Kendall King: From GovState to Thriving in Accounting and Beyond
Governors State University alumnus Kendall King brings us an inspiring story that showcases resilience, determination, and the power of a supportive community. Kendall, who graduated in the summer of 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, has charted an impressive career path that reflects his dedication and ambition.
Kendall's journey into accounting wasn’t linear. He began his higher education in Civil Engineering but soon realized his passion lay elsewhere. “I discovered that while the compensation aspect of engineering was appealing, my true interest was in understanding how businesses generate cash flow,” Kendall explained. This epiphany led him to pursue accounting, a field that aligned with his interests and allowed him to thrive.
Coming from a working-class family, Kendall and his siblings saw higher education as an opportunity to create a path for others to follow. “We were the first-generation college students within our immediate family,” he shared. “This journey allowed us to see beyond our environment and champion possibilities for those around us.”
Kendall's professional journey began with a Volunteer Income Tax Assistant (VITA) role through a recommendation from Dr. David Green at GovState. This experience sparked his interest in tax accounting and led him to pursue a Master’s in Taxation at DePaul University. After working as a Tax Associate at CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), Kendall transitioned to assurance at Grant Thornton in 2022 to gain a broader understanding of business operations. This shift allowed him to work with industries like manufacturing, telecommunications, nonprofits, and technology, providing him with a well-rounded view of accounting and business strategy. Now serving as a Senior Accountant at Kroenke Sports and Entertainment in Denver, Colorado, Kendall continues to build on his diverse experiences.
Kendall credits much of his success to his time as a student worker at GovState, where he built relationships with faculty and staff. “Student workers have unique opportunities to expand their network,” he noted. His advice to current students is simple and impactful: “Always network and make connections with your peers. You never know who will be on the other side of the hiring table or who can help you achieve your career goals.”
Kendall fondly remembers several faculty members who influenced his journey: Michael Trendell inspired his passion for teaching accounting. Karen Williams (Blackman) opened doors to networking opportunities. Dr. Corey Williams pushed him to pursue his master’s degree and think beyond Chicago. Dr. Alice Keane sparked his love for tax accounting. Dr. TJ Wang motivated him to pursue CPA licensure, emphasizing its ROI for accountants.
Kendall’s aspirations include becoming a professor in accounting, starting his own tax firm, and eventually serving as a CFO of a privately held company. “I see my current role as a catalyst for other opportunities in the business world,” he shared.
When reflecting on his time at Governors State University, Kendall emphasized the sense of community that defined his experience. “GSU provided an environment where I felt seen and supported. Even five years later, that sense of community remains strong.”
As a first-generation college graduate, Kendall encourages others to persevere through challenges. “The journey is uneasy and sometimes discouraging, but the experience on the other side is worth it. Once you reach the finish line, circle back to help those in your shoes. Together, as a village, we can achieve so much more.”
Kendall’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education, determination, and relationships. From GovState to Denver, his journey highlights the importance of following your passion, embracing challenges, and building a strong community around you.
The Alumni Association at GovState celebrates Kendall King’s accomplishments and looks forward to seeing him continue to thrive as a leader in the field of accounting and beyond.
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator