years of experience in accounting, she began her career in public accounting as an auditor with leading firms including Deloitte, Ernst & Young, and Margolin, Winer & Evens LLP before transitioning to academia. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in taxation from Hofstra University and completed her PhD in Accounting at the University of Scranton. Today, she serves as an Assistant Professor of Accounting at Adelphi University, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate auditing courses while also leading FNV Accounting Services as its president. Driven by a passion for bridging the gap between academia and professional practice, Felisha has built her teaching philosophy around experiential learning and real-world application. She creates engaging classroom experiences that challenge students to think critically, communicate effectively, and solve complex accounting problems as they would in professional settings. Beyond the classroom, she serves as co-faculty advisor for Adelphi University's Accounting Society, connecting students with alumni and industry leaders to expand their professional networks and career opportunities. Her research interests include taxation, auditor judgment, and the behavioral aspects of academic dishonesty, reflecting her commitment to advancing both accounting education and the profession. Felisha considers the success of her students to be her greatest professional achievement, taking pride in seeing graduates secure accounting positions, pass sections of the CPA exam, and develop fulfilling careers. Her own journey—shaped by resilience, strong mentorship, and a commitment to lifelong learning—inspires her dedication to helping others achieve their goals. An active member of organizations such as the American Accounting Association and the New York State Society of CPAs, she remains deeply engaged with the accounting community. Recognized for her approachable leadership, ethical values, and passion for mentorship, Felisha continues to make a lasting impact by empowering future accountants with the knowledge, confidence, and professional judgment needed to thrive in an evolving profession.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Felisha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the remarkable mentors who have supported and challenged me throughout my academic and professional journey. My mother, a single parent, provided unwavering financial and emotional support from nursery school through the completion of my PhD, always encouraging me to find my own path and believe in my potential. She is my biggest supporter and cheerleader. My former professor, mentor and friend, Anthony Basile, always believed in me and frequently challenged me to go beyond my comfort zone. His mentorship continues to be a guiding light and has shaped my career path. Another former professor, mentor and friend, Robert Katz, was another great support in my academic and professional career. He never let me settle and always believed in me. Their unwavering support, guidance, and confidence in me has helped shape me into the professional I am today. I wouldn’t be where I am today without these incredible people. It is because of them that I am living my dream of teaching and their example inspires me to pay that support forward by mentoring and encouraging my own students.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to know yourself, have a clear vision of your long-term goals, and surround yourself with people who will challenge, support, and encourage your growth. Throughout my academic and professional journey, the guidance of trusted mentors has reinforced the importance of believing in my potential, embracing new opportunities, and remaining true to my purpose.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the accounting profession is to first understand what draws you to the field, then explore the many career paths available and choose the one that best aligns with your values, long-term goals, and desired lifestyle. Take the time to know yourself, be intentional about the future you want to build, and surround yourself with mentors and peers who will support, challenge, and encourage your growth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in accounting right now is helping students understand the wide range of career paths available within the field. There is also a growing need to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, ensuring students are prepared not just technically but also with the soft skills needed to thrive professionally. Additionally, expanding access to mentorship and professional networks — particularly for students who may not have those connections naturally — represents a significant opportunity to shape the next generation of accountants.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are compassion, resilience, service, and giving back. In my professional life, I am passionate about mentoring students and creating opportunities that connect them with professionals and alumni who can support their growth. Personally, I believe in helping others through charitable giving and animal rescue, causes that are close to my heart. Having overcome personal challenges, including growing up in a single-parent household, living with rheumatoid arthritis, and facing doubt from others, I value perseverance and believe in sharing stories of resilience to inspire others to overcome obstacles and thrive.
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