Virtual Regional Meeting Draws Record Attendance

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Held June 22-23, 2021 (via Zoom), NASBA’s Regional Meeting took to the virtual stage for the second consecutive year. While NASBA leaders and members were hopeful to make a return to in-person meetings, it was decided to remain in the virtual space out of continued concern regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Different from years past, the Regionals, which are historically held as two meetings (Eastern and Western), were combined into one meeting. This format proved to be an efficient way to share relevant, important topics impacting Boards of Accountancy and the profession.

NASBA had a record turnout from Board of Accountancy members, NASBA staff and other stakeholders, with attendance numbers exceeding 400+ virtual participants (representing 54 state boards). The two-day meeting was moderated by Katrina Salazar (CA) NASBA Pacific Regional Director and Relations with Member Boards Committee Chair, with regional breakout sessions led by NASBA’s eight regional directors.

Chair Carlos Barrera (TX) expressed his appreciation of state boards and NASBA for this year’s record attendance and growing interest in the meetings. “NASBA and state boards have truly been impacted as a result of the pandemic. The safety of our volunteers and staff has been a high priority during this challenging time. If there’s been any blessing to having meetings virtually, it’s the increased level of participation. It’s been truly remarkable.”

President and CEO Ken L. Bishop shared that the Association is beginning to plan for the new normal. Adding that, “NASBA will continue to offer state boards any support we can as they begin to return to normal operations.” He also emphasized that NASBA leadership is currently considering ways more members can participate in NASBA meetings and events. “We’re discussing how hybrid meetings, both in person and virtual, will allow more NASBA members to participate in future meetings and conferences,” said Bishop.

The two-day agenda featured presentations and topics that covered: The Post-COVID Anti-Regulation Battle; Latest Developments on the Uniform CPA Examination; Discussion on Accreditation; Education Research Projects; CPA Evolution; Peeling Back the Onion on Today’s Ransomware, and more. On the second day of the Regional Meeting, regional breakout sessions allowed eight regions to meet independently (on separate Zoom meetings) to give regional directors an opportunity to hear from their respective state boards and discuss relevant topics pertaining to each region.

NASBA looks forward to resuming in-person June Regional Meetings in 2022.