From Jamaican track star to CPA: A firm leader’s unlikely career path

Growing up, Durran Dunn, CPA, had drive and discipline, but he didn’t have any aspiration of using those qualities to become a CPA. He didn’t even know what a CPA was.

Dunn, now a partner in Bennett Thrasher's Risk Advisory Services practice, based in greater Atlanta, overcame “whiplash” in the form of two moves – from Jamaica to New York, from New York to Mississippi – and now mentors students on the merits of the profession.

In addition to sharing strategies for success, Dunn spoke about the high-profile-yet-anonymous role he had at a Major League Baseball stadium. He was a social media and YouTube sensation, even though his identity was hidden by a full bodysuit.

What you’ll learn from this episode:

• Dunn’s introduction to the accounting profession.
• The cultural whiplash he experienced, twice, upon leaving his native Jamaica.
• The running role Dunn performed for about seven years at a Major League Baseball stadium.
• Dunn’s path from not knowing what a CPA was to becoming a firm partner.
• Details of Dunn’s service on the AICPA’s Board of Examiners.
• Why he is passionate about volunteering and mentoring young accounting candidates.
• His emphasis on discipline – a message he shares with student groups.