Celebrating Black History Month

To celebrate Black History Month, we're spotlighting MassCPAs members who not only acknowledge its significance but actively engage in addressing racial inequity.
 

Why is representation in the accounting profession important?

Representation matters because it’s one of the ways inequality still shows up in our society. Fewer than 2% of CPAs in the U.S. identify as Black, even though Black Americans make up 16% of the population. While we’ve made progress through civil rights efforts and DEI initiatives, those efforts are often misunderstood or misrepresented.

These disparities don’t just affect minority communities—they affect all of us. My accounting education has allowed me to support my family, friends, clients and colleagues in meaningful ways. As a Black CPA, I want to continue making a positive impact and help younger generations build their own success.

How have you seen the profession evolve over the course of your career?

There’s been a major shift in technology and automation. In tax, for example, the IRS has introduced new forms to clarify complex areas like basis and foreign tax credits, which improves transparency and data accuracy. Tools like OCR and automated import/export features also help reduce repetitive tasks, giving accountants more time to deliver strategic insights.

How do you hope to make an impact in the profession or your community?

I want to speak honestly about the challenges we face and help push the profession forward. Burnout is a serious issue. Turnover in public accounting can reach up to 22% each year, and younger professionals are leaving at even higher rates. A lack of career growth and a sense of belonging are driving many to walk away.

I believe in the power of education and truth. My goal is to help others see what’s possible through hard work and learning. When we make information and opportunity accessible, we make space for everyone to succeed.

What support or resources have helped you the most as a student?

My college advisors, whether at my school or through the Upward Bound program, have been the best mentors I could ask for. They’ve supported and encouraged me, pushed me to strive for my best, and made sure I always have access to meaningful opportunities.

What’s one piece of career advice that’s stuck with you?

I received this advice from an incredible, wise and animated speaker during a workshop at my summer job. She called it the “three C’s”: Be Cute, Confident and Cordial. She said these three qualities have helped her succeed in life, and she hopes every young woman will embrace them.

Can you share a moment in your career or education where you felt especially proud or empowered?

Recently, a well-known storyteller visited our school and invited students to share a story about the happiest time in their lives. I volunteered, and afterward, he asked me to speak at the school assembly. I said no—speaking in front of my classmates was one thing, but the whole school? No way.

He encouraged me to at least attend a prep session, and I agreed. We worked on our stories, practiced together and had lunch. I ended up enjoying it, and ten minutes before the assembly, I decided to go for it.

I was nervous, but I got on stage, told my story and sat down smiling. That moment showed me the power of doing something that scares you. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, I learned to picture what could go right.

Why is representation important in the CPA profession—especially for Black professionals and students?

It can be inspiring and validating to see oneself in those with shared experiences. This is especially true for roles that are off the traditional path, showing that there is no single way to be a CPA professional. Representation expands the perception of what is possible in our profession.

How has being a member of MassCPAs supported you in your journey?

Earlier in my career, I primarily used my membership for solely professional development (CPEs. Now as I lead my own practice, I value the membership more as a platform for community building. It’s been helpful connecting with other owners who are newly operating or have been operating for a while. It’s the difference between growing alone and growing within a supportive network.

What change would you like to see in the profession over the next five years?

I hope we can collectively redefine success to include human capacity, mental well-being and a sustainable work-life flow. When we nurture accountants as people first, we build a more resilient and attractive profession for the next generation.

What does Black History Month mean to you personally or professionally?

Black History Month is both a celebration and a reflection. It honors the resilience, contributions and impact of Black individuals past and present. It also reminds us of our shared responsibility to continue advancing equity and inclusion for Black professionals and communities.

Can you share a moment in your professional or academic career when you felt especially proud or empowered?

A proud moment in my academic career was serving as a counselor for Boston’s ACAP program. I supported Black high school students by helping them gain early exposure to college life and explore potential career paths.

Have you found any communities on campus or in the profession that have supported you as you’ve explored accounting and your career goals?

The National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) has been especially meaningful to me. Through NABA, I have gained access to valuable opportunities and support as I continue exploring accounting and shaping my long term career goals.
 

2025