The Role of The CPA Journal during World War II

Informing Professionals and Championing Their Service

Mark E. Jobe, PhD, CPA, and Dale L. Flesher, PhD, CPA

In BriefAs The CPA Journal celebrates its 85th anniversary, a look back into the past reveals many highlights in the magazine's history, especially during that era most characterized by professional unity and a spirit of service: World War II. During the early 1940s, publishing a professional journal was difficult; many staff members and potential authors had left for war, and a paper shortage posed additional challenges. Nevertheless, the publication—then known as the New York Certified Public Accountant (CPA)—contributed to the war effort. Although there were a multitude of war-related issues for the journal to report on, such as new reporting requirements and a shortage of accountants, there was also a need to maintain the status quo on the home front. American Institute of Accountants (AIA) Executive Secretary John L. Carey put into perspective the role of professional society publications during a speech delivered to the Texas Society of CPAs in June 1942: “The profession would not be making its full contribution if it became so completely preoccupied with immediate problems that its own functions were impaired. … They must maintain their professional publications so that vitally important information may be available to them currently.”