Inclusion in Action

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  • 1.  Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 02-25-2026 09:39 AM

    We're excited to share that our annual October 14-16 Symposium is being reimagined for 2026! It's got a new name (Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium or AIIS), and new format (we're adding an additional 1/2 day and incorporating more engagement opportunities), but the same powerful mission remains. Our Symposium will continue to run alongside the Accounting Scholars Leadership Workshop, offering two complementary learning tracks for students and professionals plus shared networking, community‑building, and inspiring general sessions. You can learn more about AIIS in the upcoming events section below. As we begin crafting this year's CPE lineup, we want to hear from you.


    What topics, challenges, innovations, or conversations matter most to you right now? Your voice will help shape the sessions that elevate people, strengthen belonging, and advance the future of accounting talent. Let's design this experience together!
    👇 Share your ideas below and help us build a Symposium that reflects the needs, aspirations, and lived experiences of our community.



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    Crystal Cooke
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  • 2.  RE: Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 03-13-2026 02:20 PM

    This is exciting to see! The continued focus on inclusion and impact in the profession is so, so important.

    A few topics that could spark meaningful discussion:

    The evolving skillset accountants need as AI and technology continue to transform the profession
    Practical strategies for retaining and advancing diverse talent
    Exploring career pathways beyond the traditional corporate track - what could a career in accounting look like in 2026 and beyond?
    Helping students and early-career professionals navigate networking and professional environments with confidence

    Looking forward to seeing how this year's Symposium comes together.



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    Bee Nance
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  • 3.  RE: Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 03-16-2026 11:46 AM

    Thank you so much for these insights Bee! 👏 It helps us make sure that we are on track with what professionals need in this space. We'll make sure to touch on each these topics throughout the 3-day event. 



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    Crystal Cooke
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  • 4.  RE: Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 03-16-2026 12:20 PM

    Thank you Bee! Appreciate your input. 



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    Anoop Mehta
    Staff
    Analytical Mechanics Associates Inc
    Clarksville MD
    +001 (301)257-5796
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  • 5.  RE: Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 03-16-2026 12:29 PM

    Hello everyone,

    Thank you to those who have already shared ideas for topics we could explore.

    For some context...We're planning a session focused on caregiving and would love your input on what perspectives or questions you'd most like to see addressed. We're especially interested in hearing about the challenges, opportunities, and practical considerations that come up for both leaders and employees, and what kinds of support feel most meaningful in real‑world work environments.

    Your insights will help shape a conversation that's relevant, realistic, and useful for our community and our profession.

    Looking forward to hearing from you!



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    Mandy Gallagher, Ph.D.
    Lead Manager, Women's Initiatives
    AICPA & CIMA
    Durham, NC
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  • 6.  RE: Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 03-17-2026 08:20 AM

    Agree with the wonderful ideas that have already been proposed.  Recommend some consideration for a session that explores the wide range of accounting career paths across large firms, small practices, corporations, and government.  The session could use a panel to highlighting how roles, responsibilities, and growth opportunities differ in each environment.  



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    Crystal Allen
    Sole Practitioner
    A Total Solution CPA & Consulting Services, Inc.
    Indianapolis IN
    +001 (317)225-4378 (701)
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  • 7.  RE: Help Shape the 2026 Accounting Inclusion & Impact Symposium!

    Posted 03-17-2026 03:51 PM

    Thanks for sharing Crystal! We do this for the students that attend ASLW (that runs concurrently to the Symposium), but haven't thought about doing it for the professionals at AIIS. That's definitely something we'll consider. 



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    Crystal Cooke
    Director of Diversity and Inclusion
    AICPA and CIMA
    Washington, DC Area
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