November 1999

Support COAP and Improve Profession's Diversity

One of the problems facing the accounting profession today is a lack of diversity. The NYSSCPA/FAE's Career Opportunities in the Accounting Profession (COAP) program addresses this issue by exposing qualified minority high school students to accounting careers.

During five-day college residency programs at Pace University (Westchester) and Hofstra University (Long Island), students attend classes in accounting, business, and interpersonal skills taught by CPA role models and visit accounting firms, companies, and other businesses. Follow-up programs and mentoring provide the guidance that will help alumni pursue careers in the accounting profession. (See related story on this page for details about a recent COAP alumni session.)

Since its inception in 1987, COAP has welcomed the participation of 800 students. In addition to NYSSCPA funding, COAP is supported by donations from individuals, accounting firms, and corporations. The Society urges members and their firms or companies to contribute to help maintain the program and expand it to other sites. COAP's promotional materials include a list of the program's donors.

To contribute, send tax-deductible donations, made payable to the Foundation for Accounting Education, to COAP, NYSSCPA/FAE, 530 Fifth Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10036-5101. For more information, contact Ed Parker at (212) 719-8382, (800) 633-6320, or eparker@nysscpa.org. *