Joint National Conference

--- by Rachael Monroe, Publisher – The CPA Technology Advisor

What does the word balance mean to you? What images come to mind when you hear someone speak of work/life balance? I had the recent honor of attending a conference in which the recurring theme was all about balance and leadership — the 5^th annual Joint National Conference in Dallas, Texas, held by the American Society of Women Accountants (ASWA) and the American Woman’s Society of CPAs (AWSCPA).

This conference is a must-attend for any woman in the tax and accounting profession, from COO to Marketing Coordinator to CPA, and everyone in between. The two women’s associations — ASWA (www.aswa.org), which is dedicated to supporting all women in the accounting profession and allied fields, and AWSCPA (www.awscpa.org), which is celebrating its 75^th year of serving all women CPAs — joined forces to create an environment to reward, honor and appreciate women. A few highlights of the conference included ASWA’s Educational Foundation 7^th Annual Balance Awards and the exquisite 75^th Anniversary Celebration of the ASWCPA.

The Balance Awards recognize “best in market” companies and individuals who are committed to balancing work and life. Presented with the National Industry Award was Intuit, with recognition for a variety of initiatives like its 32-hour program that allows every employee 32 hours each year to do volunteer work in/for their community. What a great way to help people achieve a sense of work/life balance! Mother of five children Erica O’Malley, marathon runner Lori A. Davis, and United Way volunteer and teacher of fiduciary responsibility classes Sharron O’Donnell were all recognized for their ability to strike a work and life balance. This conference provided a place where women could see positive role models and a variety of paths to success. The Balance Awards also recognized other noteworthy women, and will soon be posted at http://www.aswa.org/i4a/pages/Index.cfm?pageID=3405.

Also of note was the relaxing semi-formal 75^th Anniversary celebration of the AWSCPA. The elegance and class of women in the accounting world is unmatched. Attendees were treated with a fun and educational presentation of women who have set fashion trends in the workplace over several decades, and it seemed to be enjoyed by everyone.

Leaving the conference, I found myself stuck in a fairly lengthy traffic jam that allowed me time to review the experiences of the conference, and I made a mental commitment to make sure I attend next year’s Joint National Conference! I’d encourage every woman in the profession to do the same.

RM