By Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk

Professional women in accounting celebrate the beginning of the new fiscal year with a new president and board, a fresh motto to live up to and the promise of great opportunity for members at all stages of their careers.

Atlanta, GA – July 7, 2015 – The Georgia affiliate of the American Women’s Society of CPAs (AWSCPA of Georgia) is kicking off their 2015-2016 fiscal year with several exciting updates, including a new theme, a new president and an updated board.

Along with helping members stay abreast of the latest innovations and news in the accounting industry, the AWSCPA of Georgia is focused on helping members thrive both in their professional careers and personally. For members, this year’s theme, “Together We Thrive,” is a rallying call and way of life.

Many current members were mentored by, or interned with, an AWSCPA of Georgia member early in their career and they now want to give the same guidance to women just entering the accounting profession. This early input and support from established women in accounting was instrumental to today’s accounting leaders and now these same women want to pay it forward. Some speak about mentoring rising stars while others tout stories of gaining access to practical “in the trenches” expertise, new business referrals and camaraderie.

The organization has named a new president as well. Gloria S. Lewis will be taking over the role for the AWSCPA of Georgia. “We have an amazing and supportive group of women that includes some of the most talented professionals in the field. I’m thrilled to have been chosen to guide the Georgia affiliate in the role of president,” says Gloria. “One of my greatest joys in working alongside these women is the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and milestones. With such a talented group, there are many of these important moments!”

In addition to the new president, AWSCPA of Georgia welcomes a newly minted board led by Kimberly C. Schaeffer (immediate past president), Jeanmarie P. Foster (secretary) and Neera M. Miller (treasurer). Like Gloria, the rest of the board is excited to provide the same kind of support and encouragement to the affiliate’s newer members that they enjoyed when they first joined. “This group has helped me step outside my comfort zone because I knew I had a safe landing place,” says Neera. “I’m honored to serve our members.”

To learn more about AWSCPA of Georgia and to view their upcoming meeting schedule, visit www.awscpa-ga.org.

About AWSCPA of Georgia

AWSCPA of Georgia is a state affiliate of the American Woman’s Society of Certified Public Accountants (AWSCPA), a national network connecting and supporting today’s women CPAs and those actively pursuing the designation through career and personal transitions by innovative training, customized mentorship and focused relationships. Visit www.awscpa-ga.org for more information.