New president, goals for AWSCPA.

In 1933, the United States had only 100 women CPAs. Nine of them, who saw that an organization might help meet women's needs and advance their careers, founded the American Woman's Society of CPAs. "One of the goals was to help women enter the profession," said new AWSCPA president Graciela L. Miller, the principal of a small firm in Pembroke Pines, Florida. "But that's not an issue anymore. Women are entering accounting in droves." Still, that doesn't mean the AWSCPA, as it celebrates its 65th anniversary, is left without a job.

"There are still too few women in top management positions--too few partners and CFOs," continued Miller. She said the society was creating educational programs to help women who are considering leaving the profession--many in public accounting leave between their fifth and seventh years. "We want to offer more leadership development education, courses in management, interpersonal relationships, negotiating--the skills that make leaders." The AWSCPA is investigating strategic alliances with other professional groups to provide networking opportunities for members, especially in the financial services arena.

The society also is looking at salaries and fees. "Do women CPAs charge less than men? If so, why? Do women value their services less than men do? A number of our members have brought up this concern." The AWSCPA is planning an issues paper. "We're also examining whether the entrance of so many women into the profession has lowered salaries for everyone--male and female CPAs." Miller stressed that this issue in particular affected all CPAs, not just women.

The AWSCPA's annual conference will take place in Orlando, Florida, July 8-10. For more information, call the society at 800-297-2721.