CHICAGO, Oct. 6, 2021 – The Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS)—one of the largest state CPA societies in the nation—is proud to announce its inaugural class of Strategy Academy graduates. Launched in 2021, ICPAS’ invitation-only Strategy Academy aims to develop the strategic thinking and communication skills of certified public accountants (CPAs), enabling them to move beyond a compliance mindset and become the strategic business advisors that clients and companies are increasingly demanding.

“Relevant strategic thinking skills, particularly among CPAs working in audit, tax, and accounting services, are key to successfully bringing new value and strategic insights to the services that CPAs provide in public accounting firms and companies alike,” says Todd Shapiro, ICPAS president and CEO and Strategy Academy faculty member. “I look forward to seeing the results as this first class of Strategy Academy graduates embarks on helping their clients and companies achieve greater success and profitability.”

2021 Strategy Academy Graduates

Scott Anderson, PKF Mueller

Emily Bartlett, CDH PC

Stefan Beal, Mowery & Schoenfeld

Cliff Bumgarner, KEB

Craig Fiorito, Sikich

Jim Pellino, ORBA

Tom Pierce, ORBA

Bill Rothmann, Porte Brown

Brooks Walker, Sikich

Janell Wilson, MichaelSilver

Led by Shapiro and Mark Frigo, Ph.D., CPA, distinguished professor emeritus at DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, the Strategy Academy is a unique and innovative four-day program consisting of teams-based, hands-on, highly interactive sessions designed for high potential, up-and-coming accounting and finance professionals with seven or more years of experience. For more details and application information, contact Shapiro at [email protected] or 312-517-7601.