HBH CEO Honors 50 Years of BWUA Leadership

Philadelphia, PA —  Horsey, Buckner & Heffler, LLC proudly announces that CEO Michael Horsey delivered a powerful and heartfelt keynote speech this evening in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Black Wharton Undergraduate Association (BWUA). The milestone celebration brought together students, alumni, and leaders from across the nation to commemorate five decades of excellence, leadership, and community impact. In his address, Horsey reflected on his formative years, his journey to Wharton, and the profound influence of BWUA’s founder, Harold Haskins, whose legacy continues to shape generations of Black business leaders.

Remarks from CEO Michael Horsey

“Good evening, everyone. It is truly an honor to stand before you tonight as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Black Wharton Undergraduate Association. For half a century, this organization has embodied leadership, excellence, and the power of community within Wharton and beyond. I am deeply grateful to be recognized at this historic milestone.”

Horsey spoke candidly about growing up in North Philadelphia and the mentors who helped guide his path once he arrived at Wharton.

“The streets where I grew up taught me perseverance and grit, but it was the mentors I met here who taught me how to channel that drive into purpose.”

He paid special tribute to Harold Haskins, calling him a visionary whose work permanently transformed the opportunities available to Black students at Wharton.

“Harold opened doors that had long been closed. He created opportunities for Black students by providing an entrée to corporate recruiters who, for the first time, began offering internships to our members. He built strategies that helped us develop productive relationships with professors—relationships that ensured our commitment and hard work were both recognized and rewarded.”

Horsey described the personal impact Haskins had on his own career and character.

“For me, Harold connected me with other accounting majors who shared my dream of pursuing careers through minority-owned businesses. And when moments of corporate discord arose later in my career, it was Harold’s wisdom and guidance that helped me navigate those complex situations with integrity and clarity.”

He emphasized that Haskins created systems, not just support, which allowed students to thrive academically and professionally.

Leadership, Mentorship, and Continuing the Legacy

Horsey noted that Haskins’ example has shaped the mission he carries forward today.

“Throughout my 32 years as Managing Partner at Mitchell Titus and now as CEO of Horsey Buckner & Heffler, I have sought to embody those same principles: opening doors, creating opportunities, and lifting others as I climb. Helping hundreds of young Black accountants find their footing has been one of the great honors of my life, and it is my way of continuing the cycle Harold began.”

He closed by challenging the audience to build on BWUA’s powerful foundation.

“As we reflect on 50 years of BWUA, let us celebrate what has been built and recommit ourselves to its future. The next generation of Wharton leaders deserves the same mentorship, guidance, and access that Harold fought for.”

Horsey ended with gratitude and a call to unity.

“To Harold Haskins, to BWUA, and to every student and alum carrying this legacy forward — thank you for proving that excellence and purpose thrive when community leads the way. Thank you.”

About Horsey, Buckner & Heffler, LLP

Horsey, Buckner & Heffler, LLP (HBH) is a minority-controlled accounting firm providing assurance, tax, and advisory services. As an affiliate of Heffler, Radetich & Saitta LLP, HBH offers a broad range of value-added solutions through a cost-effective delivery model. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, HBH serves a diverse client base including closely held businesses, nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, corporations, high-net-worth individuals, and professional athletes.