Early Black-owned CPA firms spurred diversity efforts
Built by Black CPAs who succeeded despite adversity, these firms continue to play an important role in the profession’s recruitment and advancement initiatives, and with the clients they serve.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The impact of mentoring: How to build on success
Progress for Black professionals in accounting can be accelerated with the right moves from firms and other professionals.
Driving DEI change in the states
State CPA society leaders are among those spearheading diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the profession. See what successful steps they and their organizations have taken to enhance the recruitment and advancement of Black CPAs.
Board diversity disclosures mandated for Nasdaq-listed companies
Nasdaq-listed companies will be required to provide new information on the diversity of their boards as a result of a new rule approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Learning from Black CPA career role models
A century after John W. Cromwell Jr. became the nation’s first Black CPA, Black role models continue to open doors in the profession.
Coming together to advance Black CPAs
Leaders whose organizations focus on promoting the advancement of Black CPAs, both on their own and as a part of the Black CPA Centennial, offer insights on where the profession stands and where it needs to go.
Accounting profession continues to zero in on DEI issues
After a year of heightened focus on diversity, equity and inclusion issues, leaders of the accounting profession are continuing in their commitment to make strides in this area. Accountability and transparency related to these issues will be pivotal in the coming years.
Flexibility can cushion pandemic’s threat to women’s careers
Additional responsibilities around caring for children and supervising schooling are taking a toll on women, putting them at increasing risk of burnout during the pandemic.
Supporting AAPI talent in May and beyond
A diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant explains why DEI should more often be referred to as DEIB. She also offers tips for organizations and individuals to support employees of Asian heritage.
Diverse faculty attracts diverse students
Professors can shape a student’s experiences, influencing whether students take a course or pursue a career because the person at the front of the classroom looks like them. The first Black CPA Ph.D.s have played an important role in attracting generations of future Black CPAs.
Resilience lessons for women accountants
Fortitude, mentoring and lifelong learning can help women navigate their careers in the accounting profession, according to three women leaders who shared their stories.
Breaking a barrier: The first Black partner of Big Eight firm
In 1971, 50 years after the first Black CPA received his license, Elmer J. Whiting Jr. became the first Black partner of one of the nation’s largest accounting firms. His achievement helped to influence and inspire his firm, his community and ambitious professionals following his footsteps.
What we can do to increase the number of Black CPAs
African Americans are still underrepresented in the accounting profession: Only 2% of CPAs are Black. In this second part of a two-episode podcast, we look at what the profession can do to increase the number of Black CPAs.
The struggles and triumphs of the first Black CPAs
We take a look at the remarkable accomplishments of Black CPAs in the 20th century, featuring the testimony of two CPAs who witnessed Black CPA history firsthand: Ruth Harris, the first Black female CPA in Virginia, and Frank Ross, one of the founders of the National Association of Black Accountants.
Opening doors for others: The first Black woman to become a CPA
In 1943, Mary T. Washington Wylie became the nation’s first Black woman to earn the CPA license. Her life illustrates the difference that one enterprising professional can make for many future generations.
A CPA leader's view on the rise of women in the profession
Hear a conversation with Lara Abrash, CPA, chair and CEO of Deloitte & Touche LLP, on diversity, along with updates on provisions of the stimulus bill and more.
Assessment is key to a successful D&I effort
Before launching a diversity and inclusion program, learn where your organization stands in terms of D&I. Tools such as the AICPA’s Accounting Inclusion Maturity Model can help you track your progress.
Black CPA Centennial celebrates first Black CPA
John W. Cromwell Jr., the son of a former slave, overcame many obstacles in his life to earn his place in history as the nation’s first Black CPA in 1921. His story is an inspiration and lesson in tenacity for future generations of Black accountants.
9 ideas on how small firms can improve diversity
Leaders of ethnic minority-owned firms offer tips for what small CPA firms can do to promote greater diversity.
Keeping microaggressions out of your workplace
This article offers steps firms and individuals can take to make sure microaggressions are not part of their organization.
