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From Community College to CPA Hosted by San Bernardino Valley College

It's hard to believe we are already stepping into the 5th month of 2024. To those of you who've been immersed in tax matters, I hope your tax season went smoothly without the need for additional extensions. For everyone else, here's hoping 2024 is kicking off on a positive and productive note, teeming with new opportunities. It seems like we might finally be in for a more typical year, something we haven't experienced in a while.

The Inland Empire Chapter has already seen many exciting events this year. It all started with CPA Day at the Capitol in January, offering CPAs a fantastic chance to connect with legislators in Sacramento. The event was truly electrifying, leaving attendees inspired by the connections made. January also saw our Emerging Leaders Workshop, hosted by Eide Bailey in Rancho Cucamonga, followed by an enjoyable outing to an Ontario Reign hockey game.

The past year, 2023-2024, was a thrilling one for the Inland Empire Chapter under Brad Welebir's great leadership. Numerous engaging events and opportunities for involvement occurred. Additionally, it marked a year of change with the introduction of CalCPA's new branding and logo. We also experienced a change in the CPA exam as NASBA launched the CPA Evolution.

As we move into the next year, we will continue to see more conversations around the pipeline and how to improve the CPA profession. Many leaders in the Inland Empire, “the mighty Inland Empire” as we are known, are actively involved in leadership at the state level and AICPA and can provide input on changes to the profession. Take advantage of these opportunities to help develop the future of CalCPA and accounting. Your input is valuable and will be forwarded to people who can make a difference.

Wilson Ivanova CPA, Inc. hosted a luncheon with Denise LeDuc Froemming, CEO of CalCPA, in April. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to have direct conversations with Denise about matters concerning both our chapter and CalCPA as a whole. Denise is deeply committed to both the profession and the people within it. If you haven't had the opportunity to meet her face-to-face, I highly encourage you to seize the next chance. Her wealth of knowledge and compassion make her an invaluable asset, and she's doing an exceptional job spearheading the transformation of CalCPA.

I'm thrilled to lead the chapter for the 2024-2025 year alongside an exceptional board. Our 2024-2025 Chapter Leadership includes officers: Corey Gomez, Vice President; Brandon Ferrell, Secretary; Dennis Lee, Treasurer; Brad Welebir, Immediate Past President. Directors: Garden Duran, Shar Emami, Hailey Gomillion, Danielle Howard, and John Schultz.

Looking ahead, we have exciting events lined up for the year, including the Community College to CPA event at San Bernardino Valley College, the Par-tee Topgolf Event Installation and Scholarships, ABC Mixer and the Annual Golf Tournament. 

I invite you to join us and engage with chapter leaders and fellow members. CalCPA represents more than just an association; it's the member’s club for California's CPAs. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Stepping Into a Thriving 2024 – Highlights from the IE Chapter

The Inland Empire chapter is renowned throughout the state, earning the moniker “small but mighty” due to our unwavering dedication to the accounting profession, which permeates every facet of our work. This commitment was vividly illustrated through the events held in May.

Commencing with the Elevate Women’s Conference, I had the honor of moderating a panel on Day 1 titled “Career Development: Elevate and Accelerate Your Life/Career in 2024”. Esteemed panelists Jennifer Harrity, Jannies Burlingame, and Joy Peacock joined me. Notably, at the conference, 14 students and emerging professionals, primarily hailing from the Inland Empire, were awarded scholarships by local firms and organizations. The pinnacle of the event was witnessing our esteemed colleague, Kathy Johnson, receive the prestigious Trailblazer Award. While Kathy is a familiar face locally, her contributions extend far beyond our region, as she generously donates her time and expertise to organizations such as the AICPA, California Board of Accountancy, NAFERs, and local universities. Kathy’s trailblazing spirit inspires us all, and we are honored to count her among our Chapter’s members.

As we persist in nurturing interest in accounting and fostering the pipeline, the Community College to CPA event held at San Bernardino Valley College was a resounding success, drawing over 80 eager students. The panelists included upcoming graduates from Cal State San Bernardino and professionals who had transitioned from community colleges. A particularly noteworthy presentation allowed students to map out the required classes from community colleges to universities, vital information often overlooked by many. Moreover, there was palpable interest in internships, underscoring the community colleges’ significance as a valuable resource for prospective interns.

Another encouraging report from the pipeline is the significant number of students awarded scholarships at our Par-Tee at Topgolf installation event. On May 16, as we transitioned leadership, we proudly awarded scholarships totaling over $30,000 to 19 deserving students. This event marked the auspicious beginning of our 2024-2025 fiscal year. Additionally, we crowned a new champion for the Topgolf Event, with UCR clinching the trophy. Their presence at the event was greatly appreciated, along with their sponsorship.

Looking ahead, my goals for the year encompass maintaining student and new professional engagement and raising awareness about the profession. I aim to sustain the connection between seasoned professionals and newcomers. Reflecting on personal growth, I’ve chosen the word “ACT” as my mantra for the year:

Congratulations to all the graduates! May your future be illuminated with success, and may you continue to thrive and evolve in the dynamic realm of accounting.

Trailblazing Success in the Inland Empire

Program Manager

Director of Chapter Engagement & Operations

CalCPA Staff

If you're a college student aspiring to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), "From Community College to CPA" is an event you won't want to miss! This fantastic resource offers valuable career insights, providing expert guidance and deep insights into the journey from community college to a successful career as a CPA. You'll have the unique opportunity to interact with experienced professionals in the field, learning from their real-world experiences and gaining invaluable advice to navigate your path successfully.

Armed with such resources, you'll be empowered to make well-informed decisions and stay focused on achieving your CPA goals. Don't miss this opportunity to get a head start on your path to becoming a successful CPA!

If you're a college student aspiring to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), "From Community College to CPA" is an event you won't want to miss! This fantastic resource offers valuable career insights, providing expert guidance and deep insights into the journey from community college to a successful career as a CPA.