PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE DUSTIN WOOD, CPA

and overcome them. We must not allow the perpetuation of stereotypes and misconceptions that those of us within the profession know not to be true. These are often believed by those who don’t know any better and aren’t told differently.

At the recent AICPA Spring Council Conference in Washington, D.C., the president of CalCPAs shared that they have coined the phrase “Coolest Profession Around (CPA).” While I believe that to be the case, I don’t think we do enough collectively in public to express that.

You often hear that two constants in life are death and taxes. Personally, I am not a tax practitioner, but I think it relates to the profession as a whole. And no offense to any morticians in the audience, but I find it a whole lot easier to help others understand what we do, and the benefits it provides, than any other reliable employment opportunities.

As we interact with students in college, high school, or other students, and with those around us in general, let’s be passionate about what we do and focus on the positive, inspiring, and motivating aspects of why it is meaningful to us and those around us. If you have especially impactful narratives and stories, please share those with us, and let’s find a way to then share those with others to generate more understanding and excitement related to the profession. We are fortunate enough to be a part of the “Coolest Profession Around,” and I hope we’ll each do our part to make that known. n