Incoming OSCPA Chair says CPAs can help drive economic recovery and restore public confidence: in the past year, Americans have witnessed unprecedented times in our nation's history as companies and individual citizens deal with the aftermath of a partially collapsed financial system, rampant foreclosures, growing unemployment and a brutal credit crunch.

• Author: Johnson, Amy
• Position: Member SPOTLIGHT - Interview

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These are tough times for everyone, yet Matt Yuskewich, CPA, incoming chair of The Ohio Society of CPAs, sees opportunities for the CPA profession to play a key role in recovery efforts. Here, Matt shares why he believes CPAs are uniquely qualified to help others navigate the economic storm and rebuild for the future.

What types of clients do you serve in your practice? Do you have a particular area of specialty?

I serve mainly small businesses--non-public companies with annual sales under $25 million. Our clients hail from all industries including medical, distribution and logistics, retail, construction and more. Most of my practice time is spent on tax issues and general business planning. In addition, we perform typical controllership functions for companies who don't employ someone in this position.

How have you been involved with the Society?

I have advocated for small business and taxpayers in my activities with the Society and through testifying before the legislature. My early involvement as liaison to the Ohio Municipal League Tax Committee helped establish the Society as a player in Municipal Tax reform legislation. Also, in serving as treasurer for several political campaigns, I have stressed the importance of the Treasurer's function and the value of a CPA in that role. As chair of the Endorsements Committee I helped identify candidates and obtain answers to the issues facing our profession and our clients.

How has that impacted you personally or professionally?

Through my volunteer roles at the Society, I have worked with many CPAs whose talents and knowledge inspired me. Without Society involvement I would not have rubbed shoulders with so many of our experienced and dedicated members. As a small firm member, I had the opportunity to learn directly from leaders in larger firms and gain valuable professional and leadership skills from them. As a personal benefit, many of these CPAs have also become my good friends.

What are your top goals as chair of The Ohio Society? My goals are simple:

* Continue advancing the fine work of OSCPA chairs before me

* Energize members at all levels to become more engaged with and involved in Society activities

* Increase the Society's and CPAs' roles in the political process at all levels.

I would like to have the Society have an even greater presence at the table as a significant contributor at all governmental levels. This is especially important in the current...