Thank you for being a member of the Washington Society of CPAs. I have had the honor to be a part of your professional organization for over 15 years. In that time I have met so many members, and have heard amazing stories about their lives and reasons for being CPAs. Overwhelmingly members are proud to be CPAs, as they should be. CPAs complete more continuing education than other professionals and the code of ethics creates a level of trust between CPAs and the public unlike that in any other profession.

There is a lot of work that goes into maintaining the extraordinary reputation of the CPA profession. Of course each CPA plays a role in reinforcing the CPA brand. Numerous volunteers and staff nationwide carry out this work as well. If you are interested in volunteering, or getting more involved, there are some great opportunities coming up.

The Washington State Board of Accountancy (WBOA) consists of nine members appointed by the Governor. Although there is a small daily stipend for attending the meetings, the appointments are truly volunteer, and extremely important. In 2016 there will be at least three open positions on the WBOA. If you are interested in a position on the WBOA, you can apply online at www.governor.wa.gov/boards-commissions. The stated purpose of the work of the board is to: “Promote the dependability of financial and other information used by providers of capital when assessing the status and performance of those seeking financial resources.” You can find out more about the purpose and goals at http://www.cpaboard.wa.gov/about-us/boards-purpose. If you do apply, please let me know. 

It was also announced this summer that Rick Sweeney, the current WBOA Executive Director  plans to retire by February 2016. This position is extremely important to the CPAs in the state of Washington. The position is also considered an appointment by the Governor, however, it is a full-time paid position. The WSCPA is highly interested in this position, since the staff in each organization work together throughout the year. We treasure and want to continue the good working relationships we have as it allows both organizations to serve effectively the CPAs in the state. If you are interested in this position, we would love to hear from you. You can also learn more about the position and application process here.

Still more opportunities exist and volunteers are always needed. At the WSCPA you can join a committee in your area of practice. When new legislation is introduced, we often look to the committees for opinions and guidance. WSCPA members from every legislative district are invited every other summer (2016 will be the next time) to connect with the legislators that are running for re-election and sometimes new candidates as well. Having relationships around the state helps us to be heard when potentially harmful legislation is proposed, or if we bring forth a bill. If you are friends with a legislator or are interested in getting involved, let me know.

If you are not certain where you fit in, please consider attending a Professional Update in your chapter during the next few months. These updates will give you an overview locally and nationally, provide the opportunity to meet members of your Board of Directors, and provide you with CPE. I hope to hear from you…or see you soon! 

Kimberly Scott, CAE, is WSCPA Vice President of Government and Member Relations. You can contact her at kscott@wscpa.org.