Inspiring the Next Generation: CPA visit to Corvallis High School

As part of the national Accounting+ initiative, the Oregon Society of CPAs (OSCPA) is proud to help inspire the next generation of accountants by connecting our members with local schools and students. Through outreach and classroom visits, we are working together to build a more inclusive and accessible pipeline into the profession.

Last week, Chair of the OSCPA Young Person’s Committee Alyssa Downs visited Corvallis High School to talk with students about accounting careers, budgeting basics, and options for paying for college. The conversation sparked curiosity and inspiration.

“I had a wonderful time visiting with the students,” said Downs “One young man even asked about saving for retirement! It was also great to hear from a student who’s already planning to major in business and accounting. These students are motivated - they already have colleges picked out and are eager to learn.”

This visit is a powerful reminder of the difference our members can make by simply showing up and sharing their story. These interactions are part of OSCPA’s commitment to supporting the Accounting+ campaign, which aims to reach Black, Hispanic, and Latino high school and early college students with real-life stories, practical advice, and pathways into the profession.

By working in partnership with the Center for Audit Quality (CAQ), OSCPA is helping bring accounting to life -in classrooms, on social media, and through community outreach. But to make a lasting impact, we need more members to join us.

Get Involved: Share Your Story, Inspire a Student

If you’re a CPA or accounting professional in Oregon, we invite you to be part of this important effort. Speaking in a classroom for even one hour can open doors for a student who may have never considered accounting as a career.

Let’s work together to build a more diverse and vibrant future for accounting.

Interested in volunteering or learning more? Contact Kate at KHarrison@orcpa.org

Join us in building the CPA pipeline. Inspire the next generation. Be the difference.