June 2003

Nassau Chapter
Wise Beyond Its Years

Nassau Chapter Celebrates 50th Anniversary and Decades of Success

As Nassau Chapter President Richard Zerah looked out over a roomful of committed chapter members, he waxed nostalgic in recognition of all that they have done to uphold the integrity of the CPA profession.

In his speech for the New York State Society of CPAs’ Nassau Chapter Installation Dinner Dance on May 9, Zerah emphasized the struggle CPAs now face to maintain their identity as the “trusted professional.” Moreover, Zerah identified how the Nassau Chapter has successfully addressed such a challenge.

By contributing to educational efforts, political activism and member representation, the chapter is meeting both its short- and long-term goals.

Clearly recognizing one of the NYSSCPA’s objectives as “maintaining the public trust in our members and the CPA profession,” Zerah touched upon an issue at the front of everyone’s mind. As industry experts have noticed, Zerah maintained that “In the past 18 months…the press, regulators and elected officials have put us under a microscope.”

As a result, Nassau Chapter members and leaders have increased efforts to maintain their leadership during these times of adversity. “Yet history has shown that during times of adversity, true leadership rises, and this chapter has always answered that call,” Zerah added.