Happenings at July Board of Directors' meeting.

Here are some of the more significant actions and events that took place at the AICPA Board of Directors' meeting July 10-11:

* The Task Force on the Role and Responsibilities of Council briefed the board on its recommendations, and received feedback from board members. Among other aspects, the recommendations, which will be presented to the governing Council at its meeting next month, covered the role and responsibilities of Council members; the nomination and election process; the orientation and preparation of new Council members; Council meetings, format and protocols; improved communication initiatives; Council member terms; and Council's relationship with the board of directors.

* A great deal of the meeting was devoted to strategic planning. Board members talked about the environmental issues and their effects on the major functions of the Institute. They also reflected on opportunities to enhance services to members and how to best advance the CPA profession. In essence, in terms of public companies, the Institute's role now is to provide resources, thought leadership and advocacy for members. Regarding non-public companies, the Institute will focus on enhancing services and developing meaningful guidance, pursuing self-regulation and advocacy. In addition, should there become a need for two sets of audit standards--one for public companies and one for private entities--the AICPA would develop and enforce standards for the non-public arena.

* Regarding ethics issues, board members were updated on the ballot proposing bylaw changes (see page 1).

* Updates were provided on the Uniform CPA Exam's conversion to a computer-based test starting Apr. 2004, development of a grassroots image enhancement campaign, initiatives to help improve ERISA plan audit performance, progress on an enhanced business reporting model, and continued enhancements of services to smaller firm members.

* The board also was briefed on the National Accreditation Commission's efforts to investigate strategies to enhance the Institute's Accredited in Business Valuation, Certified Information Technology Professional and Personal Financial Specialist credentials.