The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and its predecessors have been the voice of the accounting profession since 1887. The AICPA prides itself on its serving the CPA profession and the public interest to which it is profoundly committed. AICPA members work in all sectors of the business and financial services profession, including Public Accounting, Financial Planning, Tax, Business & Industry, Law, Consulting, Education and Government.
The New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA) is one of the largest state accounting organizations in the nation with approximately 28,000 members. It was incorporated in 1897 for the following purposes:
- To cultivate, promote, and disseminate knowledge and information concerning certified public accountants.
- To establish and maintain high standards of integrity, honor, and character among certified public accountants.
- To furnish information regarding accountancy and the practice and methods thereof to its members and the general public.
- To protect the interests of its members and the general public with respect to the practice of accountancy.
The Society fulfills its mission through its 15 chapters, more than 60 technical and administrative committees, and a 42-member Board of Directors. The administrative operations are under the direction of the Executive Director, assisted by a professional staff of approximately 80.
The Licensed Professions in New York State
In 1891, medicine became the first profession licensed by the New York State Board of Regents. New York’s unique system of professional regulation, recognized as a model for public protection, has grown to encompass nearly 800,000 practitioners and over 30,000 professional practice business entities in 48 professions.
Guided by the Regents, a citizen body, the professions are within New York State’s unified system of education – The University of the State of New York. This recognizes the key role education plays in both preparing licensed professionals and in ensuring their continuous development.