MSCPA Forms Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force
MSCPA 2020-2021 Chairman Annette Pridgen will chair the new MSCPA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force. DEI Task Force members include Amanda Angle of Watkins Uiberall, PLLC in Tupelo, Phillip Chu of Office of the State Auditor in Jackson, Lydia Didia of Jackson State University in Jackson, Sim Mosby of Silas Simmons, LLP in Natchez, Brooks Poole of Mississippi College in Clinton, and Pam Steverson of Kemp Williams Steverson & Bernard, PA in Meridian.
The DEI Task Force held their first meeting July 29 to discuss the purpose of the task force and to draft a diversity statement. Th e statement was approved by the MSCPA Board of Governors at their August 12th meeting.
Deloitte’s Making Accounting Diverse and Equitable (MADE) gave the MSCPA a one-time contribution of $5,000 earmarked for DEI. Th e MSCPA DEI Task Force will determine the best way to use the contribution for current or planned initiatives and efforts.
Resources:
Assessment is Key to a Successful D&I Effort - Anita Dennis
AICPA Accounting Inclusion Maturity Model (AIMM)
AICPA Diversity and Inclusion initiatives
mscpa diversity statement
The Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants is committed to serving as a premier state professional organization. To achieve this status, it must lead in encouraging, valuing, and fostering diversity in its membership and in the workforce. Th e MSCPA affirms the importance of diversifying the accounting profession and promoting workforce diversity by making these objectives among the MSCPA’s highest priorities. Therefore, in principle and in practice, the MSCPA will identify, recognize, and support strategies and eff orts within the organization and profession that are dedicated to achieving the MSCPA’s diversity objectives. Th e MSCPA will continue to actively recruit and maintain diverse membership and leadership.