John Templeton Reflects on His Transformative Experience at Palm Beach Atlantic University

For John Templeton, Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) was more than just a place to earn a degree-it was a launchpad for personal growth, professional success, and a passion for lifelong learning. A 2002 graduate with degrees in accounting and communication, Templeton credits PBA with igniting his intellectual curiosity and equipping him with the tools to thrive in a constantly evolving profession.

"My time at PBA was foundational," Templeton recalls. "Studying under the professors at PBA-not just in accounting but in history, finance, communication, and political science-I noticed they all really had a passion for what they were teaching. They were all so intelligent and engaging, and as a student, that made me want to put my all into my studies. They took my passion for learning to new heights."

That love of learning became essential in Templeton's career in public accounting, where change is constant and adaptability is key.

"Whether it's tax law, accounting standards, or new technologies, you have to be ready to grow. PBA instilled that mindset in me," he adds.

Leaning Into Unexpected Opportunities

Templeton's extracurricular involvement on campus was equally impactful. After transferring from another university, he was immediately surprised by how easy it was to get involved at PBA.

"It felt like the land of opportunity. I restarted the debate team, joined the student newspaper, played on the golf team, and helped organize academic speaker events. Doors kept opening, and I just said yes."

Key mentors along the way included Dr. Tom St. Antoine, professor of communication and director of PBA's Supper Honors Program, with whom Templeton developed a close friendship through their shared involvement in debate, and Dr. Richard Gamble, a brilliant and engaging history professor who cultivated Templeton's interest in history.

Redirected Plans, a Remarkable Professional Career

Though he initially came to PBA with the intention of becoming a lawyer and even applied to law schools after graduation, Templeton pivoted when he experienced the appeal of the accounting field.

"I didn't want to take on that much debt, and I was enjoying what I was doing in public accounting and had developed a confidence that I was good at it, too," he shared. "The attorneys I was working with didn't seem to be having any more fun than I was having, so I thought, 'Why don't I just continue on and pursue my CPA?'"

Templeton now serves as CEO and managing partner of Templeton Advisors, one of South Florida's leading accounting firms. The firm, which was founded in 1990, is a longtime partner of PBA, mentoring aspiring accountants and recruiting top talent for internships and employment opportunities after graduation.

Generously Investing in the Next Generation

Today, Templeton gives back to PBA in a significant way. His generous support led to the naming of the Templeton Classroom in the Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall, scheduled to be open in spring 2026. The space is intended to inspire and equip future generations of accountants and business leaders.

"It was a meaningful way to invest in the next generation of learners. I wanted to help current students have the kind of experience I had," he says, reflecting warmly on his own time at PBA.

As a professional who works alongside many fellow PBA graduates, Templeton notes what sets them apart: "They always come in humble, hardworking, eager to learn, and easy to coach. Humility is a consistent trait that all of them begin with, and it's something that every employer wants."

His advice to today's students? "Don't take this time for granted. Put your whole mind and effort into getting the best education and experience that you can," he says. "This is the time in your life to take some chances. Go for it."

Learn more about PBA's accounting programs.