Team Efforts Continue to Raise the Bar
George Cohen, CPA
I think we can agree that continued success does not just happen. It is a result of individual and team efforts committed to a mission and strategic plan, implemented with core values in mind. Such is the descriptive environment I have found within the ASCPA. As chair, I have been privileged to work with many of you as we continue to grow and reach out to our members and affect change in our profession. Despite an unexpected eminent domain order forcing us to focus on relocation, and the unexpected transition of two key employee positions, the Society has met or exceeded our goals for this year.
Our continuing education efforts consistently reflect changes in our marketplace. Through the efficient use of technology, and employment of the most requested speakers and topics, the Society is working hard to provide life-long learning in a cost and time effective manner. Our growth of webcasts and in-house programming have met our goals this year. We continue to explore ways to make our list serves responsive to our members’ needs. Your input is invaluable, and I can assure you, is heard and acted on. Please take a moment to provide feedback.
Our advocacy efforts have effectively built relationships with government, regulatory agencies and other organizations, allowing us the opportunity to help shape changes to our members’ best interests. Your continued financial and “face time” support has been a valuable asset. We are now in a position to build our influence from a position of strength and respected credibility. We exceeded our goals in this area and continue to raise the bar to measure our success.
Our image enhancement efforts have also surpassed our goals this year. I am sure you have noticed our ad campaigns, which incorporate member photos and extol the value of CPAs in our community. I have received very good feedback from both the public and members on this positive message.
This year, we also started certification process workshops. Our participants were very thankful for the help in navigating the administrative process of certification. This program has been a collaborative effort with the State Board of Accountancy and is definitely “a keeper.”
I have been struck by the efforts of our Foundation. Attracting students to the profession, and working with educators throughout the State to ensure programs are in place to facilitate this path, are daunting tasks. With their efforts, and your continued financial support, the trends are positive.
Our efforts in promoting financial literacy have been fantastic. Capped by the implementation of the National “Feed the Pig” campaign, this area will continue to enhance our image. I want to thank all of you who were self-motivated to provide programs in your community. I urge you to consider an active role in leading and supporting these efforts. This is truly a member-driven initiative that helps everyone.
Please join me in recognizing our incredible staff under the leadership of Cindie Hubiak. I have never worked with a more professional, efficient, forward-thinking and pleasant group. Take a moment and communicate your recognition of their efforts in our behalf. They truly take our mission to heart and deliver value-added service and benefits to our members in a manner that shines in comparison to other states.
I would like to thank our Board for their time, attention and focus on the issues facing our Society and profession. We have had lively discussions and actions all year long.
I would also like to thank our leadership in the field. Our chapter presidents, section chairs and education foundation board members continue to provide passionate direction and are key to our success. I urge this group to continue to seek opportunities to provide leadership and help identify and cultivate future leaders. You should all be proud of your involvement and pride in our profession.
Personally, this has been a year of enlightenment and growth in my attitude and understanding of the complexities and challenges facing our members. I am thankful to all of you who have helped make this a year I will fondly recall. Although my term as chair is expiring, I intend to continue to learn more and act on our behalf as the ASCPA continues to shine. Please join me.
AZ CPA – March/April 2007
