On Tuesday, January 20 and Wednesday, January 21, a delegation from Glenville State University traveled to the West Virginia statehouse to be part of “CPA Day at the Capitol,” which was sponsored by the West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (WVSCPA) to support HB 4088 and SB 532. This legislation aims to enhance pathways to CPA licensure, reduce barriers, and addresses critical challenges the accounting profession is facing, including a declining workforce and increased demand for CPA services. The legislation seeks to expand the educational pathways leading to CPA licensure, providing the option for students to begin their careers as a CPA with a bachelor’s degree and would keep West Virginia in-step with more than 20 other states that have already introduced or enacted these changes.

Those who attended CPA Day from Glenville State included: current students Adrianna Blanco, Whitney Nettles, and Danielle “DJ” White; GSU’s Lecturer of Accounting, MacKenzie Petry; alumnus Eric Brown, CPA; and Professor Emerita and Past President of the WVSCPA, Cheryl McKinney, CPA.

 “This is a pivotal moment for the CPA profession and our students are the next generation who will be directly impacted by this legislation, which is why it’s so important to get them involved early. Each student brings a unique story and perspective, and CPA Day gave them the opportunity to share those voices while networking with their local legislators,” said Petry. “By moving from a 150-credit-hour requirement to 120 credit hours with two years of experience, students can trade additional debt for income. This approach better serves our communities and strengthens the profession by pairing practical experience with education.”

 The current students in the group attended a networking dinner with practicing CPAs on their first night in Charleston. The next morning, more than 90 CPAs and students convened at the Culture Center before having photos taken on the steps of the Capitol. The Glenville State group was then able to meet with Delegate Lori Dittman, Delegate Erica Moore, Delegate Adam Burkhammer, Delegate Stanley Adkins, Delegate Joe Parsons, and Senator Ben Queen.

 “I was extremely proud of our students and Mrs. Petry, and I was honored to have been invited to accompany the group. Without reservation, I believe that CPAs and GSU were well represented by the Pioneer delegation,” McKinney added.

 HB 4088 and SB 532 have both been introduced this session and are being reviewed in committee.