Accounting
CPAs Urged to Leave a Legacy of Passion
The 2013 Midwest Accounting and Finance Showcase kicked off this morning in Rosemont, Illinois, with one directive for accounting professionals: help develop the skills and talents of the young professionals that will follow in your footsteps.
Aug. 27, 2013
CHICAGO – The 2013 Midwest Accounting and Finance Showcase kicked off this morning in Rosemont, Illinois, with one directive for accounting professionals: help develop the skills and talents of the young professionals that will follow in your footsteps.
Illinois CPA Society President and CEO Todd Shapiro delivered the keynote presentation along with William Graf, CPA, Chairperson of ICPAS and Partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP. The keynote presentation looked at the current state of the CPA profession while urging professionals to consider the future.
Currently, enrollment in college accounting programs are at an all-time high and starting salaries for accountants are rising, making the profession economically attractive to students. Accounting is one of the top two professions in the state, and its continued success lies in the determination and commitment of accounting professionals.
“I have a passion for the profession, and I know each and every one of you do,” said Graf. “The best way to express that passion is to serve the next generation. What legacy will you leave? You have to think about your legacy strategy.”
ICPAS has committed to serving the next generation through several initiatives that it has implemented. ICPAS staff will visit 20 campuses, meeting with accounting students to help them prepare for entry into the profession. In addition, the society has expanded its programs for young professionals and ramped up recruiting across the state. ICPAS has partnered with several larger firms for its Firm Ambassador Program, another recruiting initiative.
Other areas of focus for the Illinois CPA Society this year include CPE for its members, innovative learning products, member outreach and continual development of student and young professionals.