Karen L. Wiltsie 2003-2004 MACPA Chair of the Board

At the recent MACPA Members Advisory Forum, AICPA President and CEO Barry Melancon told us the CPA brand is almost back to its pre-Enron status among the most respected and most trusted advisors. Melancon said, “CPAs are regaining respect one CPA at a time.”

While media campaigns and advertisements have helped to bolster the profession’s image, the key factor has been American’s trust in their own CPA. It’s that personal relationship and contact CPAs have with their clients that has made a difference, says Barry.

A new program designed by the AICPA and being carried out through state CPA societies will build upon that grassroots support. The CPA Ambassador Program is a community-based media and public speaking program presented entirely by CPAs to diverse audiences throughout the country. As representatives of the profession, specially trained members will talk with media and community groups about four critical message quadrants: (1) financial literacy issues, (2) how CPAs can support small businesses, (3) the role accounting professionals play in restoring confidence in American business and (4) career opportunities in accounting.

Eighteen MACPA members recently underwent the training required by the CPA Ambassador Program. Among the first states to get involved in the program, our members are among approximately 150 CPAs who have trained so far. Our ambassadors represent a good cross-section of our membership – both seasoned and new professionals from various segments such as industry, public practice, consulting and education. Their commitment to this new program – and to the future of our profession – is very much appreciated. Their obligation as a CPA Ambassador is to fulfill two speaking engagements or media interviews.

Through this community outreach, our CPA Ambassadors will promote the profession's depth of financial knowledge, underscore the AICPA and MACPA’s effectiveness as advocates for the public interest and refocus the spotlight on the profession so that it shines on the value and values of the CPA.

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