Post by Anoop N. Mehta, CPA, CGMA

Three unforgettable days at the AICPA ’s Accounting Scholars Leadership Workshop (#ASLW) and Accounting Pipeline Diversity Symposium (#APDS) — and I’m still energized by the brilliance, passion, and promise of our future leaders. This was my third time attending this remarkable program, which has empowered thousands of students over the years. This year, nearly 100 students joined us from across the country — including Guam and Puerto Rico — each bringing their unique story, drive, and vision for the profession. Their energy was contagious, and their potential is undeniable. I had the privilege of presenting “The Importance of Relationship Building” — a conversation about why it’s more than just networking. It’s about authenticity, trust, and showing up for others. I’m cheering on these students as they continue their journeys, and I look forward to staying connected. The workshop and symposium followed two powerful days with the members of the National Commission on Diversity and Inclusion (#NCDI). Every time I’m with this group, I leave better — inspired, challenged, and deeply grateful. It’s an honor to serve as Chair alongside such impactful leaders. Oh yes, got a chance to spend a wonderful evening dinner with Chris Simmons, MBA and Kimberly N. Ellison-Taylor! Thank you Blaine, CEO of Oklahoma Society of CPAs for hosting us.🙏🏼 Special thanks to Crystal Cooke Amanda H. Gallagher, Ph.D. Lexi Weber, CPA Brittany Rockelle Brashear, PhD Jessica Woody and Kym Gales for your incredible work in making this experience seamless and unforgettable. #NCDI Members: Ken Bouyer Kimberly N. Ellison-Taylor Anna Mok (Jeff Chin) Nicole Carrig Susan S. Coffey, CPA, CGMA Crystal Cooke Cynthia M. Daniel, CDE, SPHR, SHRM-SCP Catherine Foca Rachael Gibson Calvin Harris Jr., CPA Daniel O'Brien, SPHR / SHRM-SCP Katie Patel Damian Rivera Rashada Whitehead Tracey Golden Rumbi Bwerinofa-Petrozzello, NACD.DC, CPA/CFF, CGMA, CFE #Leadership #CPA #Accounting #ASLW2025 #PersonalGrowth #RelationshipBuilding #Inclusion #FutureReady