Crystal Cooke
2025 Most Powerful Women in Accounting
Director of Diversity and Inclusion
AICPA & CIMA
Career Highlights
- Throughout the year, I worked to shape workplaces within the accounting and finance profession that cultivate environments that are inclusive of people with different experiences and perspectives and where diversity of thought is valued and supported. I do this through speaking 1:1 with members, presenting and working directly with organizations, as well as conducting sessions at conferences.
- A good portion of 2025 was also spent playing a vital role in shaping inclusive narratives and not letting distractions get in the way of the important and necessary work. I helped counter misinformation and reminded members that we must sustain momentum in this space and not retreat from the progress we’ve made.
- I guided various members towards meaningful and impactful growth opportunities and was able to help amplify the diverse voices of the profession by bringing visibility to different stories and journeys through avenues like our member spotlight series, AmplifiHER sessions, and events like our Symposium and Women’s Global Leadership Summit. Sharing diverse perspectives and experiences is important to those currently in the workforce and future leaders.
- At our annual student workshop and professional symposium, I created a space that brought together two distinct but deeply connected groups: students who are just beginning to explore their place in the profession, and professionals who have walked the path and are shaping its future. Real progress happens when generations come together. The goal was to strengthen the entire talent pipeline and to cultivate inclusive environments where people want to stay, grow, and feel a true sense of belonging. In these spaces, everyone is encouraged to contribute because their perspectives and voices are valued.
- I’ve overseen the creation of resources that are designed to support a culture where everyone can grow and thrive. The latest resource created under the National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion is our “Inclusive Workplace Guide — Leading Practices for Compliance and Culture.” The Guide provides actionable strategies for navigating evolving U.S. executive orders and federal mandates, to guide organizations on how to proceed with legal clarity and a values-driven strategy.
Describe your outreach in the accounting profession beyond your own firm
As a part of my role at the AICPA, I serve as the Vice-Chair of our National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion, whose mission is to be champions that guide and support the accounting and finance profession in creating sustainable workplaces through expanded pathways that attract and retain qualified high performing talent with a commitment to inclusive leadership. My work in that space requires collaboration with senior executives of partner organizations and accounting firms who also seek to increase and advance culture and inclusion in their workforces.
What are the podcasts/books/blogs/websites/publications you turn to for professional development?
One of the many perks of working at the AICPA is that I have an abundance of personal development access that I need right at my fingertips, including publications like Journal of Accountancy. Accounting Today is a regular resource as well as Seramount, The Human Rights Campaign and SHRM for regular updates and education in the diversity and inclusion space. I’m also fortunate to work side by side with some of the most influential and impactful leaders in the inclusion and belonging space, and we learn from and support each other.
Read more about the Most Powerful Women in Accounting.
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Tags: Accounting
