FROM THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR

Fast Start to 2011

As we enter 2011, I’d like to thank our wonderful staff, Board and, most importantly, RISCPA’s membership for making 2010 a memorable and productive year.

Guided by our Society’s member-centric mission and corresponding strategic plan, RISCPA has accomplished much in the way of increasing professional relevancy, expanding legislative advocacy and heightening brand awareness.

I’m pleased to report the fine effort put forth by Sharon Kennedy, Chair of RISCPA’s CPE Committee, and her fellow committee participants for their invaluable assistance in addressing the 2011-2102 CPE season. CPE is the centerpiece of RISCPA’s operational focus, and the committee reached out to all RISCPA committee chairs for recommendations on courses germane to the specialties served. Members will find that next season’s program is peppered with new offerings for a diverse complement of courses.

Committee involvement, overall, has increased and congratulations are in order for our Non Profit, Tax, Personal Financial Planning, Social, Technical, BIG and Cooperation with Education Committees. Along with the NYPN Task Force, their activities and hard work helped put together meaningful programs beneficial to members and affinity groups alike.

In terms of advocacy, with the expert assistance of RISCPA lobbyist and media/public relations partner, David Preston, Principal, New Harbor Group, and key members from our Federal and State Taxation and Government Relations Committees, our Society played an influential role in assisting with the passing of much needed tax reform. Whether helping legislative leaders with determining the financial impact of legislation, testifying before the Senate and House Finance Committees, or serving on the Governor’s Task Force, RISCPA members were ready, willing and able to participate in the process. In accordance with the Government Relations Committee’s action plan, we are reaching out to newly elected officials to make them aware that RISCPA members remain available for consultation on financial matters.

Over the past several years, our Society has embarked on an ambitious effort to increase its networking and partner programming. Last January, we hosted 500 attendees while the September event drew over 330. For the upcoming networking program on January 25th, we’re anticipating another significant draw, and expect to break the 500 attendee mark. We’re delighted to welcome principal sponsor, TD Bank and co-sponsor, Cornerstone Payroll Services, LLC. Again, the Westin Hotel, Providence, serves as the venue.

Continuing our efforts to collaborate with well established Rhode Island entities, this year RISCPA is partnering with the RI Foundation to offer a free CPE seminar at the Foundation’s offices. This event is also on January 25th. Commencing at 3:30pm and concluding at 4:45pm, the program will feature presentations by RISCPA members, Patricia Thompson and Marylu Nadeau providing an overview of recent tax updates. Additionally, RIF Development Officer James Sanzi, Esq. will be sharing the Foundation’s strategic resource capabilities for maximizing charitable giving.

Again, thank you for your commitment and support of our wonderful Society. It’s certainly a pleasure serving your needs.

Bob Mancini