The Georgia Society of CPAs (GSCPA) welcomed 90 high school students to its annual Rising Professionals Program on Friday, October 23, offering a day of career exploration, professional networking, and leadership development in downtown Atlanta. The event, held at 191 Peachtree Street with support from Forvis Mazars, concluded with the presentation of 15 scholarships totaling $7,500, funded by GSCPA and its member firms and supporters.
The program matters as the accounting profession faces persistent challenges in attracting young talent. By introducing students to CPAs early, GSCPA aims to build a pipeline of future professionals who might otherwise overlook accounting as a career path. “Introducing students to the CPA profession early is one of the most important investments we can make in its future,” said Boyd Search, CEO of The Georgia Society of CPAs. “Programs like Rising Professionals allow students to see that this profession offers far more opportunities than they may have imagined. We’re grateful to the firms, members, volunteers, and especially the students who are helping us build connections with the next generation.”
Throughout the day, students heard firsthand from accounting professionals about their career journeys and the variety of opportunities available to CPAs. Presentations and a career panel encouraged students to ask questions and explore how accounting skills can open doors across industries. An interactive Pins and Straws leadership activity challenged students to work collaboratively while experiencing different leadership styles, emphasizing communication, teamwork, and adaptability.
“There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching students discover new possibilities for their futures,” said Jon Tomberlin of Forvis Mazars. “We’re proud to support an experience that brings students and CPAs together and helps young people better understand the opportunities available within our profession.”
The program was guided by Evelyn Rosier, CPA, CGMA, PMP, who served as emcee and career panel moderator. “One of my favorite parts of Rising Professionals is seeing students become more comfortable, curious and confident as the day progresses,” said Rosier. “Whether they’re asking a question, working through a challenge with their teammates or listening thoughtfully to a speaker, they’re developing skills that will serve them well in whatever career they choose.”
A highlight was the presentation of 15 scholarships of $500 each, recognizing students for their participation, engagement, and enthusiasm. Scholarships were supported by The Georgia Society of CPAs, Mauldin & Jenkins, Smith + Howard, Wipfli, Forvis Mazars, Windham Brannon, Cecily Welch CPA, LLC, McNair, McLemore, Middlebrooks, and Cromwell Baun. The scholarships reflect a shared commitment to encouraging students to pursue higher education and consider accounting careers.
The Rising Professionals Program traces its roots to 2015, when Smith & Howard launched the initiative as SHARP. GSCPA began hosting the program in 2016, expanding opportunities for high school students to connect with Georgia’s accounting community. The program remains an important part of GSCPA’s efforts to increase awareness of the profession and help students understand the many career paths available to accounting professionals. For more information, visit www.gscpa.org.
