b'Orin Ethics SymposiumWhen reflecting on the tough decisions hes made over the years, Orr told students to ask themselves a few simple questions: Would your mother be proud of you? Will your children be proud of who you are? Samuel Bruce, a graduate student in accountancy, took Orrs advice to heart and said he would rely on his true north to help guide his decision-making. It can be difficult to make the right ethical decision when there is lots of outside noise and influence from others that can impact your decision-making process, Bruce said. I learn that when a difficult situation presents itself, knowing who I am and leaning on my true north will help guide me in making the right ethical decision, even when it may not be popular. Student attendees chatting with Mr. Orr following the For generations to comeits financial crisis underscores the notion that ethical deci- SymposiumVairam Arunachalam, director of the School of Accountancysion-making is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic and close friend of Orins, said thousands of business studentsone. I believe that discussing ethics in accountancy is crucial have benefitted from hearing speakers like Orr over thebecause it helps foster a culture of transparency, accountability years.and responsibility. Richard would be pleased with where the symposium isDuring his tenure with Detroit, Orr helped the city success-today, Arunachalam said. He wanted students to live livesfully restructure $18 billion in debt, reduced overall debt by of passion, commitment, and integrity. Kevyns message is$7 billion, developed and implemented a multiyear $1.7 especially important today.billion revitalization plan for the city services and operations, Abel Ambessie, a senior in accountancy, appreciated Orrsstreamlined key city operations, helped improve public safety, message of upholding ones ethical principles, no matter theput the citys art in a perpetual public trust, and avoided drastic circumstances being faced.cuts to pension and related retirement benefits. Orr received One key takeaway for me was the critical importance ofthe Turnaround Management Associations Mega Transaction maintaining unwavering integrity and ethical standards, evenof the Year Award for the City of Detroit in October 2015. in the face of challenging circumstances, Ambessie said. Mr.Upon returning to Jones Day, Orr resumed his position in Orrs experience as the emergency manager of Detroit duringthe business restructuring and reorganization practice. Eric Weissmann (Mr. Orins grandson) delivering the vote of thanks at the symposiumMr. Orr addressing the audienceKevyn D. Orr with the Orin family, guests, and School of Accountancy faculty and staff26 School of Accountancy2023 Newsmagazine 27'