The Fight for Relevance in Accounting: Calvin Harris

Rob Brown sits down with Calvin Harris, the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs. Calvin discusses his role in leading the organization that represents CPAs in New York State and beyond. He shares his perspective on being a CPA and the importance of the credential.

Calvin talks about the challenges and opportunities facing the accounting profession today, emphasizing the need for CPAs to demonstrate their relevance in a changing landscape. He highlights the role of technology, communication, and storytelling in showcasing the value of the accounting profession to younger generations.

The conversation also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the profession and the lessons learned from it. Calvin shares insights into the evolving role of CPAs and the importance of adaptability.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Calvin Harris on the state of the accounting profession and the path forward for CPAs in a dynamic world.

Calvin Harris Jr., CPA (MD), is the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs, the oldest state accounting association in the U.S. With 30+ years of executive experience, he's been a CFO, auditor, forensic accountant, consultant, and entrepreneur.

A Morehouse College graduate, Calvin previously served as the SVP & CFO of the National Urban League in NYC and CFO of Baltimore City Community College. He's held leadership roles at organizations like the United Nations Foundation, NeighborWorks America, Legal Services Corporation, and Aeras Global TB Vaccine Foundation. His career began as an auditor at Arthur Andersen.

Calvin, the 24th Chairman of the Board and National President of the National Association of Black Accountants, has a deep passion for the accounting profession, inspired by his mother, a high school bookkeeping teacher. A Maryland native, he now calls Brooklyn, New York, home.

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