Accountants back New Jersey's Economic Policy Forum.

The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) is the latest trade association to become a sponsoring member of the New Jersey Economic Policy Forum.

It joins several other prominent Garden State trade associations, The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, Rutgers University and Cushman & Wakefield, Inc. in the Forum's mission to bring together key stakeholders in the state to forge a shared vision for economic growth.

Now in its second year, the Forum initiative centers on an annual meeting on the economic future of our state as well as a "C-Suite Survey" of senior executives in New Jersey. Conducted by the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University, its goal is to identify, understand and address concerns, challenges and opportunities for the state.

The first C-Suite Survey last fall drew responses from nearly 150 carefully selected participants--including their assessments of the economy, both nationally and locally, as well as their opinions about New Jersey's business climate.

The results were shared in December at an event for Forum members, survey participants and governmental representatives.

The survey's first round for 2008 currently is underway; it will be conducted again in the fall.

"The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants is excited about joining the New Jersey Economic Policy Forum," noted NJSCPA executive director Ralph Albert Thomas. "The state faces many economic challenges, but with those challenges come opportunities. And we look forward to combining the unique skill sets of the CPA profession with the Forum to help make the Garden State a better place in which to do business."

The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants, with more than 15,000 members, represents the interests of the accounting profession and advances the financial well-being of the people of New Jersey.

The NJSCPA plays a leadership role in supporting the profession by providing members with educational resources, access to shared knowledge and a continuing effort to create and expand professional opportunities.

Other trade associations involved in the Forum include the New Jersey Business and Industry Association, the Health Care Institute of New Jersey, the New Jersey Chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties, Financial Executives International, the New Jersey Technology Council and the Biotechnology Industry Organization of New Jersey.

"The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants is a great fit for the Forum, as we continue to work toward joining New Jersey's business, educational and political communities to secure the future health of our state," said Joan Verplanck, president of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce.

"Our effort is gaining momentum, and we look forward to our newest member's contribution as we continue to build upon the Forum's already deep skills, experience and strength--which are the keys to moving us forward."